Kaze no Stigma

Are you on the lookout for a series full of epic battles, wondrous magic, hilarious comedy, and kick-ass moments? Granted, serious Anime has its own perks, and the fandom wouldn’t be the same without them either. That’s why it's essential to unwind a little after a hard-hitting show, and nothing does the trick as well as Anime from the opposite end of the spectrum. You don’t even have to go to the end because you’re guaranteed to find a series that tickles your funny bone amidst some badass content even after the halfway point.

“Kaze no Stigma,” also known as “Kaze no Seikon” or “Stigma of the Wind,” is a 24-episode TV anime series that aired from the 13th of April until the 21st of September, in Spring 2007. It was licensed by Funimation and brought to life by Studio Gonzo. Featuring the genres of Action, Romance, and Supernatural, it received a rating of PG-13 for teenagers 13 years or older.

The series is based on the Light Novel of the same title, which spanned 6 Volumes from the 19th of January 2002 until the 20th of October 2005. Featuring the genres of Action, Fantasy, and Romance, the collective work of Author Yamato Takahiro and Artist Nanto Hanamaru brought the series to life.

The series revolves around protagonist Kazuma Yagami, a user of "Fuujutsu" ability, which is the power to control the wind. The story begins as he makes his fateful return to his old home, the noble household of Kannagi. Four years ago, he had faced banishment due to his inability to control fire coupled with his subsequent defeat to Ayano Kannagi, his younger cousin, in a duel. His eventful return from such a brutal exile led to numerous conflicts, but matters were far worse than expected.

Several members of the Kannagi family had recently been murdered using the Fuujutsu, and this is in no way remarkable for Kazuma’s already terrible reputation. These events lead the weary Kannagi family, including the hot-headed Ayano, to suspect Kazuma as the treacherous culprit. Now, Kazuma must deal with the daring tasks of clearing his name of this wayward crime and helping his family, with which he shares a mutual hatred, to discover the true identity of the elusive murderer.

The Story of Kaze no Stigma is decent at best. There is really nothing impressive about it, mainly since it stays predictable for most of the series. The series is broken into several arcs. These arcs provide a glimpse into the other clans and magic users that operate in the story. As Kaze, no Stigma is primarily character-driven the arcs drive the story toward its climactic end.

So when does the actual plot initiate? It starts later in the series, at around episode 16, with the first fifteen leading us along, sort of like that Chevelle song "Vitamin R."

Like the Amusement park visits and the "popular in anime" hot springs episode, these filler episodes fueled the lacking plot, which served no more significant purpose. While this is disappointing, it is still mildly satisfying in the overall story itself, as it helped to provide character development. Action fans, in particular, would find the storyline to be very cliched and predictable because it has been played out many times before. Random antagonists tend to pop up, get flat-out defeated, and then the show moves on to another scenario. Regardless, even though it lacks originality, it is done well enough and is set to an acceptable standard, allowing viewers to enjoy watching it all unravel.

The Characters of Kaze no Stigma are its selling point. These characters are likable and fit right into the general mood of the series. While they have their cute and comedic moments, they can just as quickly get serious when it's required of them. This cast is able to keep the series apart from others of its kind and keeps audiences watching till the end.

There is no denying that there are cliches and overused character tropes, like the stubborn in love girl who stays in denial and the brash, cold but nice guy with a dark past but wants his Father’s respect, and the super nice but serious-when-it-counts shota. The MC is also very kick-ass with a distinct style, no matter how cliche the rest of him is. From the tsundere, athlete, and wealthy American lady who also possesses fire magic to the lolita, they're all here.

What makes them good is the character development and the growth of the romance between the duo, which really makes the series shine. The various twists and turns alongside its drama are added, guaranteed to keep audiences on edge. They will keep viewers glued to the screen and even reward them with small but delightful developments in every episode, making each moment satisfying.

The Art and Animation of Kaze no Stigma are average. It honestly does not stand out amidst other 2007 Anime in this department, but it has its own attractiveness. The character designs are fairly done, not too great, but not too bad either. The backgrounds are bad, noticeably still, and stagnant, even if it's supposed to be bustling. On the other hand, the Art itself is excellent and enjoyable but is indicative of its time. The effects are sound, be it the flames or the wind, and all other abilities unleashed.

The Sounds and Music of Kaze no Stigma are really not noteworthy. The Sound effects are fair enough, and the OSTs all fit the show's mood at the time. The Opening theme is "blast of wind" by Saori Kiuji, which is quite catchy, especially once audiences get used to it. The Ending themes are "Hitorikiri no Sora" by Saori Kiuji, "Matataki no Kiwoku" by Ayumi Fujimura, Yuka Inokuchi and Shizuka Itou and "Tsuki Hana no Inori" by Sakai Kanako.

The multiple Endings add a nice change in atmosphere to the experience, which was a welcome addition. Those who enjoy decent Action music wouldn't be bothered by this department. They aren’t annoying, though, and are all well-positioned in the series.

Overall, Kaze no Stigma is a pretty mediocre series. It is not particularly interesting, but it has a good share of magic battles and fantastic elements. In addition, there are love triangles, friendships, “happy-fun days,” comedy, romance, drama, and action, all in a nice balance. If you’re not a fan of magic, battles, and occasional ecchi shots, this Anime won’t keep you greatly entertained.

Nevertheless, if you watch it, you won’t regret it. Whether it's Rem, Kazuma, Ayano, or the countless other characters one is assured to make their way into your heart, and the ending is kept open, nurturing hope for a sequel someday. Again it's not groundbreaking, the characters and a few stand-out arcs make the watch somewhat worthwhile and enjoyable. So yes, if Action/Romance shows are your cup of tea, this Anime is recommended.