Tanabata no Kuni

Uneven plotting, poor character development and multiple infodumps leading to an unsatisfying ending that really resolves little. Multiple B plots and characters discarded on the way. Having a lead character as a well intentioned idiot muddle his way through ten episodes of intermittent gore without really driving any action is simply poor writing. Female characters mostly relegated to polite frustration. Anything they achieve is simply overshadowed by an elusive character showing up and dumping information. You may as well be asking your phone what is going on at each stage. Points given for attention to detail in SFX.

This series presents a great mix of human drama and mystery. The ways of the traditional village might be there own downfall even though the power has in the past protected the land they hold dear. The conflict between the one with great power and the old ways is at the heart of this, and each layer of mystery peels back a new mystery. The human drama is the push of this and so you must connect to the people. Everyone's choices seem to make sense and everyone's motives seem clear... well almost - with the main "villain" not being the one with the clear agenda. I can't wait for a s2 that I hope they make!