Pretty Cure & Japanese Esthetic Philosophy
The Japanese esthetic principle of Mono no Aware, the value and pathos of impermanent things viewed through the lens of a Delicious Party Precure episode.
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Urusei Yatsura intro
Rumiko Takahashi is probably one of the most successful manga creators, and perhaps the most successful female comic creator in the world. Most of her works were turned into wonderful anime series as well. One of her many strengths has been to create engaging characters with complexity and depth, without using a lot of exposition. Her first series was Urusei Yatsura – “Those Obnoxious Aliens” or “UY”. The manga series … Continue reading →
Happy Birthday, Anime Lum! Urusei Yatsura
Thirty-six years ago today, the first episode of Urusei Yatsura was broadcast in Japan! One of the most influential anime series, it’s still highly entertaining today. The title roughly translates as “Those Obnoxious Aliens”. Based on Takahashi Rumiko‘s 1978 manga series, it broke the mold of the “Disney Princess” trope, introduced J-Pop music into the anime soundtrack, and ran to 195 episodes! Earth has just been invaded by aliens who resemble Japanese Oni, led … Continue reading →
Forgotten anime: Dragon’s Heaven (1988)
Here’s an OVA you’re not likely to find outside of youtube or a streaming site: Dragon’s Heaven. (It took me a while to find it, because I’d heard the title as “Dragon Seven” :p It’s the story of an AI mech, created to work with a human pilot to fight a war against rebellious AI robots. After his pilot died and the war ended, he was left behind and put … Continue reading →
Spice and Wolf (2008) – an unusual fantasy anime.
For a decidedly different anime series, try Spice and Wolf. It’s set in a medievalesque world, but it lacks the staples of magic swords, elves, orcs, or bratty princesses. Instead, it’s the story of Kraft Lawrence, a merchant who’s working as a traveling trader to gain funds, experience, and contacts to eventually open his own shop. One evening he meets Holo, an ancient wolf goddess from the North. Generations ago, … Continue reading →
Anime suggestion: Crest of the Stars / Banner of the Stars
I’ve decided to add recommendations for anime series I’ve watched (got to do something during my lunch at work). They won’t be full reviews, just some quick impressions to pique your interest. The first one is a collection of 4 series in the Space Opera genre. It starts with Crest of the Stars, followed by Banner of the Stars (I, II, & III). The series features young Jinto on his … Continue reading →