[merylsilverburg]

Originally posted by Reid
Hmmm . . .

I'd say necessary elements are (for me);

- Interesting, realistic character that develop, at least a bit, from the beginning of the anime to the end.

- A good plot, that is original and not cut from the same mold as so many other anime. It has to be a plot that can easily support the show, and I also really like a plot that is thought provoking, or makes you look at the world differently.

- Good animation, that is also original looking, along with good character design.

- A good mood or atmosphere. Some of my favourites can instantly draw you into the series. Like in Neon Genesis Evangelion, the familiar crickets in the outdoor scenes, the low humming noises in the Evas and labs, and the dead quiet when there is tension, along with dark and distinctive drawings make an excellent atmosphere that makes the show very good.

- No overacting! Nothings worse than cheesy or inappropriate voices to wreck a series (dubbed or in Japanese).

That's all I can think of off the top of my head.

Wait....are we talking about, what makes a good anime or what makes a good anime plot? Uh.....