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