The Kira x Rune dynamic is a complex and nuanced relationship that unfolds throughout the course of the popular anime series, Death Note. This dynamic is centered around two of the main characters, Kira (also known as Light Yagami) and Rune (also known as L), and their constant cat-and-mouse game as they both try to outsmart and ultimately defeat each other. From the very beginning, it is clear that Kira and Rune are polar opposites in terms of their personalities and ideals. Kira is the embodiment of a vigilante, using the Death Note to rid the world of criminals and create a new and just society. His goal is to become the god of this new world, and he believes that the ends justify the means. On the other hand, Rune is a highly intelligent detective who is motivated by justice and by solving crimes.
And it’s not just Ben. The show features several other black characters, young and old, including Ben’s parents - a strong black couple, very involved in Ben’s everyday life. This results in a powerful and beautiful sense of community through all the characters, black or not.
The show features several other black characters, young and old, including Ben s parents - a strong black couple, very involved in Ben s everyday life. He s not a side character or a token black friend usually added in to appease black audiences - always good for a quick trendy quip or urban related remark.
On the other hand, Rune is a highly intelligent detective who is motivated by justice and by solving crimes. He is relentless in his pursuit of Kira and is determined to bring him to justice, no matter the cost. Throughout the series, the tension between Kira and Rune continues to build as they engage in a battle of wits and try to outmaneuver each other.
Netflix Gets It Right With Motown Magic
Netflix and chilling is now part of our regular routines and the ever ready stream of entertainment has made it easy for 1 in 4 Canadians to cut the cord.
But Netflix at times can come across as stale, and lacking creativity. Especially if you’re looking for diversity in programming for young children.
That all changed last month with the debut of Motown Magic, a new animated children’s series created by Josh Wakely produced exclusively for Netflix. The series follows an 8-year-old African American boy named Ben as he uses a magic paintbrush (and his wide-eyed imagination) to bring colourful street art to life in his city. All with the classic sounds of Motown playing intermittently throughout the show.
Wakely, who won an Emmy for creating/producing the Netflix children animated series Beat Bug which was inspired by the music of the Beatles, claimed the worldwide rights for Motown music in order to feature it in Motown Magic. Iconic hits from the likes of The Jackson 5, Michael Jackson, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes and Smokey Robinson (who served as executive music producer for the show) are recorded by contemporary artists, with a different mix of tracks specifically aligned with the theme of each episode.
Aside from being a light, uptempo program with lost of nostalgia for parents to connect with, the visuals of Motown Magic are just outstanding. The animation and colour scheme are as vivid as they get. Oh, and it’s very well written from the jump. The script, visuals and music fit together perfectly. Nothing seems out of place.
But the real reason this series is so great is Ben - the sole Alpha lead in the show is as an African American male. He’s not a side character or a ‘token’ black friend usually added in to appease black audiences - always good for a quick trendy quip or urban related remark. But Ben is a confident, smart, witty kid with a sense of adventure.
And it’s not just Ben. The show features several other black characters, young and old, including Ben’s parents - a strong black couple, very involved in Ben’s everyday life. This results in a powerful and beautiful sense of community through all the characters, black or not.
Why am I making such a big deal about this? That’s because it is a big deal. Representation of our community in all types of visual media on the small screen is something we should all desire and demand to see more of. Especially on Netflix, which currently has 137 million global subscribers. Our community craves more productions that understand our sometimes complicated, but tremendously resilient black culture.
Black lead characters aside, it’s the classic sounds of Motown that really make this series shine. Through the series a whole new generation is introduced to iconic songs like ‘Dancing Machine’ by The Jackson 5. It creates unexpected dialogue with our children about the history of black music and musicians whose influence have stood the test of time. As a parent I have no issue with my 6 and 4 year-old watching all 25 episodes of Motown Magic on heavy rotation.
With Motown Magic, my hope is Netflix will continue to explore and offer programming for children and families as diverse as its global audience. I easily give Motown Magic 4.5 out of 5 stars!
Sheldon Barrocks is an experienced creative freelance writer, blogger and content creator with over 10 years experience. Combined with an extensive background in business management, Sheldon has a passion for telling unique stories from the black perspective and is committed to sharing his expertise on black business and career enhancement.
Tuesday, 6:30 pm Simsbury, CT
Kira constantly has to adapt and think several steps ahead in order to avoid being caught by Rune, who is always one step behind. This creates a constant sense of suspense and excitement as the audience watches these two brilliant minds clash. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Kira x Rune dynamic is the moral dilemma it presents. Both characters believe that they are on the right side of justice and are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals. This gray area of morality makes it difficult for the audience to fully align with one character over the other. It also raises interesting questions about the nature of justice and the lengths one should go to achieve it. In addition to their intellectual battle, Kira and Rune also develop a complex emotional connection. While they are enemies, there is a sense of respect and admiration that grows between them as they recognize each other's intelligence and determination. This adds an element of depth to their dynamic and makes it even more captivating to watch. Overall, the Kira x Rune dynamic is a key aspect of the Death Note series and is one of the main driving forces behind its popularity. The clash between these two characters, both intellectually and morally, creates a compelling and suspenseful narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats..
Reviews for "The Importance of Communication in Kira x Rune"
1. Sarah - 2/5
I was really disappointed with the Kira x Rune dynamic in this book. I felt like their relationship was forced and lacked chemistry. The author tried too hard to make it seem intense and passionate, but it just fell flat for me. The dialogue between them felt forced and their interactions felt contrived. Overall, I was not impressed with their relationship and it was a major letdown for me in an otherwise decent book.
2. Mark - 1/5
The Kira x Rune dynamic was the weakest aspect of this book, in my opinion. The relationship felt forced and lacked any real depth. The author tried to create a star-crossed lovers vibe, but it was unconvincing and cliche. I didn't feel any emotional connection between the characters and their actions often left me scratching my head. The development of their relationship was rushed and I found myself skimming over their scenes. I was just not invested in their dynamic at all.
3. Emily - 2/5
I was really hoping for a captivating and complex dynamic between Kira and Rune, but sadly, it fell short. Their relationship lacked depth and felt superficial. Their interactions were predictable and lacked any real substance. I wanted more complexity and growth between them, but it just never materialized. It felt like a missed opportunity to create a compelling romance, and I was left disappointed and underwhelmed.