Anime: Master Keaton

Variety is the spice of life. If you agree with that, then Master Keaton is for you. If one episode is mystery, the next is romance and the episode after, a slice of life. You can never expect what type story the next episode is going to bring and at what setting.

Taichi Hiraga Keaton is a half-Japanese half-British Archaeologist, part time lecturer, Ex SAS, historian, Insurance agent. He is humble, intelligent and simple. While you may think Keaton is made to be a “Jack of all trades” kind of character, which he is kind of, he is actually used as an conduit to tell various short stories. Hence in most episodes, the stories and the characters involved takes the center stage instead of him. There are also a few episodes devoted to Keaton’s past, since we are also interested in our protagonist as well no doubt. Most stories take place in Europe & few places in Japan as well, and despite the short duration the episodic stories are really well constructed with mature, usually relatable characters. The only problem I had with it was it had no overarching plot, which by itself may not be something wrong but makes the series have an abrupt start and an abrupt end (the OVAs has a better ending)

In the animation department it felt a bit lacking in terms of budget to me, but oddly enough it fit well with the stories. I would really like a remaster of the series though. Character designs of course has Naoki Urasawa’s trademark.
The musical scores were heavenly for me, something which not only fit the tone of the anime, but one that you could listen to separately all the same. The VA was well done as well, both for the dub and the sub.

Overall Master Keaton is one of my favorites and while everyone may not appreciate it as much, if someone is looking for an western themed slow-paced adventure anime there should be something here for everyone. This anime is an adventure, for both Keaton and us viewers.

This is my 1st review here, and I would really appreciate any constructive criticism you guys can provide.

This Series based on a manga by Urasawa Naoki really surprised me.
Keaton Taichi Hiraga is the main character in this show.
His job is to work for an insurance company solving difficult cases, often putting him in a dangerous situation.

Animation:

Given its age the animation in Master Keaton is good.The characters are classically animated.
The forte of this animation is the authenticity with which different countries are shown. Especially the places in Europe are really well done.Besides that, there is nothing fancy or eye candy in here.

Sound:

I didnt like the opening song that much.Not that it was annoying but just not to my taste.The ending song was better.
Since (almost) every episode takes place in a different country Master Keaton's BGM changes alot.It often manages to represent the country he is visiting.
Keaton's seiyuu did a good job, the others did a solid job.

Story:

Master Keaton is made up of separate loosely connected episodes(episodic).Keaton is sent abroad to investigate for the insurance company he is working for so each story usually takes place somewhere in Europe.
Here this series shows its strength; the storylines are always interesting and often some action scenes are shown.


Character:

Keaton Taichi Hiraga is the only "main" character.
He kind of reminds me of Mac Guyver because of the similarities in character traits between those two.
There's never any excessive use of violence , in fact Keaton is the calm ,intelligent and witty guy.But he doesnt lack the combat skills for dangerous situations since he has been a SAS instructor.
Keatons Father and his daughter are introduced in a few episodes but they never manage to become of any real importance.


Value and Entertainment:

Master Keaton is a thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience.
Great episodic storyline, solid animation(given its age) and authenticity had me want to see the next episode.
It will be definately be worth a rewatch in the future since there are a bunch of outstanding episodes and no continuous storyline.


This is my first review so please excuse any major flaws.