Tsukimonogatari

Tsukimonogatari is a 2014 animated television series from Aniplex. This series is a part of the wider Monogatari franchise, penned by Nisio Isin and renowned for its complex, intertwining narratives that blend surrealism, supernatural themes, and affecting human drama. Following the Shiro and Hana story arcs, Tsukimonogatari shines a spotlight on the central character Yotsugi Ononoki, elevating her from a previously minor role in the Monogatari series to a protagonist.

The series dives deep into the enigmatic Yotsugi, who is a 'tsukumo-gami' modeled after a deceased human. Tsukumo-gami belong to the category of 'oddities', entities born out of human emotions, beliefs, and legends, which often become the central theme of the Monogatari series as the protagonists grapple with them. Yotsugi, unlike most classic tsukumo-gami, was created through a resurrection process, resulting in her peculiar doll-like appearance and powers beyond human capabilities.

Tsukimonogatari briskly picks up the pace from the first episode and setting up the mood of a brewing crisis. The series primarily focuses on Araragi Koyomi, another key character from the franchise, as he unwittingly stumbles upon an enigma that threatens his continued existence as a human. When he realizes that he cannot see his reflection in the mirror, an ominous revelation hits him — he is slowly transitioning into a vampire, a subject that has been profoundly handled in past Monogatari series.

As Araragi wrestles with his progressive transformation, Yotsugi and Yozuru Kagenui, an immortal specialist in oddities, play an integral role in helping him deal with this issue. The complex interplay between these characters illuminates their interpersonal dynamics, their individual personalities, and the broader Monogatari world's intricate secrets.

The extraordinary visuals of Tsukimonogatari, much like the rest of the Monogatari series, are a treat for the eyes. The series' audacious art and animation are courtesy of Studio Shaft, known for its cutting-edge work in other parts of the franchise. The color palette variegates beautifully - pastels, striking neons, grim blacks, and the dramatic use of reds all come together to arguably augment the narrative's tension and texture, rendering each frame a work of art that enhances the storytelling.

The aesthetics also translate to the characters, with exceptional character designs that are both original and telling of their distinctive persona. Yotsugi, with her striking eye color, flat expression, and triangulated mouth, has a unique appeal that belies the depth and enigma that define her character in the series.

True to its roots, Tsukimonogatari continues the parent series' legacy of dazzlingly fast-paced, witty, and dialogue-heavy storytelling. The series involves the characters dishing out dense conversations littered with puns, cultural references, and existential musings. While the scripting can seem overwhelming at times, it all contributes to creating a whimsical, thought-provoking, and compelling viewing experience.

The series is also characterized by its distinctive sound design, choreography of the dialogues, background scores, and the timing of the sounds, adding an immersive auditory experience to accompany the striking visuals. The opening and ending themes are catchy and aptly encapsulate the series' frenetic pace and intriguing feel.

Although Tsukimonogatari is part of the Monogatari continuity, it is a fairly self-contained arc that can be enjoyed in isolation. However, a basic understanding of the franchise will significantly enhance the viewing experience and comprehension of the nuances that the show brings to the table.

In Tsukimonogatari, Aniplex offers a solid extension to the Monogatari franchise, delivering a well-crafted narrative that oscillates between supernatural themes and profound human emotions. This genre-blending series will appease long-term Monogatari fans with its recognizable idiosyncrasies and win new ones with its surprisingly fresh take on a classic supernatural plot.