The appeal and reviews of "Monster Princess": What is the new appeal of fantasy set in another world?

All-round review and recommendation of Kaibutsu Ojo

Overview

The 2007 TV anime series "Monster Princess" is based on the manga of the same name by Yasunori Mitsunaga. Set in a world populated by deformed creatures, the series follows the adventures and battles of a "princess" of royal blood and her servant, the protagonist Hiro. Directed by Masayuki Sakoi (Strawberry Panic) and animated by Madhouse, the 25-episode series aired on TBS.

■ Story

Guided by his sister's letter, Hiwari Hiro visits the mansion shown on the map. However, it is abandoned, and he is forced to return to the town at the foot of the mountain. On his way there, he comes across a cart loaded with household goods. A young girl dressed as a maid is pulling the cart, and a beautiful girl with long hair is sitting on top of it. When the cart gets stuck in a gutter and cannot move, an iron pillar falls from the roof of a building under construction. Hiro shields the beautiful girl, but is crushed by the iron pillar and is confirmed dead at the hospital. As Hiro is laid to rest in the mortuary, the beautiful girl he saved appears before him, telling him "that's a good corpse," and reviving him with flames dripping from her fingertips. Thus, Hiro begins a new life as the princess's servant.

■ Characters

princess

She is calm and collected, and is the daughter of the king who reigns over all the deformed. Although her brothers are trying to kill her, she has the power of royalty to revive the dead and become semi-immortal. Her presence is strong throughout the work, and she is at the center of the story.

Hiro

A boy who died protecting the princess and was resurrected by the power of royalty. He was reborn as a warrior, but due to his weak origins he may die soon after. His growth and loyalty to the princess are key elements of the story.

Sawawa

Hiro's older sister, she works as a live-in housekeeper at Hime's house. She loves parfaits and often eats them at the coffee shop. Her presence is a source of emotional support for Hiro, and adds warmth to the story.

Flanders

She is an artificial human who serves the princess, weighs several tons, and costs about 300,000 yen per month to charge. Although she can only speak "Fuga," she can converse with the royal family. Her presence serves as a comic relief and adds humor to the story.

Lisa

She is a half-human werewolf who, upon learning that her brother was killed by a plot by someone other than the princess, joins forces with the princess to avenge her. Her desire for revenge and her growth add depth to the story.

Within

She is a vampire who attends the same school as Hiro and is after the princess' blood, but it is unclear whether she is an ally or foe. Her mysterious presence adds tension to the story.

■ Production staff

The director is Masayuki Sakoi, the series composition is Kazuyuki Fudeyasu, the character design and general animation director is Kazuya Kuroda, the animation is produced by Madhouse, the music is by Mikiya Katakura of ALI Project, the production committee includes Universal Pictures Japan, Kodansha, Index Holdings, Madhouse, Movic, Lantis, and TBS.

■Broadcast information

"Monster Princess" was broadcast on TBS from April 12 to September 27, 2007, every Thursday from 25:55 to 26:25. It was also broadcast on Chubu Nippon Broadcasting, KBS Kyoto, and BS-i. There are 25 episodes in total, each 30 minutes long.

■ Theme songs and music

Opening Theme

"BLOOD QUEEN"
Lyrics: Aki Hata Composition: Katsuhiko Kurosu Arrangement: Masaki Suzuki Vocals: Aki Misato

Ending Theme

"Kneel and lick my feet"
Lyrics: Arika Takarano Composition/Arrangement: Mikiya Katakura Vocals: ALI PROJECT

Insert song

"Royal Bloodline"
Lyrics: Arika Takarano Composition/Arrangement: Mikiya Katakura Vocals: ALI PROJECT

"Amaga Koi"
Lyrics: Arika Takarano Composition/Arrangement: Mikiya Katakura Vocals: ALI PROJECT

"Aperitif of Original Sin"
Lyrics: Aki Hata Composition and Arrangement: Yukari Hashimoto Vocals: Ayako Kawasumi

■ Evaluation and recommendation

"Monster Princess" has gained many fans with its unique worldview and the charm of its characters. In particular, the story that depicts the princess's calmness and Hiro's growth has the power to draw viewers in. In addition, ALI PROJECT's music also enhances the atmosphere of the work and creates memorable scenes.

This work is an exquisite blend of dark fantasy and comedy, and by depicting a world of deformed beings, it offers fresh surprises to the audience. In particular, it is interesting to see how Hiro, who is revived by the power of the princess, grows and becomes embroiled in the royal family's battle. In addition, the backstories and relationships of each character are also explored in depth, allowing the audience to empathize with them.

Some recommended points include:

A unique worldview and the appeal of dark fantasy
Character development and deep relationships
ALI PROJECT's impressive music
A well-balanced storyline of comedy and seriousness

"Monster Princess" is highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy and comedy, and for those interested in character development and human relationships. Fans of ALI PROJECT's music will also enjoy it. This work will provide viewers with a new perspective and moving experience, making it an unforgettable anime experience.