Otherside Picnic - Episode 1 [EP Review]
Updated: Jan 13, 2021
Written by: Gabriel Castillo | Published on: January 6, 2021
Yuri with a sci-fi twist; a budding romance is born in an outlandish world filled with unknown perils and spooky mysteries. What awaits on the Otherside?
The series starts off strong with the introduction of lovable characters, an intriguing premise, and the Otherside. Expect puzzling questions and mysteries, unraveling of characters, development of relationships, and light horror with some psychological themes as thoughts and feelings are twisted.
Series Synopsis via MAL
Her first encounter with Toriko Nishina was on the Otherside after seeing "that thing" and nearly dying. Ever since that day, exhausted university student Sorao Kamikoshi's life changed. In this Otherworld, full of mystery, which exists alongside our own, dangerous beings like the Kunekune and Hasshaku-sama that are spoken of in real ghost stories appear. For research, for profit, and to find an important person, Toriko and Sorao set foot into the abnormal.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
Summary
Sorao Kamikoshi first meets Toriko Nishina on the Otherside as they narrowly escape an encounter with a strange being. The two meet up in the real world and decide to cross to the Other Side once more to hunt the Kunekune. Will Sorao and Toriko succeed?
Character Design
Kamikoshi Sorao (voiced by Yumiri Hanamori) is a shy and socially withdrawn curious cutie. The character’s reserved demeanor and appearance works well with her more logical and calculating style of doing things. Thinking things through and devising a strategy are Sorao’s strong points.
Nishina Toriko (voiced by Ai Kayano) is a forward and headstrong beauty with a kick. Toriko’s blue eyes and blond hair paired with a friendly demeanor effectively mask the strong personality beneath (and the Makarov she’s packing). Nonchalantly dealing with whatever comes up and pushing forward are Toriko’s strengths. Also, she's probably part of the "can-run-a-marathon-in-heels" club.
Individually, the two are delightful but also seem typical. However, magic happens when Sorao and Toriko interact; the chemistry is evident. The pair’s playful banter is very pleasant and engaging. Undoubtedly, the two mix perfectly. Perhaps it’s the classic “extrovert meets introvert” scenario that makes their pairing extra appealing. Sorao and Toriko seem to share a bond that is fun to watch as their story unfolds together. This well-written and well-executed relationship can elevate this series.
Production (Animation, Sound, and Design)
The series is co-produced by Felix Film and LIDEN Films and their style does