Synopsis:
Miaka Yuuki is an ordinary girl with an ordinary life. That is, until she and her best friend Yui stumble upon a book entitled "The Universe of the Four Gods". In a flash, the girls are literally drawn into the book and become part of the story. Miaka finds herself in the midst of Konan, a country in turmoil. In Konan, she is revered as the legendary "Priestess of Suzaku". Suddenly, the neighboring country wants her dead. But not to worry, Miaka's got the bravest and most dashing men protecting her all the way. She then agrees to take on the responsibility of finding salvation for those who believe in her, and thus the story unfolds... to reveal any more would be to spoil it for those who've never experienced Fushigi Yuugi for themselves. One thing is certain, Miaka's life isn't going to be easy from thereon.

Review:
What can I say except WOW. Fushigi Yuugi is definitely one of the best series I've ever seen.

Fast-paced and unpredictable, each episode leaves one breathless with anticipation. You can watch this for hours and not even think of eating or sleeping. Everything is so rich in imagery and emotion that it's like actually going on an adventure with Miaka and the gang. Love, friendship, betrayal, war, revenge, magic... just about everything is mixed in. There are a lot of insanely funny moments too.

A huge number of characters comprise Fushigi Yuugi. The admirable part is, everyone is developed very well and it doesn't get confusing. Characterization is very deep. They can make you laugh, cry, and feel so many things. You'll find that there is a reason for everything everyone does in Fushigi Yuugi. Even the bad guys aren't all bad.

Fushigi Yuugi immerses us in a whole new world with its own people, culture, and environment. Konan, the country Miaka gets thrown in, is much like ancient China -- down to the clothing, language, food, etc. The settings are amazingly detailed. There is a sharp contrast between Konan and modern day Japan, which serves as the perfect stage for Fushigi Yuugi.

With regards to the visual aspect, Fushigi Yuugi is exquisitely drawn and animated. The quality is also consistent throughout all 52 episodes. All the songs and music fit the series perfectly -- everything is pleasing to the ear and easy to get into. Some of the songs are Chinese sounding (although the lyrics are in Japanese) due to the nature of Konan. The Fushigi Yuugi soundtracks feature some of the best songs I've ever heard. The English dubbing is okay, I guess. I just can't stand some of the English voices, especially Chichiri's. It also gets to me when they mispronounce words. I'd go with the Japanese dialogues instead. What's more, the DVD boxed sets are packed. Aside from getting magnificently designed boxes, you get extras like image galleries, credit-less OP's and ED's, interviews with creator Yuu Watase, and loads of background info. Definitely well worth the money.

Miscellanies:
For a more defined conclusion, check out the Fushigi Yuugi OAV series.

Screenshots:

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Fushigi Yuugi / Mysterious Play (TV series) (DVD Box Sets)
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Fushigi Yuugi / Mysterious Play (TV series) (DVD Box Set 1)
Fushigi Yuugi / Mysterious Play (TV series) (DVD Box Set 2)
Fushigi Yuugi / Mysterious Play (TV series) (Graphic Novel Vol. 1)

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