What it is: Kujira no Kora wa Sajou ni Utau (Children of the Whales)
Kujira no Kora wa Sajou ni Utau, also known as Children of the Whales, is an anime series that stands out for its engaging narrative and impressive visual aesthetic. Set in a world where the land is covered by a vast sea of sand, the story revolves around a society living on a floating island called Mud Whale. The inhabitants of this island, known as "Mud Whales," possess special abilities that set them apart from other human beings, with most of them being able to manipulate a force called "Thymia." This force is a representation of human emotions and plays a crucial role in the plot, influencing both interpersonal relationships and the conflicts that arise throughout the story.
Anime Production
- Directed by: Abe Masahiro
- Screenplay: Kōhei Azano
- Studio: JC Staff
- Premiere: October 2017
- Genre: Action, Fantasy, Drama
- Based on: Manga by Abi Umeda
The series is based on the manga by Abi Umeda, which began publication in 2013 and quickly gained a loyal fanbase due to its unique narrative and captivating characters. The anime adaptation was produced by JC Staff, known for its animation quality and production of popular works. The anime first aired in October 2017 and quickly stood out among the season's releases, receiving praise for both its animation and the emotional depth of its story. The soundtrack, composed by Kevin Penkin, also contributes to the series' immersive atmosphere, elevating the dramatic and emotional scenes to a new level.
The characters in Kujira no Kora wa Sajou ni Utau are one of the series' strong points. The protagonist, Chakuro, is a young man who works as an archivist on the island and dreams of exploring the world beyond the sand. His curiosity leads him to discover secrets about his society's history and the nature of the power they possess. Other characters, such as the mysterious Lykos and the strong and protective Shuan, add layers to the narrative, each with their own motivations and internal conflicts. The interaction between the characters is rich and complex, reflecting themes of friendship, love, and sacrifice that permeate the series.
One of the central themes of Kujira no Kora wa Sajou ni Utau is the struggle for survival in a hostile world. The Mud Whale society faces constant threats from external groups who wish to capture its inhabitants and exploit their abilities. This dynamic creates a tense and conflict-ridden environment where the characters must make difficult decisions to protect each other and preserve their way of life. The series also addresses philosophical questions about the nature of humanity, what it means to be human, and how emotions shape our actions and decisions.
The animation in Kujira no Kora wa Sajou ni Utau is a spectacle in itself. Studio JC Staff did an exceptional job bringing the desert world and unique characters of the series to life. The action scenes are fluid and well-choreographed, while the quieter moments are filled with meticulous attention to detail. The color palette used in the animation helps to convey the melancholic yet hopeful atmosphere of the story, making viewers feel immersed in the series' universe. The combination of an engaging narrative, well-developed characters, and high-quality animation makes Kujira no Kora wa Sajou ni Utau a must-see for anime fans.