1. Ningen Shikkaku
2. Sakura no Mori no Mankai no Shita
3. Kokoro
4. Hashire, Melos!
5. Kumo no Ito
6. Jigokuhen
Take a literary journey with me as we delve into the beautifully crafted world of Aoi Bungaku Series, a twelve-episode anthology anime adapted from Japanese classic literature. Each episode shines in its own uniqueness, embodying the spirit of the literature it’s birthed from, crafted into an intricate weave of timeless stories that is both visually enchanting and intellectually stimulating.
The series consists of adaptations of six modern classics of Japanese literature: Osamu Dazai’s “No Longer Human” (Ningen Shikkaku) and “Run, Melos!” (Hashire, Melosu!), Natsume Souseki’s “Kokoro”, Ryunosuke Akutagawa’s “Hell Screen” (Jigoku Hen) & “The Spider’s Thread” (Kumo no Ito), and Ango Sakaguchi’s “In the Forest, Under Cherries in Full Bloom” (Sakura no Mori no Mankai no Shita). Each story stained with the hue of human nature and the torment and ecstasy it brings.
<< Visuals >>
Starting off on the visuals, it’s safe to say that Madhouse studio has done a remarkable job. The anime shines in a multitude of animation styles, capturing the essence of the different stories perfectly. Each story has its own unique vibe and feel, drawing you into its world without falter. From the monochromatic touch to “No Longer Human” to the surreal ambience of “In the Forest, Under Cherries in Full Bloom”, the visuals are ever-evolving, giving the viewer a new experience with every episode. It’s the aesthetic buffet you never knew you needed!
<< Soundtrack >>
Moving onto the sound department. Pay close attention folks, this is where things get interesting. The series sports an immersive OST that goes hand-in-hand with the tonal shifts of the series. What makes this aspect truly stand out though, is the varying use of silence. The lack, the presence, and the balance of sound is to be lauded, amplifying the story-telling multifold.
<< Storyline and Characters >>
The star of the show undeniably is the story and the characters. Taking richness from classical literature, the narratives are profound and layered. Humans are painted in complex gray tones; none completely villainous, none wholly heroic. The stories remind you of the pain and joy of being ‘human’, and they do so with an uncomfortable rawness that only makes it resonate stronger.
<< Is It Worth It? >>
Now, here comes the big question – Should you buy it, rent it, or stream it? Aoi Bungaku Series is unlike your conventional anime. It’s deep, symbolic, and occasionally heavy. So, if you’re ready for an intellectually stimulating experience and have a penchant for classic literature, it’s something you might not want to miss. As for the medium, I would advise renting or buying it for the sheer grandeur of the visuals and the sound, which might not come across in streaming with the same impact.
So, there you have it, my anime fanatics! Brace yourselves for a delightful journey into the minds of the literary geniuses of the past with Aoi Bungaku Series. Now, remember to keep those tissues at hand; emotions might be provoked.
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