Teito Monogatari: What is the appeal of this classic anime that combines history and fantasy?

The full story and appeal of Teito Monogatari

Introduction

Released as an OVA in 1991, "Teito Monogatari" is one of the most unforgettable works for anime fans. This work is known for being based on the original work by Hiroshi Aramata, produced by Madhouse, and directed by Rintaro. This work, which consists of four episodes, captivated many viewers with its unique world view where history and fantasy intersect, its meticulous drawings, and its profound themes. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the whole picture of "Teito Monogatari" and reevaluate its appeal and value.

Overview

"Teito Monogatari" is a story about the supernatural phenomena lurking in Tokyo and the people who fight against them, set against the backdrop of the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. The original work is a novel by Hiroshi Aramata, and it was produced as an original anime. A total of four episodes were released as OVA by Toei Video, and each episode has a different theme and story.

Public Media

OVA

Original Media

Anime Original

release date

September 27, 1991

Release and sales

Toei Video

Number of Episodes

Episode 4

original work

Hiroshi Aramata

director

Series Director: Rintaro

Production

Madhouse

cast

・Yasunori Kato/Kyusaku Shimada/Yukari Tatsumiya/Keiko Han/Yoichiro Tatsumiya/Kento Shiozawa/Yukiko Tatsumiya/Reina Ito/Junichi Narutaki/Koichi Yamadera/Yasumasa Hirai/Goro Naya/Kamo/Ken Yamaguchi/Rohan Koda/Yusaku Yara

Main Staff

Volume 2, original story by Hiroshi Aramata, production by Madhouse, director by Koichi Chiaki, script by Akinori Endo, character design and animation director by Masayuki

subtitle

・Part 1/Demon capital edition ・Part 2/Earthquake edition ・Part 3/Dragon movement edition ・Part 4/Bodhisattva edition

Story and Themes

"Teito Monogatari" is a story that revolves around the Great Kanto Earthquake. Each story has a different theme, and the history and strange happenings of the "Teito" are depicted throughout the story.

Part 1: The Devil's City

The first part depicts the supernatural phenomena lurking underground in Tokyo and Kato Yasunori's fight against them. Kato struggles to seal the supernatural phenomena and uncovers the deep connection between the history of Tokyo and the supernatural phenomena. This episode emphasizes the theme of the coexistence of supernatural phenomena and humans.

Part 2: Earthquake

The second part depicts the chaos just before and after the Great Kanto Earthquake. Yukari Tatsumiya and her family are caught up in the disaster and fight for survival. This episode depicts the natural disaster, human fragility, and the journey to find hope.

Part 3: Dragon Movement

The third part depicts a giant dragon lurking underground in Tokyo and the battle to contain it. Junichi Narutaki plays a central role in trying to seal the dragon. This episode depicts the relationship between nature and humans, and the weight of history.

Part 4: Bodhisattva

In the fourth part, Koda Rohan takes center stage as he fights to purify Tokyo of its monsters. This episode emphasizes the themes of faith and salvation and marks the climax of the story.

Character Analysis

There are many unique characters in "Teito Monogatari." Each character adds depth to the story and leaves a strong impression on the viewer.

Yasunori Kato

Kato Yasunori is one of the main characters who fights against the supernatural. He has a calm and rational personality, and has the knowledge and skills to seal away the supernatural. Kato, voiced by Kyusaku Shimada, is a presence that gives viewers a sense of security.

Yukari Tatsumiya

Yukari Tatsumiya is a member of a family caught up in the disaster. She has a strong will and courage and fights to protect her family. Yukari, voiced by Keiko Han, is a character that viewers can sympathize with.

Junichi Narutaki

Junichi Narutaki is the character who tries to seal the dragon. He is brave and proactive, and shows a determination to stand up even in difficult situations. Voiced by Koichi Yamadera, Junichi is an inspiring presence for the audience.

Rohan Koda

Koda Rohan is the character who leads the fight to purify the monsters. He is knowledgeable and preaches the importance of faith and salvation. Rohan, voiced by Yusaku Yara, leaves a deep impression on the audience.

Drawing and directing

"Teito Monogatari" is characterized by the meticulous drawings by Madhouse and the unique direction of Rintaro. In particular, the depictions of supernatural phenomena and the earthquake disaster scenes are realistic and powerful, leaving a strong impression on viewers. Also, do not miss the beautiful character designs by Masayuki, who was in charge of character design and animation direction.

Music and Sound

The music in "Teito Monogatari" is full of mysteries and a sense of historical weight, evoking emotions in the viewer. The voice actors' performances are also excellent, conveying the characters' feelings realistically.

Evaluation and impact

"Teito Monogatari" is a highly acclaimed OVA. It was especially praised for its unique worldview where history and fantasy intersect, its detailed drawings, and its profound themes. This work also had a major influence on subsequent anime works, and continues to be loved by many fans.

Recommendations and how to watch

"Teito Monogatari" is a work recommended for those who like history and fantasy, and those who want to enjoy profound themes. All four episodes have been released as an OVA by Toei Video, so you can watch it on DVD or Blu-ray. It may also be available on streaming services, so be sure to check it out.

Conclusion

"Teito Monogatari" is a work that has captivated many viewers with its unique worldview where history and fantasy intersect, its meticulous drawings, and its profound themes. This work, which consists of four episodes, depicts a different theme and story in each episode, leaving a strong impression on viewers. Please watch this work and reevaluate its appeal and value.