Watch Mawaru Penguindrum
- 2011
- 1 Season
Mawaru Penguindrum (Spinning Penguindrum) is an anime series produced by Brain's Base and directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara. The show premiered in July 2011, airing on MBS (Mainichi Broadcasting System) in Japan, and consisting of 24 episodes. Mawaru Penguindrum is a surrealist psychological drama that explores themes such as fate, family, and identity with a diverse cast of characters.
The story follows the lives of three siblings: Kanba Takakura, Shouma Takakura, and Himari Takakura. The siblings live together in an apartment in a Tokyo suburb after losing their parents in a car accident when they were younger. Himari, the youngest, suffers from a chronic illness that reappears at the beginning of the series and grows progressively worse. However, after a seemingly miraculous recovery, she receives a mysterious hat that alters the course of the siblings' lives.
One day, while touring the aquarium for Himari's birthday, the siblings encounter a group of penguins wearing hats, and they follow them to an alternate dimension where they meet a woman named Princess of the Crystal. She tells the siblings that she can save Himari's life, but in exchange, they must search for the Penguindrum. This is where their journey begins, as they try to unravel the mysteries and secrets of their past, while also fighting against dangerous forces that threaten their lives and their relationship.
As the story unfolds, the characters confront various obstacles, each revealing different aspects of their personalities and motivations. Kanba, the eldest brother, is a charismatic womanizer who will do anything to protect his family, even if it means breaking the law. Shouma, the middle brother, is more reserved and struggles with his own sense of guilt and inadequacy. Himari, the youngest sister, is cheerful and optimistic, but also harbors a deep-seated fear of death due to her illness.
In addition to the Takakura siblings, the show introduces various supporting characters who have their own stories and motivations. There is Ringo Oginome, a schoolgirl with an intense crush on her deceased older sister's boyfriend, who becomes embroiled in the siblings' quest for the Penguindrum. There is also the mysterious terrorist organization known as the Kiga Group, who seem to have their own agenda and interest in the siblings and the Penguindrum.
Mawaru Penguindrum is known for its complex and unconventional storytelling, which mixes elements of psychological drama, surrealism, and symbolism. The show also features social commentary on various issues such as family, cults, terrorism, and Kawaii culture. One of the show's most distinctive aspects is its use of penguins as its mascot characters, who occasionally break the fourth wall and provide comic relief.
The show's animation style is bright and colorful, with a mix of 2D and 3D animation, creating a vivid and dynamic visual experience. The show's use of music is also notable, with a diverse soundtrack ranging from classical music to J-pop, providing the show with a unique tone and atmosphere.
Overall, Mawaru Penguindrum is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged series that delves into the complexities of life and death and what it means to be human. The show rewards attentive viewing, as it is full of subtle details and symbolism that weave together to create a rich and intricate narrative. Its surrealistic approach, combined with its diverse cast of characters and themes, makes it a must-watch for fans of experimental storytelling and psychological dramas.
