In The Beginning: The Bible Stories
Synopsis
Through the Italian National Broadcasting Network, Tezuka Osamu received an ardent request from the Vatican to make the Bible into animated form. This request was probably made to see how the Bible would be depicted by the non-Christian Tezuka Osamu. Tezuka Osamu accepted the request and spent an entire two years to complete a pilot film. It was about the mythology of Noah's ark, with the enthusiastic Tezuka Osamu not only writing the scenario but also drawing pictures by himself. During production, however, he unfortunately passed away, so Director Dezaki took over the film and completed it. (Source: official homepage)
Audience Consensus
Overall, the anime is well-regarded as a faithful and enjoyable adaptation of the Old Testament, particularly for introducing children to biblical stories. Nostalgia and sentimental value contribute to its positive reception. The main criticisms focus on the dated animation and sound quality, but the storytelling and character portrayals are generally praised.
Strengths
- Accurate and true to the Scriptures, assisted by theological advisors.
- Good adaptation of the Old Testament, enjoyable even for non-Christians.
- Beautiful intro, music background, and coloring.
- Helped teach the Bible to children in an engaging way.
- Gave the figures realism.
- Perfect characters not treated as fictional characters but as real people who really lived.
Weaknesses
- Animation quality is dated due to its age.
- Soundtrack is slightly tinny 90's soft Jpop.
- Fight scenes are not long battles.
- Minor nudity in the original Japanese version (Adam and Eve).