Laughing Under the Clouds

Laughing Under the Clouds is a captivating anime series that premiered in 2014 and was brought to audiences around the world by FUNimation. This thrilling show is known for its blend of historical elements with supernatural fantasy, creating a completely unique backdrop for the dramatic, intense, and sometimes humorous narrative that unfolds.

Set in the Meiji Era, which is a period of rapid modernization and westernization in Japan's timeline, Laughing Under the Clouds transports viewers to the year 1878. During these turbulent times, Japan's government is working relentlessly to eliminate all samurai and transition into a more western style of governance and military power. This historical context lays the groundwork for an enticing narrative that effortlessly blends real-world history with entrancing fantasy elements.

Central to the story are the Kumo brothers, Tenka, Soramaru, and Chutarou, who have been ordained with the monumental task of transporting criminals to an inescapable and heavily fortified prison located in the heart of Lake Biwa. The brothers, who are all skilled fighters in their own rights, managed to survive the struggle against the samurai rebellion that left them orphaned. They now work together on a boat-service-cum-prisoner-shipment enterprise, facing daily adventures with bravery, wit, and a deep brotherly bond.

Tenka, the eldest, is the cheerful and carefree head of the family who refuses to let the weight of their responsibility dampen his spirits. Soramaru, the middle brother, is serious and driven, carrying the weight of their duty and the overarching goal to protect his family on his young shoulders. Chutarou, the youngest, is delightfully innocent and naive, adoring his elder brothers and idolizing their strength.

Their seemingly simple life as boatmen takes a drastic turn when they inadvertently get swept up in a sinister plot that threatens to disrupt the peace of Japan. As they unravel the mystery, they are forced to confront their past, challenge their beliefs, and use their wits and skills to protect their loved ones and their nation.

Laughing Under the Clouds excels at creating a rich and immersive world with complex characters, each with their distinct personalities and development throughout the series. The show presents an ideal mix of comedy, drama, action, and suspense, maintaining an underlying humor despite the dark, historical narrative. This enriching blend ensures that audiences are kept at the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next development in the storyline.

One of the standout aspects of the show is its animation style. The anime brims with high production values, boasting fluid animation, appealing character designs, and a vivid color palette that brings its historical setting to life in all its glory. Moreover, strategic use of lighting and shadow techniques add depth, enhancing the mood and tone of the series.

Complimenting the visual is the remarkable soundtrack that adds another layer of depth to the story. The music sets the mood perfectly, amplifying the tension, drama, and the comedy at the right moments. It subtly punctuates the narrative beats, evoking a range of emotions from its audience as the story progresses.

Even though Laughing Under the Clouds is set against the backdrop of historical Japan, it uses this setting not only to create a visually attractive world but also as a tool to bring more depth to its characters and narrative. It uses the cultural and societal norms of the time to shape its characters' motivations, their ideologies, and, ultimately, their actions.

In essence, Laughing Under the Clouds is a stirring tale of familial bonds, historical transition, and an impending supernatural threat, presented in an aesthetically pleasing package. This depth of storytelling, expertly combined with exciting action sequences, poignant moments, witty humor, and engaging characters, sets Laughing Under the Clouds apart. It makes for a memorable viewing experience, ensuring you are engrossed and invested in the Kumo brothers' adventures from the get-go.

While Laughing Under the Clouds may seem like a typical action-driven anime series on surface level, it is surprisingly deep and layered, offering rich character development and an intriguing narrative that consistently keeps viewers on their toes. It delivers a cinematic experience that encapsulates the essence of the Meiji Era while also adding fantastical elements for a thoroughly entertaining watch.