500https://i.ur.com/zLvzUnF.jpg I want to be reborn. These words alone proclaim such a robust yet genuine expression in the first episode of Hajime no Ippo. A subtle testimony simple yet effectively impelling illustrating a young mans relentless thirst for personal growth. As his own journey unfolds evolution discovery and selfreflection become apparent marking an experience that gradually embellishes his unrealized love for boxing. A sport where the stakes are aggrandized to higher quantities while evaluating ones existence and most particularly the spirit within. George Morikawas story is simply a billet doux to Shounen where each character is fully grounded in growth. Sometimes in a steady uniform manner when it needs to be and passionately energetic and strenuous when the moment is ripe. Although Ippo is the core of it all the people surrounding him possess distinctive traits because of what boxing means to them and Ippos influence towards their own goals viceversa. Even the side plots dedicate a remarkable amount of episode length to characters like Miyata Sendo and Vorg showcasing their struggles their means of achieving fulfillment their differing perspectives and their technical weaknesses both inside the boxing ring and when theyre not. And within the heart of these athletes all their motives diverge with one another every intersection eventually setting foot within the distinguished ring. The most brilliant aspect of it all resides within writing that prioritizes impact over innovation and ingenuity. Ippos strive for greatness may seem simple though overtime you never realize how nuanced and significant it becomes until the day of the match. Each athlete becomes influential to Ippo and each other more than what meets the eye. Albeit What differentiates Hajime no Ippo from most stories lies within its aptitude to substantially highlight the consequences of attaining glory and eminence making each match not only entertaining but an opportunity to generate a source of investment from the viewer. Even when there isnt a match onscreen Ippos story transitions into a SliceofLife framework beautifully by means of adding a dose of more interest or substance in characterization. Comedic solace is arguably the productions greatest surprise as it manages to implement a sense of sincerity in character traits. Kamogawas gym members are supplied with chemistry that comes in many forms manifesting in wellexecuted sentimental responses Takamuras overthetop penis jokes Aoki and Kimuras lively voice acting and Ippos cluelessness. Immaturity tends to gain a questionable response from viewers in most Shounen but in Ippos case its utilized as a product of appeal due to appropriate placement and avoiding stereotypical punchlines and gimmicks. Aside from impactful storytelling this tale has a breathtaking musical score one that intensifies tension and recesses faintly when silence immerses ones attention. Usages of striking rock nroll guitar riffs catchy intempo drum beats sound incredibly authentic bass reverberations compliment the tone and the melodic chord progressions are just as affecting as the story itself. Although vocal production is most noteworthy. Passionately expressive brimmed with inspiration. Triumphant yet poignantly crafted during the time of selfreflection. Ippos three opening themes are adrenalinepumping as if it was made to be the music as an athlete triumphantly marches into the ring accompanied by roars praises and shouts of the audience that encircles them. In contrast the ending themes naturally incorporate a melancholic sustenance though the feeling isnt overdramatized. Eternal Loop Ippos final ending song is a timeless tune that vividly describes the sensation of a boxing match and most admirably the fighting spirit of an athlete. Despite being produced in 2000 MADHOUSE is known for their international achievements. Aside from incredible sound production Ippo has clean animating where each punch thrown is pressurized by white directive air capitalizing on impactful movement actual heavyhitting jabs and consistently detailed facial expressions showcasing the heartaching pain in each blow. The wisp of air fluttering time and time again followed by merciless swings being thrown is adrenaline boosting. Ippos fluid choreography oozes mastery despite being an anime ahead of its time. This story is the definition of inspirational. Reason being it methodically structures the technical elements of boxing without getting carried away and focuses on maintaining it every episode essentially prioritizing coherency over shock value. Although unpredictability is sometimes sacrificed for this predictable match outcomes arent necessarily a negative more so a positive from a general perspective in Ippos case. The value of each match may seem to hold more value than one may think as the prevalent thought of defeat is more devastating than usual due to the things at stake. Various topics like retaining ones pride or letting go of it an obligatory win to improve the life of ones mother or a seemingly simplistic promise towards young children wherein one will buy each of them a prize if one obtains victory bears more meaning than the accustomed stakes at hand. Hajime no Ippo is a tale devoid of any pretentious shenanigans. Makunouchi Ippos journey in continuously refining his techniques gradually building up his own fighting spirit and understanding the lives of his friends and foes on a personal level is wondrous. The relationships formed throughout are a method the production utilizes effectively to connect the viewer with each athlete. In Ippos world sometimes the bully who tortured you during high school may later on develop into a significant source of emotional support. Sometimes your own opponent may be the only way of obtaining fulfillment. Sometimes the sport of boxing may put all the odds against you. Sometimes the sport itself may be immensely fearinducing. Sometimes the amount of potential risks and sacrifices included may not be worth it in the end hell even the countless hours of hard work and dedication put in only to possibly sink in defeat Although regardless of each possibility individuals who enter the ring stand as a monumental art a passionate form of liberation wherein one feels alive more than ever before. Coach... what does it mean to be strong? Then go and fight. Win against that man. The answer will come to you naturally.