Abenobashi Magical Shopping Arcade is an anime television series created by Gainax and directed by Hiroyuki Yamaga. It follows the story of two childhood friends, Satoshi "Sasshi" Imamiya and Arumi Asahina, as they explore a series of alternate realities within a shopping arcade in their hometown of Abenobashi. The series is known for its mix of comedy, fantasy, and parody elements. Each episode takes place in a different reality, which often parodies various genres and pop culture references. The protagonists find themselves in settings such as feudal Japan, a sci-fi spaceship, a fantasy kingdom, and many others. One of the central themes of the series is the process of growing up and facing change.
Sasshi: I ain't the only one being a little kid here! You're nothing but a kid who wants to. uh, you're just. you're just. A little kid and. DON'T SMOKE!!
Arumi: . that really the issue?
Breast Expansion In the Dragon Quest -themed second episode, Sasshi defeats the final boss using a magic talisman that Arumi bought, which turned out to be used for Breast Expansion the boss s chest swelled up so much it exploded. Shameful Shrinking In the Detective Noir world, anyone who gets shot with a gun doesn t die, but turns in a Chibi version of themselves, thereby cementing themselves as the shameful comic relief character who will never be taken seriously again.
One of the central themes of the series is the process of growing up and facing change. As Sasshi and Arumi navigate through the different realities, they also confront personal issues and insecurities. The shopping arcade acts as a metaphorical bridge between their past and future selves, and each reality they encounter reflects their fears, desires, and emotions.
Anime / Magical Shopping Arcade Abenobashi
Arumi and Sasshi are two twelve-year-olds who have grown up together in the Abenobashi shopping arcade in Osaka. But the arcade and the neighborhood around it are now slated for redevelopment; one by one, the old familiar buildings are being torn down. Worse, Arumi and her family are moving to Hokkaido. What's poor Sasshi to do?
Well, none of that really matters, after Arumi's grandfather is hospitalized in an accident that destroys the last of four "guardian" figurines that bound the shopping district. Before their eyes, the neighborhood changes. Sasshi and Arumi find themselves trapped in a warped version of Abenobashi, as if it were an RPG, with everyone they know recast as NPCs.
But once they fight their way through the game's plot in grand slapstick style, thinking they will then return home, they find themselves transported to an outer space version of Abenobashi. then a Hong Kong martial arts movie version. then a dinosaur-filled, prehistoric one. And many more. Will Sasshi and Arumi ever get back to the real Abenobashi? Why are they "jumping" in the first place? Who is that blue-haired sorcerer who appears to be going through a mid-life crisis?
A Deconstructive Parody of a dozen or more genres of film and anime, Magical Shopping Arcade Abenobashi (Abenobashi Mahou Shoutengai) generously trowels thick layers of off-the-wall comedy on top of a surprisingly serious storyline, one you're likely to forget about. Made by Gainax and Madhouse, the show makes both subtle and in-your-face references to various other series.
The anime originally aired from April to June 2002 for 13 episodes. There is also a two-volume Manga adaptation, which is even weirder. The basic plot is pretty much the same, although different worlds are visited, the ones that are in the show are different, and there's a character not shown in the anime (with the exception of a "blink and you'll miss her" scene in the twelfth episode). While unfortunately the manga is no longer in print due to the demise of Tokyopop, cheap used copies can be found on Amazon, or if you're lucky, your local used bookstore.
The Abenobashi Magical Shopping Arcade also explores the concept of nostalgia and the longing for the past. Sasshi and Arumi's adventures through the alternate realities serve as a form of escapism from the reality of their changing hometown. However, as they continue their journey, they come to realize the importance of accepting and embracing the present. The series is known for its vibrant animation, quirky characters, and fast-paced storytelling. It blends humor, action, and emotional moments to create a unique viewing experience. Although it may appear chaotic at times, Abenobashi Magical Shopping Arcade ultimately offers a heartfelt exploration of friendship, self-discovery, and the bittersweet nature of growing up..
Reviews for "Abenobashi Magical Shopping Arcade: A Japanese Take on Magic Realism"
1. Anna - 2/5 stars - I didn't enjoy "Abenobashi magical shopping arcade" at all. The story was confusing and all over the place, making it hard to follow. The comedy didn't land for me either, as most of the jokes felt forced and fell flat. The characters were also not very likable or relatable, making it difficult to invest in their journey. Overall, I was disappointed with this anime and wouldn't recommend it.
2. John - 1/5 stars - "Abenobashi magical shopping arcade" was a complete mess. The plot was nonsensical and incoherent, leaving me feeling confused and frustrated. The animation quality was also subpar, with inconsistent visuals and unappealing character designs. I couldn't find any redeeming qualities in this anime, and it failed to engage me or hold my interest. I regret wasting my time on it.
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - While "Abenobashi magical shopping arcade" started off with an intriguing premise, it quickly devolved into a convoluted mess. The story seemed disjointed, jumping from one scenario to another without any clear explanation or purpose. The attempts at humor were more cringe-worthy than funny, and the characters lacked depth or development. I was left feeling unsatisfied and confused, wishing for a more cohesive and engaging anime experience.