X
Rintaro, director
2000/1996 (US/Japan)
(of 5)
In literature, a tragedy is defined as man overstepping his human limitations, often due to pride. The tragic hero is a basically good person who experiences an ironic reversal because of errors in his judgement, and he must recognize his responsibility for these errors caused by his pride.
X is a classic fairy tale of the battle between good and evil, with a young man, Kamui, tossed in the middle. Kamui carries with him the ability to save or to destroy the world, whether he likes it or not. Alas, but he cannot throw off those heavy chains of destiny.
Through a well-woven story carried by beautiful, almost breath-taking, animation, Kamui's tale is told. The fate of his best friend and the girl he loves both lie in his hands, and he becomes a tragic heroe as it is apparent that Kamui must destroy his best friend, leaving his love's life in the middle of this tangled crystalline web. His responsibility in all of this dawns upon him, and Kamui realises that it is impossible to avoid one's fate.
This anime is extremely beautiful, and quite a bit of archtypical good and evil symbolism is used. You cannot help but to feel for Kamui and those around him as all of their destinies unfold, but then again, you haven't a choice - this anime will enchant you and never let go.
Copyright TLM 2000
