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But even with the near boundless limits to which the series pushed the envelope, could a second season bear similar results, or would it simply be a cheap attempt at recapturing the magic? Fear not, because regardless what the audience thinks, Arakawa is unrelenting in its pursuit of weird humor, and charges once more head long past all creative boundaries.
The situations that make Arakawa funny are lightweight in comparison to the reactions of the characters. So over the top are they, that one can’t help but go through a cluster of emotions – ranging from confusion to amazement – before finally allowing for a laugh. Because, for all the insane antics and jokes heaved upon the viewer, it is the characters that are the life and blood of the show. Regardless of their overly weird characteristics and personalities, this is a group of friends that hang out and do what friends do.
Of course the series does shoot for some tender moments too. Some fare better than others, but the main issue driving the series toward its climax is the departure of Nino as she plans to leave for Venus. Sadly though, the manner in which such an action would affect the characters is handled in a way that – doesn’t ruin the series – but does cause it to stumble. What should have been an outrageous and emotional affair results in the last thing one would expect from the series, and not in a good way.
Whereas some series feature characters that are indistinguishable from another, audiences will have no issues recognizing this cast. The art direction once again flourishes, with vivid colors and unique designs that are impossible not to see and remember. Its not everyday you see a character with a star for a head interacting with an amazon, but such is the brilliance of Arakawa Under the Bridge.
NIS America returns to handle the production chores of this premium edition, and the release certainly lives up to its title. The sturdy box housing the discs is always a welcome treat, and looks fantastic on the shelf. Par for the course, the hardcover art book is the key to these editions, and this one does not disappoint. Pages are thick and glossy, and brimming with character designs, interviews, and factoids. On disc extras include the usual clean opening and closing animation, along with commentaries on four episodes.
Though not quite up to par as the first season, Arakawa Under the Bridge x Bridge is still a fantastic series worth the watch. Comedy in anime is often filled with clichés that are hit and miss, however Arakawa steps over all that, breaking through the norm, and giving audiences something that will have them laughing out loud and scratching their head in the same instant. Its whacky, but there is an abundance of fun to be had, and even a little tenderness too, for those who care for such things.
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