Mermaid Forest

Genre: Supernatural
Parental Guidance Recommended
1991 Rumiko Takahashi/Shogakukan, Inc.

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Thundersenshi's Description:
There is a legend that whoever partakes of Mermaid Flesh lives forever. However, not everyone who taste the fabled meat become immortal. Most of them either die or turn into monsters, and only very few of them actually survive and become completely immortal.

In her desparation to save her sister from a fatal sickness, Sawa gives her sister a cup of mermaid's blood to drink. Little does she know the consequences of her actions...

NOTE: Some of the reviews were written sometime in 2001 and was recorded in the classic Otaku Fridge as ??.??.2001. Unfortunately the database would not accept non-numerical values, so this review is now dated January 01, 2001 by default.

The mystery of mermaids... >>> by thundersenshi

Mermaid Forest is the first of Takahashi's Mermaid Saga to be animated, though it is actually the third arc in the manga. This will explain a few confusing details in the anime, regarding Yuta and Mana's history. The latter, especially, will seem a strange character to one who has not read the previous installments in the manga. Mana's behavior, and her seeming innocence during certain scenes won't be justified by the uncommon fact that she is immortal alone.

Characterization is quite good. Each are unique, and they stand out on their own. They pretty much carry most of the weight of this anime's impact as a whole. Most of them are mysterious, interesting, and not wholly evil. Each also carries a burden upon his/her soul, and a twisted perception of what has to be done, making the story all the more appealing.

The plot is fairly simple. It has a few unexpected twists, but nothing complex. The viewers get a glimpse of the intriguing story behind the mermaids and the people who wish to eat their flesh.

As for the art, it's a bit dated, but still good work. Certain animation effects create the perfect mood for darkness and gore. The music is also commendable, as it adds the flourishing touches to the feeling that Mermaid Forest projects. Voice acting was also done with expertise.

Individual Rating: Art/Animation 7; Story 8; Characters 7; Sounds 8