DVD Review: Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple Season 2 Part 1

the Mightiest Disciple Season 2 Part 1

(Funimation, 325 minutes)

http://www.funimation.com/kenichi/

The first season of Kenichi: the Mightiest Disciple proved to be a runaway success on both sides of the pond since its original introduction as a manga in 2002, eventually making the jump to animation in 2006. Thanks to the successful sales of the series first season last year, Funimation has gone ahead and begun releasing the second season. With its mix of comedy and action, and an inability not to have fun, Kenichi is the type of series that will appeal to everyone, regardless if they’re fans of fighting anime or not.

In the first season, Kenichi was the furthest thing from a martial artist. While crushing on fellow classmate Miu, he grew into a respectable fighter and eventually, over the course of the series earned the respect of his peers. After a while, a rival group rose up to challenge the budding young disciple in the form of “Ragnarok”, comprised of powerful martial arts masters who view him as a potential threat to their plans.

With the opening of season 2, we pick up directly where the previous set left off, with Kenichi Shirahima recovering from his vicious battle against Ragnarok’s agent, Hermit. Unfortunately, the group is far from finished with hints of a connection to Kenichi’s own master and even more formidable agents on the way.

The show maintains its episodic feel with Kenichi and Miu fending off members of Ragnarok and other would be evildoers. Hermit makes a return, looking to settle the score with Kenichi as does Loki and Thor. With the kidnapping of his sister, Kenichi is forced to face off against another master, this time Seigfried , forcing him to put all his training to the test.

The group is given a chance to breathe when they visit a water park. As it turns out, Kenichi has an admirer in the form of Renka who returns to reveal her true feelings to him. Surprisingly enough, Miu also finds herself developing feelings for Kenichi, pitting her against Renka for his affections.

With a show that focuses as much on comedy as it does action, there are moments when Kenichi’s story takes a back seat to the over the top humor that at times comes on a little too hard. That is not to say that the creative team’s efforts at comedy aren’t successful, however their tendencies to pack as much laughs into every episode does threaten to unbalance the series.

As with most anime releases the extras are sparse. What is included are textless openings and closings and a collection of trailers for other Funimation releases. While more significant extras would be appreciated, the number of episodes on each DVD more than makes up for it.

Season 2 continues the tone that was established in the previous season. The show continues to push the limit and is genuinely fun to watch. After 28 episodes, the series has yet to lose a step. Those familiar with the show already know what to expect. While the show does have its flaws, there are more than enough positive aspects that make the show a quality viewing experience for those looking for a good time.

Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple Season 2 Part 1 - B