Anime: Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen

Kasho no tsuki is a beautiful OVA and I think it will remain so even though it came out in the 90s. It is heavily relying on Japanese folklore from the Heian period, and even though one doesn't have to know all about it to understand the story, it certainly helps enjoying its beauty and poetry.

This OVA uses traditional animation combined with CG effects and real footage. Although the CG effects are disappointing and destroy the beauty of the animation instead of supporting it, the use of real footage is sometimes really nice and literally enhances the poetic side of the story, but at other times it seems to have been used to save money for the animation itself. Hm.

The music is the best part. Beautiful tracks by pianist Nakamura Yuriko and others inspired by traditional noh music easily blend into the setup of the story. It reminded me of the music in the first episodes of Otogizoushi, but I prefer this one because of its quality.

However, this short story, although quite touching and poetic, is difficult to understand. A mix-match of flashbacks and various unexplained scenes makes it difficult to understand what is going on in the first episode. A few helpful notes from the fansubbers explain a few things, but I believe it would have helped to write some kind of notes or prologue prior to the first scene, to explain the whole situation at first.

It is difficult to deepen characters in a mere two-episode OVA, so don't expect much. There is a long-time relationship going on between the two main characters, but the obvious use of flashbacks is too easy and unoriginal a method to give more points for character development.

All in all, I recommend you watch this beautiful OVA. It also has some action going on, with spirits and ogres all over the place, and if you like Heian period elements (i.e. if you enjoyed Gasaraki or Otogizoushi) then I believe this OVA will satisfy your taste. :)

Note: this OVA does not contain yaoi (as stated in the description). Kagetsu, who is saying he would like to bear Arimasa's children, is neither male or female. Plus, I would definitely add 'Magic' to the genre 'Historical'.