#30
Cardcaptor Sakura OP #1
Watch the video here.
When I first saw this OP, I was quite pleasantly surprised. The reason is that after seeing and hearing the opening theme to the botched dub, Cardcaptors, I found that the original OP is SO much more appealing. It radiates with up-beat, feel-good cuteness which is very fitting for a series that also radiates with up-beat, feel-good cuteness.
#29
Eden of the East ED
Watch the video here.
Here's a very different approach to an ending sequence. Instead of using cel animation or CGI, this one is done in stop-motion with paper cutouts. The entire thing is in black and white, save for the red apple at the beginning. Although I found Eden of the East far to confusing to be entertaining, I did enjoy the ending music. I'd include the OP on this list, but the version I heard was not the original song, and thus, would break the rules of this countdown. I guess Hulu couldn't get the rights to Oasis's music, but that's OK. I can't stand Oasis.
#28
FLCL ED
Watch the video here.
Speaking of different approaches to endings to anime that I was too confused to be entertained by, I present to you the adventures of a motorcycle. It starts off innocently enough. Then it breaks into live action. After the motorcycle rebels against its owner by not starting, it drives off on its own through the streets of Japan. My favorite part is when some random person comes up to inspect the thing.
#27
The Sacred Blacksmith OP
Watch the video here.
Like the ending that appeared on this countdown, I couldn't find the actual animation to this song. It's a pity; the action in this OP was so fitting to the dark music. Even the sound of parts of the song reflect the time period that The Sacred Blacksmithwas based on. Despite the lack of visuals, the song isn't so bad on its own.
#26
Naruto OP #2
Watch the video here.
I might be a bid biased because, to me, this is when Naruto started getting good. My favorite part is when the sequence shows the supporting cast. I mean, the way that supporting protagonist Lee suddenly turns to face the viewer still gives me chills after all these years. I've actually heard the song on its own, and while it's not that great, they manage it edit it in such a way that all the good parts of the song stay in while all the boring parts stay out. That takes talent.
#25
Fullmetal Alchemist OP #4
Watch the video here.
The final arc of Fullmetal Alchemist was when the anime strayed completely from the manga, went down the tubes, and turned into a basket of WTF-ness. So why did I pick this OP over the others? The answer is simple: I like the song far more than the other three openings. Too bad this video is so grainy because the animation when protagonist Edward jumps down the waterfall into battle is just breathtaking.
#24
Sailor Moon OP
Watch the video here.
Yep, you knew this was coming. This iconic opening was used throughout the entire Sailor Moon series (as far as I know), and every half-season they switch the animation up to keep it fresh. I picked this fan-made mashup of all the different sequence because (1) it looked pretty cool and (2) all the actual opening sequences were taken down due to rights issues. You can come at me with your pitchforks now, for putting this song on my list. Bring it on.
#23
Neon Genesis Evangelion OP
Watch the video here.
You probably knew this was coming too. This montage features animation, character stills, words, and some religions imagery (why not?). If FMA fans look closely they can see the Portal of Truth. All of this is set to a catchy tune that Japan has a love/hate relationship with. Listen to it enough and it'll be stuck in your head FOREVER. Yeah, you're totally gonna kill me.
#22
Sword Art Online OP #1
Watch the video here.
If you were on the fence about killing me, by now you will have made up your mind to do so. Ha-ha! Strike me down! Although SAO declined with just about every episode, the more I listen to the song, the more I like it. In fact, I was a little sad to see it go once the first story arc ended. Actually, everything about SAO made me a little sad after the first story arc ended. So, when I feel a little nostalgic, even though I only saw the anime a year ago, I come back to this song. It gives me chills like I was listening to it for the first time.
#21
Gingitsune ED
Watch the video here.
Again, like the previous Gingitsune entry, there was no trace of the ending animation. I did find the audio in the form of an official promo video, but it's the animation that really makes the ED come together. It features the fox spirit characters Gintaro and Haru as little chalk drawings that come to life and crawl around everywhere. It's very cute, and includes a little twist ending that I won't give away. You'll just have to find the video (or watch the show) to find out.
