Mushi-shi

About Mushi-shi

"Mushi-shi" is an anime series brought to life in 2005 based on the manga of the same name. The plot revolves around the protagonist, Ginko, a Mushi master who travels the realm studying Mushi – primitive and supernatural creatures which exist in several forms. The series is known to feature minimal action, focusing instead on intricate plots that blend fantastical elements and character-driven narratives.

Making / Production

Produced by NXT and directed by Hiroshi Nagahama, "Mushi-shi" is an example of anime art at its finest. Kenichi Kanemaki oversaw the series composition, with script cooperation from different writers. One of its distinguishing features is the atmospheric animation that paints a captivating portrait of early 20th century rural Japan.

Actors

• Yuto Nakano played the lead role of Ginko, portraying a sense of calm and wisdom associated with his character.
• Mika Doi played the recurring character of Nui, adding depth to the tragic back-story of this significant character.
• Reisen Lee voiced the character of Adashino, expertly providing a sense of comic relief to the series.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The title "Mushi-shi" translates to "Mushi Master", referring to Ginko's role in the series.
• Each episode is a standalone story, with minimal sequential interconnection.
• Ginko's unique look, with his white hair and one green eye, is a result of his close encounters with Mushi.

Awards

"Mushi-shi" is critically acclaimed, winning the Excellence Prize at the 2006 Japan Media Arts Festival and the 2007 Tokyo Anime Award for Anime Series of the Year.

Quotes

• Ginko: "I don't want to just live. I want to keep moving."
• Ginko: "Life and death are part of nature. To reject this process, and to extend life artificially is the arrogant hubris of humanity."
• Nui: "We draw breath from air, and it becomes life inside us. The Mushi draw their breath from life."

Music, Soundtrack

• "The Sore Feet Song", performed by Ally Kerr, acts as the opening theme song of "Mushi-shi".
• Toshio Masuda, best known for his work on "Naruto", composed the background music for the series.
• Each episode ends on a different instrumental piece, adding a unique finish to the individual stories.