The Age of Commercialism

Gripping story with well-crafted characters

A Disappointing Continuation

The film never slows down or bores, plunging from one harrowing sequence to the next.

This anime series is set at the Konohanatei hotel. It isn't like other hotels though; its clients are from the spirit world and it is staffed by fox-girls. We are introduced to the establishment as Yuzu joins the staff and gets to know her co-workers Satsuki, Natsume, and Ren who will train her. Over the course of the series we see them dealing with various guests and the introduction of another member of staff; a sentient porcelain doll named Okiku.This is one of those gentle series that isn't full of action or non-stop gags but is just a joy to watch. The animation and character designs are good and the characters are likeable. Yuzu is a good protagonists and her new friends are varied and interesting. Given the nature of the series one might not expect any twists but the final episode features one that is a real surprise and provides a more than satisfactory conclusion without entirely ruling out further episodes. Overall this series might not be a must see but it is a lot of fun.These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.