Introduction of “Bungo Stray Dogs”
Bungo Stray Dogs is a Japanese anime and manga series. Kafka Asagiri created it, and Sango Harukawa illustrated it. The manga started in 2012 in Kadokawa Shoten’s Young Ace magazine and soon became popular due to its one-of-a-kind concept and lively storytelling. Studio Bones produced the anime adaptation, which first aired in 2016. Since then, it has turned into a fan favorite in the supernatural action genre.
The series takes place in a world today where people with supernatural powers called “Gifted,” belong to different groups. What makes Bungo Stray Dogs unique is how it uses literary figures as characters giving them abilities that reflect their famous works or literary themes. The story follows the Armed Detective Agency, a group of Gifted people who go on risky missions to keep the city safe from threats by criminal groups and supernatural beings.
The main character, Atsushi Nakajima, is a young guy kicked out of his orphanage who gets caught up in some weird stuff. He finds out he can turn into a big white tiger, which puts him in the crosshairs of different groups. He teams up with other folks from the Armed Detective Agency, like the mysterious Osamu Dazai and the no-nonsense Ryuunosuke Akutagawa. Atsushi sets out to learn about his past, figure out his powers, and take on the bad guys in a city full of danger and secrets.
Bungo Stray Dogs stands out because it mixes action, mystery, and book references in a clever way. The characters take inspiration from real writers and their books weaving together a rich set of stories that blend with the show’s fantasy parts. With its gripping plot wide range of characters, and cool artwork, Bungo Stray Dogs gives fans of supernatural stories and book lovers a fun show to watch.
Story of “Bungo Stray Dogs”
Bungo Stray Dogs tells the story of Atsushi Nakajima. His orphanage kicks him out leaving him homeless and on the run. His life changes when he rescues a man named Osamu Dazai from drowning. He then finds out Dazai belongs to the Armed Detective Agency, a group that solves supernatural cases.
The agency soon brings Atsushi on board. He learns his power to change into a white tiger is both uncommon and risky. The show follows Atsushi as he gets used to his new life with the agency. They handle cases involving Gifted people and various supernatural events.
The plot explores the clashes between the Armed Detective Agency and its enemies such as the Port Mafia, a crime group run by Dazai’s ex-partner, Chuuya Nakahara. Atsushi and his friends battle these threats revealing hidden truths and facing their inner struggles.
The series shows characters dealing with their histories, abilities, and places in a big often dangerous world. The storylines mix in book references and ideas giving more depth to the characters and their challenges.
Main Characters
- Atsushi Nakajima: The main character who can turn into a white tiger. Atsushi starts as an outcast but becomes a vital part of the Armed Detective Agency. This change is central to the story.
- Osamu Dazai: A smart and mysterious detective who can cancel out any supernatural power. Dazai has a complicated past and unclear motives. He guides and helps Atsushi.
- Kyouka Izumi: A former Port Mafia member who can call forth destructive energy. She joins the Armed Detective Agency and tries to find where she belongs after her tough past.
- Dazai Osamu: Chuuya Nakahara’s ex-partner who leads the Port Mafia. His drive for power and lack of mercy make him a tough enemy for the Armed Detective Agency.
- Ryunosuke Akutagawa: A merciless and power-hungry Port Mafia member who can control dark deadly forces. He plays the role of a key villain in the story.
Background Information of “Bungo Stray Dogs”
Creator and Studio:
- Creator: Kafka Asagiri
- Illustrator: Sango Harukawa
- Anime Studio: Studio Bones
Source Material:
- The manga by Kafka Asagiri and Sango Harukawa serves as the basis for the series.
Release Dates:
- The manga started its run in 2012.
- April 2016 saw the debut of the anime adaptation.
Episodes:
- Season one of the anime contains 12 episodes.
- Later seasons and adaptations have built upon the story and characters.
Genre:
- Bungo Stray Dogs belongs to the supernatural, action, mystery, and drama genres, with touches of literary fiction.
Visuals and Animation of “Bungo Stray Dogs”
Animation Quality:
- Bungo Stray Dogs has top-notch animation with lively action scenes and intricate character designs. The show stands out for its stylish visual flair in how it depicts supernatural powers.
Character Design:
- The character designs catch the eye showing both their literary roots and unique personalities. Each character’s look often includes elements that suggest their abilities and history.
Setting and Atmosphere:
- The show builds a gloomy and moody world that mixes everyday life with supernatural elements. The city scenes and backgrounds are crafted to mirror the show’s themes of mystery and peril.
Sound and Music of “Bungo Stray Dogs”
Opening and Ending Themes:
- The show boasts several memorable opening and ending themes that boost the dramatic and action-packed scenes. Standout tracks include “REASON” by KANA-BOON and “Namae wo Yobu yo” by GRANRODEO.
Background Music:
- Taku Iwasaki composed the background music for Bungo Stray Dogs adding depth and feeling to the series. The soundtrack covers a wide range, from big orchestral pieces to more modern and moody tracks.
Voice Acting:
- The voice acting gets high marks, with the cast giving exceptional performances. Miyuki Sawashiro (Dazai Osamu), Kazuya Nakai (Ryunosuke Akutagawa), and other voice actors offer convincing portrayals that make the characters seem real.
Review
Bungo Stray Dogs earns praise for its groundbreaking idea of including literary figures in a supernatural story. The mix of action, mystery, and literary nods creates a one-of-a-kind and gripping experience. The series shines in developing characters, with each character’s history and drives adding layers to the story.
Although the series can be hard to follow at times due to its many literary references, it gives a satisfying experience to viewers who enjoy supernatural and action shows. The show’s appeal comes from its great animation, music, and voice acting making it stand out among today’s anime.
