Simoun

Simoun is a fascinating Japanese anime series that aired in 2006 and has been produced by Studio DEEN and licensed for release in North America by Bandai Entertainment. This show, beautifully unique and thematically rich in its design and narrative, is firmly entrenched in the genres of science fiction, fantasy, drama and yuri, with many elements of romance, tragedy and military tactics carefully entwined within its plot as well.

Simoun exists in a world quite unlike our own, a universe where life and perceptions are guided by entirely different principles. It's a world where everyone is born female, and once these inhabitants reach the age of 17, they are allowed to visit the sacred Spring and choose which gender they want to live as for the remainder of their lives. However, the Simoun Sibyllae, a group of girls chosen by the divine Tempus Spatium, are given the privilege to control and pilot ancient flying machines called Simoun.

Simoun introduces its audience to an ongoing war, fought between the theocratic nation of Simulacrum, empowered by their control of the Simouns, and a group of allied nations seeking the knowledge and power of the ancient technology. The Simulacrum consider the Simoun sacred and they pilot them to perform Ri Maajon, a series of maneuvers that in the eyes of the commoners, are akin to religious rituals, but in reality, are highly destructive to their adversaries in the war.

The story primarily follows Aaeru, a determined, brave, and headstrong young pilot, and Neviril, the grieving top pilot engrossed in the devastating loss of her pair, Amuria. Their paths intertwine as they are forced to navigate the perils of war, where they have to find a way to harmonize their discordant personalities and create a unity within their pair.

Expanding beyond the bounds of traditional narratives, the story of Simoun chirps to life with a beautiful blend of spirituality, war, gender politics, and the often tragic irony of love and fate. The show is well praised for how it proffers a commentary on gender identity and fluidity, a subject often left unchengled in mainstream narratives. The cast of characters in Simoun, all unique and distinctively expressed, paints a vivid portrait of young adults grasping the reins of their lives, coming to terms with who they are and what they wish to become.

Balanced perfectly with the depth of these complex themes, the artistic style of Simoun emanates an aesthetic appeal that makes it a true visual treat. The vibrant colors, delicate designs, and the ethereal style in which the Simouns glide in the sky provide a level of visual elegance that truly translates the majestic ambiance of the divine city of Simulacrum.

The soundtrack of Simoun is equally gratifying, thriving with hauntingly beautiful melodies that wrap around the storytelling like a gentle, soothing breeze. Each background tune and piece of the music validates the feelings and emotions of the moment and propels the characters, and hence the story, forward.

On the whole, Simoun stands as a mesmerizing exploration of existence that delves into the implications of war, the struggle of self-discovery, and the human aspect of religion - all wrapped into the surreal canvas of an alien world. This 26-episode journey offers the audience an opportunity to embark not just on a thrilling adventure, but also on a deeply reflective introspection about life and its subtle complexity. It's a treat for anyone who appreciates robust storytelling, stunning visuals, and narrating profound human experiences.