As I’m eagerly waiting for Yu Yu Hakusho live-action I was thinking of watching this classical anime again. But out of nowhere, Dororo stuck into my mind. Although, it was released in the winter of 2019 as an adaptation of 55 year-old manga by Osamu Tezuka, so, to me, it is a classical piece. I watched it when it was released in 2019 and again in 2021 as I just can’t get over its gripping tale.
Highlights of article
- It’s a 2019 anime reboot of 1969 anime. Produced by MAPPA & Tezuka production.
- Author of Manga : Osamu Tezuka
- Storyline that follows the Hyakkimaru journey alongside his sidekick and trusted ally Dororo.
- Anime follows the manga but also cars the need of contemporary audience.
- Recurring themes of anime discovers the essence of humanity that our protagonist are trying to explore.
- Key elements that make it as standout classical gem.
- Dororo’s role as the focal point of helping Hyakkimaru discover true meaning of being a human.
- Overall take on why this should be in your watchlist.
- The FAQs
Dororo – A 2019 anime television series is produced by MAPPA, and Tezuka Productions. Based on the classical manga, it breathes new life into the story, presenting a darker, more serious, and emotionally impactful narrative.
Storyline
Dororo is set in feudal Japan, a time of samurais, warlords, and mythical creatures. The story revolves around a young boy named Hyakkimaru, whose father – Daigo Kagemitsu, made a pact with 12 demons, sacrificing Hyakkimaru’s body in exchange for the prosperity of his land.
As a result of a pact, Hyakkimaru was born without eyes, ears, limbs, and other essential body parts, making him almost a non-human. However, Hyakkimaru miraculously survived the ordeal.
Soon after his birth, he was abandoned by his father and is set adrift in a river. He later found by Jukai who raises him and made prosthetic limbs for him. He was impressed by Hyakkimaru’s will to live and survive despite being in such ordeal. He trained him in sword fighting so that he could survive on his own. He was the one who gave him a name.
One day Hyakkimaru regained his leg after killing a demon. Upon this incident, Jukai told him that someone must have had made a pact with those demon as a result, they consumed Hyakkimaru’s body parts.
In order to regain his full body, he must find and kill those demons who possess his body parts. As a final form of goodbye, Jukai gave him a new pair of arms with swords attached on them.
Equipped with prosthetic limbs with attach swords and a burning desire to retrieve what is rightfully his, Hyakkimaru sets out to slay the demons responsible for his plight. With each demon he defeats, a part of his body is restored. As he regains his senses and physicality, he begins to question the true motives behind his sacrifice and the ramifications it has had on those around him.
In his conquest, Hyakkimaru joined by the young orphaned thief Dororo. Who after being rescued by Hyakkimaru from a demon, joins him on his journey.
Dororo plays a vital role as his companion and ally, forming an unlikely bond with Hyakkimaru and help him realized that gaining the humanity is more important than gaining human body parts.
As a result, Hyakkimaru’s journey to reclaim his stolen body parts becomes a metaphorical quest for his lost humanity.
The influence of Manga over 2019 reboot
The adaptation breathes new life into Osamu Tezuka’s original manga. While the manga had its own charm, the anime takes a darker, more serious tone, creating a visually stunning and emotionally impactful experience.
The monochrome style of the original manga is replaced with a sleek and modern aesthetic, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of the story. The adaptation respects the source material while updating it to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Themes – the anime ‘Dororo’ follows
The thematic elements explored in “Dororo” are thought-provoking and resonate with the audience. Issues of identity, sacrifice, and the consequences of one’s actions are central themes throughout the series. The narrative does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of feudal Japan, such as poverty, war, and corruption. It raises important questions about humanity and the lengths one is willing to go to restore what has been lost.
What makes it Standout as a Classical Gem
A World of Demons and Monsters :
Dororo’s narrative is intricately woven with encounters with demons and monsters that Hyakkimaru must overcome. Each episode presents a new challenge as he battles these otherworldly creatures to reclaim his stolen body parts.
The anime draws inspiration from Japanese yokai folklore, infusing the story with rich cultural references and creating a sense of authenticity within its dark fantasy world.
The Visual Splendor :
One cannot discuss Dororo without highlighting its stunning visuals. The anime’s updated art style and attention to detail create a visually captivating experience.
From the intricate character designs to the atmospheric landscapes, every frame is a work of art. The style and transition take viewers to the old times of Japan with a blend of folklore. The animation breathes life into the story, capturing the emotions and intensity of each moment.
The Music :
Another notable aspect of “Dororo” is its exceptional sound design and memorable soundtrack. The opening and ending theme songs encapsulate the essence of the series, with powerful vocals and haunting melodies.
The music of Dororo enhances the atmosphere of the series, immersing viewers in its dark and contemplative world. The sound design and use of traditional Japanese instruments further enrich the overall experience, adding depth and authenticity to the storytelling.
The simple characters with complex arcs :
Dororo excels in creating memorable characters who leave a lasting impression. From Hyakkimaru’s mother’s longing for her lost baby to Tahomaru’s transformation into a conflicted antagonist. From the tragic tale of Mio sacrificing herself for rice seeds to the haunting presence of the spider lady, each episode adds depth to the overarching narratives.
Each character is beautifully fleshed out with their own unique struggles and motivations. It’s almost impossible not to empathize with these individuals as they navigate a world filled with pain, loss, and the pursuit of their own desires.
The Moral Dilemma of Characters :
The most important themes in classical animes are their moral dilemmas of characters and their way to seek redemption. In the series, whether it was Daigo Kagemitsu’s pact with demons to protect his land and its people or Hyakkimaru’s journey to reverse the curse to regain his humanity.
Whether it was Tohomaru’s attempt to save his collapsing domain from his elder brother Hyakkimaru or their mother Nui who have to see fall of their own family by the their own son. Dororo and his parent’s life, Mio and other characters. Everybody seems right at their place and it hard to side with one character. The story delves into the moral complexities of their choices and raises thought-provoking questions about the true cost of their decisions.
As the story progresses, the line between good and evil becomes increasingly blurred, highlighting the gray areas of human nature. The characters are forced to confront their flaw
Why the series name ‘Dororo’ and not Hyakkimaru?
As per sources, the author Osamu Tezuka’s childhood memory of his friends inspired the title Dororo. They used to pronounce dorobō, which means thief in japanese, as Dororo.
Moreover, first anime adaptation name was ‘Dororo and Hyakkimaru’ it was first aired in April 1969. The 2019 anime adaptation mostly based on this anime series. So, current version has title ‘Dororo’
If we look into story, it starts with protagonist Hyakkimaru and his overall conquest to defeat demons & regained his human parts that adds plot to the story. Later the journey is joined by deuteragonist Dororo who adds depth to the story. The contrasting nature of both of their parents changes their path and their way of life. Their fateful meeting with each other change their perspective towards life.
Dororo acts as a focal point, who reminds Hyakkimaru never to lose his humanity in pursuit of his human body. Since we don’t have a second season it depends on viewers to make their choice but those who have seen the anime, know what the future they both can hold.
That potential might be the right answer. But can’t be sure because the last scene of Dororo is not part of the manga but the anime itself. So, let’s see if there is some hope in S2 (if it ever happens)
Overall take on Dororo as anime
The first half of Dororo focuses on Hyakkimaru and Dororo’s journey across the land, battling demons and encountering various individuals along the way. Later, it shows the life of other characters that made our protagonists to go through major character development. Hyakkimaru who struggles with his own identity and his thirst for revenge. Throughout the series, he develops a profound empathy for others and questions his own nature. Dororo, on the other hand, provides a lighthearted contrast to Hyakkimaru’s darkness. Their dynamic and growing bond create emotional depth within the narrative.
The 2019 anime adaptation of Dororo is a testament to the power of reimagining and revitalizing classic stories. By updating the visuals, tonal elements, and characterizations, the anime successfully appeals to a modern audience while staying true to the essence of Tezuka’s original work.
The animation style of “Dororo” is visually stunning and immersive. Studio MAPPA and Tezuka Productions have done an excellent job in portraying the feudal Japanese settings, from lush forests to desolate landscapes. The fight scenes are beautifully choreographed, allowing the characters’ movements to flow seamlessly.
Dororo is a must-watch for fans of dark fantasy, folklore, and introspective storytelling.It masterfully combines elements of historical fiction and supernatural fantasy to create a captivating and immersive world that that will leave a lasting impression.
FAQs
Q1. Is Dororo worth watching?
A. Classic, gutsy, intense, and compelling storyline would make you crave for more. The Heartwarming scenes in anime connect with the hearts of viewers. So, yes, it’s worth watching.
Q2. Is there a season 2 of Dororo?
A. Unfortunately there was an announcement back in 2022 but so far it is unclear that Dororo would get a S2. The show is co-produced by MAPPA and Tezuka Productions. They haven’t drop any hint regarding the same.
Q3. How many episodes of Dororo Season1 has?
A. Dororo S1 has 24 episodes.
Q4. Where can I watch Dororo?
A. You can watch anime series on Amazon Prime, Dailymotion, and in some regions on Netflix as well.
Animexon 