Barefoot Gen

Barefoot Gen is the true story of Keiji Nakazawa, a survivor of the Hiroshima bombing. He produced and directed the anime, and it is based on the graphic novels of the same name.

Barefoot Gen is a vast departure from most typical anime, in many ways, not the least of which is the fact that the story is true, and autobiographical.

It is rare that I take note of the production staff of most anime, but Masao Maryuama pulls together an extremely powerful visual experience, sometimes heart wrenching, sometime visceral, sometimes warm, but always engaging.

The story follows 6 year old Gen and his family from a little while before the bombing, while Japan was dealing with the war overseas.

Given that the story is historical, it's hard to rate something like "characters", since they're all very real.

The attachment and connection to the characters conveyed in the movie are significant, however. Again, the simple art, coupled with powerful storytelling and excellent production make for an involving experience. It is hard not to feel what the characters are feeling.

While Barefoot Gen takes a departure from the "norm", it is extremely impressive and compelling. The art is simple, not much of the heavy shading and use of texture. However, it is accurate, clean and unflawed.

Perhaps most impressive in the animation department is the emotion the characters are able to display, along with how easily the animators are able to convey ideas and concepts.

The language makes almost no difference. The translation and voice acting are excellent, on both the sub and dub. There is something extra to the japanese, perhaps a more "authentic" feel, but in no way does the english language detract from the overall story telling.