Animation – 4/10
The animation quality is below average, with noticeable inconsistencies in character designs and movement. Early episodes suffer from awkward CGI implementation, which detracts from the overall experience. The art style works for slice-of-life moments but lacks the polish needed for the more intense supernatural scenes.
Storyline – 6/10
The story follows Sana, a girl with the ability to materialize anything she imagines, and her unexpected bond with Zouroku, a gruff but kind-hearted florist. The premise is intriguing, but the execution struggles with pacing and tonal shifts. It oscillates between supernatural thriller and heartwarming slice-of-life, sometimes making it feel disjointed.
Characters – 5/10
Sana and Zouroku’s dynamic carries the show, providing a unique contrast between innocence and wisdom. However, character development is inconsistent, with many supporting characters left underexplored. While Sana’s journey is endearing, the emotional depth needed to elevate the cast is missing.
Music & Sound Design – 7/10
The soundtrack does a good job of complementing the show’s different moods, from whimsical to dramatic. The opening and ending themes are pleasant, and the background music helps set the tone effectively. Voice acting is solid, but nothing particularly groundbreaking.
Emotion & Impact – 6/10
The series tries to balance action and sentimentality, but its inconsistent pacing weakens its emotional impact. Some heartfelt moments between Sana and Zouroku work well, but the overall execution makes it difficult for these scenes to leave a lasting impression.
Worldbuilding – 7/10
The concept of "Alice's Dream" as a supernatural ability adds an interesting layer to the world. However, the rules governing these powers are not fully fleshed out, leaving some elements feeling underdeveloped. The mix of realism and fantasy is intriguing but could have been explored in greater depth.
Entertainment – 6/10
While the premise is promising, the series struggles to maintain engagement due to its uneven storytelling. Some episodes are captivating, while others feel slow or lacking in direction. Fans of supernatural slice-of-life anime may find it enjoyable, but those seeking a more cohesive experience may feel disappointed.
Innovation – 6/10
The show attempts to blend supernatural elements with a grounded, character-driven story, which is refreshing. However, it doesn’t push boundaries in a meaningful way. The mix of genres is interesting, but the lack of consistency prevents it from standing out.
Rewatch Value – Moderate
If you enjoyed the dynamic between Sana and Zouroku, revisiting the show could be worthwhile. However, due to its storytelling flaws, it may not have enough depth to warrant multiple viewings for most audiences.
Overall Score – 5.9/10
Alice to Zouroku is an anime with a strong concept but inconsistent execution. It delivers moments of warmth and intrigue but struggles with pacing and animation quality. While it offers an enjoyable dynamic between its two main characters, it falls short of its full potential. Fans of supernatural slice-of-life anime may appreciate its charm, but others might find it lacking in depth and cohesion.
