Between the Panels: Salvation According to Trigun

At first glance, the uncanny merging of Christianity with Trigun’s western/sci-fi antics seems as unlikely as Vash and Wolfwood’s apprehensive friendship. But the implausible combination ultimately works as irony—one that reflects the protagonist Vash’s many apparent contradictions: pacifist/gun-slinger, wanted criminal/savior, demon/angel. Try justifying those personas within a single person, and you have the enigma that… Read More Between the Panels: Salvation According to Trigun

“Say ‘I love you’ ”? *“Say ‘I trust you’ ”

Relationships are hard. I’m not just talking about romantic ones, either. I’m talking about relationships in general – from family to friends to dating to marriage. Relationships are incredibly hard. Despite the popular belief that “love’s all you need,” so many relationships fall apart. Now, I’m no Sherlock, but to me, that suggests that love’s… Read More “Say ‘I love you’ ”? *“Say ‘I trust you’ ”

Annalyn’s Corner: Rakugo Shinjuu’s Traditionalists and Rogues

The ninth episode of Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu is marked by conflict that leads to separation. It’s also marked by beautiful animation, but I decided to focus on the conflict instead. [Spoilers ahead. If you haven’t watched the latest episode yet, I recommend you do, even though the big events in this episode were rather predictable.… Read More Annalyn’s Corner: Rakugo Shinjuu’s Traditionalists and Rogues