"UFO Princess Valkyrie: Symphony of December" review: A fascinating story and deep characters

Princess Valkyrie: Nocturne of December - Fascinating fantasy and the trial of love

"UFO Princess Valkyrie: Nocturne in December" is a TV anime series that was broadcast in 2003, based on the popular fantasy comic "UFO Princess Valkyrie" by Kaisaku. This work is the second season of the TV anime series, and the content further deepens the appeal of the original. It was broadcast from October 3rd to December 19th, 2003, and consists of a total of 12 episodes. It was broadcast on an independent UHF station, and each episode was 30 minutes long.

story

While Kazuto and Valkyrie were living peacefully in the Hot Spring of Time, a "Ghost Valkyrie" appears before them, looking just like Valkyrie and clad in black. Kazuto is left in a daze by her mysterious and seductive appearance. Noticing something strange, Akina and the others begin tailing Kazuto out of concern, but the bond of love between Kazuto and Valkyrie is put to the test once again. This story centers around the relationship between Kazuto and Valkyrie, and depicts the growth and conflicts of various characters.

Commentary

The original work is a popular fantasy comic by Kaisaku that was serialized in "Monthly Shonen Gangan". This work is the second season of the TV anime series, and the world view of the original work is expanded further. In particular, in the 7th episode "The First Super Karaoke War", many character songs were created, which became a hot topic among fans. In addition, the director is Takamoto Nobuhiro and the animation production is handled by TNK, and they are working hard to bring out the charm of the original work to the fullest.

cast

The cast of this work is luxurious, and each character's personality is expressed richly. Walkure is played by Ogata Megumi, Valkyrie is played by Mochizuki Hisayo, Tokino Kazuto is played by Suzumura Kenichi, Tokino Rika is played by Minami Omi, Hydra is played by Nishimura Chinami, Nanamura Akina is played by Chiba Saeko, Sanada-san is played by Tanaka Rie, Shiro is played by Nishimae Tadahisa, Maru is played by Momoi Haruko, Raine is played by Iizuka Mayumi, Meme is played by Shinohara Emi, and Chorus is played by Kuwashima Houko. These voice actors bring out the charm of the characters to the fullest.

Main Staff

Many talented staff members are involved in the production of this work. The original work is by Kaisaku, the director is Takamoto Nobuhiro, the series composition and script are by Tsukimura Reo, the character design is by Fujii Maki, the animation director is Yanagisawa Tetsuya, the mechanical design is by Miyatoyo, the art director is Suzuki Emi, the color design is by Ueki Yoshinori, the cinematographer is Tenkaji Nobuhiro, the editor is Sakurai Takashi, the sound director is Kameyama Toshiki, the sound production is by Omnibus Promotion, the music is by Kawai Kenji, and the animation production is by TNK. These staff members work together to create the worldview of this work.

Main Characters

The main characters of this work are as follows.

• Valkyrie <br>One of the Eight Great Princesses of Valhalla, and the heir to the sacred treasure, the Key of Time. When an arranged marriage was discussed, she fled to Earth, and after giving something more precious to Kazuto than her virginity, she was transformed into a child.
• Valkyrie <br>A Valkyrie that has lost its power and turned into a child. She is staying at the "Yu of Time". Her mental age has also decreased, and her selfish behavior causes a lot of trouble. She can only return to her original form when she kisses Kazuto.
• Kazuto Tokino <br>A high school student who runs a public bath called "Toki no Yu" inherited from his grandfather. He is tossed around physically and mentally between adult and child Valkyries. He has bad luck and is always in danger of losing his life whenever he gets involved in an incident.
• Hydra <br>One of the Eight Great Princesses of Valhalla. When she fought against Valkyries on Earth, her powers were sealed away by Akina, and she was reduced to the appearance of a child. Since then, she has been living at Nanako Shrine.
• Akina Nanamura <br>A childhood friend of Kazuto's, she works as a shrine maiden at her family's Nanako Shrine. Although she has a strong-willed personality, she keeps her feelings for Kazuto secret and cannot express them openly. She worries about her small bust size.
• Shiro A dog-like alien who accompanies Valkyrie. His name is "Rockenheim" and he was once feared as the "Devil of the Battlefield." Although it's hard to imagine from his adorable appearance, his true form is that of a beautiful young man.

subtitle

The subtitles for each episode of this work are as follows:

• Episode 1: The Key of Time
• Episode 2: Machine Princess Chorus
• Episode 3: Radio Princess Chorus
• Episode 4: The Girls of the School Planet
• Episode 5: Valkyrie Ghost
• Episode 6/Mame night flight
• Episode 7: The First Super Karaoke War
• Episode 8: Cat Ears on Mount Hakkoda
• Episode 9/The Strongest Superwoman Akidora
• Episode 10: The Twelve Black Moons
• Episode 11: The Lost Four Princesses
• Episode 12: Flying Valkyries

Related Titles

"Valkyrie Drive: Nocturne in December" has deep ties to the following related works:

• "UFO Princess Valkyrie"
• "UFO Princess Valkyrie SPECIAL"
• "UFO Princess Valkyrie DELUXE"
• "UFO Princess Valkyrie: The Bride of the Star Spirit Festival"
• "UFO Princess Valkyrie: Banquet of Time, Dreams and the Galaxy"

Ratings and Recommendations

"UFO Princess Valkyrie: Nocturne in December" is a work that exquisitely blends fantasy, comedy, and romance. While inheriting the charm of the original work, the introduction of new characters and the development of the story have the power to draw viewers in. In particular, the relationship between Kazuto and Valkyries and the growth of each character are carefully depicted, making it easy to empathize with the characters, and it has been praised for this. In addition, in episode 7, "The First Super Karaoke War," many character songs are created, making it an enjoyable musical experience.

This work is recommended for those who like fantasy anime and those who are interested in character growth and human relationships. In particular, fans of the original work will be able to enjoy a deeper world view. In addition, the voice actors' performances are superb, and each character's personality stands out. Please be sure to watch it.

Further information and supplementary information

Below is more in-depth information on the production background of this work, detailed explanations of each episode, character settings and backstories.

Background

"Valkyrie UFO Princess: Nocturne in December" is the second season of the TV anime series, produced in response to the popularity of the original work. While retaining the fantasy elements of the original work, the series aims to provide viewers with fresh surprises through the introduction of new characters and story developments. Director Nobuhiro Takamoto has constructed a story from his own unique perspective while respecting the worldview of the original work. TNK, in charge of animation production, also focused on character and mechanic design to maximize the visual appeal.

Commentary for each episode

• Episode 1: The Key of Time This is the introduction to the series, depicting the daily lives of Kazuto and Valkyries. The sudden appearance of the "Ghost Walküre" sets the story in motion. This episode reaffirms the relationship between Kazuto and Valkyries, providing viewers with the foundation for the story.
• Episode 2: Chorus, the Mechanical Princess A new character, Chorus, appears and stands in the way of the Walküres. As Chorus' mechanical abilities clash with the magical powers of the Walküres, the Japanese people face a new challenge. Chorus' character is explored in depth in this episode.
• Episode 3: Chorus, the Radio Princess <br>The Walküres find themselves in a tough spot as Chorus's abilities become more apparent. The Japanese struggle to discover Chorus' weaknesses. This episode adds depth to the story by revealing Chorus' background and motivations.
• Episode 4: The Maidens of the Academy Planet The Walküres visit the Academy Planet, where they meet new friends and enemies. This episode emphasizes the comedy elements of school life, providing laughs for the audience. It also shows a new side of the Walküres.
• Episode 5 / Walküre Ghost The true identity of "Ghost Walküre" is revealed, and Kazuto and Walküre's relationship is put to the test. This episode depicts Kazuto's growth and Walküre's determination, and gets closer to the heart of the story.
• Episode 6 / Meme's Night Flight A new character, Meme, appears, and a new challenge stands before the Valkyries. As Meme's powers clash with the Valkyries' magic, the Japanese devise a new strategy. This episode delves deeper into Meme's character.
• Episode 7 / The First Super Karaoke War <br>This episode is where many character songs were born, providing musical enjoyment for the audience. As the Walküres take on the karaoke battle, the individuality of each character stands out. This episode is a perfect blend of music and comedy.
• Episode 8 / Cat Ears on Mount Hakkoda <br>The Valkyries visit Mount Hakkoda wearing cat ears, and a new adventure begins. In this episode, the cuteness of the characters wearing cat ears is emphasized, providing a sense of healing to the viewers. The natural environment of Mount Hakkoda is also beautifully depicted.
• Episode 9 / Strongest Superwoman Akidora <br>Hydra has gained new powers and is reborn as the Strongest Superwoman Akidora, standing in the way of the Walküres. The Japanese fight to counter Hydra's new powers. This episode shows Hydra's growth and determination, adding depth to the story.
• Episode 10 / Black Twelve Moons The true purpose of "Ghost Walküre" is revealed, and Kazuto and Walküre's relationship is tested again. This episode depicts Kazuto's growth and Walküre's determination, and approaches the core of the story. The background and meaning of the "Black Twelve Moons" are also revealed.
• Episode 11 / The Lost Four Princesses <br>A new character, the "Lost Four Princesses," appears, and a new challenge stands before the Walküres. The Kazutos struggle to counter the abilities of the Four Princesses. In this episode, the characters of the Four Princesses are explored in depth. The Walküres' pasts and secrets are also revealed.
• Episode 12 / Soaring Walküre <br>This is the final episode, and the relationship between Kazuto and Walküre is reaffirmed, bringing the story to a close. This episode depicts Kazuto's growth and Walküre's determination, providing a moving experience for the audience. It also shows the future of each character, giving hope to the story.

Character settings and backstories

• Walküre <br>She is one of the eight great princesses of Valhalla and the heir to the sacred treasure, the Key of Time. When an arranged marriage was discussed, she fled to Earth, and was transformed into a child after sharing with Kazuto something more precious than her virginity. Walküre's character is portrayed as a being who combines strength and kindness. Furthermore, her relationship with Kazuto is at the heart of the story, encouraging viewers to empathize deeply with her. As for the backstory, Walküre's design respects the image of the original work, but adds movements and expressions unique to animation.
• Valkyrie <br>This is the Valkyrie's powered-down, child-like form. She is staying at the "Time Bath". Her mental age has also decreased, and her selfish behavior causes a lot of trouble. She can only return to her original form when she kisses Kazuto. Valkyrie's character setting is portrayed as one in which the innocence of a child coexists with the strength of a Valkyrie. Furthermore, her relationship with Kazuto is an important element of the story, providing viewers with laughter and emotion. As a behind-the-scenes story, Valkyrie's voice actress, Mochizuki Hisayo, said that she struggled to balance a childlike voice with the strength of a Valkyrie.
• Tokino Kazuto <br>A high school student who runs a public bathhouse called "Toki no Yu" that he inherited from his grandfather. He is tossed in both body and mind between the adult and child Valkyries. Unfortunately, every time he gets caught up in an incident, his life is put in danger. Kazuto's character is portrayed as an ordinary high school student who grows through his encounters with the Valkyries. Furthermore, his relationship with the Valkyries is at the heart of the story, encouraging viewers to empathize deeply with him. As a behind-the-scenes story, Kazuto's voice actor, Suzumura Kenichi, said that he tried various acting styles to express Kazuto's growth and conflicts.
• Hydra <br>One of the eight great princesses of Valhalla, when she fought against Valkyrie on Earth, her powers were sealed away by Akina and she was turned into a child. Since then, she has been living at Nanako Shrine. Hydra's character is portrayed as a being that combines strength and kindness. Furthermore, her relationship with Akina is an important element of the story, encouraging viewers to empathize deeply with her. As a behind-the-scenes story, Nishimura Chinami, Hydra's voice actress, said that she tried various acting styles to express Hydra's growth and determination.
• Nanamura Akina <br>A childhood friend of Kazuto's, she works as a shrine maiden at her family's Nanako Shrine. Although she has a strong-willed personality, she is unable to express her feelings for Kazuto openly and keeps them secret. She is concerned about her small bust size. Akina's character is portrayed as one who combines strength and kindness. Furthermore, her relationship with Kazuto is an important element of the story, encouraging viewers to empathize deeply with her. As a behind-the-scenes story, Akina's voice actress, Chiba Saeko, has said that she struggled to balance Akina's strong-willedness and kindness. Furthermore, Akina's complex about her bust size is an element that draws sympathy from viewers.
• Shiro <br>A dog-like alien who accompanies Valkyrie. His name is "Rockenheim" and he was once feared as the "Devil of the Battlefield." Though it's hard to imagine given his adorable appearance, his true form is that of a beautiful young man. Shiro's character is portrayed as one in which adorable looks and strength coexist. His relationship with Valkyrie is also an important element of the story, providing viewers with laughter and emotion. As a behind-the-scenes story, Shiro's voice actor, Nishimae Tadahisa, has said that he struggled to make Shiro both adorable and strong. Also, the fact that Shiro's true form is that of a beautiful young man is an element that provides a surprise to viewers.

Recommendation

"UFO Princess Valkyrie: Nocturne in December" is a work that exquisitely blends fantasy, comedy, and romance. While inheriting the charm of the original work, the introduction of new characters and the development of the story have the power to draw viewers in. In particular, the relationship between Kazuto and Valkyries and the growth of each character are carefully depicted, making it easy to empathize with the characters, and it has been praised for this. In addition, in episode 7, "The First Super Karaoke War," many character songs are created, making it an enjoyable musical experience.

This work is recommended for those who like fantasy anime and those who are interested in character growth and human relationships. In particular, fans of the original work will be able to enjoy a deeper world view. In addition, the voice actors' performances are superb, and each character's personality stands out. Please be sure to watch it.

Furthermore, you can enjoy a deeper worldview by watching the related works "Princess Valkyrie UFO", "Princess Valkyrie UFO SPECIAL", "Princess Valkyrie UFO DELUXE", "Princess Valkyrie UFO: The Bride of the Celestial Spirits", and "Princess Valkyrie UFO: Banquet of Time, Dreams, and the Galaxy". These works depict the prequels and sequels to this work, allowing you to further understand the growth and relationships of the characters.

We also recommend the character songs and soundtrack of this work. In particular, the character song created in episode 7 expresses the individuality of each character richly, providing musical enjoyment to the viewers. The soundtrack features beautiful music by Kenji Kawai, allowing you to feel the worldview of the story even more deeply.

Finally, the series also has a lively fan art and fan community, allowing viewers to share their thoughts on the characters and the story with each other. Various fan art and fan works are available on social media and fan sites, and are recommended as a way to enjoy the show after viewing. In addition, at fan events and conventions, there are opportunities to interact directly with the staff and cast of the series, which will be a special experience for fans.

"UFO Princess Valkyrie: Nocturne in December" is a perfect blend of fantasy, comedy, and romance, providing viewers with deep emotional involvement and musical enjoyment. Please watch it and experience its charm for yourself.