The story is set during Japan’s Sengoku Jidai (Era of the Warring States) and centers on Furuta Sasuke, a vassal of the great warlord Oda Nobunaga and a man obsessed with tea ceremony and material desires in his pursuit of a fortuitous life. Having learned from Oda and the legendary tea master Sen no Soueki, Furuta walks the way of the Hyouge Mono.
(Source: ANN)
Review: The Art of War and Aesthetics in Hyouge Mono
Synopsis
Hyouge Mono presents a visually enriching and psychological introspection of the Sengoku period, swaying away from the typical battlefield scenes that this era usually hypes. Unveiling through the eyes of Sasuke Furuta, a samurai-turned-tea-ceremony enthusiast, the world is a vibrant fusion of masculine warfare and delicate aesthetics.
Sasuke is an underling of Oda Nobunaga, often torn between his duty as a warrior and his love for aesthetics. In a time fraught with upheaval and war, Sasuke’s fixation with art and the tea ceremony isolates him, leading to intriguing conflict with his ruthless, war-focused surroundings. Wonderfully detailed, the narrative beautifully captures the diametric opposites within a single era, and how the love of beauty and artistry can exist even in bleak times.
The Art of Storytelling
Hyouge Mono unifies two distinct aspects of the feudal era – intense warfare and subtle elegance – in a startlingly exquisite manner. The story progression may seem slow-paced for some, but the attention to detail in each scene, the meticulous character development, and the psychological reflection the protagonist Englishes through his journey is deeply engaging.
Characters and Development
The characters in Hyouge Mono are rich, dynamic, and realistic. Sasuke’s internal conflict is profoundly ingrained within him, reflecting the universal struggle between duty and personal desire. The growth and transformation of each character is gradual and well-articulated, drawing viewers into a complex tapestry of interrelated souls.
Animation Quality
The animation quality is top-notch in Hyouge Mono, with its careful blend of the graphical richness of historic Japan. The accurate representation of the Sengoku era coupled with an aesthetically pleasing color palette makes it a visual treat. Using art as a focal point, the series portrays various visual masterpieces in detail, compelling viewers to appreciate the harmonious blend of colors and design.
Music and Sound
The music and score are the heart and soul of Hyouge Mono, enhancing the plot and the character development in a beautiful symphony. The introspective soundtracks complement the thoughtful nature of storylines and characters, effectively creating a sense of connection with viewers. On the whole, the music sets the perfect backdrop for the series.
Final Verdict
Hyouge Mono is an exquisite portrayal of the clash of values and aesthetics during a turbulent era. It is a must-watch for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate deep character development and rich storytelling. Whether you decide to stream, rent, or buy, Hyouge Mono is certainly a choice you would not regret, and an anime series that deserves to be lauded for its uniqueness and depth.
Bringing a taste of history, art, and the classic “human condition” conundrum, Hyouge Mono is splashed with elegance, drenched in detail and should be in your watch list if sophisticated storytelling twined with historical trivialities is your cup of tea!
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