Greywings Anime

When I was in Japan back in March, I got to see the Kara No Kyoukai: Gate of Seventh Heaven Remix, which was basically a short cliffs notes version of the 6 movies that had been released in theaters so far. When they got to the part for Oblivion Recording, I remember feeling very confused as to what was going on, which was compounded by the fact that I don’t know Japanese beyond a few words and phrases. What I was able to determine was that the 6th movie was distinctly different in style and mood from the other movies. So I was eagerly anticipating the release of the 6th DVD (even pre-ordered the LE version), to see just how different it was.

And it was drastically different, but it wasn’t necessarily in a bad way. There was definitely a lot less mystery (likely due to the amount of source material that was left out), and it was a lot more straightforward plot-wise. However, I really liked very refreshing take on the whole mahou-shoujo genre, with Azaka having just the right amount of fanservice scenes. I think moe would be stretching it, but it was definitely more light-hearted than the previous five movies.

However, the element of tragedy/darkness was still intact, albeit with a bit more subtlety. The whole movie, I felt very conflicted laughing at Azaka’s moe moments, and pausing at the underlying tragedy that was taking place at the school. After having read a synopsis of what was left out in the movie, I can see how the director was trying to let the audience (most of them fans) fill in the gaps and keeping the darkest items unspoken. And the gradual reveal of Azaka’s memories with Mikiya was thoughtfully executed, and it really raised my view of Mikiya and his inner strength.

I don’t really consider Oblivion Recording to be the “calm before the storm” that will be the next and final movie. I think this one stood on its own quite well. Especially the absolutely gorgeous visuals. It did make me question where such a place existed that was so green in the dead of January. But the beautiful backdrops combined with smooth animation and fairly epic special effects made Oblivion Recording a very eye-pleasing experience. And Kajiura-sama’s trademark touch created a hauntingly soothing soundtrack that really completed the other-worldly fantasy atmosphere.

Like with the previous five movies, I had to watch Oblivion Recording at least three times in order to fully appreciate all that I mentioned above about the movie. It started out feeling like the weakest in the series, but I can now easily place it as an equal amongst the others in what has become my most beloved series. I cannot wait for Murder Speculation (Part 2) to be released on DVD, but I’ll also enjoy watching the 6 released movies over and over again until then. I think ufotable should release Gate of Seventh Heaven: Remix on DVD, as it would make a nice distraction until the final movie comes out on DVD. Or they could animate the extra chapter, Recalled Out Summer, which would make me super happy (and I haven’t even read it).

And all this Rakkyo love-fest got me to track down a fairly priced eBay auction for the GSC Ryogi Shiki Kimono 1/7 PVC. Now if I can only track down a new copy of the Vol 1. LE DVD…