The trippy Mononoke trilogy is some of the most adventurous filmmaking Netflix has ever platformed

The anime trilogy Mononoke: The Movie, produced by Netflix, is a visually stunning and adventurous series that differs greatly from Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke. The trilogy, consisting of Phantom in the Rain, The Ashes of Rage, and the recently released The Curse of the Serpent, takes viewers on a psychedelic journey through Edo-period Japan, specifically the women-only Ōoku quarters.

The story follows a Medicine Seller who stumbles upon supernatural mysteries, much like the plot of an Agatha Christie novel. The series stands out due to its maximalist visuals, blending court politics and yokai-flavored monster stories. The Medicine Seller, with his androgynous painted face, is central to the narrative. The Ōoku, filled with women vying for high-ranking concubines, is a backdrop where human and inhuman problems intertwine, creating a vibrant and eye-frying visual experience.

The trilogy pushes the boundaries of Masaaki Yuasa's work, delivering a chaotic and flamboyant style that enhances the underlying narratives of the films, particularly concerning the mistreatment of women in the Ōoku. Despite the dense and complex storytelling, the series manages to compress it all into less than 90 minutes for each film. The climax of each film features intense battles in non-Euclidian spaces, accompanied by glitch-hop tracks that match the grandeur of the visuals.

The Mononoke trilogy is a bold and ambitious series that promises an immersive experience for viewers. It offers a unique blend of historical critique, circus flair animation, and paranormal drama. The series is a satisfying jump in scale and depth, fitting snugly into the confined space of the Ōoku. Whether you're drawn in by the reality-bending logic or the labyrinthine settings, you'll soon find yourself captivated by this garish and ambitious film series.