Aura, by Seiji Kishi, is an anime that takes a look at school culture in Japan. In particular it looks at the “cool” kids at the top of the popularity pile in contrast to the less popular geeks.
The cool kids, sporty types and cheerleaders, are more prone to being bullies. That label not so clear cut as it may first seem. Are there some who work hard and are honestly frustrated that other kids seem to be able to break the rules without getting in trouble. How would you react if someone turned up at school in cosplay, in defiance of the school uniform and the teachers didn’t even seem to notice?
The geeks, on the other hand, seem far too prone to living in fantasy worlds. In some ways they’re just as cliquey as the jocks.
Aura explores what what might happen if some of this fantasy escapism goes too far. As this is an anime there is a twist or two.
A notable twist on this story is that it is told through the point of view of Satou Ichirou who is neither jock nor geek. He’s just a student trying to get through school as best he can until an after hours break in at the school changes things for him and a meddling teacher gets involved.
Aura is one of those stories that makes you happy and sad in the space of a few minutes. It is a reminder of how horrible school kids are but also how fragile they are.
The big question is whether Aura is an enjoyable anime or not? I enjoyed it. It’s a human interest story teased with elements of the fantastic. It’s a story about personal bravery and surviving school.
I enjoyed Aura because it reminded me how thankful I am to be out of school. I enjoyed it because it reminded me there are people with the strength to do the right thing and to look after others.
Unless you hated the 80s Mazes and Monsters, which was Tom Hank’s first major leading role, I suspect Aura: Koga Maryuin’s Last War is worth checking out.
