Anime Review: Hyouka

Chitanda's hypnotic powers when she's curious

So I'm interested in this new series lately. It's very interesting since I realized I quite like a bit of mystery to things (even if it creeps me out and makes me shiver once in a while)

The story is generally centralized about this male student called Houtarou Oreki (who I learned is Tomoya's VA) who is forced to join the Classics Club by his sister. His motto in life is to not do anything that wastes energy, and when he has to do something, do it quickly. (which I must say is pretty good of a motto) This makes him come across as lazy and lethargic. So three other members join the club and they start solving mysteries. 

What I like about their mysteries is that there is a very logical and realistic explanation to all the mysteries and that it takes the fear out of what people find is the supernatural.

Characters: I am highly fond of all the characters in this series. The least probably is Chitanda since her constant curiosity bothers me just a bit, though I admit it leads to rather good mysteries that should be solved. Good thing she starts taking a back seat once Oreki starts stepping up to the plate. I'm very fond of the best friend character, absolutely adorable. Houtarou's personality and inner commentary is very amusing and much in line with my sense of humor. 

Art/Animation: As an artist, I watch and read manga based on how good the animation and art style is, hoping to learn from it as I watch as well as a form of entertainment. I really like Hyouka's animation and art. It's very school life cuties, but it's very pretty as well. Lots of lighting use I noticed which can be a bit odd... I guess it's something to do with atmosphere.

Story/Plot: I really enjoy every episodes once stuff started speeding up. The mysteries suck me in and I enjoy the school life plot mixed in with these problems people would consider supernatural.

Music:From what I judge from the openings and endings, I don't like the music, but the animation they really make interesting and pretty so it's hard not to watch it. I kind of just not focus on the music at that point though I must say the OSTs are rather pretty since it's solid classical.

Entertainment: I like the bits and pieces of humor and I feel like this series gives the best of everything from school life to romance to mystery to humor. I think it's for a wide range of people, but apparently the first few episodes are such a drag to get through there is a lot of not as good review about it.

Overall: I like this series. Perhaps not as much to do anything but watch it, but it definitely goes as something I enjoy. It can sit along side Natsume Yuujinchou in my entertainment and enjoyment level. Can't wait to see more of this :P