Nisemonogatari is a sequel to 2009’s Bakemonogatari, a smart, stylish, edgy supernatural comedy that I liked a lot. (“Bakemonogatari” can be translated pretty accurately as “Ghostory.” “Nisemonogatari” is a similar pun in Japanese. Unfortunately I can’t think of an English synonym for “forgery” that ends with “st.”)

The sequel feels a bit edgier. In fact I came close to turning the first episode off in revulsion. However I stuck it out and things got better.

Episode 1. I almost quit wnen Araragi started sexually harassing poor little Mayoi. I understand that she’s a lonely ghost and he’s the only one who can see her, so she’s grateful for any sort of attention. Still, couldn’t he just play video games with her or something?

Episode 2. Araragi partially redeems himself by steadfastly ignoring Nadeko’s determined attempts to seduce him. It was the right thing to do. First, she’s too young for him. Second, he already has a girlfriend (Senjougahara.) Third, Senjougahara would kill him. Probably literally.

Episode 3. Araragi looks much better after Senjougahara “kidnaps” him. It turns out at the end that he was just humoring her. Also at the end he starts to act really heroic and Senjougahara goes weak in the knees.

I’m actually starting to have high hopes for this.