The Eccentric Family

The Eccentric Family, also known as 'Uchouten Kazoku', is an engaging and visually pleasing animated series which originally aired on YTV in 2013. Based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi, of 'The Night is Short, Walk on Girl' fame, and brought to life by the talented animation studio P.A Works (also known for 'Angel Beats!', 'Charlotte', amongst others), this vibrant and beautifully drawn series captures the essence of a fun and comical human-canid coexistence in a magical realist portrait of Kyoto, Japan.

The heartwarming story follows the unconventional and 'eccentric' Shimogamo family, the members of which have the ability to transform into humans although they are tanuki by nature. Tanukis are native Japanese raccoon dogs, known in Japanese folklore for being mischievous creatures possessing shape-shifting abilities. The way in which the plot integrates these mythological elements into a contemporary setting not only pays homage to local folklore but also presents an attractively unusual narrative canvas.

Our primary viewpoint character is Yasaburo Shimogamo, the third son of the Shimogamo family and the series does an excellent job of balancing his youthful and fun-loving personality with more serious, dramatic moments. Yasaburo takes pride in leading a delightful and exciting life while skillfully navigating through both human and tanuki communities. In spite of the laid-back, casual demeanor he typically exhibits, he is very affectionate towards his family and shows an unexpected maturity when dealing with the various challenges posed by their enemies.

The narrative of the series incorporates a diverse and indelible cast of supporting characters, including Benten, a mysterious and highly complex female character who is the star student of the powerful, sake-loving tengu (a long-nosed goblin), and the jealous Ebisugawa family, the Shimogamo family's primary rival. Each character contributes to the comedic and dramatic elements of the story, offering plentiful occasions for emotional engagement.

The storyline unravels around the four seasons within the city of Kyoto, providing a scenic background that deeply integrates with the development of the plot. The magical yet authentic portrayal of Kyoto is incredibly detailed and immersive, bringing the city’s myriad enchanting aspects to life, from its famous landmarks to its bustling streets, serene rivers and festive celebrations. The delightful colour palette and expressive animation brilliantly enhance Kyoto's atmospheric beauty and cultural richness, making the viewer feel as if they are walking through the city's enchanting alleys themselves.

One of the essential themes The Eccentric Family explores is the thin line that separates the human and animal world, focusing on intricate family relationships and the pursuit of individuality. Despite its fantastical elements, the series is a profound reflection on the nature of family, love, loss, and societal hierarchy. The eccentricities of the Shimogamo family, as well as their interaction with other amusing yokai (supernatural beings), inject the series with a vibrant sense of humor and charm.

This charmingly peculiar and heartwarming series unfolds in a world populated with fantastical beings existing undetected within human society, gamely straddling the line between fictional flights of fancy and meaningful, relatable human experiences.

The series also explores themes of destiny, life choices, freedom, and the weight of familial expectations. Each character’s development arc and their interaction with others around them skate on the thin ice between being carefree and reflecting heavy philosophical wisdom.

The Eccentric Family is sure to captivate audiences with its magical blend of whimsical characterizations, fascinating magical realism, ethereal animation, and a unique balance of humor and drama. Abounding with existential wit and traditional folklore glowing with modern spark, the series serves both as a vibrant love letter to Kyoto and an explorative journey of a universally relatable family.

Summing up, The Eccentric Family is an engaging series that weaves fantastic elements into a deeply ingrained reality, delivering a tantalizing and heartwarming tale set against the breathtaking backdrop of Kyoto. Laden with humor, sentiment, and just a touch of melancholy, this beautifully crafted series is a testament to the charm and emotional depth that great storytelling can achieve, leaving a memorable impression on viewers.