![]() He realizes this by the series' conclusion, but instead of turning back to reality to face his problems head-on, he turns his back on reality. In being such a deconstruction of isekai, it also ended up reversing the ending of one of Gainax's most popular and iconic anime ever.Īs mentioned previously, the various realities in Abenobashi are born out of the psyche of Arumi, as these escapist ideas keep him from accepting and dealing with the realities confronting him in the real world. Likewise, the lack of any real reincarnation into these different worlds further separates it from its more modern ilk, as does the flipping of the power fantasy concept. This makes the story, fun and wacky as it is, a much more mindful affair than many modern isekai. He doesn't realize this initially, but this journey is in many ways a psychological exploration and avoidance of his personal trauma. These realities, which range in themes from dating sims to fantasy, are all born out of the mind of Arumi. They soon find themselves transported away from their home to a series of different realities, all of which are somewhat humorous in nature. The plot revolves around two children named Arumi and Sasshi, who live in the soon-to-be renovated eponymous Abenobashi shopping area. ![]() The series' intro was the catchy banger "Treat or Goblins" by Megumi Hayashibara, and the show was later adapted into a manga series. All in all, Abenobashi is good for some laughs but doesn’t leave a lasting impression.Abenobashi was a 2002 anime created by the illustrious studio Gainax, with the animation handled by both Gainax and the equally as well-known Madhouse. That’s something Gainax can afford to add to its stable. It even gives the unforeseen pleasure of a tidy ending even if it is a little forced. Magical Shopping Arcade Abenobashi is unpretentious and silly, but not aimless. I especially enjoy the opening theme with it’s slightly hip hop vibe and silly lyrics. The colors are clean and bright and fit the tone of the story. The quality is the least I expect from Gainax in terms of technical merit and that’s high praise considering their reputation. I was not disappointed with the visuals, but neither was I awed. There are also small touches of humanity that help the viewer connect to the characters. Arumi’s father, a simple short order cook, who dreams of becoming a fancy pants French chef, is a stand out example. If you watch Abenobashi for anything do it for the funny characters. I just wanted the story to reach a conclusion. The comedy sketches became so mediocre I resented having to sit through them. As the gags become more predictable, they are an obstacle to the storytelling and seem like a pretense. Unfortunately, Abenobashi takes on a “world of the week” formula that dominates the series. The tale isn’t exceptional but it is mysterious and manged to peak my interest. I’d have given up by episode three if it weren’t for the emerging story. The first episodes are especially funny, but sadly, the series as a whole isn’t funny enough. It’s a straight forward coming of age story despite its magical surface.Ībenobashi aptly spoofs the things media lovers know: sim dating, gangster movies, video games, mahou shoujo and just about everything else. However, Abenobashi is not as deep or creative as FLCL. ![]() It’s all there adolescent angst complete with sexual tension, quests with symbolic meaning, goofball comedy and imaginative artwork. Magical Shopping Arcade Abenobashi is a Gainax offering along the lines of FLCL. How will they get back to the real Abenobashi, or will they even want to? Now, their futures are even more uncertain, as they find themselves in a revolving set of goofy game and film inspired alternate Abenobashi realities. One day, in a harrowing accident, a mysterious “guardian” statue on the roof of Abenobashi is broken and Arumi and Sasshi unexpectedly find themselves transported to another dimension. Sasshi is particularly stricken, and is even more hurt by Arumi’s seeming indifference. With its scheduled demolition, Arumi and Sasshi, two best friends, face separation. However, due to neglect and the natural effects of time, it’s become rundown and trashy. A shopping district typical of post war Japan’s modernization efforts, it was once considered a marvel in its day the fruit of many people’s dreams. Time hasn’t been kind to Abenobashi Shopping Arcade. Japanese Title: Abenobashi Mahou Shotengai
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