FLCL, oh gimme that foo-ri coo-ri. The early 2000’s found me sneaking into my mom’s tv room to catch Adult Swim’s broadcast of a bizarre six-episode… what I would call event, about yet another boy caught up in mecha-madness. Now, before I managed to write this off as some offbrand random wannabe EVA, I found myself utterly entranced and drunk on the stuff,
Whether you caught the madness of the anime or clung to the manga’s reductionist appeal, FLCL challenges your world view with paradigm shifting demands and expectations of audiences that require thoughtful, critical revisits. Lest the series be regarded as little more than a mediated mind screw.
Fooly Cooly, is an anime series that follows the story of Naota Nandaba, a young boy who lives in the town of Mabase. The series is known for its surreal and absurdist themes, as well as its use of unconventional storytelling techniques.
One of the key mythic themes in FLCL is the idea of the hero’s journey. Throughout the series, Naota is thrust into a series of bizarre and often dangerous situations, and must learn to confront and overcome these challenges in order to grow and mature as a person. This theme is particularly evident in the character of Haruko Haruhara, who serves as a mentor and guide for Naota as he navigates his journey.
Another mythic theme that is prominent in FLCL is the concept of transformation and rebirth. The series frequently explores the idea of characters undergoing significant changes in their lives, both physically and emotionally. For example, Naota undergoes a series of transformations as he becomes more confident and capable of handling the challenges that come his way. Additionally, the series explores the theme of rebirth through the use of imagery such as eggs and hatchlings, which symbolize the potential for new beginnings and the renewal of life.
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Finally, FLCL also touches on the theme of the collective unconscious and the power of the imagination. The series features a number of surreal and otherworldly elements, such as robots and alien beings, which can be seen as representing the collective unconscious and the power of the imagination to shape reality. This theme is particularly evident in the character of Atomsk, an alien being who possesses the ability to control and manipulate the imagination of others.
Little spots of sunshine lie on the surface of the water and dance, dance, and their reflections wobble deliciously over the ceiling; a stir of my finger sets them whirring, reeling…
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Overall, FLCL is a series that is rich in mythic themes, including the hero’s journey, transformation and rebirth, and the power of the imagination. These themes contribute to the series’ surreal and absurdist tone, and help to create a unique and memorable viewing experience for audiences.
