Another subversive superhero anime that involves the treatment of the ‘overpowered hero’ story concept. A concept that some would have predicted is likely to wear off in terms of popular appeal sooner rather than later. And that could have been the case, now going into the second season of the admittedly One Punch Man-inspired anime: Mashle. However, instead of being ‘more of the same’ Mashle in its second season does most things right to ensure viewer interest.
Whilst the humor that underlies the parody aspect of this shonen is the main driving force of the story, however, the show does introduce real drama via its side characters. Whose weaknesses and vulnerabilities are artfully played off against increasingly powerful villains, combined with, and this is the important part, the notable limitations of our overpowered, but by no means, invulnerable hero: Mash Burnedead.
The Story of the Magic-less ‘Saitama’ Continues
First things first. Can someone who is coming into the second season fresh enjoy this anime? The answer is yes and no. ‘No’ in the sense that there is a direct continuation of the story from season one, and the relationships the main character forms with his friends, find their progression here. So for those who wish to feel that connection with characters’ whose storylines they wish to follow, then the first season is a must-watch.
However, for those who are looking for some shonen fun, with elements of teen angst, self-deprecating humor and Harry Potter inspirations thrown in, then you can jump right in. Speaking of Harry Potter, the undeniable world-building and character similarities, including appearances, that Mashle has taken from the World of Witchcraft and Wizardry are strong. And they only get stronger as the season progresses. So fans of the boy wizard’s adventures are in for some fun, albeit with a different anime flavor.
A Homage to Anime’s Harry Potter
One of the things that Mashle does relatively well is to develop the backstories and resulting motivations of side characters and how they contribute to the development of the story. Whilst our powerful hero carries on doing what he does best: eating cream puffs, working out and punching bad guys; his friends, however, face real challenges owing to personal shortcomings, complex life goals and historical hurts that drive their actions. Thus the resulting conflicts produce intense moments, since we know that good people can and will get hurt.
However, all of these conflicts are artfully presented in a surprisingly well-realized world. The magical elements of the Harry Potter universe find their Japanese equivalent, and in some respects, they are superseded thanks to the excesses of anime that we are so used to. The power levels and unique magics of various characters are a joy to watch, and fans of the boy wizard are bound to enjoy it.
The Bad Guys Are Stronger – As Mashle Gets Funnier
Admittedly one of the main drivers of the show is the humor. Part of the reason why people even tune into shows like Mashle, Mob Psycho and One Punch Man before it, is how challenging situations are mixed with timed silliness. In this regard, Mashle season two (at least the first half of it) is a success. The moments of action are combined with elements of irony and silliness that only a parody anime can pull off.
Whilst the villains who make up Innocent Zero’s merry band are not to be trifled with, the way Mash and his friends deal with their powerful foes is hilarious to watch. Whilst there is still more of the story to go, one that we will cover in Part II of this review; Mashle season 02 is a successful return to form for fans of the ‘overpowered hero’ anime trope and others who are just looking for a good laugh.
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