Jun 8 2011 09:55 PM After nearly a year after this series ended, I finally finished it
It's a shame I didn't keep up with this since I really enjoyed this from beginning to end. Either way, I'll keep this brief since it's almost a year old now.
Story: Rainbow's story tells the lives of the seven criminals held in a Japanese detention compound 2-6 shortly after the events of World War II. As a whole, the story really goes up to episode 12/13 at best when
Sakuragi dies. The first half of the series tells us how the seven attempt to survive in the detention compound while the second half follows them after being set free. Of course, and obviously, the second half is more character development than anything else and thus the story isn't exactly as strong. Nevertheless, it's a very different approach and continuously ties the "dreams written on the tree" symbol.
Animation: For a Madhouse show, it's very well done. Aside from Rainbow being a Noitamina title, it was very different from all the shows that have been airing recently. Top quality from Madhouse, especially after coming off a sub-par Kobato, and of course the Marvel titles (though the latter is a bias given they aired after Rainbow ended). Nevertheless, it seems the art followed true to the manga, which ended right before the series began airing last spring.
Music: Loved the OP and ED themes, both of which had lyrics that strongly tied in with the themes and settings of the show. Seiyuu was also good, though I really wished Sakuragi had a bigger role. For someone who had a large influence, I had hoped he would have had an even larger impact in the first half of the show, moreso than he already did.
Character Development: As said in the story part, this show is really strong in character development. With the exception of "Soldier," who in essence has no additional story to tell since he's in the JSDF, everyone else received a decent chunk of individual growth. Each one facing a significant real-life crisis after being released from prison and how they had their friends to help overcome the difficult trials. While I had wished this series was a slightly longer for a 22 volume manga and given the amount of material that felt rushed through after they criminals were released, overall the pacing was quite solid and I was relatively pleased with the outcome of the show.
Enjoyment: As stated before, I loved this show and really wished that I gave more priority to this show since it is a hidden gem from last year
Overall, it seems that Funimation will not be bringing the title over to the US via DVD/BD even after simulcasting. This show is certainly not for the average anime viewer and requires not only an appreciation and understanding of Japanese history/culture, but also an appreciation for a drastically different kind of anime. This is more like a realistic version of the Aoi Bungaku titles and, in my opinion, a lot more interesting.
Preliminary Score: 8/10
Final Score: 9/10 
