The Southwest Voice

Bakersfield is a community of transplants from Oklahoma, settlers from Southern California, and lots of cowboy boots, all stuck together with some of the best Mexican food anywhere.  It’s the perfect place to explore how Japanese animation relates to Christian theology – class begins January 16.

While Americans usually think of animation merely as cartoons, the Japanese treat it as a serious art form. What makes this medium so attractive is that it allows stories to be told which would otherwise be impossible. It has allowed screenwriters and directors almost unlimited creativity, with the ability to bring imagination to life.

Japanese animation (anime) is growing in popularity in the United States. This can be seen on Cartoon Network as “Adult Swim” and in the success of movies like “Spirited Away.” Locally, Bakersfield residents can find anime DVDs at BestBuy, Japanese comic books (manga) at Barnes & Noble, and there is even a specialty store at East Hills Mall.

On January 16, First Presbyterian Church will be beginning a midweek class looking at Christian themes in Japanese animation. Historically, anime has not been held in high regard by the Christian community. Much of it is violent and ungodly - just like American television. What it does offer, however, is a different perspective on the same problems we all face. The class is open to anyone who is interested. Don’t worry if your Japanese is rusty, the series and class discussion will be in English.

The course is titled “Faith in Film.” Specifically, it looks at the thirteen episode series “Haibane Renmei.” The series was created by ABe Yoshitoshi, whose credits include “Serial Experiments Lain” and “Niea Under 7.” You cannot come into Haibane Renmei expecting an action packed adventure. It is much more subtle than that. Set in fantasy, it is a story of redemption, salvation, and hope. While not directly a Christian story, the characters and themes found within this series reflect much of Christian teaching. The course is a journey through what God can show us, even in the most unlikely of places.

Wednesdays 6:30 - 7:30 pm

January 16 - April 10, 2007

First Presbyterian Church

1705 17^th Street