AKB0048 5 ~ I wanna be a clone
June 1, 2012
AKB0048 episode 5 didn’t have any of the battle action (or even song and dance routines) we have come to expect from this series, but what it did deliver are several bizarre mysteries that continue the world-building, as well as deepening the story. First I comment on the incredible scenery of Akabaster, the AKB0048 home planet, then I look at the following mysteries: 1) Tomochin, 2) the Center, and 3) Quadruple-S.
AKB0048 3 ~ things have gotten dark all of a sudden
May 15, 2012
AKB0048 episode 3 puts our idol hopefuls through the wringer. They expect to spend their time singing and dancing, but end up fighting to protect the hopes and dreams of those who want to see AKB0048 perform. As one might expect, the themes of hard work, dedicating one’s self to a cause, and banding together are key drivers.
AKB0048 2 ~ DES Attack!
May 9, 2012
In episode 2 of the idol action adventure series of the season, AKB0048, the hopeful recruits meet some new friends, but their cruiser is attacked. Also tensions between potential rivals threaten to break the group apart.
In a future where fabulousness is outlawed, who will fight for our right to entertainment? AKB0048, that’s who. AKB0048 are the spiritual successors to J-Pop sensation AKB48. AKB0048 is also the name of the last series to air of the Spring 2012 anime season. This is a Science Fiction series in which idol band AKB0048 fights against government prohibitions forbidding entertainment. Our perspective is that of some young fans, who are inspired by the groups fabulousness, and seek to join them. This adds a helping dose of tween rebellion that fits the basic theme of fighting for the Freedom of Expression quite well.