Review of "Otome Yokai Zakuro": A fusion of charming characters and a deep story

"Otome Yokai Zakuro": A unique fantasy depicting the coexistence of monsters and humans

"Otome Yokai Zakuro" is a TV anime series based on the manga of the same name by Hoshino Lily, and was broadcast on TV Tokyo and other stations from October 6th to December 29th, 2010. It has a total of 30 episodes and is characterized by its captivating story and characters that draw viewers in. The work is set in an era of civilization and enlightenment following the calendar reform, and depicts a world where humans and monsters coexist. It is a unique fantasy work that depicts a half-demon girl and an army lieutenant teaming up to face mysterious incidents.

story

"Otome Yokai Zakuro" is set in the era of civilization and enlightenment after the calendar reform. In a world where humans and yokai coexist, half-demon girls belong to the "Ministry of Yokai" and team up with army lieutenants to face mysterious incidents. The main character, Xiwangmu Tao (Zakuro), is a strong-willed, tomboyish half-demon girl with high combat abilities. She teams up with army lieutenant Soukaku Kei to solve various cases. While the story revolves around the theme of coexistence between humans and yokai, it also depicts the growth of each character and changes in relationships, deeply moving viewers.

character

The charm of "Otome Yokai Zakuro" lies in its characters with a wealth of individuality. The main character, Xiwangmu Tao (Zakuro), is voiced by Nakahara Mai, and has a strong-willed and tomboyish personality. Her partner, Sokaku Kei, is voiced by Sakurai Takahiro, and is portrayed as a handsome and righteous army lieutenant. In addition, there are many other characters with unique personalities, such as the timid and demure Usuhotaru (Hanazawa Kana), the taciturn and reliable Yoshino Kuzuru Ken (Hino Satoshi), the twin sisters Setsudo (Toyosaki Aki) and Hozuki (Horie Yui), and the brilliant Hanagiri Maruryu (Kaji Yuki), who became an army lieutenant at the youngest age. The relationships and growth of these characters add depth to the story.

staff

Many talented staff members are involved in the production of "Otome Yokai Zakuro." The director is Kon Chiaki, the series composition is Okada Mari, the character design is Hasegawa Shinya, the prop design is Higuchi Satomi, the art directors are Kato Hiroshi and Hoki Izumi, the color design is Ito Yukiko, the cinematographer is Okochi Yoshio, the editor is Nishiyama Shigeru, the music is Sugimoto Yu, and the sound director is Aketagawa Jin. The animation is produced by JCSTAFF, and the production is by the Zakuro Production Committee. The combined efforts of these staff members have produced beautiful images and a moving story.

Theme songs and music

The theme songs of "Otome Yokai Zakuro" are also one of its charms. The opening theme "MOON SIGNAL" is written by Aki Hata, composed and arranged by Nijine, and sung by Sphere. The ending themes are "First Love is Zakuroiro" (lyrics by Saori Kodama, composed and arranged by Yukari Hashimoto, sung by Mai Nakahara, who plays Xiwangmu Tao), "Futari Shizuka" (lyrics by Saori Kodama, composed and arranged by Yukari Hashimoto, sung by Kana Hanazawa, who plays Usuki Hotaru, and Satoshi Hino, who plays Yoshino Kuzuru Ken), and "Junjou Masquerade" (lyrics by Saori Kodama, composed and arranged by Yukari Hashimoto, sung by Kana Hanazawa, who plays Usuki Hotaru, Yui Horie, who plays Hozuki, and Yuki Kaji, who plays Hanakiri Maruryu), and each character's individuality shines through in the songs. These songs liven up the atmosphere of the story and capture the hearts of the viewers.

Ratings and Recommendations

"Otome Yokai Zakuro" has been highly praised as a unique fantasy work that focuses on the coexistence of humans and yokai. Its appeal lies in the way the story unfolds, deeply moving the viewer as it depicts the growth of unique characters and the changes in their relationships. The beautiful visuals and moving music also enhance the work's appeal. This work is recommended not only for fantasy fans, but also for those who want to enjoy human drama and character growth. Please give it a watch.

More Information

■ Public Media

TV anime series

■ Original Media

comics

■ Broadcast period

October 6, 2010 - December 29, 2010 Monday 25:30-26:00

■Broadcasting station

TV Tokyo, TV Aichi, TV Osaka, AT-X

■Frequencies

13 mins

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 30

■Original Story

・Original story: Hoshino Lily (published by Gentosha Comics)

■ Director

・Director: Chiaki Kon

■ Production

・Animation production: JCSTAFF
・Production: Zakuro Production Committee

■Works

©Hoshino Lily/Gentosha Comics Zakuro Production Committee