Our Home's Fox Deity

Our Home's Fox Deity is a delightful and enchanting series from New Video Group in 2008, which smartly blends the genres of supernatural, comedy, and fantasy together, while reflecting traditional Japanese culture, mythology, and Shinto beliefs. The anime series stands out not only because of its thrilling escapades involving gods, spirits, and demons, but also due to its heart-warming portrayal of familial bonds and friendships.

The story centers on the Takagami brothers, Noboru and his younger brother Toru, who come from a distinguished family that has been warding off evil spirits for centuries. Noboru, the older sibling, assumes a serious demeanor and performs the duties of a protective elder brother impeccably. In contrast, Toru, the sweet-natured younger sibling, is more carefree and has the ability to see supernatural entities, an ability he shares with few others. But when even their combined efforts fail to keep the malicious spirits at bay, they seek help from a more powerful force - the 'fox deity' Kugen Tenko.

Kugen Tenko, known as 'Kuu-chan,' was once a powerful and feared fox spirit who has been acting as the family's protector deity, but was sealed away for hundreds of years. He is unsealed by the Takagami brothers and takes on two humanoid forms; a playful and somewhat self-centered younger female form, and a dignified and composed older male form. Kugen's primary goal is to protect the brothers from the harmful spirits that are drawn to them because of their family's legacy. However, it's not just his power that helps them, but also his expansive knowledge of the spirit world and its various inhabitants.

As the trio learns to live together in their house, they must navigate not just the typical trials and tribulations of everyday life, but also otherworldly challenges as dark forces continually try to infiltrate their lives. In-between battling evil spirits and even darker gods, the trio, along with their friends, also experience joy, sadness, and the simple pleasures of daily life. The siblings' residence, hence, is not just a house but becomes a home filled with love, laughter, and a dash of chaos brought on by their quirky resident deity.

Another pivotal character is Ko, a white fox who acts as Kugen's servant and is deeply devoted to him. With her timid nature and the propensity to cry easily, she adds another layer of humor as well as endearing charm to the story. She also serves as an insightful contrast to Kugen's more brash and bold personality.

The anime beautifully weaves in the theme of the co-existence of humans and supernatural beings into the story, kindling our curiosity about a realm that is much beyond our understanding. It also highlights the robust Japanese cultural narrative surrounding 'kami' or spirits/deities and their interactions with humans. Each episode is built around a new and enthralling mythological adventure that often hinges upon the strength and unity of the Takagami brothers and their interactions with Kugen.

Our Home's Fox Deity is a well-balanced mix of comedy, action, and supernatural elements with a strong underlying theme of familial bonds. Its distinctive narrative structure and character dynamics portray a fresh take on the commonly used theme of spirits and deities in anime.

The animation and artwork are vibrant and captivating. Each character, both human and supernatural, is handcrafted with remarkable attention to detail that reinforces their unique personas. The show's music complements its various moods and situations perfectly, enhancing the impact of each story.

In conclusion, Our Home's Fox Deity is a fine specimen of the exploration of ancient Japanese mythology in a contemporary context. It is a story about the love and sacrifice familial bonds entail, the responsibilities that come with potential and power, and ultimately, about co-existence —a synthesis of the natural and supernatural, the mundane and spiritual, and the old and new.