A historical anime without date cards and nameplates for new characters was definitely an interesting choice, but after a difficult start, Heike Monogatari becomes one of the most mature and engaging shows I've watched. The music is incredible and the imagery, which has a wavy, dreamy feeling that suits the subject so well, is both provocative and subtle. Without making this review about comparing the show to other anime, I can't help but recommend it for anyone who wants to branch out from the usual Bakufu and Sengoku Jidai period pieces and enjoy something that's off the beaten track, more consistent in its tone anddoesn't handhold the viewer through history.