Paradise Kiss, or ParaKiss is it’s sometimes called, was originally a shoujo manga that has also been released in the US. I think I read somewhere that the manga is really popular over here too. I haven’t read the manga at all, so this preview is just based on the first episode of the anime.

Basically, the story of Paradise Kiss involves a group of 5 or so high school students with an interest in fashion. It’s told from the point of view of the newest member, Yukari. The motley crew of students includes George - the designer, Miwako - the cute one, Arashi - the punk guy, and Isabella, who I think is a dude. At the beginning of the first episode, Yukari wants nothing to do with the group, but after getting to know them, she’s fascinated with their artistic world.

I suppose the rest of the anime series will detail the group’s adventures in design, creation, and perhaps competition. That sounds absolutely fabulous!

The character designs are all pretty unique. Yukari is kind of generic looking, but other than that, every character has their own style attached to them. I epecially like Miwako, who can go from cute to chibi in an instant. Besides her, the other characters all look more "realistic."

The OP, ?Lonely in Gorgeous?, is this thumping synthesized song that sorta reminds me of 80’s pop. It’s actually one of the best OPs I’ve heard in a while. The ED is "Do You Want To" by Franz Ferdinand, which is also really good.

To recap: The character designs are awesome, and the music is awesome. But do I want to continue watching this anime? The problem that I have is that I just don’t find the story interesting. It may have to do with the fact that this anime is targeted towards Japanese school girls… Being the heterosexual male that I am, an anime about fashion just doesn’t sound that interesting.

Anyway, that’s just my opinion. I encourage you to give Paradise Kiss a try. It has a lot going for it and you just might like it yourself.

Listen to the OP: ?Lonely in Gorgeous? on my radio.blog!