Anime [David Anime] Kaleido Stage 39

The second season of Kaleido Star has been highly anticipated ever since Kabitzin and Ender reviewed it at Sea Slugs, and after watching a single episode, it's not hard to see why this title got such high marks. Despite holding a benign façade of comedic mirth, this series contains a potent mix of despair, angst, and treachery.

At first glance, it's easy to pigeonhole this into the realm of shoujo anime, complete with its photogenic female protagonist and cadre of scheming rivals. However, instead of concentrating on the joys of performing on stage (a la Princess Tutu), this title focuses on the psychological brutality of competition and the fickleness of past friends. As a case in point, this particular episode doesn't really dwell on the technical accomplishments of our hero Sora, but rather concentrates on how she is traumatized by friends who are envious of her success. Without a doubt, it's rare to see that hard work is trumped by social awareness, and, if anything, this is indicative of the sheer depth of this series.

In any case, this episode had plenty of excitement, superb music, and an *extremely* twisty storyline. Truth be said, shonen fans may be better served by some of Gonzo's other offerings, but for those looking for a unique take on the action genre, Kaleido Star comes highly recommended.

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