Kino's Journey Volume 1: Idle Adventurer - AnimeDaze
- AnimeDaze
- James Shoemaker
- 10/12/04
- click here
It's been awhile since I found a new series that grabbed my interest. Kino's Journey definitely captured my mind with a vengeance. I loved this one because it didn't rely on action, sex, violence or even a storyline. An anime that doesn't rely on sex or violence must be pretty good then, huh? Yep. Kino's Journey is directed by Ryutaro Nakamura, who also directed Serial Experiments Lain.
As far as I can tell, there is no real storyline or plot in Kino's Journey. Basically it is the chronicles of a traveler, Kino. Kino travels to different countries on her talking motorcycle, Hermes. It sounds absurd, but the motorcycle is simply just a mode to help express what Kino is feeling. There are also dreamlike proverbs that pop up to reinforce what Kino is talking about.
Kino travels to countries all over the world, but she is only allowed to stay three days for an unknown reason. Kino meets lots of people but never settles down. She usually learns something about the country or possibly trys to help someone out. The different countries all have their own traditions and histories which are usually fascinating. The different countries usually have a problem that has a lot of philosophical signifigance, and keep you thinking for a long time.
The animation in Kino's Journey is excellent. The different countries Kino and Hermes visit are usually filled with lush forests, tall mountains, or snow covered trees. The animation is clean and simple, and the characters have those big eyes.
There wasn't a whole lot of music in Kino's journey. Besides the opening and closing which were decent, I fail to remember any real music aside from some soothing atmospheric music. It could perhaps be that I was so engrossed in the anime that I failed to notice any music.
The voice actors were also good. The only two reoccurring characters in the series are Kino and Hermes, so you should get used to their voices. Hermes isn't annoying as one would expect from a talking motorcycle. Kino has a low, usually monotone voice that makes the audience wonder about Kino's sex.
I am really anticipating the next intallments of Kino's Journey. This series is definitely not for everyone, but if you like the subtle philosophical kind of anime this is pure gold. It is also reminicent of Lain, and I would bet that fans of Lain will also love Kino's Journey.
Excellent
Posted on Tuesday, October 12, 2004 (Archive on Friday, November 12, 2004)