There's a reason why you haven't watched this show yet

Ever wanted to hear the story of Robin Hood, set in feudal Japan? That's what you're getting with Bakumatsu Gijinden Roman. It's the story of Manjirou, a guy who helps people out during the day, and robs from the evil rich folk as "Roman" during the night.

One of the nice points of the show is the character designer is Monkey Punch -- the guy behindLupin III's character designs.

And that's about it. From this point on, the show is an exercise in laziness. Follow me after the jump to see just what I mean.

When I signed up for this show, I didn't realize that it's based on a pachinko game. A pachinko game. It exists solely to explain to little kids why Daddy spends all their money addicted to the gambling parlor. He's trying to save the people of Japan from injustice!

By day, Manjirou helps out the people of Kyoto, doing all sorts of odd jobs and drinking while loafing around. Frequently, he refuses payment, much to the chagrin of his sister -- after all, you don't pay rent with goodwill. At night, they sneak into the castles and steal from the rich and corrupt, giving the money back to the people.

Of course, a good guy working for the baddies is on Roman's trail, and where that leads, we'll have to see -- if you could stand to watch the show.

What makes this show so bad is it's bland. Character motivations are one-dimensional. Dialogue is basic and unoriginal. The plot doesn't really take shape as anything of merit. Have you ever eaten a meal that's edible, but just not exciting? Like, the food isn't terribly over-cooked, and it will sustain you, but you just don't get excited eating it? Think of someone making a meatloaf with nothing more than well-done ground beef. No egg or onion or bread to add flavor and texture.

That's what this show is. A big block of well-done, low grade ground beef.

Naturally, the show spices things up with sexual innuendo and basic humor, but it's not enough to carry an episode. In fact, I cannot fathom someone giving their full attention to this show. I understand it as something that plays in the background, or is aimed at young kids who can watch just about anything without prejudice, but giving it your full attention just leads to boredom.

If for some ungodly reason you're considering watching the show, stop right now. It's not worth it. Hell, I dragged my feet on it after watching just the first episode. Someone, please help me stop watching bad shows -- it's an addiction.