Attack on Titan: Junior High

Attack on Titan: Junior High is an unusual, yet highly entertaining blend of comedy and parody aimed at fans of the original "Attack on Titan" series. This adaption integrates the dark and complicated narratives from the original series with lighthearted and hilarious contexts and situations, making it a comedy spin-off that any fan of the popular anime would appreciate. FUNimation's version of the series, originally airing in 2015, gives English-speaking audiences a chance to view this unique reimagining by Hajime Isayama.

In a strange reimagining of the dystopian world, the titans in Attack on Titan: Junior High aren't devouring humans but confiscating their lunches instead. The series is initially set in the illustrious Titan Junior High School, a strange institute cohabited by humans and Titans. Like any other students at a new school, the human protagonists, Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, Armin Arlert, and other well-known characters, navigate their way through school assignments, club activities, and other relatable middle school experiences. However, the twist is that these everyday activities are often hilariously complicated by the presence of the intimidating Titans.

A feature of Action on Titan: Junior High that sits well with the fans is the effective character consistency from the original series. Protagonist Eren Yeager still holds his passionate, fiery determination against the Titans. Mikasa Ackerman, his adoptive sister, is still overly protective and attached to Eren. Armin Arlert remains the intellectual friend who is often apprehensive but proves indispensable in tricky scenarios. Likewise, all the other characters retain their defining traits making the series a familiar yet humorous experience.

The narrative, while primarily humorous, is laced with references and cues from the original series. But at the same time, there's a clear effort to make the narrative accessible even to newcomers. This adaptation takes the menacing Titans and turns them into school bullies essentially, who delight in stealing lunches and causing general mayhem. This reframed context massively shift the show's tone, making the premise amusing but still recognizably "Attack on Titan."

The animation of the series, produced by Production I.G., retains the high-quality aesthetic of the original series while adding an undeniably cute and comical twist. The human characters are drawn in a chibi style, while the Titans, though smaller, retain their towering and imposing figures from the original series. All the elements from the original, such as the maneuver gear, gigantic walls, and inhuman-strength Titans, are humorously adapted to fill roles in the school-life setting.

The pacing of the show is quick, with 12 episodes roughly 17 minutes each, packed with action, comedy and surprisingly, heightened emotions at times. There are also plenty of comedic spins on fan-favorite scenes that act as a hilarious homage to the popular dark fantasy action anime. Those acquainted with the original would have a blast drawing parallel between iconic scenes from the original and its parodied version in the Junior High series.

Accompanied is an energetic background score comprising of quick-tempoed tunes and pleasant melodies — a stark contrast to the brooding and intense music in "Attack on Titan," perfectly fitting for the light-hearted and comical atmosphere the show establishes.

Even though Attack on Titan: Junior High is largely a comedic parody, it doesn't shy away from providing a touching narrative filled with ambition, friendship, love, and rivalry, mimicking the essence of a typical school life that resonates with many. The series, while entertaining the audience with its playful skits, subtly highlights the importance of perseverance, courage, and companionship through unseen predicaments, thus maintaining the essence from the original.

In essence, Attack on Titan: Junior High skillfully intertwines the captivating, intense characters from "Attack on Titan" with comedic, everyday school-life scenarios, creating a whimsical series that resonates with fans of the original series, while also providing lighthearted entertainment for newcomers to the franchise. Whether you're a hardcore Attack on Titan fan or a casual anime viewer, there's a definite charm and lighthearted wit to this series that you'll find hard to resist.