America’s Greatest Otaku! What can I say it’s something new, something interesting and something of a new set of mixed hammers. At first I did not care for the idea, but after seeing the first episode I’m happy to say its fresh and entertaining. The approach of the show is very interesting, and the concept is somewhat like a game show crashed into an informative documentary. I’m happy to share that the show is not full of product placement and the quality of the production is really a step up over previous anime/otaku culture shows. If I had to rate it, it would land somewhere between Pimp my ride and a history channel special, I really like the flow and and camera usage.
I should note that some of the random fact pop ups that make noise every time they enter the screen are rather annoying and that some of the fades and cuts are a little unnecessary and awkward at times. This is just the the critic in me but the audio levels and microphone usage are a bit too mixed, in short some scenes have large amounts of echo and volume issues while other scenes are loud and clear. Again overall I like the show, at first I was thinking ” oh no, another otaku show!” but then I watched the first episode and can honestly say “I’m looking forward to the next episode”.
I really like that this show is hitting the ground and checking out the hangouts, hot spots, conventions, and gatherings made popular by otaku across America. From tea houses, to hotels, to art gallery’s to peoples collections, and even studios, this show is covering it all. And it’s not just focusing on one state which is a major step up for the anime internet TV show demographic. I would say this is the first show of its kind in America and I wish it were on cable TV, but the primer can be found on hulu.com and hey its free for everyone.
I must note that I love how this show is not focusing on just one type of otaku and is not propagating a negative image for those who are otaku. I also like the blend of both Japanese & American art, comics, games and animation. Let me repeat that clearly once more with feeling! I really like the fact that this show represents and explains what it is to be otaku and dives into the fact that art is for everyone, everywhere and at any age. The mix of culture, location and the right people are what this show stand out, and if your into anime or mangacomics or just getting into it or want to learn more about what it means to be otaku this show is right up your ally.
Go check it out at: www.americasgreatestotaku.com
This show is coming to a town near you sometime this summer! See this list HERE!
Watch the first episode by clicking below
Leave a Reply