Ao no Exorcist: Yuki no Hate-hen 1cu3r

An overall improvement from last season!

If you didn’t like a lot of the problems from last season but decided to watch anyways, good news, this season feels so much better!

First off, the art and animation in this season looks better when compared to the last. Is it perfect? Nope, but it is an improvement (even if it is a small one lol)! It still has problems, but they’re way less noticeable and jarring this time around. Really, there were like two scenes in particular that rubbed me the wrong way when it comes to the animation, and while there are still CG animated background ... characters (one monster still animated like this too), they show up less often here.

I think the writing improved as well. The last season had a lot of problems when it came to the pacing and writing. Either it tried to explain a lot in a short amount of time, or it rushed through certain points. Does it still have some problems? Sure. Personally, I enjoyed the second half just a bit more than the first half, but that’s not to say the first half was all bad either. It wasn’t my cup of tea I guess, and I enjoyed the plot more in the second half.

That being said though... Keep in mind some more things are switched around in this season. Certain things happen in this season that contradict or even rewrite things that have happened in previous seasons. Of course I'm not going to say what exactly, but I thought I should bring it up, because it's confusing to say the least. You get characters talking about certain things like they haven't happened, despite them having already happened in a previous season, or certain things just being completely rewritten. I get that maybe it was necessary, especially with how the first season was and all, but it could've been done better.

Also, time in this show is a mess to say the least. I swear the writers can't seem to agree how much time has ed across the show. It's something small sure, but it bothers me, and I'm sure it'll confuse others out there. I'll leave it at that...

There’s no denying that the last season had a drop in quality when compared to the previous seasons, but there was genuine improvement this season! I’m not too sure what happened, but I’m glad things have gotten better. After watching this season, I genuinely think it’s on par with the first season, maybe even better... Though that might be a bit unfair as it’s been a while since I’ve watched it, but going purely off memory, I think I enjoyed this season more than the first.

If you stuck through the previous season despite its problems, chances are you'll end up enjoying this one, even if just a bit more. Let’s hope the next season is even better... Fingers crossed.

The Triumphant Return of Blue Exorcist!
A week ago, I concluded this fourth season in a state of overwhelming emotion. After experiencing its ups and downs, Voln has achieved the remarkable feat of resurrecting this anime from its ashes. This season stands as a shining testament to their accomplishment. Almost all the shortcomings of the third season have been addressed. Let us delve into this masterpiece, step by step.

Animation: 7.5 - 8.0 | Art Direction: 9.0
Undoubtedly, this is the area that has seen the most significant improvement. While a few moments lacked finesse – notably the final battle against Hashiro-Taro, where an overreliance on CGI slightly ... diminished the impact – the season as a whole was solid. Its zenith was reached in Episode 12, where the animation excelled on every front.

What struck me the most, however, was the masterful use of color palettes, lighting, and shadow-laden compositions. These stylistic choices, especially in scenes featuring Yukio and Ryuji, heightened the tension and added a dramatic depth that was palpable. It is evident that Voln’s teams have honed their craft, delivering episodes of unparalleled beauty.

Music: 10 | Voice Acting: 9.5
This section will be brief, but it is imperative to highlight these aspects, which rank among the series’ greatest triumphs. With Sawano and KOHTA at the helm, the anime ascends to greatness, propelled by a magnificent soundtrack and an unforgettable auditory atmosphere.

The voice actors’ performances are equally exceptional. Beyond renowned names like Okamoto, Fukuyama, Hiroshi, Nakai, and Hanazawa, several others delivered outstanding portrayals. Lightning’s voice actor, in particular, deserves acclaim for capturing the multifaceted nature of a character who is by turns enigmatic and eccentric.

Story: 9 | Characters: 10
As mentioned in my commentary on the Illuminati-Hen arc, this fourth season focuses on investigations surrounding the events of the Blue Night. I will refrain from revealing details, as the essence of this season lies in its masterful storytelling.

Iconic scenes abound. Whether it’s Yukio’s confrontations in the early episodes, the exchanges between Yukio and Ryuji, the poignant moments with Shiemi, or the unforgettable sequence in Episode 12, each is a masterpiece in its own right. The season’s climax delivers a brief yet breathtaking conclusion, where music, revelations, and animation converge to create an unforgettable spectacle.

Yukio, in particular, takes center stage in many pivotal moments. Alongside Lightning and Ryuji, he has become one of the central figures of this season, undergoing a fascinating evolution rich with themes rarely explored in shonen. While his behavior may occasionally frustrate, he remains one of the most compelling characters in the saga.

Conclusion:
Previously, I harbored doubts about the future of the anime series. Now, however, this fourth season has erased all hesitation. With this latest installment as proof, I am confident that Blue Exorcist is in capable hands. I eagerly await the opportunity to dive back into this story in the coming weeks. Prepare yourselves to uncover the origins of this extraordinary tale.

Season 4 and it feels like the story is just getting started.

I have few memories of the previous seasons, but after watching this season I don't really need them. For the first time in many years it feels like the story is taking some direction and starting to define the foundations of the story. The simple fact of starting to give context to characters, shaping the stories and expanding the lore is more than enough to classify it as one of the best seasons of the franchise. The theme of Shura and the demon, section 13 and the primordial demons was more interesting than all ... the content that the anime had given up to that point.

In of story and development, it had a fairly large and evident leap in quality. Speaking of the characters, I have never felt like fighting with half the secondary cast as much as I do now. I don't know who thought it was a good idea to let Yukio play Persona 3. Yukio's character was one of the most insufferable, his descent into madness is unpleasant. His corruption is not natural or logical, he just lives making a drama of how nobody helps him, he has no friends and he is alone but when his friends tell him he is not alone and give him a hand he ignores them. Make up your mind, you are not so endearing as to go around begging. Shiemi on the other hand, I don't know who decided this, but between the romance subplot and her vocational orientation the only thing it causes is sleep. While on one side they investigate the dirty laundry of the Vatican, Shiemi is just trying to decide if she wants to be an exorcist or run the family store. There is no clear balance between the stories, which causes you to hate the irrelevant characters more along with their unnecessary plots.

The previous paragraph was just a vent, it is not a negative aspect of the story, it is just a personal grudge. As a negative aspect I would only stick with the issue of the balance of the stories. There is no congruence between what is told in one chapter and what is shown in another. In the end you end up feeling that there are too many chapters in the anime. If you are a person who has already seen the previous seasons, then I would encourage you to see this 4th because it is much better than the others. On the other hand, if you want to encourage yourself to start this franchise today, I would not do you the harm of recommending a story that has just started in its 4th season.

Loved the dynamic between Rin and Shiemi . It developed quite well in this season, because a lot of Shounen anime don't get that and I think that's a down aspects for them .. but here in Ao no exorcist they did better ❤️

Series has quite the drama between two brothers but that make it more interesting

Good animation Quality ...y not the best !! But very good 👍🏻

The plot reveal and the suspense was GOAT level 🔥

I think unlike me, people who are watching Ao no exorcist for a long time they will watch it either way. I personally started watching the series ... in 2021 and fell in love with first season and that 2nd opening what was it called ?? Oh yes , IN MY WORLD by BLUE ENCOUNT...

well for me this is when the journey began. I would personally say don't just blindly follow someone's recommendations. Give every anime at least 1 episode chance if you still don't enjoy it you can quit. This process led me to a lot of hidden gems ❤️

Over all 10 out of 10 for me 😭❤️

Though the animation took a stylistic hit, the story itself is completely worth it. The pacing and the writing style is still the same as I it as a kid, and it doesnt feel like a play on nostalgia for some quick money. The story and plot had me genuinely interested and in suspense. I can only cross my fingers they continue it, its starting to get really good! The characters and tone were still consistent with the earlier pieces as well. It Also expands on some of the demons that i had previously wondered what would become of them, and reveals of past ... of some characters no longer present.

Ao no Exorcist: Yuki no Hate-hen is a solid continuation of the Ao no Exorcist anime series, diving into Rin Okumura's ongoing struggle as he confronts his demonic heritage and battles existential threats alongside his companions. This arc, based on the "Shimane Illuminati Saga" from the manga, introduces darker themes and a deeper exploration of characters' backstories, particularly Yukio, who finds himself increasingly torn between his humanity and his demonic inheritance.

The animation quality by A-1 Pictures remains consistent, with dynamic fight scenes and vibrant visuals capturing both the intensity of battles and the supernatural atmosphere. The soundtrack enhances the storytelling, blending emotional and action-packed moments ... seamlessly. However, the pacing might feel uneven, especially for viewers unfamiliar with the manga. Some plot points can appear rushed, leaving a sense that more depth was possible with additional episodes.

The highlight of this arc is the emotional tension between Rin and Yukio, as their relationship continues to strain under the weight of secrets and revelations. Yukio’s inner turmoil adds complexity to the story, while Rin's resolve to protect everyone despite the odds reinforces his growth as a character.

In summary, Ao no Exorcist: Yuki no Hate-hen is a gripping watch for fans of the series, offering a blend of action, drama, and character development. While not perfect in pacing, it sets the stage for an exciting future as the brothers face their intertwined destinies. A must-watch for those invested in Rin and Yukio’s journey!

Finally something's happening in this series again!

The last seasons after the first one were kind of a let down, but in this season stuff started to happen. Of course it wasn't perfect and there were a couple of things that annoyed me like some of the sidestories took unnecessary detours like they have a habit of taking.
What I didn't realize missing was the good heartfelt drama! Now there finally is progression with character arcs and A CHANGE that I'm interested in is finally happening.

Mixed feelings since I wouldn't recommend the last two seasons but they are needed to understand this one. They ... were like unnecessary long building arcs for this moment.

Hopefully the next season doesn't screw it up.