Bakumatsu Kikansetstu Irohanihoheto

Written by RenjiWu09 on August 2, 2012 at 4:38 PM

A beautifully written historical fiction anime. It starts off a bit slow and the ending episodes are a bit repetitive and dragging. However, I was still interested in how the story would unfold. The author used the Bakumatsu as the setting while incorporating supernatural elements to advance the events of the story. The story is quite simple actually. There is a definite evil that needs to be vanquished but, it is a difficult task and only one person can do it. Throughout the story, there are trials and tribulations regarding Akizuki, the protagonist.

The downside to the anime is that there is a lack of development in the characters. Almost all the characters remain static, retaining their crucial characteristics. Often times, characters like Akizuki and Kanna are emotionless but, they are tragic because war forces them to take sides. The good thing about the characters is that they are very realistic. Their goals, their motivations, their malice, and their desires are explicable.

The animation is is very well done. It is fluid and beautifully done. The entertainment level differs from episode to episode. Some episodes may be too slow while some may be surprisingly fun. The action choreography is well done and exciting to watch. Not the usual slow blade swinging monologue that we usually see. The references to kabuki theater is also very interesting and gives context to the story. I highly recommend this to all viewers. Please give this anime a try.