Dororo - new anime
11 Apr 2019
It doesn't happen very often, but once in a while my husband Shin and I discover a new tv series that we both like. It's even less likely this tv series is an anime. But a few weeks ago it happened when we watched the first episode of Dororo, a new anime that started running in January 2019.
Dororo is set in the Sengoku era, a time in Japanese history that was filled with uncertainty and war. The story revolves around an orphan, Dororo, and a young man, Hyakkimaru. Their paths cross when Dororo is trying to stay alive from one day to another in a warring country. Hyakkimaru was born without any limbs, skin or organs but despite this he is a very skilled fighter. Hyakkimaru's misfortune is a result of his father sacrificing his firstborn to the demons, in return for ruling the kingdom.
As they travel Dororo and Hyakkimaru encounter other people affected by the war. They make a living out of finding and hunting down demons in return for food or payment.
Dororo is orginally a manga by Osamu Tezuka (creator of Astro Boy), and has already been made into an anime once in 1969. This is a modern version but the main story seems to be much the same.
Shin and I are only 12 episodes in but have really enjoyed it so far. The story is quite unusal and not what you expect. I really appreciate that it depicts Japanese history, and even better, mixed with the potrayal of Japanese demons. Demons are a great part of Japanese history and tradition, and even though I haven't recognised any of the demons yet, like your typical Kuchisake Onna or Kappa, they deifnanly give you that same uneasy feeling that makes shivers run down your spine. I have recently found this website, youkai.com, where you can find information on many of the well known Japanese demons, but also other supernatural creatures and beings.
Dororo is not for the faint of heart as many of the scenes are bloody and goory. Most of the story line is aimed at an older audience. Even though the title charater is a child of around 10 years I would personally recommend this anime for children 14 and up. So far I really like it and look forward to watch the remaining 12 episodes of season 1. It just started airing again afte a short break so I am planning to watch episode 13 togethwe with Shin later this week!
