Watch Guardian Of The Sacred Spirit

Guardian of the Sacred Spirit is a beautifully crafted anime series that aired in 2007 on NHK. The show, created by Production I.G., is an adaptation of the first novel in the Seirei no Moribito series written by Nahoko Uehashi. The series was directed by Kenji Kamiyama, who is well known for his excellent direction in the Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex series.

The story follows Balsa, a highly skilled warrior and bodyguard, who lives in a world that is steeped in mythology and legend. She takes on a mission to protect Chagum, the second prince of the New Yogo Empire. The boy is believed to carry a curse that will bring about the end of the world, and Balsa must keep him safe until the time of the prophecy passes. However, as her journey with Chagum progresses, she begins to unravel a conspiracy involving the imperial court and dark forces that seek to use Chagum for their own gain.

The show is set in a fictional world that is reminiscent of ancient Japan. However, the world is populated by various indigenous tribes that have their own unique cultures and customs. The world-building in the show is superb, and the viewer is treated to a fascinating blend of historical facts and mythology. The plot is well-executed and surprisingly mature for a show that is produced for a younger audience. The themes touched on in the show include politics, love, loyalty, and sacrifice.

Balsa, the main character, is incredibly well-written and a joy to watch. She is an unusual protagonist for an anime series - a middle-aged woman who is not overtly sexualized, and whose strength lies in her intelligence, agility, and physical strength. Her character design is realistic, and her movements feel grounded in reality. The voice actor for Balsa, Mabuki Ando, does an excellent job of portraying the character’s calm and collected manner.

Chagum, the boy that Balsa is charged with protecting, is also well-written. He is not a stereotypical helpless prince, but rather a character with his own agency and motivations. His character development throughout the series is significant and satisfying. The supporting cast is also well fleshed out, with each character having their own unique personalities and motivations.

The animation and soundtrack for the show are stunning. The animation is fluid and has a hand-drawn feel that is rare in modern anime. The action scenes, in particular, are a treat to watch. They are well-choreographed and showcase Balsa’s skills and techniques without being over-the-top. The soundtrack is composed by the legendary Kenji Kawai, who is known for his work on Ghost in the Shell and Patlabor. The score complements the action on the screen and adds to the overall atmosphere of the show.

One of the unique aspects of Guardian of the Sacred Spirit is the attention to detail that has been given to the culture and mythology of the world. The beliefs and customs of the various tribes that Balsa and Chagum encounter are intricately woven into the plot. The world feels like a breathing entity, and the mythology is treated with respect. This attention to detail extends to the animation as well. The costumes and architecture are based on real-life historical references, and the attention to detail in the backgrounds is astounding.

The show has a slow and deliberate pace that might turn off viewers who are used to fast-paced anime. However, the story is compelling enough to keep the viewer engaged. The building tension and the gradual unraveling of the conspiracy make for a satisfying payoff. The show provides a satisfying ending, but it leaves enough room for a potential sequel.

In conclusion, Guardian of the Sacred Spirit is an excellent anime series that is well worth a watch. Its mature themes, unique characters, and well-executed world-building make it stand out in a sea of generic anime. The animation, music, and attention to detail make it a treat for the eyes and ears. Fans of historical fiction, mythology, and action should definitely give this show a chance.