This is a beautiful anime, and has me fully engaged with each new episode. I think this series is a fantastic addition to 2023's animations. Not only do I appreciate the sardonic tones of the main character, as well as the themes explored of a deeper nature, primarily of the human condition, even the sad and the darker dimensions of it - but I for one really am moved by the emotionality that these tales and the characters possess. There is heart in this series. It actually reminds me of an anime named Monster, and not because of the story or pacing of that series, but for its ability for each episode and it's characters to have an emotional impact on the viewer. I find this really beautiful, and more rare to come by in any form of series or film. So I personally, am loving this show for this particular quality.
I didn't know what to expect from this anime when it popped up on my Netflix screen today. I'm so glad that I have it a go, though.
Onmyoji 2023 series is an adaption of short stories and a series of novels, written by Baku Yumemakura, beginning in 1980s. These stories were so alluring and successful, that they were adapted into Manga, film, and a video game was even created, although the latter is more loosely based upon Baku's original work.
Baku's stories are inspired by Abe no Seimei - a very famous, legendary figure in Japanese folklore, as well as a figure of historical prominence, too. Recorded to have lived between 921 A. D. to 1005. He was an onmyoji, and a leading specialist of Onmyodo during the middle of the Heian period in Japan. But rather than doing research on this fascinating figure yet, I encourage you to discover him through this series itself. I don't think you'll be disappointed!
This animated adaptation Onmyoji is said to be based on the original short stories and novels by Baku Yumemakura and not the adaptions.
The story of this animation follows the mysterious and powerful onmyouji 'Abe no Seimei', as he comes into contact with the naive but good-hearted royal lord 'Minamoto no Hiromasa.' What starts seemingly as a connection out of necessity, with quite entertaining and at times touching chemistry, begins developing beyond that of merely collegues, into that of a genuine friendship. Together, both Seimei and Hiromasa encounter many a tale and adventure. At first, it appears that they are simply tied together by counsel and tasks asked of them by those of greater positions of power, but there comes a deeper calling and purpose - to protect the Heian capital's Kyou, from an antagonistic force with sinister plans. That's all I'll share of the storyline itself.
I really am thoroughly enjoying this beautiful and engaging animated adaption of Baku Yumemakura's works, and I very much hope there will be more to come.
There's much to be said of what 'onmyouji' means, and the fascinating culture and sciences depicted in the series based during the middle of the Heian period in Japan. I certainly have found it all to be very interesting, and magical too.
It is up to you whether you'd like to watch it in English dubbed voices, or the original Japanese voice actors with your preference of subtitles. I'm English speaking, so I tried both. Though the English dubbing is fine, I personally prefer watching it in Japanese with subtitles. I really feel and get more out of the characters through their origin language and the very talented voice actors preforming as them.
I hope this review has helped you decide whether or not to give this new anime a go. Personally, I hope that it's piqued your interest!
