Claymore, Chapter 2: The Point of No Return — anime dvd review
Episodes: 6-10
Genre: Anime, Action
Last volume I stated that I was very impressed with Claymore, but I wanted to wait until I saw a bit more of the series before I declared an actual verdict on the series. Having now finished volume 2, I’ve seen enough to do so. Simply put, Claymore is the best fantasy anime since the original Record of Lodoss War. I’m completely serious. It’s got amazing artistry, a truly engaging story, style, substance, emotional gravity… It’s just plain awesome. Everything I mentioned in my previous review holds.
Volume 2 sees the continued exploration of Clare’s backstory, with particular emphasis on the evolving dynamic of Clare and Teresa’s relationship. In the case of Teresa, it shows how her initial, purely instinctive act of compassion grew to a genuine caring for Clare, and how that compassion ultimately led to her being targeted by the organization. For Clare, it fleshes out her reasoning for becoming a Claymore, and her staunch adherence to justice. The disc concludes with Clare’s first mission against an Awakened Being — the term for a former Claymore, turned Yoma without being dispatched by one of her peers. Also introduced are a number of young Claymore operatives, whose initial reception of Clare can be termed as nothing short of unwelcoming. However, the coming episodes may just see their skepticism of her abilities give way to respect, as both Clare and the team find that there are greater threats than Yoma, or even awakened beings. These are a thrilling set of episodes, which I again devoured in (almost) a single sitting. Only this time, Kris came along for the ride.
In short, every episode on the disc provides a pitch-perfect balance of action, story, and style. The production values remain top notch, while the tale only grows in complexity and intrigue. Yep. we have a new favorite anime. Claymore is its name. Be sure to check it out.
The DVD
The usual awesome Funimation presentation is all here. Video, audio – everything holds from my previous review. The disc includes a few extras, in the form of an interview with the series’ dirctor, a commentary track for episode 8, textless opening and closing animations, and the usual gallery of Funimation trailers.
All in all, this is some great, great stuff. Pick it up!
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