Bakemonogatari: A thorough explanation of the appeal and reputation of the Monogatari series

"Bakemonogatari": A world where the supernatural and the youthful

"Bakemonogatari" is a TV anime series based on the novel by Nisio Isin, which aired from July 3 to September 25, 2009. Directed by Akiyuki Shimbo and animated by Shaft, the series depicts a unique world where the supernatural and the youthful are intertwined. The story delves deeply into human relationships and self-awareness through the extraordinary existence of supernatural beings, and left a strong impression on viewers.

story

The story of Bakemonogatari revolves around the protagonist Araragi Koyomi, who runs around trying to help girls who are plagued by supernatural phenomena. Due to an incident that occurred during spring break, Koyomi becomes nearly immortal. One day after that, he learns that his classmate, Senjougahara Hitagi, is possessed by a crab supernatural phenomenon, and takes action to help her. This incident triggers Koyomi to meet girls who encounter supernatural phenomena one after another, and struggles to solve their problems.

The story is made up of five episodes: "Hitagi Club," "Mayoi Maimai," "Suruga Monkey," "Nadeko Snake," and "Tsubasa Cat," and each episode involves the girls facing a different supernatural phenomenon. Each episode depicts the emotional scars and worries of the girls through the supernatural phenomena, and depicts Koyomi's growth in the process of resolving them.

character

The charm of "Bakemonogatari" lies in its unique characters. The main character, Araragi Koyomi, is a kind-hearted boy who runs around trying to help girls who encounter supernatural phenomena. His kindness and humor give the story a warm feeling.

Hitagi Senjougahara is a girl with top-class grades and a fleeting beauty, but the contrast between her true personality and her tsundere and sharp tongue is what makes her so appealing. Watching her face the trauma of her past will touch the hearts of viewers.

Mayoi Hachikuji is a fifth-grader who, despite her polite manner of speech, often makes rude remarks. Her unique character adds humor to the story through her interactions with Koyomi.

Kanbaru Suruga is the ace of the basketball team and star athlete at Naoetsu High School. Her hidden side as a yuri and fujoshi adds depth to her character.

Nadeko Sengoku is extremely shy and wears a hat when she goes out. Her purity and sensitivity resonate with viewers.

Hanekawa Tsubasa is an excellent student who always ranks at the top of her grade, and a caring and kind person. Her presence plays an important role in supporting Koyomi's growth.

Meme Oshino is a mysterious character who gives advice on how to deal with supernatural phenomena and is essential to the progression of the story. His knowledge and experience have a major impact on how Koyomi and his friends solve their problems.

Production Staff

Many talented staff members were involved in the production of Bakemonogatari. Director Akiyuki Shinbo is known for his unique visual style and storytelling, which he fully demonstrates in Bakemonogatari. Shaft, the animation studio, worked on the detailed drawings and direction to bring Director Shinbo's vision to life.

Character designer and chief animation director, Akio Watanabe, has drawn on the designs of the original illustrator, VOFAN, to bring out the best in the characters. Series composer, Tomiko Higashi and Akiyuki Shinbo, have captured the essence of the original work while creating a story that is easy for viewers to understand.

Satoru Kanzaki, who was in charge of the music, provided beautiful music that matched the atmosphere of each episode, deepening the worldview of the story. In particular, the opening theme "staple stable" and the ending theme "Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari" are masterpieces that leave a strong impression on viewers.

Broadcast information

"Bakemonogatari" was broadcast on TOKYO MX and AT-X from July 3rd to September 25th, 2009. The broadcast time was every Friday from 23:00 to 23:30, and a total of 13 episodes were broadcast, including 12 episodes and one compilation episode. It was also broadcast on other stations at different times, and was enjoyed by many viewers.

Evaluation and impact

"Bakemonogatari" has been highly praised since it was first broadcast, and has gained many fans. The story, which skillfully incorporates the extraordinary element of supernatural phenomena while pursuing realism as a youth drama, deeply moved viewers. In addition, the appeal of the unique characters and Shaft's unique drawing style made a strong visual impact.

This work spawned sequels such as Nisemonogatari, Nekomonogatari, Kizumonogatari, Hanamonogatari, Otorimonogatari, Onimonogatari, Koimonogatari, Tsukimonogatari, Owarimonogatari, Koyomimonogatari, Kizumonogatari, and Owarimonogatari Continued, and was developed over a long period as the Monogatari series. These works were also highly acclaimed, and the series as a whole came to have a great influence.

Recommended points

"Bakemonogatari" is a work that is appealing for its unique worldview where supernatural phenomena and youth intersect, and for its unique characters. In particular, the themes of human relationships and self-awareness depicted through the supernatural phenomena deeply move viewers. In addition, Shaft's unique drawing style and Kanzaki Satoru's beautiful music provide visual and auditory pleasure.

This work is highly recommended for those who like youth dramas, mysteries, and fantasy. Also, by enjoying the entire Monogatari series, including the sequels, you will gain a deeper understanding and be deeply moved. Bakemonogatari is a work that can be called a masterpiece, offering new perspectives and emotions to the viewer.