Now and Then, Here and There

I first saw this at BAAF 2003 this past labor day weekend. I only caught the first two episodes and was intrigued by the storyline, the stunning visuals, and the unique feel. Seriously, I was stunned by how we can take a sunset for granted. This series uses it as its main theme and it works really well.

First off, this anime holds no punches and comes running right at you. Not like I was screaming or in uproar (I'm too jaded for that), but I was more fascinated and perplexed. Something as innocent as childhood is flipped 180 degrees and thrown into a world of chaos and anarchy. There's also some sci-fi and a post apocalypse twist in it. While there are some light humored parts, this one makes its stand with some dark, yet poignant moments. The characters play a big part too: Shu constantly promoting pacifism whose determination and bravery really make him very amiable. The enigmatic Lala Ru (I love that name especially when Shu would say it!) with her distant blue eyed gaze. Don't forget the mad Hamdo. If there's ever been a more vicious, psychotic maniac in anime, this King is definitely up there.

NTHT is not afraid to take risks and I was hooked on this series. I watched all 13 episodes rather quickly because I would be at work thinking about what would happen next! It's hard for me to go into it too much without spoiling it and NTHT ties together well as a whole. It can be seen on many levels, but I definitely enjoy what I call "thinking" anime and this one stirs up emotions as well.

The next time you see the sunset, think about it...won't you?