Garo: Crimson Moon

Garo: Crimson Moon, streaming on FUNimation from 2015, is a thrilling supernatural adventure and a significant entry to the "Garo" franchise. The anime is part of a well-known tokusatsu series in Japan, famed for its compelling storytelling and exceptional animation and artwork.

Set in the Heian period, roughly a thousand years ago, Crimson Moon introduces us to the eminently mysterious and mystical world of the Makai Knights and Alchemists. They are an enigmatic group of warriors and spies committed to hunting down and eliminating Horrors, malevolent entities that feed on humanity's destructive emotions and despair.

Heian-kyō, today's historic Kyoto, forms the backdrop of this drama. While it's a city replete with beauty, grandeur, and rapid progression, it's also deeply entrenched in superstition, fear, and eerie silence. As the moon shines bright, casting daunting shadows and illuminating the night time cityscape, a new chapter begins in the Garo universe.

Our main protagonist is Raikou, a Makai Knight who inherits the golden armor of Garo, and the only hope standing against the rising darkness that threatens to consume Heian-kyō. Supporting Raikou in his mission are Seimei, a Makai Alchemist who aids Raikou in preparing for and battling the Horrors, and Kintoki, Raikou's loyal servant and confidant.

The story of Garo: Crimson Moon holds the viewers' intrigue by intertwining elements of horror, adventure, fantasy, and historical drama. It beautifully folds countless stories from Japanese history and folklore, bringing them to life through its episodic narratives. For the audience, each episode builds a bridge between the real and the mythical, the tangible and the spiritual, the everyday and the extraordinary.

The series is marked by a distinctively dark tone and an adult approach to its subject matter. It creates its ominous crescendo through not just the supernatural aspects, but also the socio-political evils that it unflinchingly portrays. Injustice, corruption, and societal decadence are personified just as powerfully as the otherworldly Horrors.

The brilliance of the overall artwork becomes apparent right from the opening sequence. Traversing through the dimly lit cityscape marked by traditional Heian period architecture, Crimson Moon feel painting sprung to life. The character designs are rich and varied, forefront as well as supporting characters coming with distinctly identifiable visual traits. The transformation sequences are meticulously done, and the various battle sequences involving the Makai armor clad warriors are a joy to behold.

The voice acting, both in the original Japanese version and the English dubbed one, deserves applause for its conviction and emotional depth. It complements the intense story-telling style and elevates the overall viewing experience. The soundtracks are a mix of traditional Japanese tunes and modern-day scores, a fusion that perfectly symbolizes the series’ overall appeal.

Crimson Moon might not be the first entry you think of from the Garo franchise, but it's definitely one that’s worth watching. It’s a cinematic spectacle, rich in atmosphere, drama, and multi-layered character arcs. The attention to detail in depicting the Heian period culture and societal norms, paired with the exciting Makai lore, makes it a show worth delving into. Both those who are already fans of the franchise and newcomers can enjoy the narrative without feeling lost.

Garo: Crimson Moon operates at the crossroads of history and mythology, reality and fantasy. It skillfully infuses an intense supernatural thriller into a beautifully drawn-out historical landscape. In the process, it challenges our notions about good and evil, heroism and villainy, and what lies behind the thin veil separating the seen from the unseen. From devilish creatures to heroic knights, from the magnificence of the Heian period to the harsh truths lurking beneath, it offers viewers an immersive experience that's hard to forget.