Key Takeaways
- Anime like
Trapp Family Story
offer lighthearted depictions of life before World War 2, showcasing a simpler time. - Izetta: The Last Witch
presents an alternate version of World War 2 with likable protagonists and cool action sequences. - Joker Game
provides a riveting look at the intelligence space pre-World War 2, focusing on suspense and spy activities.
As a history enthusiast and anime aficionado, I must say that these anime portrayals of World War II offer a unique perspective into a time that forever changed our world. Each one, in its own way, tells a story about ordinary people caught up in extraordinary events. They remind us of the human cost of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
The Second World War, spanning from 1939 to 1945, stands as one of the most impactful epochs in human history, claiming a staggering number of lives that remains almost inconceivable. To this day, we continue to grapple with numerous repercussions stemming from that time.
Every significant epoch in our history gets mirrored in movies and games, serving as a reflection of our past and a guide for those to come. Here I am, immersed in the world of anime, discovering numerous productions that delve into this war. Some of these are hidden treasures, rich with both entertainment value and insights into the era, often overlooked but worth exploring.
10 The Trapp Family Story
Tells Of A Simpler Time Before War Ripped Everything Apart
| Episodes | 40 |
|---|---|
| Studio | Nippon Animation |
| Year | 1991 |
“While many people know the well-known musical ‘The Sound of Music,’ fewer may realize that it was inspired by a memoir titled ‘Trapp Family Singers.’ In 1991, an anime called ‘The Trapp Family Story’ was produced by Japan’s World Masterpiece Theater. This animated adaptation drew heavily from the memoir and also took some elements from the film.
This anime chronicles Maria’s experiences alongside the Von Trapp family, set in the year 1936, just before the war began. Fascinatingly, the regime of the Nazis was already established, and the family faced mounting pressure to contribute to their war efforts. The Trapp Family Story, however, offers a more uplifting perspective on the World War II era, making it an enjoyable choice for some delightful reminiscing.
9 Izetta: The Last Witch
World War 2, But With Witches
| Episodes | 12 |
|---|---|
| Studio | Ajia-do |
| Year | 2016 |
In a fictionalized setting resembling World War II, the storyline of “Izetta: The Last Witch” unfolds. Instead of using their real names, countries like Germany are called Germania and Austria becomes Elystadt. Sharing some concepts with “Saga Of Tanya The Evil,” this series offers viewers a chance to root for endearing main characters.
Izetta: The Last Witch” delivers thrilling action scenes while maintaining historical accuracy, and it doesn’t shy away from weaving a romantic storyline amidst the tumult of the Great War.
8 Joker Game
Sometimes The Prelude Is More Suspenseful Than The Actual Event
joker
| Episodes | 12 |
|---|---|
| Studio | Production I.G. |
| Year | 2016 |
It appears that the Joker Game adheres to the concept that the anxiety surrounding the potential for an incident occurring can be scarier than the actual event. In the time leading up to World War II, this notion became particularly relevant as nations eagerly maneuvered themselves into advantageous positions in anticipation of success.
Japan established ‘D Agency’ as one of its kind, primarily for gathering information about other countries. The anime series “Joker Game” highlights this agency and focuses on eight top-notch spies it employs. This production offers a chilling depiction of the darker aspects prevalent in the world of espionage, with each episode delving into the mission of a different spy. Although it can become somewhat confusing at times, it remains an engaging viewing experience for enthusiasts of the spy genre within anime.
7 Who’s Left Behind?
A Slice-Of-Life Movie With A Sinister Backdrop
| Episodes | N/A (Movie) |
|---|---|
| Studio | Mushi Production |
| Year | 1991 |
1991’s “Who’s Left Behind?” is a movie inspired by the true-life accounts of Kayoko Ebina, a World War 2 survivor. This film portrays young Kayoko’s life and her experiences during the war in Japan. It offers a glimpse into the lives of Japanese people during this time, highlighting some of the hardships they endured to support their nation’s war efforts.
The tale isn’t as grimly intense as many other World War II series, but there’s an unsettling quality to a heartwarming coming-of-age narrative given the appalling context of the surrounding events. Kayoko must navigate 1945 and the profound impact it had on her hometown for eternity.
6 Song Of Raiyantsuuri
Two Outsiders Find Comfort With One Another
| Episodes | N/A (Movie) |
|---|---|
| Studio | Mushi Production |
| Year | 1994 |
A Chinese farmer named Inlen, taken prisoner by the Japanese and compelled to labor in a coal mine, develops an unusual bond with Tomoko, a first-grader who lost her voice due to a harrowing event during the war. Eager to reclaim his homeland in China, Inlen and Tomoko, yearning to escape feelings of being a burden, find solace in their friendship.
“Song of Raiyantsuuri” – While not diving deeply into weighty themes, this film resonates profoundly with poignant scenes of sorrow and resilience. The movie offers insights into the impact of war on Japan’s societal norms at the time, and addresses a highly sensitive issue concerning Chinese-Japanese relations, a topic that remains debated to this day.
5 Giovanni’s Island
Human Kindness Can Blur The Lines Of Enmity
| Episodes | N/A (Movie) |
|---|---|
| Studio | Production I.G. |
| Year | 2014 |
In a different perspective, many might label Japan as the antagonists during World War 2; however, it’s essential to remember that regardless of the sides involved, everyone suffered losses. This is the essence of “Giovanni’s Island“, a story that delves into themes of loss, friendship, and bridging divides even in the face of profound differences.
This narrative focuses on two siblings, Junpei and Kanta, whose island Shikotan was taken over by the Russians post-war (it remains politically recognized as Russian territory now). The lives of the islanders underwent a sudden shift, turning into an experience of adapting to their new cohabitants. Amidst this transformation, Junpei develops a bond with Tanya, the child of the Russian family who moved into their former residence.
4 Grave Of The Fireflies
Studio Ghibli’s Darkest Movie
The 1988 film “Grave of the Fireflies,” produced by Studio Ghibli, chronicles the difficult journey of Seita and his younger sister Setsuko, who are severely affected by the destructive effects of war. Losing their parents, home, and sustenance, these siblings navigate the Japanese countryside on their own.
This movie, “Grave of the Fireflies,” is not for the faint-hearted; it’s a film that some may find hard to watch more than once, but it remains a crucial part of cinematic history. It powerfully portrays the harsh realities of war with unwavering sincerity, and its characters are remarkably human and identifiable. This authenticity is largely attributed to the director, Takahata Isao, who lived through that era himself. Known for its emotional impact, “Grave of the Fireflies” is one of the most significant anti-war films ever made.
3 The Cockpit
Three Stories Focusing On The Axis
| Episodes | 3 |
|---|---|
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Year | 1993 |
Many World War II anime often explore the experiences of ordinary Japanese individuals and their impact from the war’s perspective. However, there aren’t numerous narratives that delve into the lives of the soldiers and commanders involved, particularly those fighting for the Axis powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan). In this regard, The Cockpit stands out as it presents three distinct stories, each unfolding during the war.
The first story, titled “The Cockpit,” centers around a German fighter pilot who gets an opportunity to make amends by safeguarding a plane carrying an atomic bomb over England.
2 Barefoot Gen
That Iconic Scene Depicting The Dropping Of The Bomb
Any person well-versed in the subject matter of “Barefoot Gen” would undoubtedly single out a particular moment as significant – the detonation of the atomic bomb over Hiroshima. This scene, though infamous and heart-wrenching, is just one aspect of the larger narrative.
At first glance, Barefoot Gen may seem humorous due to its whimsical art style and some lighthearted moments shared between Gen and his younger brother. Yet, upon closer inspection, this film is a profound and poignant depiction, serving as a chilling reminder of the brutal realities of war and its lasting impact on countless lives for generations to come.
1 In This Corner Of The World
A Portrait Of A World Never To Be Seen Again
Back in 2016, I stumbled upon a masterpiece titled “In This Corner of the World,” crafted by the brilliant minds at MAPPA. The tale unfolds around a charming character named Suzu, who embodies innocence and optimism. As her life takes an unexpected turn when she gets married to a soldier, she finds herself navigating through the challenges of integrating into his family.
Nestled in Hiroshima, the animated movie “In This Corner Of The World” paints a heartfelt portrait of everyday Japanese life prior to the bombings, juxtaposing it with the harsh post-bomb reality. This is accomplished through breathtaking visuals that make for an awe-inspiring viewing experience. The film primarily revolves around its characters, using the war as a looming backdrop, and though it carries an inherent sadness, it remains a must-see for those who appreciate exceptional animation and compelling narratives.
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2024-11-09 07:34