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A Deep Dive into Hajime no Ippo: Rising
The boxing anime landscape has seen a few standout series over the years, but none rival the enduring charm and vigor of Hajime no Ippo. With its latest installment, Hajime no Ippo: Rising, the franchise revisits its roots while offering fresh perspectives and character developments that series veterans and newcomers alike will find compelling.
Evolution of Ippo Makunouchi
At the core of Hajime no Ippo: Rising is the protagonist, Ippo Makunouchi, a boxer whose journey from timid student to fierce competitor has been both inspiring and heartwarming. This season, Ippo’s infamous Dempsey Roll — a technique named after the legendary boxer Jack Dempsey — faces scrutiny. As challengers devise counter-strategies to overcome this move, Ippo is forced to evolve, ensuring that his narrative arc remains engaging and reflective of the larger themes of growth and perseverance.
Ippo’s determination shines through the challenges he faces.
A Sharper Focus on Boxing’s Personal Battles
What sets this season apart is its shift back to intimate, character-driven narratives. By scaling back from the grandiose landscapes of the boxing world in the previous season, Rising is able to hone in on character development. Ippo’s journey is paralleled by complex narratives such as Takamura’s world title pursuits and other supporting characters’ matches, offering viewers an array of emotional and physical challenges to witness.
The depiction of combat is a notable aspect, with animation surpassing that of its predecessor, New Challenger. The kinetic energy of the fights is amplified by the improved direction and choreography, making each match a visual spectacle.
Soundtrack and Sound Design: A Mixed Bag
The series retains its stellar sound design, which has been a hallmark of its appeal. However, the musical score has taken a dramatic turn; stringed instruments dominate the soundscape, supplemented by unexpected operatic vocals that interject during intense matches. While this shift in music style shows commitment to innovation, some viewers may find it repetitive over the course of the series.
Legendary Arcs and Emotional Climax
The narrative crescendo of Hajime no Ippo: Rising culminates in a gripping flashback arc that delves into the past of Ippo’s coach, Genji Kamogawa. These episodes, set against the backdrop of post-WWII Japan, elevate the storytelling to new heights, offering poignant insights into the characters’ motivations and histories.
Stellar Cast and Production Team
A nod must be given to the collective genius behind the series. Directed by Jun Shishido and composed by Kazuyuki Fudeyasu, the show benefits from a roster of talented storyboards and animation direction. The vibrant character designs are the brainchild of Kōji Sugiura, while Masafumi Mima’s sound direction ensures the auditory experience is nothing short of spectacular.
Final Thoughts
Hajime no Ippo: Rising reaffirms its status as a quintessential boxing anime with its well-rounded approach to storytelling and character development. While not without its flaws in music composition, the series delivers a powerful punch through its emotional depth, animation quality, and narrative momentum. Although uncertain if another series will follow, Ippo’s journey in Rising leaves a lasting impact that solidifies it as a triumph in the anime realm.
