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• Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle Anime Series

The Review

First Impression

At first glance, I thought this series would be just like CLAMP's popular CardCaptor Sakura series, but those thoughts changed after I saw the first few episodes of Tsubasa Chronicle. Since the story revolves on the idea of traveling between worlds, I immediately felt the loss of the first few characters I was introduced to during the first few episodes.
In return though, CLAMP adds a twist by making these other worlds "alternate universes" that keep the same "souls" of each character, but with different personalities and backgrounds. It becomes obvious that CLAMP's having a bit of fun recreating the main characters over and over again.

The Artwork

Beautiful work, as can only be expected from the renowned CLAMP =). The only error, however, is in the human body proportion - extra-long arms and legs. This could be attributed to the traditional anime style of exaggerating the human body.

Overall Impression

Rather than Sakura taking the lead role, it is Syaoran who gets the spotlight. The main theme this time is not only the desire to improve, but also the idea of having a "true heart."
Every time Syaoran finds something trying to block him from getting one of Sakura's feathers (each of which hold important pieces of Sakura's memory), he fights without regard to pain. He sacrifices his tender relationship with Sakura in return for the power to rescue Sakura.
What I really liked about this series was how this idea of a "true heart" was so nicely presented. It's a corny idea, an abused idea - it's black and blue from years of misuse. Nonetheless, CLAMP managed to bring it back to life in Tsubasa Chronicle.

Yes, it's another damsel-in-distress...but it's a cute one worth watching - even for a tomboy like moi ;).

I have also heard some opinions from people I regard highly that speak critically of Tsubasa Chronicle - that this is the "downfall of CLAMP." This idea was also proven wrong by the 3rd and 4th episode of the series.
For those who are familiar with CLAMP's work, the fact that many characters in Tsubasa Chroncle are made up of many prominent characters from many of their past works is very apparent - and to some, this may be annoying. It seems to me, as an amateur artist with a - I dare say - similar love of art, CLAMP is simply enjoying their favorite past creations in a new series. It's hard not to miss these characters =).

Breaking It Down