Steel Angel Kurumi
Synopsis
During Japan's Taisho Era (1912-1926), a scientist named Ayanokoji developed the Steel Angel - an artificial humanoid with superhuman physical abilities. While the Imperial Army wanted to use the Steel Angel as a new means of modern warfare, Ayanokoji wanted his creation to be a new step in the future of mankind. Thus, he defied orders from the Army and secretly made the Steel Angel codenamed "Kurumi". Then one day, a young boy named Nakahito Kagura snuck into Ayanokoji's house as a dare by his friends and stumbled upon Kurumi's lifeless body. A sudden attack by the Imperial Army shook the house, causing Kurumi to fall on Nakahito. At that moment, their lips met, and Kurumi woke up from "the kiss that started a miracle". (Source: ANN)
Audience Consensus
Audience reception is mixed, with some finding the show entertaining for its humor and character interactions, while others criticize its inconsistent tone, weak plot, and mediocre production values. The series is seen as a product of its time, with a focus on fan service and a simple formula that appealed to some viewers but alienated others. There is appreciation for the dub, but the story and animation are frequently criticised.
Strengths
- Distinct and memorable character designs, especially the Steel Angels' costumes.
- The humor, particularly the interactions between Kurumi and Karinka.
- The concept of time travel and the mysteries surrounding the Demonkind are interesting plot points.
- Catchy and energetic opening theme.
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent tone, shifting abruptly from sugary cuteness to melodrama.
- Mediocre art and animation quality, especially during fight scenes.
- Poorly choreographed fight scenes with cheap animation techniques.
- Shallow characters with limited personality traits.
- Weak plot with nonsensical elements and a cop-out ending.
- English dub quality is inconsistent, with some performances better than others but a script that doesn't fit the show's setting.
- Overreliance on ecchi elements and fan service.