Meine Liebe 1

November 17, 2004

Title: Hubris
Fansubbed by: Shining Fansubs

In the country of Kuchen, the aristocratic Orpherus . . .

challenges the aristocratic Ludwig . . .

to a duel.

The End.

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RATING: C

Just as pointed out in BluWacky's excellent review, there's quite a lot to like about Meine Liebe. However, once one looks past the well-polished facade, this series seems to be just another cut-and-dried high school drama.

To be fair, Meine Liebe has several noteworthy characteristics that distinguish it from its counterparts -- as a case in point, the orchestral score complements the storyline quite nicely, the character design is unique, and the fight choreography is superb.

However, despite all these excellent features, Meine Liebe seems to be lacking a sense of purpose, which is indeed, the most important element of *any* title within this particulare genre. In addition to lacking a 'chief villain' to provide direction, all the characters share a rather inordinate preoccupation with politics, which grinds the already placid story into sheer monotony. Without a doubt, it's well and good to have plenty of angst, but without a driving force to congeal this emotion, the plot seems bloated and ambiguous.

Undoubtedly, it's possible that the series will improve greatly in the future, given that this is only the first episode. However, unless this title grows a backbone, there's nothing that makes it really compelling.

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