Synopsis:
14-year-old Japanese schoolboy Bon is now a seasoned Time Agent who takes his friend Yumiko on as his apprentice. Together, they journey through various historical periods, working to prevent the deaths of ordinary people who would otherwise have perished unnoticed.
Review:
The second half of Studio Bones’ adaptation of Fujiko F. Fujio’s manga from 1976-86 continues with the same educational tone as its first half, blending lighthearted moments with historically accurate portrayals of violence and nudity. While the character designs, premise, and episodic structure maintain a youthful quality, the mature subject matter introduces a contrast that might not resonate with everyone, particularly in regions where Fujio’s work isn’t as well-known.
I have a fondness for *T・P BON* and appreciate its production values. It’s one of the standout anime of 2024 in terms of visual polish. However, its appeal may be limited, particularly in the modern anime landscape. The adaptation sticks closely to its source material, preserving the episodic adventure format and the nostalgic character designs. While this dedication to authenticity is commendable, it might not fully engage contemporary audiences who are accustomed to more modern storytelling techniques.
Bon, as a character, can come off as frustrating—he struggles with school, often seeks to impress his peers, and makes questionable decisions during critical moments. The rationale behind employing teenagers for high-stakes time travel missions remains unclear. Given the potential risks to the space-time continuum, it seems more plausible that a more experienced individual would be in charge. Yet, this setup is central to the show’s appeal, catering to a younger audience who can relate to Bon’s experiences.
The show’s world-building is somewhat lacking, leaving many questions about the Time Patrol’s operations unanswered. Details about Bon’s organization and his compensation for these dangerous missions remain unexplored. Despite these gaps, Bon’s genuine desire to help people shines through, even if the mechanics of his role are not fully fleshed out.
This season features a variety of intriguing historical settings—from the 12th-century Battle of Dan-no-Ura to the ancient Mesopotamian origins of writing. The concept of “compressed learning,” where Bon quickly acquires historical knowledge, might seem didactic, but the show manages to remain engaging and informative.
Agent Ream Stream, a standout character from the first season, is less prominent this time and is replaced by Yumiko. This shift alters the character dynamics, with Bon taking on a mentor role and Yumiko stepping in as the apprentice. While their relationship lacks some of the previous season’s chemistry, Yumiko’s intelligence and problem-solving skills add a fresh dynamic. Romantic tension is minimal, though Yumiko notices Bon’s lingering feelings for his former mentor.
The recurring yellow mascot, Buyoyon, continues to be an irritating presence, mainly serving to criticize Bon and favor Yumiko without much explanation for his change in allegiance.
The final episodes present a loosely connected arc involving apocalyptic scenarios, such as reality-distorting purple holes. Despite the plot’s flaws, it provides a thrilling conclusion with callbacks to earlier episodes.
Unlike many shonen adventures, *T・P BON* lacks a central antagonist, focusing instead on the harsh realities of history and the universal struggle for survival. The series highlights the efforts of ordinary people in difficult circumstances, emphasizing the impact Bon and Yumiko have on the few lives they manage to touch.
Ultimately, *T・P BON* is an optimistic sci-fi adventure that balances the harsh aspects of history with the uplifting stories of ordinary individuals. It can be childish at times and surprisingly mature at others. While it may not appeal to everyone, especially those who didn’t enjoy the first season, it remains a personal highlight in the anime landscape for this year.
