Otogi Juushi Akazukin

Most anime aimed at kids in Japan is for the sake of merchandising. Otogi-Jushi Akazukin is no exception, but it is also one of the few that surpass the commercial need and becomes something respectable in its own right. Akazukin plays on one of the most familiar of story devices; fairy tales, and still manages to come out with a story all its own. At first, Akazukin gives off the presence of a magical girl show, and though it keeps that essence, its far heavier on the action than most; a factor that works in favor of the series rather than against it. Moreso, it abandonsthe monster-of-the-week element by the halfway mark and becomes increasingly focused on the main plot, intensifying in suspense up to the climax. In addition, Akazukin provides a handful of unique twists, though it falters in giving them away too early. Still some of the revelations are pretty impressive to say the least. As Akazukin revels in fairy tale lore, it should come as no surprise that almost every character is a relation to some famous story. Everyone from the fairy tale world holds some link to a fairy tale and the detail put into the backstory, design, and personality all reflect their archetypes or play on them. Unfortunately, there's no real genuine development. Characters change in sudden and jarring revelations rather than changing gradually, and some are just plain irritating without reason. I'm looking at you, Randagio. Moreso, some characters don't even change at all, so if you don't like someone at the start, be prepared to dislike them the rest of the series. Animated by Madhouse, the animation is consistently enjoyable all the way through. Nothing is choppy, though there is a strong tendancy, especially around the middle, to fade into flashbacks. It is redeemed though by its pastel-perfect backgrounds and flashy but classically appealing character designs. Very pretty indeed. Akazukin's sound is okay. It's not bad, but it sounds like every other generic anime soundtrack out there. It doesn't impede on anything, but it doesn't really stand out. The OPs are okay, but the EDs are pretty good, especially the last one. A combination of magical girl and RPGs, Akazukin is a wonderful tale all its own. Though parts lag, it is ultimately fulfilling in the very end and leaves nothing lacking. Akazukin is a pleasant, if not wonderful, watch from beginning to end. Overall, I give Otogi-Jushi Akazukin an 8 out of 10.