Search - Human Crossing: Complete Brick Pack on DVD

Like sentimental popcorn

Not My Real Name | Cambridge Massachusetts, USA | 11/25/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First off, I should mention that I've so far seen a little more than half of this series (I'll update when I finish).

This series consists of short, unrelated stories (I think 1 per half-hour episode) about unrelated people, usually centering around internal conflict of some sort. While often thoughtful, they're not terribly deep or ambitious. While they typically involve a couple twists, they wrap up neatly and on some sort of positive note.

I applaud the rather unconventional approach (the only things like it that come to mind are Rumiko Takahashi Anthology and Animated Classics of Japanese Literature). However, I find myself getting a little bored with the relatively shallow characters, all the happy endings & positive messages, and the lack of a larger plot or stronger unifying themes. I understand the format doesn't allow for much character development, but a world filled with so many good-natured and well-intentioned people feels a little inauthentic. The lack of a larger plot or stronger unifying themes makes it seem a bit on the whimsical and aimless side.

In summary, I find this series enjoyable as something light and occasionally thought-provoking to watch. Since the episodes work well a couple at a time, I find it's good to watch when I don't have a big block of time or energy to devote to a more involved and engrossing series. More often than not, what I find reassuring and appreciate about it is not so much the message, but the fact that something like this can get produced (with all its positivity and optimism in the context of modern life).
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