2014 fall | Episodes: 10 | Score: 8.7 (110878)
Updated every Sundays at 00:30 | Status: Finished Airing
Type: TV
Producers:Aniplex | Kodansha | Delfi Sound
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Synopsis
Ghostly, primordial beings known as Mushi continue to cause mysterious changes in the lives of humans. The travelling Mushishi, Ginko, persists in trying to set right the strange and unsettling situations he encounters. Time loops, living shadows, and telepathy are among the overt effects of interference from Mushi, but more subtle symptoms that take years to be noticed also rouse Ginko's concern as he passes from village to village. Through circumstance, Ginko has become an arbiter, determining which Mushi are blessings and which are curses. But the lines that he seeks to draw are subjective. Some of his patients would rather exercise their new powers until they are utterly consumed by them; others desperately strive to rid themselves of afflictions which are in fact protecting their lives from devastation. Those who cross paths with Mushi must learn to accept seemingly impossible consequences for their actions, and heal wounds they did not know they had. Otherwise, they risk meeting with fates beyond their comprehension. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Voice Actors
Nakano, Yuto
Sawashiro, Miyuki
News
12/20/2014, 08:22 AM
At the end of the final episode of Mushishi Zoku Shou 2nd Season, it was announced that a movie titled Mushishi Zoku Shou: Suzu no Shizuku will premiere in Summer 20...
![Fall 2014 Simulcast List [Update 12/10]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.myanimelist.net%2Fs%2Fcommon%2Fuploaded_files%2F1455273770-aa5cfe48a548e1623eace0924a6b1318.jpeg%3Fs%3Daa5f5a1c4ea0a2be0ee731d42f8c66d0&w=640&q=75)
09/27/2014, 05:17 PM
Crunchyroll (All times are Pacific for premium users):Kaitou Joker (JOKER) Territories: Worldwide excluding Asia Streaming Dates: Mondays at 4:30 a.m. starting Octob...
09/14/2014, 01:17 PM
In this thread, you'll find a comprehensive list of Fall 2014 anime commercials (CMs) and promotional videos (PVs). This post will be continuously updated as mo...
01/04/2014, 07:55 AM
At the end of Mushishi Special: Hihamukage, it was announced that a second season of Mushishi, titled Mushishi Zoku Shou, will be airing separately in Spring 2014 an...
Reviews
XOArama
This will be a review for both halves of the second season as well as just overall for the OVA's and movies. While I can't say this was 100% as good as the first it still a great anime. It carries the same themes and episodic structure the first season did and just continues to be an enjoyable, sometimes depressing, break from the usual content of most anime. Mushishi is really distinct in that manner, there are a lot of anime that employ the episodic structure but none seem to take it as far as Mushishi with having no overarching plot at all which Ifound really interesting. Yes it did lead to having not as much information about the main character Ginko as I would have liked, and I still think would have been possible while keeping the episodic stricture intact, I think it was a really nice break and made it a joy to sit down and watch. I feel like part of the difference in this season was the stories of the episodes itself mostly, there were still some really good ones but there were more this season that I just felt were alright. Also there were barely any actual visible Mushi in this season, more so Mushi that exist as their own thing inside something or as a force of nature, which is a cool concept, but I think should have been mixed in more with other types of Mushi. Overall thought this was still and amazing anime and for sure is one of the greats and I'm sad for it to be over.
weeb_shruti
Mushishi has been an excellent anime so far and it continues to be exacctly that This season of Mushishi is the highest rated of the entire series and it's easy to understand why This season or specifically this cour delivered top tier episodes one after the other Ginko remains to be our eyes as he travels around and meets various people with various experiences but he also became a character of his own and one we can cheer and care for This cour has some episodes that are darker than Mushishi has ever been but also some that are brimmed with hope The animation is improved but itstill maintains a peaceful atmosphere as something out of an oil painting while also being an improvement The music is beautiful and calm like the rest of Mushishi Only flaw I can think of is the character design being mundane and boring outside of Ginko but then again that is the case for the other installments as well Mushishi Zoku Shou or Mushishi Next Path not only keeps the momentum set by it's previous installments but also surpasses it at various instances and I hope things will only get better as I watch Drops Of Bell
a_last_flower
For many who have actively followed the anime industry for a long time, one title that can be defined as art is, without a doubt, Mushishi. While all anime can be considered "art" in their own way, Mushishi is the art of intellectuals. Mushishi is the kind of series that practically defines the phrase "not for everyone." If you like unexpected twists and meticulously crafted plots, then you will most likely be disappointed. Story Development ★★☆☆☆ The anime is still episodic and has no main plot until the end. There's this constant sense that something - just something - is missing. Perhaps that 'something' is the fact thatthe series has gone on for a long time now and no longer feels as fresh as it did at the beginning. Maybe I'm wrong, but I continue to have the feeling of slowness in the flow of the episodes. I understand the quiet and calm that Mushishi creates and gives to the viewer, unlike the countless anime full of action, hustle and bustle, and various antics, but I still feel too much of it. It's not loaded with complications and twists, and that's what makes it monotonous. Other than that, there's nothing else to say about it. Art Style and Character Design ★★★☆☆ If you're a fan of the original and want to see the same style again, Mushishi doesn't disappoint. You could even splice episodes from both seasons together and not notice any change in quality despite the 10 years that have passed. The differences in character designs are quite similar if not the same. Character Development ★☆☆☆☆ Of Ginko's past, nada. Music & SFX ★★☆☆☆ The soundtrack loses compared to the first season. Mushishi yes, it synchronizes the music like in previous episodes but not with the same emotions. Try listening to Mushishi no theme or Kotowari again and you'll see how much he lost with this season. I don't understand the choice to remove old pieces of the soundtrack but not daring to change the plot of the episodes; Let me explain: the repetitiveness of the songs in each episode wasn't tiring, on the contrary, you were just waiting for the moment to listen to it again in the following episode, but the plots of the episodes are almost always repetitive and boring at a certain point. Without involving the opening track, Shiver by Lucy Rose, suits the relaxing series and immerses you in the fantasy world of the Mushi.
Halalex
It was only a matter of time before I began writing reviews on MAL, seeing as writing reviews, or just writing about things I care about in general, is something I enjoy nonetheless. Just like with the previous season, not much has changed between this and the first one, and that certainly isn’t a bad thing. On the contrary, it’s exactly what I, and probably many others, kept watching for. If there’s any substantial deviation from the regular “Mushishi formula” that’s worth mentioning it’s the fact that Ginko kind of takes a seat back in many of the episodes. He enters each individual story much laterthan previously, and more often than not, the story is mainly experienced from the “victim’s” perspective instead of his, an interesting change of pace. Other than that, all of the show's other qualities are still present. The music is still great, the mushi are conceptually eerier than ever, and while I think the first season overall has the best content out of the three, the improved presentation and the fact that I really took my time with this one makes it my favorite out of the three. Mushishi, after all, is really difficult to watch… for me at least. In order to enjoy it to its fullest, I really have to be in a specific type of mood (hence why it took me more than a year to finish S3), but when things like the weather, time of day, and the level of energy in my body line up perfectly, this show suddenly becomes a unique, engaging, and almost spiritual experience worthy of the praise it has garnered over the years. And while some of the episodes might not hit as hard as one might hope, the amount of artistic inspiration I personally get out of this show is something I value a lot. You could say that it’s a story I kind of wish that I came up with myself, for those who’ve felt that feeling before and can relate to it. 8.5 / 10, can’t wait to watch the specials whenever winter comes around again.
Matheusmiranda96
“Kept as distant, inferior and abnormal beings. They were very different beings from the fauna and flora we were used to. They were, in fact, a group of grotesque beings more fearsome than you since the days of yore. Unnoticed common sense recognized him as 'mushi'”. This is an excerpt from the work that explains about the Mushis (which can be translated as 'insect'), supernatural beings that inhabit the natural plane, although they can only be seen by people with special abilities. Mushis are extremely basic life forms, and several species can be found representing the near-mythical forces of nature. Few people have the abilityto see them; those who have them are called Mushi-shi. The role of Mushi-shi is fundamental because people are generally unaware of the existence of mushrooms, which ends up leaving them vulnerable. These creatures aren't, in essence, good or bad, but sharing space with humans can have incredible or terrifying consequences, and they can live like parasites. A Mushi-shi's job is to attend to and investigate abnormal events, protecting people from the effects of mushrooms. Each has its own style. There are those who consider the best solution to hunt and kill Mushi, those who live in villages as doctors or counselors, those who consider Mushi a naturalist, there are no pre-determined rules. In the anime we follow several events, many of them very sad and tragic. Almost no episode ends well, reinforcing the idea of a real world without mercy, where everything happens in a very natural and believable way. Mushis are entities that are part of human daily life and their presence is fatal most of the time. But make no mistake! These beings are not essentially good or bad. Just as nature is not good or bad, rather, it is simply "natural", but which, by being greatly influenced by human actions, repays them in the same way. That's how the Mushis are, a mere reflection of the different daily tragedies: illnesses, old age, loss of loved ones, disputes, wars, revenge, hunger, pests, impossible loves, failed marriages, destroyed families, natural disasters, failure, frustration... Mushi-shi is not an action-packed adventure, but an invitation to contemplation through the protagonist's journey. Fantastically and melancholy, the plot calls us to walk in Ginko's footsteps in different places. Always as an impartial and rational observer, but possessing a strong sense of compassion. The way Ginko sees the world, helping whoever needs it, whether it's an animal, person or mushi, is in keeping with the bucolic atmosphere. Mushi-shi is not a simple story to follow. Through tragic events we are led to reflection through points necessary for human growth. The melancholy provided by difficult and painful situations, which are beyond our reach, with the constant feeling of tied hands; The sadness left by losses, sufferings, failures, disasters, when seeing itself "walking" towards its own "destruction"; And the acceptance when we see that there is a natural order in each action, that there is a cycle of reconstruction and life follows its flow, where some lose and others win, but that there is beauty in small things, culminating in happiness. Each being is the same in nature but different in essence. Understanding the particular essence of everyone around us is what makes us human. Mushi-shi should be appreciated, always looking to contemplate the reflection left in each episode. "What is considered to be beyond our world are creatures totally different from the ordinary and grotesque ones we are used to seeing. As time went by, people began to fear and respect these creatures, they began to call them Mushi."
Resting_Bonfire
Mushishi Zoku Shou 2nd Season Of all the episodes and all the seasons, this is the best in my opinion. The anime is still episodic and has no main plot until the bitter end. But this season finally presented several short stories with much more background, depth, and individuality than in previous seasons. Here, most episodes also had a stronger atmosphere and faster pacing. Other than that, there's nothing more to say about this. There was another episode about Ginko's past, even if it didn't add much, you still saw an unexpected event from the past.Regarding the characters, there were slight changes here, integrating them more into the individual Mushi situations. They were less just bystanders, but more in the focus of the situation. Whereas in many past episodes, they didn't contribute anything to the case anyway except for their fear and doubt and just stood there like NPCs waiting for Ginko to work. Here they felt more human than ever. Conclusion To my surprise, an improvement in things and I wish it had been like this from the beginning. In season 1 the first half had potential, the second half was weaker. And with season 2 just the opposite, whereas the first part was disappointing, the second has improved some things. This was probably also since the cases here had more content, which made them easier to stretch out to 20 minutes. An interesting and recommendable season of more short stories. Enjoyment -6
TyrAxe
It took me almost three months to complete the Mushishi series, the same time I needed to finish more than 900 episodes of one piece. Surprisingly I don't feel like I watched Mushishi, it's more like I ''experienced'' Mushishi. There's something so dark, something so melancholic about the whole thing yet it's astonishingly beautiful, soothing, and philosophical at the same time. It's like watching Tarkovsky's films. Mushishi is about Mushi, the mysterious beings that exist somewhere between life and death. well, it's not true! Mushi(s) have never been the central character of any episode. The show is all about us, humans and how to understand humansmore. It's about human compassion, empathy, emotion and acceptance. It also indicates the inseparable bond between us and nature. Every episode of the series is unpredictable and has its uniqueness. Not a single episode is rushed or incomplete. Each episode establishes characters and takes us on a journey to the unknown to create a unique complete story. Some episodes are thoroughly pleasant, some are heartbreaking and tear-jerker. Some episodes will put you into deeper thoughts about life, while others will make you speechless. Nonpareil storytelling, oddly relaxing visuals, and timeless music will make you lose yourself in the world. These are the things that establish Mushishi as an artistically crafted anime. Nonetheless, Mushishi is a very slow-paced show and it's not made for everyone. But for someone who wants to watch a slow relaxing story or someone tired of mainstream animes and wants to try something unique, Mushishi is a great option.
BabyGirl06301
I'm gonna do my best to find new words to say about Mushishi in this review that I haven't gone over in the past, but let's just get into it and see what happens. The things that are easy to love about Mushishi are still very present in this second half of Zoku Shou. Of course, the atmosphere is one of the many things Mushishi does better than a lot of anime out there. Its art looks like a fine oil painting and its music highlights the tone of the moment perfectly. It still definitely delivers in the story department as well. Particularly, for this season,I felt as though the stories touched me more than they did in the first half of the second season. It may just be because of the time I was watching it in, but the stories this season seemed like they had a bit more depth to them. The tribulations the families were going through because of the mushi were written remarkably well, and I got the chance to really sympathize with the situations these people were in. The only negative thing I would have to pick on is that we still aren't getting a whole lot of time spent with Ginko on his own. We did get more of a peak into the greater world of mushi this season and also a bit of Ginko's life in the past, which I liked a lot, but it'd be nice to have more of those moments. It could open up the pathway for some pretty interesting storylines. Anyway, I'm still enjoying basking in the glow of Mushishi, and I do hope that the final installment will excite me just as much. See you there!
ThorNN-heim7
Mushishi Zoku Shou season 2, or as it truly is, Mushishi season 3, steps in, giving us more of what has made so many love the Mushishi-universe. Story: We continue our travels with the Mushi-shi Ginko as he meets more people and solve more problems. The show gives us those bittersweet feelings that Mushishi always has, and makes us think about what, truly, is right or wrong. Art & Sound: Stellar soundtracks and nice art style has always permeated this series and I'm relieved that it never seems to stray away from that. Characters: We get more characters, more realistic backstories (at least as realistic as you couldget from a fantasy story) and situations. Overall: I love it! A show that has never gotten to invested in a singular aspect, always showing that there are light and darkness in everything. Enjoy!
CzeroC
"They seem strange and alien, primitive and peculiar. They are unlike any flora or fauna known to us. From time immemorial, men have feared these shapeless entities which came to be known as “Mushi”." Speaking of slice-of-life anime, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say Mushishi is one of the "conductor" in this "train". I myself was curious about it when I first got into anime 2 years ago, and it sure had my attention since then. However, took me long enough before I got the chance to finish it, and wow, what a ride it was. To begin with, Mushishi is, IMO, not an anime foreveryone. Yeah, you must have been sick of hearing this kind of excuses but I think this one small description fits Mushishi perfectly. If you have a mindset of a geezer who’s tired of all the noise in the city and just wanna have something peaceful, a bit dramatic, and a touch of life, then yeah Mushishi is definitely your cup of tea. Other than that, people who don’t have enough patience would leave in less than 3 episodes (maybe). When I first watched Mushishi I was in awe of how studio Artland handled the mysteries as well as fantasy in this slice of life anime. Though I must admit the pacing can be a problem sometimes which might trigger uneasiness-es, in the end, the solution for each episode always paid off. Mushishi doesn’t have an overarching plot, it’s rather straightforward with nothing really complicated or contains some pretentious, 2deep4u philosophies. Mushishi is a journey, a voyage to find the value of living beings while at the same time, witness and uncover some of the human traits that we rarely get to see on the media as a whole. In the process of solving a problem, Ginko, our protagonist, usually has to struggle to find the most optimized answer for both humans and the Mushi side. With the metaphor used in almost every episode, we, the audience, get to see and know a bit more about the whimsical trend of Japanese’s folktale, cultural stuff, such as their concept about heaven and earth, life and death, etc. which is, IMO, a good add-on that helps spice things up a bit. Simply put, Mushishi has no clear direction. It’s just there to show us the story from Ginko’s POV and unravel different scenarios each episode, constantly changing side characters but not without maintaining its substance. What really separates Mushishi from most conventional slice-of-life animes is that it doesn’t hesitate to challenge the “depressing" side. Slowly but surely, you’ll get to bear witness to some certain disturbing subjects accompanied by a little bit of horror for the change of tone. This is IMO one of the best things about Mushishi since it harvests an innumerable amount of themes regardless of their “color”, thus enriches and expands the scale of this fantasy saga. Watching Mushishi is like sitting down and “listening” to a tale of a guy who traveled a great lot in his life. What’s more, this kind of tale is reinforced with marvelous animation and beautiful soundtracks to enhance your experience. Character design is simple yet very effective, I don’t really have trouble remembering their faces because it’s all almost the same (absolutely no sarcasm). The breathtaking landscapes simply nail the “feel” as they make me wanna chill out for a bit and forget about all the tiring mood from a day at work. The sound and BGM is also one of Mushishi’s strongest assets. It wasn't just about the quality of the tracks, but also about how they were played at the right moment in order to fully augment the highlight of a particular episode. The OP is pure magic, I can listen to it every time without getting bored. The EDs vary from each episode and thus making it even more prolific and wholesome. My favorite one is probably no.7 track of Zokou shou SS1. While Mushishi doesn’t have a great cast, Ginko alone is sufficient to make up for the lack of quantity. Throughout the journey, we get to see more about his story, his personality, and some of his humorous qualities. He isn’t some kind of OP or godlike genius that can practically get or figures out everything. But that’s what makes him the star of the show, a faithful and easygoing fella that is capable of keeping the show away from feeling dull. Despite all the praise I gave, Mushishi is not flawless. However, IMHO, that is still up to how the viewers' perception to decide the magnitude of said issue. I myself think Mushishi should have stopped at Zokou, the OVAs are nice but I can’t say they’re on the same level with the main series, mostly due to the pacing as well as “recycled” ideas. I admit that sometimes this anime makes me feel very sleepy, but the end result really made up for that. In conclusion, Mushishi was a great tour with many memorable moments. I laughed a lot, I learned a lot, I “felt” a lot, I shocked a lot, and it’s all worth it. So long Ginko, have a nice trip and good luck.
Mantislord000
This is an example of a truly remarkable and artistic masterpiece for the anime, and perhaps entertainment world in general. It is such an atmospheric experience, with many compelling characters and even more compelling and mind-blowing stories with each episode. It is episodic like the seasons before, but that kind of setup ultimately proves to be done masterfully and with great nuance. Ginko continues to be a fantastic and thoughtful protagonist who encounters these various Mushi-related incidences in some very resourceful and interesting ways. Some of the episodes in this series are absolutely breathtaking, containing a large amount of emotional baggage, as well as sometwists and turns that keeps the viewer on edge. Some of the moments from this show are truly moving, and after viewing I feel that I have actually gained a lot from this series. Zoku Shou 2nd Season is equally as good as the first season for me, and there were so many moments where I was blown away. The writing is fantastic, and the slow pacing is done in such a remarkable and captivating manner. Some could view this as boring since yet again, this show isn't exactly an action anime, or even neatly fitting into any other usual genre people are accustomed to. Yet, the differences with this series are something that people should at least try and watch, for I feel that they could come to really appreciate the beauty in the writing of this show. The spiritual and mythological elements intertwining with these people's lives as well as the natural world around them are extremely moving and thought-provoking. This has proven to be one of the greatest series I have seen, period. Whether in the anime world or otherwise.
Akagi-kun
"Mushishi" - perhaps one of the greatest anime I've ever seen. "Masterpiece," as corny as it may sound, is the first word that comes to mind -- and not only regarding the second half of the second season, but regarding the entire franchise as a whole. There is, however, a catch: Mushishi is the kind of series that practically defines the phrase "not for everyone." First and foremost, there is nothing in here that you would usually expect to find in Japanese animation. In Mushishi, giant fighting robots, spaceship travels, and scantily clad schoolgirls are absent -- and if you expect or require your anime tocontain these elements, then Mushishi is not worth your time and will likely put you to sleep before the first credits roll. If you're partial to unexpected plot twists, subtle foreshadowing and hints that beckon you to unravel the meaning implied by the author, or meticulously crafted plots, then most likely you, too, will be disappointed. As you can see, it is easier to advise someone NOT to watch this anime, than to find those who might like it. When watching Mushishi, I felt as though what slowly unfolds on the other side of the screen begins to pull at the my heart strings, forcing think and ponder a lot and about many different things. I dive into an unknown world, one which is almost impossible to understand, a fantasy world superimposed on reality, and it is easy to get lost in this world. Seems to be, a bit of dynamics in the story, but while watching, time flies instantly. Is Mushishi a fairy tale? I do not know. It is too realistic to be a fairy tale, yet too fantastical to be true. Honestly, in the beginning I was pretty skeptical. I was troubled by the graphics shown in previews and screenshots, and troubled by the fact that each episode had and "independent" plot. I entered the show's first few episodes with some skepticism. But after watching a few episodes more i really popped out - no one episodes did cause me disgust. Beautiful, almost to tears in the eyes landscapes, I really was amazed. Differences in character designs were fairly subtle, as if the creators wanted to say, "this could happen to anyone," and yet every character also had some traits peculiar to him or her alone. Each character must deal with the mushi, under his or her own, unique circumstances and situation. Because of this, many viewers fault Mushishi for having the same secondary characters. However, this is not a minus, but a "vice-versa" - plus - almost like creators wanted to say us: all people are different, but at the same time, all people, in many aspects, are similar to each other, and Mushishi displays this brilliantly. All of peoples are "all" and "every". And the execution of these stories' design is just gorgeous. Rather than going the traditional anime route and using bright, eye-popping, multicolored landscapes, everything is drawn in soft pastels, with very simple color scheme reflecting the natural world and resembling watercolors. It is reminiscent of traditional Japanese ink painting. It seems that the first-season story of the artist who painted on the lining of his haori mountain from their native lands seems to be the essence of the series. There are mountains and valleys, the sky and the ocean, and with them another element, Mushi -- different and the same, neither good nor evil, the element that both feeds and kills. Just like history, there is neither bad nor good, just whatever the viewer feels each episode. All the same, everyone just lives their lives. There is no evil or good. Regarding Mushishi's music: On the screen, under the sound of bells, you can see the panorama of the fresh green forest; close your eyes, and you feel the same. The music blends with the picture, to become a "voice" of nature. Without its brilliant OST, I think, anime would lose its soul. At the end of each episode, it is simply impossible to cut the ending short, because it is the logical conclusion of each episode, where the visual image transforms into the music. Japanese philosophy is very ambivalent and are unlikely to be truly understood by our audience, but for anyone who has ever stopped to listen to the whisper of the forest, "Mushishi" will never be only a "passable" anime. Mushishi - an amazing anime. Simply amazing. One of those anime that really deserves its place in the top. P.S So here's the perfect anime for the night. Leaves behind a phenomenally light feeling and fleeting thought. And yet — it is filled with some all-consuming, though not hurting eyes, love of peace and love of one's neighbour. P.P.S I would like to mention a story from the second half of the second season, about a man who lived his life several times. So sad and at the same time, life-affirming interpretation of "Groundhog Day" I have never seen before. P.P.P.S English is not my native, so thank you so much my friend, for correcting my mistakes and sentence errors )
DanielMoore
Ginko smokes it out while thinking about what to do. Instead of making real choices he lets the creature in the forest come to him as he continues to smoke. He smokes some more as he seems confident that he can smoke through just about anything. As the never ending blunt between Ginko's mouth continues to burn, the story picks up through out the season. You will get the urge to smoke throughout this anime. I suggest smoking the entire you watch this good tale of how to smoke as you find whatever it is you are looking for.-MURDER MOORE
ZephSilver
As understood by most sensible viewers that dissect the content they watch, anime, throughout the years, has become an expressive form of art in its own way. It's a medium that utilizes and relies heavily on audiovisuals in accompaniment with a script to bring a story to life; a story that takes on new impressions and interpretations depending on the creative choices taken up by those involved. Sometimes this art is used as a vehicle to service self-indulgent shows, and other times, it's used for something that's worth its salt. Regardless of the quality of the title, or the effort on the part of thecreators, what remains true is that in some way or another, they can all be considered "art." Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder after all, and as long as an individual finds something to be aesthetically appealing, whether that be a visual experience with plot or a visual experience with "plot," that's all that really matters at the end of the day. But sometimes, among the clutter, you'll stumble across titles that take it a step further, it doesn't simply use audiovisuals as a tool to compensate for whatever is written, but rather, it embodies both breathtaking audiovisuals and proper storytelling to become something far loftier. It reaches an equilibrium that's usually unobtainable by many that strive for it. Finding a delicate balance that's almost ethereal in quality, something that can't truly be expressed and appreciated until it is experienced first-hand. And for many that actively follow the anime industry for an extended period of time, one title that reaches that benchmark in terms of quality is, with little dispute, Mushishi. While all anime could be considered "art" in its own way, Mushishi itself is like a master canvas being brought to life; it's art personified. The elegance and command in which it carries itself is both awe-inspiring and inviting. It doesn't take long before you're sucked into its universe, with vignettes of lush, layered color and soothing imagery that quickly breathes life into its folklore and characters living in it. Everything feels organic, undisturbed by human tampering. It's a feeling that many titles have attempted to emulate but very rarely coming close to sharing the same living quarters with Mushishi's level. Following our protagonist, Ginko, we find ourselves back on a journey that feels unwavering to the current anime climate that surrounds it. Almost a full decade after its first 2005 run, Mushishi shows no sign of compromise, containing the same dense melancholic atmosphere and simplistic, yet universal messages that made it a household name among anime fans, to begin with. Just this fact alone is impressive enough, given the market's current need to produce more self-indulgent works. Any fan of the first season will be more than satisfied with this follow-up. You could even inter-splice the episodes from both seasons and not notice any change in terms of quality, outside of a more gussied up art and animation output of course. But despite that fact, or maybe because of it, this follow-up season may technically reach the same heights as the first but can't help shake the feeling that there's just a sense of something being absent. This isn't to say this season wasn't a great sequel; on the contrary, it's one of the best entries of the 2010s, but rather, there was an element that the first had that didn't seem to transfer quite as well. It's a missing ingredient, an "aha" moment that seemed to have been lost in translation. This could be a result of the novelty of the mushi and their mysterious functions growing less intriguing after seeing it play out numerous times before or a case of the second season being stuck with less impactful storylines. Either way, there was a slight disconnect to be found. The essence was still there, just more watered down this time around. But don't let that deter you, as this bit of grievance only comes as a result of comparing what I consider being "the lesser of both greats." By comparison to almost everything else being produced around it, Mushishi still stands tall, reaching the apex of visual storytelling that lands it so highly on most critics' "best of" lists, to begin with. One of Mushishi's strongest suits is its ability to never take sides in any conflict. It presents the story as is, and like the mushi that populates the universe of the show, everything here is treated as occurrences outside of malice or forced circumstances. Nothing is ever painted in stark black or white, it's a show that constantly dabbles in the gray. Like Ginko, we are mere spectators to the occurrences that happen in any given situation. Life is never picking favorites and the show knows that. Instead of catering to what would be favorable, all incidents that pan out to any given end result are usually determined by basic cause and effect. It doesn't wrap things up in a tidy little bow, like everything else in this world, the show simply moves on, uninterrupted by the personal struggles of man and creatures alike. This unspoken understanding is what makes the case by case basis of each episode to feel so engrossing. You never know the outcome, there's no predictable line of thought; like nature itself, every occurrence simply... exists. But outside of the show's strong writing, the prominent feature of Mushishi that initially draws audiences in is without question the breathtaking scenery and haunting musical selection. Whether you like Mushishi or not, it cannot be denied that this title's prowess for crafting dense atmosphere is almost unrivaled. The blend of rich visuals and coaxing auditory cues brings forth a strong sense of pathos and satisfaction to whoever is consumed into the lore of its universe. Mushishi isn't simply something you watch, it's something you actively experience with each passing minute. The opening song "Shiver" by Lucy Rose is perhaps one of anime's most tranquil and transcending musical intros. It embodies everything Mushishi stands for in the brief 1:30 seconds it takes to lead us into any given episode. Capped off by the musical outros that transition itself with a seamless quality and you have yourself a complete package. This doesn't even touch upon the gorgeous soundtrack, which was comprised of a mixture traditional Japanese instruments with other ear-grabbing pieces; from the slow introduction of the Kugo harp that's later accompanied by the softly plucked strings of a Shamisen, to the less common Handpan bell that interweaves itself into the mix to create walls of textured sound. All instruments playing off the strengths of each other, a balancing act of synchronicity and purposeful calculation. The music here is simply therapeutic. There are many instances throughout the show where no word of dialogue is even uttered, but instead, leaves only long sweeping vistas of nature to keep the audience entranced in its world. Something that's properly exemplified with the introduction of each new episode, as the title banner slowly fades in, the landscape shifting behind it with steady ease. Not many shows can boast that ability of instant immersion. It's even elevated further when the music slowly chimes in without even bringing attention to itself. Working as the backbone to the scenes being presented but never overstepping its boundary; an act of complete unison, giving a voice to the textures and shapes that make up the feature presentation. It's these moments where Mushishi shines the brightest; these moments of uninterrupted serenity. Moments that hold onto you long after the credits roll, leaving an almost sticky and instantaneous feeling of nostalgia. Enjoyment: 10/10 There are very few shows that I think unquestionably deserve their place at the top of anime's podium and Mushishi is one of them. It's a title that never ceases to amaze me with its simplicity and beauty. Nothing is wasted here. Every aspect coalesces into an artistic goldmine, where great writing, visual presentation, and enjoyment completely harmonizes to give birth to an experience that forever stays with you. To me, it's a project that has transcended the medium altogether, becoming something far more significant as a result. It's an all time favorite, a show I can revisit at any time with the reassurance of its quality forever holding firm. Overall: 8.5/10 Mushishi isn't great for any complex philosophical pondering or sociological observations; what makes Mushishi so great is that it doesn't try to impress the viewer by subjecting some kind of birthright of importance. It doesn't draw attention to itself, it isn't an ostentatious try-hard screaming at the top of its lungs for a chance at the limelight. It simply shows what it has to offer and leaves it upon the viewer to take the initiative in exploring its layers. There's a zen-like quality that sweeps into every crevice of this anime, and those willing to get invested into it will surely find something worthwhile tucked between the folds of its narrative.
not_a_shrimp
before you'll start reading this review i'll say that i've never written one before but i feel i need to write one because to many people overlook this hidden gem. story: 10 each episode contains its own story with its own new caracters (except our protagonist). that works very well for this anime because it allows it to tell stories with all kinds of diffrent settings. each episode is very well written and sometimes leaves you with a tear. art:9 i feel like this is a very importand part of mushishi. the mushishi are drawn very well and settings have alot of detail in them.caracters: 8 ginko is a good main caracter. he is very likable because of his helpfull nature and has good dialog. most of the people ginko helps have thier own story and background. you'll get to know them in the episode and you feel with them because you'll get to understand thier problems. but i do need to say that the caracter design is done somewhat poorly. i feel like most of the side caracters look alike. sound: 8 the sound tracks is good and fits the series well. but it also isnt good enough to give it a 10. it has a few notable tracks (which are amazing btw) enjoymend: 9 i really enjoyed this show and would definitlly watch more if i could. overall: 9 this show is a hidden gem. but if you only watch action anime you could find it boring. but i do believe this show is aimed more to an adult audience. try a few episodes if you're unsure wether to watch it or not, if you dont like it you could always stop because the episodes are not connected at all.
Veronin
It's a bit difficult to write about a series that has been hailed as one of the anime industry's greats. The first season was an atmospheric work of art, an enrapturing experience that sent chills down my spine with the end of every episode. But I'm not entirely sure that Mushishi's second season has necessarily lived up to those memories. It's still an excellent anime, and while it is better than almost anything that has come out in the past few years, there's this constant sense that something - just something - is missing. Perhaps that 'something' is the fact that the series has goneon for a long time now and no longer feels as fresh as it did at the beginning. Maybe it's just that I've gotten older since I watched the first season and am no longer capable of feeling those same emotions again. Or maybe the staff just haven't been able to fully reproduce the magic of the first season. Even so, whatever the case may be, it turns out that Mushishi's second season, even if it is a slightly inferior Mushishi, is still one of the most pleasant experiences I've had watching an anime in quite a long time. An interesting detail about Mushishi is how not all its stories end on a happy note. Many of them are bittersweet or flat-out depressing, which eliminates any of the predictability that often comes with storytelling. The episodes are not merely different in their content, but also deliver completely different emotions at the end of each episode, ensuring that the series never reaches the point of staleness. Mushishi always has something new to offer to its audience. And it never goes the route of preaching morals, as even its villains are deep and human enough to be empathised with. Nobody is inherently right or wrong in Mushishi; even Ginko cannot say for sure what the best path would have been. Not surprisingly, Mushishi delivers on the atmosphere front. It is minimalistic in nature and focuses once again on quiet rural life -- the supernatural issues plaguing a modest farmer or small group of villagers -- rather than the usual city problems we have seen in so many anime before. And that's for the better, I think, as there haven't been many other anime out there that have captured rural life in the quiet, subdued way that Mushishi has. It makes you want to roam around the woods or raise a family where things are calm and peaceful, even if those thoughts are only for a fleeting moment. There are only two minor issues I have with Mushishi's second season. First, the show focuses exclusively on mushishi incidents and the victims surrounding them and does surprisingly little with Ginko himself. The entire story is about Ginko's travels, yet at the endgame of the story, we know very little about him or his thought process. Secondly, the mushishi incidents feel far too numerous, perhaps owing to the episode count. It feels like Ginko just comes across some world-changing event every second day, which makes one wonder what he's doing in-between all the episodes. Showing those quiet moments, the moments when he's not dealing with mushishi, would be just as interesting as the supernatural. Mushishi continues to have some of the best scenery in anime. It looks absolutely fantastic, with nearly every shot of a forest or a lake being embodied by a simple sort of beauty, similar to the wabi-sabi aesthetic in Japanese culture. The animation itself leaves some room for improvement, though, as characters will sometimes have missing faces, and the show seemingly prefers panning shots far more than movement. It also has an incredible soundtrack, much like before. Mushishi is a master at timing its music. Often a quiet piece will start playing in the background without you even noticing, and gradually it will pick up and seamlessly lead right into the credits. Small little touches like this do a lot to enhance the emotional value of the show. And of course I would be silly to not mention the opening track, which is one of the most relaxing things I've perhaps ever heard. It is medicine for the soul. Mushishi's second season may be a bit weaker than its first, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's disappointing. It still delivers the same mature themes and atmosphere that you'd come to expect from the series. It just doesn't carry those same awing moments of before, the ones that screamed "I'm watching a masterpiece". But I don't think that is necessarily a problem. If its greatest sin is being merely great rather than a masterpiece, then Mushishi's second offering is already leagues ahead of its competition.
chesudesu
I have forgotten now how I came to watch Mushishi Zoku Shou. But whatever that reason is, I surely don't regret it. It may be appalling at first how it may seem slow-paced or even stagnant. Looking closely, we'll realize that it is this stillness and calm that give Mushishi its distinction, making it worthy to be called a masterpiece. After all the action and drama that anime can flaunt, Mushishi gives us a refreshing retreat, a break from the hustle and bustle of trite anime antics, and presents to us its own brand of action and drama enveloped in its unique and perhaps unpredictable storytelling. We followGinko, the main character, in his travels across Japan where he meets people affected by mushi, strange, ethereal creatures that coexist silently with every other living being. Interacting with different mushi has its implications and Ginko, as a mushishi, offers his help to those troubled by mushi to the best of his ability. The setting itself offers a horizon of opportunities. It is a captivating feat that each episode can be the darkest of tales reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe (Fragrant Darkness, Lingering Crimson) or even the most lighthearted of stories (Banquet at the Forest's Edge). The story fills out every edge of possibility and leaves room for even more. The slow movement and breathtaking scenery are what absorb you and even more so when its superb musical arrangements come in to accompany it. Its masterful direction bring out the best of each scene - the deep-rooted characters, the intense emotions, the over-all mood (you'd have to take a closer look to see this). Mushishi couldn't ask for a better production. The whole experience takes you to a time when man and nature treated each other with respect and lived together in peace and harmony. With each episode told in a way that closely resembles the fable of Aesop and the parables of Jesus coupled with its magnificent art direction, Mushishi gives us an experience evocative of the ways of Shinto and Zen embedded in classical Japanese culture. And yet, Mushishi never tries to be grandiose and flamboyant in its ways. Its simplicity is its most favorable trait and it is in there that you will find its grandeur. "Mabaw nga kalipay" ("simple pleasure") is what we'd call it in Cebuano. It is not laden with complications and twists but that makes it all the more entertaining. Among the anime series I'm watching this season, Mushishi Zoku Shou stands out the most and is easily one of my favorites in my limited repertoire. I would very much recommend the series to anyone and everyone, especially to those with an open mind.
Animanga