'Anzu and the Realm of Darkness' is a children's Japanese folklore-inspired, epic fantasy graphic novel (that counts as an isekai), about self-confidence, reaching your highest self-esteem and potential, and believing in and being yourself. It also touches on grief, friendship, and belonging. It is a very emotional, inspiring, grand story.
Anzu herself - such a lovely name, she doesn't need to change it to "Anne" to suit the preferences of racist, stupid, ignorant westerners - seems like your typical, moody, new-kid-in-town, out-of-place hero in any coming-of-age story, but she grew on me (and really, the poor confused child - suddenly in a new, completely strange world after having moved away in her own world - has every right to be "whiny"). Her newfound courage, and persistence and determination to never give up doing the right thing won me over. My favourite character is the Gatekeeper of the realm of Yomi, who is an anthropomorphic black dog, and is like Anzu in a lot of ways; he is scared and self-doubting, with a melting heart of gold. I want to hug him, he is precious.There are goddesses (Kami) - both good and evil (and one of them is a giant orange squid) - and the festival of Obon, Musuhi (life energy), spirits of children, a Nurikabe (who is an adorable fluffy wall and doorway), Oni (demons), Shikigami (here they are flying paper bugs), Kitsune, Kamaitachi (giant weasel creatures), a Gashadokuro (a giant skeleton), and of course, a Tanuki!
I might rate 'Anzu and the Realm of Darkness' higher if 'Spirited Away' didn't already exist - indeed it shares many similarities to that film - but as it is, it's its own wonderful, rich, fantastical, life-affirming - and cute and funny at times - treasure. It left me smiling, and a little sad, yet gratified.
Final Score: 3.5/5
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