This is a marvelous episode that distills many of the show's core themes and artistic strengths down into one poignant tale. It fills in some more gaps in Ginko's backstory, giving a bit of insight into how he transformed from a reserved and detached child into the charming journeyman that guided us through this enchanting voyage. The "light vein", interdependence of all forms of life, and pre-determined vs. Indeterminate futures serve as additional focal points.
Sound design and OST are top-notch as usual, and I also found this to be one of the more visually striking episodes of the series. The almost tonalist color palette utilized for the majority of the episode (and show as a whole) makes the vibrant golden mist, volcanic eruptions, and deep saturated river beds positively dazzling. These help augment the impact of pivotal moments in the episode.
As in many of the other self-contained stories, in this episode we see the main subject, Taku, faced with devastating loss that forces him to grow and adapt. Faced with grim circumstances, he is reminded of the sublime beauty and awesome power of nature, as well as his relationship with the life surrounding him. It is easy to take this beauty and power for granted when one is constantly immersed in it. Isaza and the Watari group highlight this, and through their wisdom and perspective Taku learns to shoulder the responsibilities of becoming the new Guardian of the mountain. Through his cumulative experiences Taku blossoms into a leader that reveres and respects all life. Over the course of all his traveling, researching, and service, this is what Ginko hopes to impart upon those he meets: An understanding, respect, and appreciation for the natural world, known and unknown.
Sound design and OST are top-notch as usual, and I also found this to be one of the more visually striking episodes of the series. The almost tonalist color palette utilized for the majority of the episode (and show as a whole) makes the vibrant golden mist, volcanic eruptions, and deep saturated river beds positively dazzling. These help augment the impact of pivotal moments in the episode.
As in many of the other self-contained stories, in this episode we see the main subject, Taku, faced with devastating loss that forces him to grow and adapt. Faced with grim circumstances, he is reminded of the sublime beauty and awesome power of nature, as well as his relationship with the life surrounding him. It is easy to take this beauty and power for granted when one is constantly immersed in it. Isaza and the Watari group highlight this, and through their wisdom and perspective Taku learns to shoulder the responsibilities of becoming the new Guardian of the mountain. Through his cumulative experiences Taku blossoms into a leader that reveres and respects all life. Over the course of all his traveling, researching, and service, this is what Ginko hopes to impart upon those he meets: An understanding, respect, and appreciation for the natural world, known and unknown.
