Hey, it’s your Tokyo-based anime fan here again! Buckle up, because today we’re diving into the eccentric world of the “Monogatari Series.” This anime series is like a rollercoaster ride, packed with supernatural elements, intricate dialogues, and a host of memorable characters. If you haven’t watched it yet, you’re seriously missing out.
Monogatari Story Summary
A Journey of Supernatural and Self-Discovery
The Monogatari Series, created by Nisio Isin, is an eclectic mix of supernatural, romance, and slice-of-life genres, revolving around the main protagonist Koyomi Araragi. The series starts with Koyomi, a high school student, finding himself entwined with various supernatural phenomena after surviving a vampire attack.
Throughout the series, he encounters different girls plagued by oddities and mythological beasts, from weight-stealing crabs to a snail that causes people to lose their way. Koyomi finds himself being drawn deeper into their lives, playing the unexpected hero as he battles, negotiates, and sometimes befriends these oddities.
As Koyomi navigates through these supernatural adventures, he also journeys through his complicated feelings towards love, friendship, and his sense of self. The Monogatari Series is an intricate web of dialogues, character development, and beautifully portrayed oddities that make it a unique viewing experience.
Monogatari Characters: Not Just Your Usual Anime
- Koyomi Araragi: The main protagonist, Koyomi is a kind-hearted, sometimes perverted high school student. He’s extremely self-sacrificing and always goes out of his way to help others, often putting himself in danger.
- Hitagi Senjougahara: Known for her sharp tongue and icy demeanor, Hitagi is the first girl Koyomi saves. As the series progresses, she evolves from a standoffish character into someone more understanding and caring, especially towards Koyomi.
- Mayoi Hachikuji: An adorable, yet feisty ghost girl who has a love-hate relationship with Koyomi. Their banter is a highlight of the series.
- Suruga Kanbaru: An athletic girl with a big heart, Suruga struggles with her feelings for Hitagi and a cursed monkey paw that causes her trouble.
- Nadeko Sengoku: A shy and reserved girl who later reveals a more manipulative side, Nadeko’s transformation is one of the most dramatic in the series.
There are many more characters in the Monogatari Series, each with their unique quirks and compelling story arcs.
Summary of First 5 Books
The Monogatari series is known for its nonlinear storytelling, with the first five books (“Bakemonogatari,” “Kizumonogatari,” “Nisemonogatari,” “Nekomonogatari (Black),” and “Nekomonogatari (White)”) covering different time periods and focusing on various characters and their supernatural predicaments. From Koyomi’s vampire transformation in “Kizumonogatari” to Hitagi’s battle with a weight-stealing crab in “Bakemonogatari”, each book offers a unique exploration of various themes such as guilt, love, and self-discovery.
Reading Order of Titles with Short Descriptions
Given the non-linear nature of the series, the watch order can be a bit tricky. However, for a first-time viewer, it’s recommended to follow the release order, starting with “Bakemonogatari” and proceeding to “Nisemonogatari,” “Nekomonogatari (Black),” “Monogatari Series Second Season,” “Hanamonogatari,” and so on. Each title usually focuses on one or two characters, delving into their encounters with supernatural oddities.
My Personal Review/Reading Experience
The Monogatari Series is undoubtedly one of my favorite anime. The eccentric storytelling, intricate dialogues, and memorable characters offer a viewing experience like no other. Watching Koyomi navigate through his supernatural encounters while dealing with his personal feelings was both amusing and touching.
One thing that truly stands out in the Monogatari Series is its dialogue-heavy narrative. It’s not uncommon to have episodes filled with lengthy conversations that could seem overwhelming. But once you get the hang of it, these dialogues are what add depth to the characters and the plot.
However, this series may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Its unique style and pace require a bit of patience. But for those who stick with it, the Monogatari Series offers a rewarding experience filled with laughter, tears, and some serious food for thought.
Monogatari Quotes from the Anime Series
Here are some of the notable quotes from the Monogatari Series that left a deep impression on me:
- “People save themselves on their own. Nobody can ever save someone else.” – Koyomi Araragi
- “The fake is of far greater value. In its deliberate attempt to be real, it’s more real than the real thing.” – Deishuu Kaiki
- “If you’re going to selfishly admire someone only to be disillusioned later, then maybe you shouldn’t try to get to know them better at all.” – Hitagi Senjougahara
- “In their own ways, fights are also a valid form of communication.” – Koyomi Araragi
- “Because of my cowardice, I hurt others. And because I don’t want to get hurt, I always end up hurting myself.” – Nadeko Sengoku
- “I don’t know everything, I just know what I know.” – Tsubasa Hanekawa
- “Romance can strengthen people, but it can also make them useless.” – Hitagi Senjougahara
About the Author/Artist
The mastermind behind the Monogatari Series is Nisio Isin, a well-known novelist in Japan. He’s known for his unique storytelling style, characterized by fast-paced dialogue, wordplay, and intricate plotlines. His works often explore themes of youth, death, and what it means to be a hero.
TV or Movie Adaptations
The Monogatari Series has been adapted into multiple TV series and movies by Shaft, a studio known for its unique animation style. From the atmospheric visuals to the dynamic character designs, the adaptations have managed to capture the charm and eccentricity of the original novels.
Monogatari FAQ
Is the Monogatari Series worth watching? If you enjoy unique storytelling, complex characters, and dialogue-heavy narrative, then yes, the Monogatari Series is definitely worth a watch.
Is the Monogatari Series finished? As of now, the main storyline of the Monogatari Series has concluded with “Zoku Owarimonogatari.” However, Nisio Isin has continued writing stories in the same universe.
In what order should I watch the Monogatari Series? For first-time viewers, it’s recommended to follow the release order, starting with “Bakemonogatari.”
So there you have it, my fellow otakus!
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