Namuamidabutsu! -Utena-

I would wager money that you chanced upon this anime looking for hot anime guys, so I'm going to focus on that in this review. Story: There's a larger plot that loosely keeps the episodes together, but you're not watching this anime for the plot. Correction, DON'T watch this anime for the story. It's nothing fancy and isn't memorable. I think there's sin in the world and there's an antagonist, but again, nothing special. (The anime is based on the deities of Buddhism, but I apologize, as I'm unable to comment on the veracity.) What's important to note is that there's enough scenes written in thatinvolves the bath. Art: For a short show of 12 episodes, I was surprised by how many characters are crammed into it. All of them are pleasant to look at. They included every trope to please the range of audience. Nothing to critique here. They have fabulous bodies. I suppose they're not too detailed, but again, with that many characters, this anime's done a good job. Sound: I wish I had something to comment on regarding its sound, but I've got nothing. The voices weren't exceptional and I don't remember the soundtrack. It gets 5 because it was neither bad or good enough to register on my consciousness. Character: They put in a type for everyone, but you don't really get to know any of them very well. They're mostly 2D and any 'understanding' is superficial. Again, if you're watching the show for the aesthetics, this bit can be forgiven. However, without really getting to know any of the characters, you also don't get to 'fall in love' with any of them. Enjoyment: From the standpoint of watching this anime entirely for the male eye candy, it's quite enjoyable. If you attempt to watch this anime for any other reason, you might find yourself sorely disappointed. Takeaway: This is an anime that won't keep you on your toes. I think it took me a year (if not more) to finally finish it. It's something to watch when you want to ogle two-dimensional yummy Buddhist deities. (No disrespect to the faith.)

Enlightened Boys— I mean, Namu Amida Butsu Utena, to sum it up, is one where "they tried, it's an enjoyable watch." In this show where it's in no way revolutionary, nor about a girl, nor any mention of the term "Utena" present, the main conflict is tacked on and is nothing special, but where it shines is the comedy and the slice of life pacing. Although I consider it overall "just good" and hobbled with budgetary constraints, it's great at portraying cute boys doing cute things among the different facets of Buddha. I emphasize the (time and money) budgetary constraints, because the staff is competent. Thevoice actors are very skilled and excellently cast, the sound effects are great, and where they upped the ante of visual quality in certain action scene, you can glimpse flashes of Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen. Sometimes, I sigh at what it could be. Let what-ifs be what-ifs. Taken as it is, if you watch Namu Amida Butsu Utena for the Buddhas' antics, you will like it. Just like there can be no enlightenment without vice, you may miss out on hidden gems without accepting imperfections.

If you like anime with beautiful boys who represent... Buddhist deities (!), then Namu Amida Butsu! Sounds like something tailor-made for you. But well, that's exactly what it sounds like. While the concept is interesting and the aesthetics are very “bishounen-friendly”, the story itself doesn't stay with you for long. Animation & Art Style Here, I have no major complaints - the characters are pretty, very pretty. Lots of sparkle in the eyes, lots of wavy hair, beautifully coloured robes. The backgrounds? Rather simple, but fitting. Fights - sometimes dynamic, but not thrilling. Just correct and aesthetically pleasing. If you're watching for the bishounen, you'll be satisfied.👌 Sound & Music The opening and ending are classic anime reverse-harem vibes - nice, but not necessarily something you'd add to your playlist on repeat. Voice acting comes off OK - each of the men has a type of voice that fits their archetype. It's a shame that the music doesn't play a bigger role in building the atmosphere. Sometimes it gets lost in the background, sometimes it seems... bland. Enjoyment & Overall Thoughts Rendai Utena is the kind of anime that is watched for the pleasure of the eye rather than the heart. For fans of aesthetically pleasing series with a divine cast, it can be a nice background for relaxing tea after a hard day. But if you're looking for a deep plot or an emotional experience, sadly, it's not here. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't as good as it could have been either. The idea was there, but the execution was a little too safe and superficial.