Blue Box episode 1 review: A unique Sports anime brings a breath of fresh air

Blue Box episode 1, titled Chinatsu Senpai, premiered on Thursday, October 3, 2024. The story of Ao no Hako adapts the acclaimed manga of the same name, written and illustrated by Miura Kouji.

The narrative is a unique and engaging blend of sports and romance genres. The debut episode offers a strong introduction, providing a clear overview of the narrative while drawing viewers into the wholesome romantic journey of Taiki and Kano.

With the excitement surrounding the premiere, this Blue Box episode 1 review explores the anime's overall appeal, diving into key elements such as production quality, narrative progression, animation, cast performances, and more to assess whether TMS Entertainment delivers an engaging adaptation of this beloved series.

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Blue Box episode 1 review: A refreshing blend of sports and romance genres with breathtaking animation

Blue Box episode 1: A brief synopsis and narrative criticism

Taiki and Kano's interaction (Image via Telecom Animation Film)

Blue Box episode 1 begins with an exchange between Taiki Inomata and Kano Chinatsu, highlighting Taiki's admiration for Kano, which has grown into a crush, despite the difference in their athletic status.

While Kano is a popular and talented basketball star, Taiki is an unaccomplished badminton player, as his friend Kyo points out. Undeterred, Taiki remains determined to pursue his feelings, though advice from his friend Hina proves useless.

The two cross paths during early morning practices, and after a deeper interaction one morning, Kano learns Taiki's name. As they bond over their sports, Taiki discovers their mothers were once teammates. The surprise comes when Taiki's mom reveals that Kano's family plans to move abroad.

Panicked, Taiki rushes to Kano, urging her to stay and pursue her dream. Surprisingly, she reveals that she already decided to stay, revealing that she'll be staying with an acquaintance, and that it was Taiki who inspired her to keep pushing forward.

Taiki in this episode (Image via Telecom Animation Film)

However, the dynamic between them becomes awkward as the episode concludes with an amusing twist: Kano is moving into Taiki's house. The acquaintance turns out to be his own mother as their mothers are friends.

Blue Box episode 1 is an engaging start that shows excellent narrative direction and delivers an amusing twist at the end. The premiere keeps viewers entertained with a well-balanced, lively, and lighthearted story, driven by the charming interactions between Taiki and Kano. The twist at the conclusion adds intrigue, setting the perfect stage for their romance to unfold.

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Blue Box episode 1 review: Production, animation, soundtracks, and voice acting: A criticism

Studio Telecom Animation Film delivers a captivating and engaging debut in Blue Box episode 1, produced by TMS Entertainment. Directed by Yūichirō Yano, the premiere showcases impressive production quality.

Yūko Kakihara's well-crafted composition and Miho Tanino's stellar character designs enhance the charm of this sports romance, offering an entertaining and captivating narrative that sets a strong foundation for the love story between Kano Chinatsu and Taiki Inomata.

With its engaging storytelling and captivating direction, the episode provides a solid introduction to the plot and romantic journey, keeping viewers hooked. The top-notch animation from Telecom Animation Film enriches the storytelling, with beautiful visuals that draw viewers in and make every scene engaging.

Taiki and Kano in the opening scenes (Image via Telecom Animation Film)

The voice cast also shines, with standout performances from Reina Ueda as Kano and Shouya Chiba as Taiki. Reina, famed for voicing characters like Reze in Chainsaw Man, Cha Haein in Solo Leveling, and Kanao in Demon Slayer, perfectly captures Kano's passion and charm.

Shouya, known for his roles as Ayanokouji in Classroom of the Elite and Shinei Nouzen in 86, brings Taiki's determined yet romantic character to life. The music elevates the episode even further.

The opening theme, Same Blue by Japanese pop rock band, Official Hige Dandism (Higedan), gives a perfectly complementing start, while the ending theme Teenage Blue by the popular Japanese singer-songwriter, Eve, provides a fitting conclusion.

Together, these elements make Blue Box episode 1 a standout premiere and set high expectations for this debut Fall 2024 anime.

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To sum up

Kano Chinatsu in episode 1 (Image via Telecom Animation Film)

Overall, Blue Box episode 1 provides an excellent start to this highly anticipated new anime. The premiere offers an entertaining and vibrant experience, establishing the foundation for a new romance intertwined with a sports theme.

The narrative captures the audience's attention, keeping them thoroughly engaged while the twist at the end enhances the charm of the budding romance, leaving viewers eager to see how their love story will develop.

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