The appeal and reviews of "Candidates": A fusion of myth and youth

"Candidates": A world where myth and youth intersect

"Goddess Candidate" is a TV anime series based on the manga by Yukiru Sugisaki, and was broadcast on NHK BS2 from January 10 to March 27, 2000. It has 12 episodes, each 30 minutes long, and depicts a unique world where myth and youth intersect in a short but dense time. The anime was produced by XEBEC for animation, and was co-produced by Bandai Visual, Wanibooks, ING, and XEBEC. Under the direction of Mitsuru Hongo, the work has been praised for bringing out the charm of the original work to the fullest while adding a new interpretation.

Story and worldview

The setting of "Candidates for Goddess" is a world where myth and reality intersect. One day, the protagonist, Hino, is suddenly chosen as a candidate for the goddess and summoned to the world of the gods. There, she meets other girls who have also been chosen as candidates for the goddess. Together, they will face their own mission while living in the world of the gods.

The appeal of this work is the exquisite blend of mythological elements and youth drama. Through life in the world of the gods, Hino and her friends are forced to think deeply about friendship, love, and the meaning of their own existence. Also, because it is set in a world of mythology, ancient gods and legends add color to the story, drawing viewers in.

character

The characters in "Goddess Candidates" are all unique and charming. The main character, Hino, is hesitant at first, but gradually accepts her mission and grows as she is portrayed. Her friends, Minami and Yuki, each have different backgrounds, but it is moving to see them grow alongside Hino. The gods who inhabit the divine realm are also unique, and Hino and her friends learn a lot from interacting with them.

Animation and Music

XEBEC's animation beautifully depicts a mythical worldview. In particular, the scenery of the divine world and the figures of the gods are visually stunning and have the power to draw the viewer in. Music is also an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the work, with memorable background music that evokes a sacred atmosphere and a theme song that evokes the brilliance of youth.

Evaluation and impact

Although it was only broadcast for a short time, "Candidates" gained many fans thanks to its unique worldview and attractive characters. In particular, the story, which intertwines mythology and youth, deeply moved viewers and sparked much discussion. This work has also influenced subsequent anime works, and can be said to be a pioneer of works with mythological themes.

Recommendations and related works

If you enjoyed "Goddess Candidate," we also recommend the following works:

• Norn 9: An anime based on a manga by Yukiru Sugisaki. It shares a worldview where mythology and youth intersect.
• "Xenosaga": A grand story where science fiction and mythology intersect. Like "Candidates", this work deals with deep themes.
• "Magi": A work that combines a mythical worldview based on the Arabian Nights with a youth drama. It contains many elements that will resonate with fans of "Candidate for Goddess".

summary

"Candidates" is a work that deeply touches viewers with its unique worldview where myth and youth intersect, and its charming characters. Despite its short broadcast period, its charm has not faded and it continues to be loved by many fans. If you like myth and youth dramas, this is a work you should definitely watch.