The Twelve Kingdoms (Seasons 1&2)
(2002-2003) Animation, Fantasy
Directed by Tsuneo Kobayashi
Based on the light novels by Fuyumi Ono
(2002-2003) Animation, Fantasy
Directed by Tsuneo Kobayashi
Based on the light novels by Fuyumi Ono
Season 1, Episodes 1-14 contain the first story arc revolving around the character Youko Nakajima, a high school student who later becomes Queen Kei. Season 2, Episodes 15-33, expands on the world in a broader scope and focuses on other characters as well as Youko. Youko still remains a central character, but is no longer the main focal point. Season 1 is a complete story arc, but Season 2 ends somewhat abruptly in the middle of events. I didn't realise that there was a third season, so I was actually surprised when it suddenly ended in the middle of things. Now I'll have to get my hands on the final three chapters. I bought both seasons bran new on Blu Ray. Season 1 was $85, and Season 2 was $95. I've been poking my head around on eBay to see if I can get the third season, and so far I have only found individual DVD's or the complete series for less than I payed for Season 1.
The animation is based on a series of light novels by the same name. The story is based on Chinese mythology, and there are many similarities with Western fairy tales too, such as talking animals. High schooler Youko Nakajima and her two friends, Yuka and Asano, are transported to this mystical land where they suffer hardships due to language and cultural barriers as well as political intreague and monsters known as Yoma (another word for Demons or monsters in other series such as Claymore). In the second story arc another girl from Japan is transported to this world and serves for 90 years as a servant to an imortal noble woman. Immortality is granted to all rulers and their servants in this world. There are also gods walking among mortals, and a higher supreme God, Tentei. Another central character in the second story arc is a princess who's father was corrupt and overthrown. The princess lived a lavish lifestyle and was very ignorant, and gradually after many hardships comes to realise the error of her ways. There are many character criticisms, and especially a lot of attention paid to criticising ignorance. One of the most tolerant characters, Rakushun, is a talking human sized rat who can also transoform into a human form. He helps Youko and the princess, Shoukei, gain greater perspectives on life. But it's interesting how the creators project their own personal views through their characters. For example, Rakushun does not believe that gods exist, but in subtle ways he questions himself internally over the course of the series. I think there is a criticism of the Christian view of God in the way that the gods of this world are more directly involved with affairs of state. It reminds me of the way people often say, "If God exists then why is the world so corrupt?" So the gods of this world elect rulers and punish them for being corrupt. It's a very human perspective, because there are just as many "Why do the gods allow evil?" Questions raised.
This series captivates and entertains me so much that I was willing to fork out that much money. Probably the strongest element is the story. The characters are very strong with well developed personalities and flaws. The mythology sometimes goes into so much detail that it's confusing and hard to remember everything, but the depth of the mythology is fascinating. The animation quality and drawing style are great. It's not the best I've seen in terms of animation quality, but well above what's typical for mainstream animation. Most mainstream animations suffer from limited drawing angles and character movements. The Twelve Kingdoms has a lot of very interesting perspective angles, character motions, scenery, and motions.
Overall it is a very unique animation. The excellent artwork, deep characters, life insights, fantastic mythology, and charm make for a truly memorable animation. I consider this a must see for animation fans.