Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple

Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple is a three-star anime that could have been more.

The story follows the life and training of Kenichi Shirahama, an average Japanese teen with average problems. Lacking even the slightest fighting abilities, Kenichi is ridiculed by his peers. His only solace is the dream that he will one day rise above his foes and become a strong martial artist. A chance encounter with a busty girl leads Kenichi to stand up for what's right, revealing that -- despite earlier displays of cowardice -- he does indeed have what it takes to be a fighter. Several hormone-induced nosebleeds later, Kenichi finds himself at the doorstep of Ryozanpaku, the world's foremost dojo, where he is accepted as head disciple. As the series progresses, the masters of Ryozanpaku put Kenichi to the test, simultaneously training him in muay tai, karate, traditional weapons, Chinese martial arts and aikijujitsu. Kenichi faces everyone from school bullies to infamous gang leaders and emerges as -- here it comes -- the mightiest disciple.

The first season had a good balance of action and comedy, but the second season seemed to have a shortage of dark elements. There were no big questions, no soul-searching, no heart-wrenching deaths.

The animation is crisp and the voice acting is superb. 

But the lack of intensity left something to be desired.

-S

Attack The Block

This might be a generalization but British folk are funny. Even when said British folk are fending off an alien invasion while living in one of the poorer parts of London. No matter the circumstances, they’ll always give you a chuckle.

That's what happened in Attack the Block, a British import that's equal parts horror, suspense, and comedy. It was made by the same guys who brought us Shaun of the Dead. In it some local toughs run afoul of an alien critter that looks like a cross between Aliens and the Westminster dog show.

They handle the situation poorly to say the least and that leads to a small invasion on their block. The name for the housing scheme they live in.

The movie is surprisingly funny, the young actors all play their roles well. Pest, played by Alex Esmail, is particularly memorable, as is John Boyega as Moses who is an excellent straight man for the crew. There are other performances that deserve praise like that of Hi Hit played by Jumayn Hunter. He's the gangster drug dealer who wishes to be a gangsta rapper.

It is not a commentary on the plight of the young poor kids in London. Kudos to Joe Cornish, the writer and director for that. Though at times it appears the director is trying to explain to a local tough near you why that lifestyle isn't quite so peachy. If it tried to do any stinging social commentary, it would have been lost amongst all the blood and gore spread by the alien invaders.

No, instead the movie keeps itself simple. Makes you laugh, makes you jump a little, and makes you feel like you didn't waste your money.

Give it a look.