Anime Digest
Three oni-girls, Tsutsuji, Himawari, and Tsuyukusa, help mend the rift between humans and oni by using the power of onipan (a combination of the words “oni” and “pantsu”) to transform into human beings. The three girls enroll in a regular Tokyo high school to complete their mission and improve their reputation by reviving the community. Sometimes they plunge headfirst into school activities, and other times they become idols!
The Feel-Good Part
The show adds a few good laughs here and there, thanks to good direction and writing. Additionally, the 3-minute running time makes sure nothing drags on unnecessarily. The animation is relatively simple but appropriate and appealing to look at, with very vivid and bright colors.
The Disappointing Factor
They completely toned down a lot of raunchy humor or more offensive material, given that this is a children’s program. The unfortunate side effect is that some of the comedy is lost.
In-Depth Analysis
Norihiro Naganuma created the original Japanese anime television series Onipan!, animated by Wit Studio and produced by Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions. Masahiko Ohta directed the anime while written by Takashi Aoshima, with music by Yasuhiro Misawa. In the anime Onipan!, three oni girls enter the human world to change how people perceive onis in general. The central plot device of the show is that whenever they require assistance, their sidekick Kuma will hand them the Oni tiger-striped pantsu, and they will change into the attire in magical girl fashion. Their prime target audience is kids, but at the same, this anime is enjoyable for all age groups. This anime has a distinct Japanese comedic aesthetic. You must have a fundamental understanding of oni, as seen in Japanese folklore, such as the tale of Momotaro. There are numerous references to other shows, such as Sailor Moon, Yu-Gi-Oh, Food Wars, The Phantom Menace, and Dragon Quest. The comedy will be either good or bad depending on whether you can appreciate the subtlety of the humor and the fact that the show does not take itself seriously. There was enough character development in the leads with a short run time. Despite being set in the present, it draws from a rich body of narrative that viewers interested in Japanese history and Edo-era culture will appreciate.
Star Power
The three girls—Tsutsuji (Red Oni), Tsuyukusa (Blue Oni), and Himawari (Yellow Oni)—are all adorably cute and have an exceptional yet recognizable dynamic between them that ensures there is never a dull moment. For the anime, a wide variety of supporting characters pop up. Three fresh, young voice actors are providing the voices for the girls. They did a great job and gave the Oni girls a level of authenticity that you would not usually see from a slice-of-life show like this.
Overall Opinion
Overall, the show is passably amusing and does not become overly repetitive with its jokes. Some segments feel like they are trying too hard to be funny to kids, and the show frequently references material that kids would not even recognize, but it is still a very entertaining show. It is perfect for a binge watch.
