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| Miko Yuki - "Bleach" |
When watching Anime, (Japanese animation) my child-like wonder is ignited and my eyes might mirror (assuming I can see them) the big
saucer eyes of the characters in the animation. Anime is entertaining, but
underneath the simple tale lays philosophical and spiritual gems.
However, there are no
soapboxes here, simply characters dealing with inner demons while fighting off
the evil outer demons. Characters that
are in trouble, carrying a deep inner wound, grows and finally triumphs over adversity. And themes of good defeats evil, redemption of
evil, protecting others, personal sacrifice, friendship and love abound in
Anime, but are only realized through the characters struggle to become whole.
All of these things, characters growing emotionally, lessons
learned, conflicts, and hidden meanings, I expect in any good story. What intrigues me as a writer is how the
supernatural (whether psychic or spiritual) in Anime is weaved like a tightly
woven silk kimono into the story.
Perhaps, because the Japanese see the spiritual in all things and therefore seems natural. Observing Anime, I would say it is a
reflection of their culture and Eastern religions comprising of Buddhism, Hinduism
and Shintoism.
For example, the elements, air, water, earth and fire are
more than just what they name. They are
of the natural world and thus associated with gods and goddesses but they can and
often have a magical existence. Neat,
huh?
Mixing the supernatural and the spiritual is not something
that happens often in Western entertainment.
It would be like mixing oil with water. But, maybe that’s changing. Looking at recent Disney animations like the
Kung Fu Panda shows an appreciation for the power of the mix.
Okay, okay, let it be known, I love animation and the magic
it bestows on the viewer. It entertains
while juggling your emotions like balls in the air. Then another set of balls labeled, “a new
perspective” and “acceptance not necessary” joins the fun. When the story ends, the balls fall, except
one remains for a brief moment labeled “enlightenment.” Or, maybe it's a sign with a light bulb on it and it leaves you wearing an inner smile because you had such a sweet time.
One of my favorite Animes, Avatar,
The Last Airbender has a spin off, The Legend Of Korra." In this clip,
Korra is introduced as the new reincarnated
Avatar. It’s a girl! Yeah!
And, just because it’s fun, the trailer for Kung Fu Panda.
What was the last animation that you watched?
Till next time,
Elizabeth
