Blue Thermal: A Review

Read a review of the slice-of-life anime Blue Thermal, which follows college students in an aviation club as they pilot gliders. Discover the strengths and weaknesses of the series, including the relatable main character and enjoyable gliding sequences.

Blue Thermal: A Slice-of-Life Anime Review

Blue Thermal is a slice-of-life anime that takes a refreshing twist by setting the story in college instead of high school. The main focus of the anime is the aviation club, where college students pilot gliders. In this review, we will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of Blue Thermal, analyzing its characters, plot, animation, and overall impact.

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Relatable and Endearing Protagonist

The strongest aspect of Blue Thermal lies in its main character, Tamaki Tsuru. As a clumsy and enthusiastic freshman, Tamaki initially struggles to adapt to college life. However, her relatable reactions and character development make her endearing to viewers. The voice acting by Mayu Hotta adds depth to Tamaki’s character, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.

Despite her lack of experience, Tamaki proves to be a talented glider pilot, discovering her passion for flying in the process. This journey of self-discovery and growth resonates with the audience, making Tamaki a compelling and likable protagonist.

Underdeveloped Supporting Characters

While Tamaki shines as the main character, the supporting characters in Blue Thermal fall short. The potential love interests, Jun Kuramochi and Daisuke Sorachi, lack solid characterization, making it difficult for viewers to become invested in their relationships with Tamaki. The love triangle subplot feels underdeveloped and becomes a minor side story in the film.

Additionally, the anime introduces various conflicts and antagonists, but these conflicts are either quickly resolved or unsatisfyingly addressed. Director Masaki Tachibana’s mention of Blue Thermal originally being planned as a TV series becomes evident as the material would have benefited from a longer format to fully explore and develop the supporting cast.

Average Animation with Pleasing Gliding Sequences

Visually, Blue Thermal is average, with animation suitable for a TV production. The gliding scenes, however, are aesthetically pleasing, showcasing the beauty of flying. While they may not reach the awe-inspiring quality of Studio Ghibli films, these sequences are enjoyable and visually engaging.

Complementing the animation, the musical score by Shōgo Kaida plays a significant role in conveying the emotions of the gliding sequences, adding depth and enhancing the overall experience.

A Breezy and Enjoyable Slice-of-Life Anime

Despite its shortcomings, Blue Thermal offers a breezy and enjoyable experience for fans of slice-of-life anime. The likable protagonist, Tamaki, and the enjoyable gliding sequences make it a pleasant watch. However, the various subplots lack impact, and the anime would have been better suited as a TV series to fully explore and develop the supporting cast.

Overall, Blue Thermal receives a C+ grade. While it may not leave a lasting impact, it provides mild pleasures and a relaxing viewing experience. It is a worthwhile choice for those seeking a light-hearted slice-of-life anime with a college setting and a focus on gliding.