Kino's Journey -the Beautiful World- the Animated Series
Synopsis
When 15-year-old Kino is feeling weighed down by heavy thoughts, one thing always manages to cheer her up: traveling. Nothing fills her heart with joy like exploring the beautiful, wonderful world around her and the fascinating ways people find to live. However, Kino is not as helpless as her cute appearance and courteous demeanor suggest. Armed with "Cannon" and "Woodsman," her trusted handguns, Kino is not afraid to kill anyone who would dare to get in her way. Always by her side is her best friend and loyal companion Hermes, a sentient motorcycle, who supports Kino through the sorrows and hardships of their journey. Together, they travel the vast countryside with the shared goal of always moving forward, and a single rule: never stay in one country for more than three days. As Kino and Hermes encounter new people and learn the rules of their civilizations, they grow and find out more about their own values and virtues. But as Kino slowly discovers the world around her, she also finds herself facing dangers that linger within the vast unknown. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
The 2017 remake of Kino's Journey is highly divisive, with many viewers comparing it unfavorably to the original 2003 series. While some appreciate the updated visuals and episodic storytelling, many criticize it for lacking depth, subtlety, and the philosophical richness of its predecessor. The remake is seen by some as a hollow imitation that fails to capture the essence of Kino's journey.
Strengths
- The series explores unique ideologies and cultures through the eyes of a neutral traveler.
- Some episodes leave a good impression and explore a variety of themes and morals.
- The improved animation and scenery in the remake are captivating.
Weaknesses
- The remake lacks the subtlety and nuances of the original, with more blatant moral explorations.
- Some stories feel rushed, reducing the impact of the visited country's true side being revealed.
- The characters feel emptied, and episodes rely on uninteresting plot twists.
- The remake is a disappointment and lacks the magic of the original.