[DerMensch24]

Mushi-Shi

Synopsis (Courtesy of MAL):
Spoiler (Click to View)"Mushi": the most basic forms of life in the world. They exist without any goals or purposes aside from simply "being." They are beyond the shackles of the words "good" and "evil." Mushi can exist in countless forms and are capable of mimicking things from the natural world such as plants, diseases, and even phenomena like rainbows.

This is, however, just a vague definition of these entities that inhabit the vibrant world of Mushishi, as to even call them a form of life would be an oversimplification. Detailed information on Mushi is scarce because the majority of humans are unaware of their existence.

So what are Mushi and why do they exist? This is the question that a "Mushi-shi," Ginko, ponders constantly. Mushi-shi are those who research Mushi in hopes of understanding their place in the world's hierarchy of life.

Ginko chases rumors of occurrences that could be tied to Mushi, all for the sake of finding an answer. It could, after all, lead to the meaning of life itself.

Eps: 26
Aired: Oct 23, 2005 - Jun 19, 2006
Studio: Artland
Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Historical, Mystery, Seinen, Slice of Life, Supernatural
Source: https://myanimelist.net/anime/457/Mushishi
Sub/Dub: Both exist and both are done well

Fan Trailer (couldn't find a good one, but this video does a decent job):
Spoiler (Click to View)



While I will post a short descroption below, I also encourage that you check this review from a few years ago as well!

Every so often, there is an anime that genuinely takes into consideration its source material as well as the way it presents itself to its audience to create a wonderful and insightful experience. Mushi-Shi is among these exceptions in the ocean of anime; and while nearly all anime attempt to overwhelm the viewer with extravagance, Mushi-Shi chooses the path less traveled by and delivers its powerful influence through its simplicity and beauty.

I found that for an anime concerned with the aspects of otherworldly things, it gave a more human touch. The story combines historic settings and an almost slice-of-life with supernatural bliss. The episodic tale, with its MC as the only true constant, delivers a unique twist or lesson in every story. The MC himself, cloaked with mystery, reveals his true character in different aspects throughout the course of the anime. He has never had a need for development, but rather he brings it out of the secondary characters that pertain to each specific episode. He is one that tries to understand and accept the way nature is when others may not do likewise.

Many who have seen this anime can attest to the great art and sound that follows its wonderful story. Its style and use of colors are pleasant to the eye, and the music reflects the simplicity and peaceful nature conveyed in Mushi-Shi. Overall this was one of my most enjoyed anime, and one of the few that I would consider 10/10. I HIGHLY recommend this for everyone, if you haven't seen it yet, I can only simply put it as you're missing out on an anime gem.