The thematic beauty brought by Black Butler’s devil of a butler, endowed further by Death Parade’s bartender. Such themes has brought a certain grandeur to Anime male characters who wear the formal suit. Yet as the number of Anime in this world rises, only a few are worth revisiting. Today we look back on Bartender Anime, which had released way back in 2006.
At first glance, Bartender may appear mundane, with the potential to turn off viewers due to its self-indulgent focus on bartending and drinking. However, this anime proves to be incredibly fascinating. The creator’s passion for drinks is evident in their innovative presentation of the subject matter.
- Developed by Palm Studios, Bartender Anime was released back in October 2006. Having the name, it is exactly what it portrays itself to be – about drinks and stuff.
What is the Bartender Anime’s story about?
The stories are authentic and relatable, and each episode touches both the mind and emotions. Unlike most slice-of-life anime, there are no cheesy moments. The writer puts in considerable effort to make each episode engaging. And they do this with excellent timing, dialogue, and narration. The narrations, in particular, are skillfully placed throughout the story.
What is the plot?
- Nestled away in the backstreets of the Ginza district lies Eden Hall, a solitary bar under the masterful management of Ryuu Sasakura – a prodigious bartender known for concocting the most extraordinary cocktails imaginable.
- However, Eden Hall is not easily found; it must choose you as its patron. Distressed individuals from diverse walks of life meander into this bar seeking solace, but Ryuu never fails to determine the perfect cocktail to comfort and counsel every troubled soul.
Does the Bartender Anime live up to portray a Bartender’s reality?
The sound design is of expected quality, with no standout features apart from the pleasant ending soundtrack, which is worth a second listen.
The characters are well-rounded, and even the seemingly one-dimensional bartender proves to be a complex and relatable figure as the series progresses. The “NeoBartenders” provide valuable insight into various topics, making their limited appearances all the more enjoyable.
- The animation style is primarily abstract, featuring many imaginative background effects, several of which are theatrical. For example, a character may be conversing at the bar counter, then the scene will shift to a narrator explaining what is happening. And this is often in a spotlight or engaged in their own activity.
- Although it may not seem realistic, it is executed well. Despite the narration style, the animation makes it clear what is occurring in reality versus the abstract, making it engaging and not at all tedious.
Concluding
- Although an anime series centered around a bartender might not initially seem like something to capture your attention, Bartender is a serene and gentle show that is worth watching.
- Each episode delves into the stories of customers who enter a bar seeking solace. Bartender Ryu Sasakura aids them in overcoming their problems by crafting a cocktail with a taste or history that relates to their situation.
By confronting their emotions through their drink, every customer can leave the bar feeling fulfilled. The narrative is enhanced not only by the customers’ revelations but also by the narrations of other patrons who have been healed by the bar. Each story is well-crafted, and detailed, and brings a satisfying conclusion. However, there is no overarching plot throughout the series.