That’s okay, though; I can live with that. One of my problems with the manga was that it was just too damn slow. I mean, I love it and think it’s a great manga, but could we pick up the pace a bit, please?
Ryuk still seems like a caricature to me, though. The apple thing is nifty and I dig the symbolism, but Ryuk’s giant eyes and perpetual grin and generally twisted face just strike me as ridiculous rather than scary. Someone was trying too damn hard to be creepy when they designed his character; his I’m-going-to-eat-you expression never moves, and I simply can’t believe that anyone could keep that big of a grin on for so long, shinigami or otherwise. I mean, okay, if Kuchiki Rukia went around with that expression on, I’d be creeped the fuck out. But it does not work in this case. It just leaves me thinking he’s made of plastic, that underneath that big mask is just some cosplayer who really likes apples.
Also, as a side note, I am of the opinion that, if Amelia (of Slayers fame) were to watch this anime, she would literally explode.