DVD Corner

Sekirei: Pure Engagement Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack Review

“Sekirei” is pure drivel.

In the 13 episode second season of “Sekirei,” the special being Sekireis (aided by the Ashikabis) continue to fight one another via the MBI company CEO’s sadistic game (the Sekirei Plan). Scattered throughout the season we also see Sekirei fighting with the disciplinary squad, backstory about the MBI, lots of scenes with Minato (an Ashikabi) and Musubi (a Sekirei) and more fan service than you can imagine.

Even though I haven’t seen the first season of “Sekirei,” I can safely say I have no desire to see it after seeing the second season. “Sekirei” is anime at its worst. The plot is basically a rip-off of “Highlander,” the series is mostly comprised of endless fights, the overabundance of characters are one dimensional at best, and the fan service/nudity is pointless and groan worthy. Normally, I can find something to like about an anime show, but I’m struggling to find anything kind to say about “Sekirei.” It’s just a downright painful anime to endure.

On a side note, I have to say that the actual set is a bit bothersome. Instead of separating the DVD and Blu-ray discs in different cases like some Funimation sets thankfully have, the discs are crammed into one cheap plastic case. The other case inside the set is an empty cardboard placeholder.

Video/Audio:

The series, which is presented in widescreen 1080p, looks predictably sharp. Funimation is very consistent with their hi-def releases.

Audio wise, the English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 suffers from some cheesy voice acting while the Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0 track offers up far better voice acting.

Extras:
* Trailers for “Heaven’s Lost Property,” “Yamada’s First Time,” “Rosario + Vampire,” “Fairy Tail,” “Chaos; Head,” “Tenchi Muyo! GXP,” “Master Of Martial Hearts,” “Phantom- Requiem For The Phantom,” “My Bride Is A Mermaid,” and “Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings.”
* Commentary on episode 5 by 3 folks involved the English dub. The trio talks about the characters and both seasons of the series.
* Episode 10 commentary by the ADR director and 2 voice actresses.

*1 textless opening song and 2 textless closing songs.

* An OVA titled “Two Gossip Topics” which involves examinations and a spa trip.

April 3, 2012 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Sekirei Season 2, Sekirei: Pure Engagement Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack Review