JPT1311 Reflections

[plusultranumber1]

My Thoughts on Assassination Classroom

I thoroughly enjoyed this anime, and I found it to be a pleasant viewing to wrap up this class. The series follows a group of outcast students who are tasked by the government to kill a mysterious and powerful entity who will serve as their teacher for a school year unless they fulfill their mission. The show provides a fun coming of age story that incorporates many relatable feelings towards the rigorous nature of school and the hardships of growing up. Ultimately, the class and their new teacher bond over the experiences and the knowledge and wisdom he imparts to help them complete their assassination, move forward in their education, and succeed in life. Koro Sensei shows his students that no matter how people view you, you have the potential to obtain something valuable by being diligent in your education. 

Throughout the show, there is a conflict between Class E and the rest of the classes at the junior high school. The students in Class E are looked down upon heavily, humiliated for being the outcasts of society and worthless, and painfully discriminated against in their academic existence. The leader of the school makes active attempts in keeping the status quo of inferiority of Class E. In spite of this, Koro Sensei inspires the class to grow beyond their labels of underachievers and instead take pride in what they do. The students use these pieces of wisdom to push themselves in their studies, and develop in their assassination training. I like his message a lot and I think Koro Sensei provides invaluable advice to students who need reassurance in themselves that despite difficult circumstances, they can achieve greatness. Koro Sensei fulfills the teacher’s purpose by giving the children the tools they need to succeed. 

Other aspects of the show I enjoyed was the dedication to competition and the relatability of the characters. I found myself feeling the dread that marks the end of term exams, which become arenas where students showcase their hard work in order to not only prove themselves to one another, but also validate themselves in their own eyes. Koro Sensei’s instruction about failure also was particularly powerful. The fears and motivating factors of failing to apply oneself and be worthy of talent, and also meeting competition by rising to the occasion, are all aspects of education that I still grapple with. I felt that the series provides valid and useful sentiment that can empower students to succeed.

[kaiojustin]

I also really enjoyed the dedication to competition. You put this in really good words. "arenas" tends to be a very accurate term for this scenario. I think the messaging from Koro-sensei is very important, but can also be very dangerous. Balance in all things. Great post!

[kaiojustin]

Assassination Classroom (S1 Ep. 1, 5, 16, S2 Ep. 11)

One societal problem that is represented in Assassination Classroom is the Japanese education system and its flaws. This show portrays how the rigid, traditional teaching methods of Japanese schools can be detrimental to students who don't fit the mold of a "good student." The main characters are all struggling students who are initially seen as "problem children" and are relegated to a special class. However, once they are given the opportunity to learn in a non-traditional way, they thrive and excel. This criticism of the Japanese education system highlights the importance of accommodating different learning styles and fostering creativity in students. Another societal problem represented in this show is the importance of mental health. Koro-sensei serves as a mentor and guide to the students in addition to being their assassination target. He encourages them to pursue their passions and develop their individual strengths, while also helping them confront and overcome their personal demons. In doing so, the show raises awareness of the importance of mental health and the need for positive role models who can guide and support individuals who are struggling. This show also represents the issue of poverty and social inequality. Several of the students in the class come from impoverished backgrounds and are forced to work part-time jobs in addition to their schoolwork. This puts them at a disadvantage compared to their more privileged peers who have the resources and support to focus solely on their studies. By showing the struggles of these characters, the show highlights the need for social safety nets and equal opportunities for all members of society. Finally, another problem represented in this show is the concept of teamwork and the power of collaboration. The students in the class come from diverse backgrounds and have very different personalities and skill sets. The message of unity and collaboration is particularly important in a world that is becoming increasingly divided and polarized.

[jjraderftw]

Cyberpunk Edgerunners

I freaking love Cyberpunk Edgerunners. I watched this bad boy on release and felt high on life for the first 5 episodes and extremely depressed for the latter 5. The anime is a rollercoaster of emotion with an insane soundtrack and awesome visuals, kudos to Trigger. The show tells an interesting story littered with critiques on modern society such as: class difference, capitalism’s takeover, and the unforgiving nature of life. The power system is really fun and enticing, making you want to play the game the anime serves as a prequel for (the trap, as some would say). Regardless, the show is fire and finishes off with probably one the biggest L’s any main character takes in a show, with hardly anything to show for at the end of the series, including the loss of his own life.

The idea of the large class division is super prominent in Cyberpunk. The difference between Arasaka employees and average Joe’s like David and his mom is drastic. Someone who works manual labor, long hours, and busts their butt every day is rewarded with minimal pay and starving mouths. There is no option nor legal route for escape from the lower class rabbit hole people like David are born into. No one has a say in the matter of where they are born. If you’re lucky, you are born into a rich and noble family, but others aren’t so lucky and have to result to long methods of labor to make do and still live in poverty. Furthermore, the lifestyles depicted in cyberpunk often critique the idea of who gets paid more in our world. Someone who simply manages a few things and can afford to lounge around all day (like Arasaka officials) make millions while first responders and medical specialists who physically work all day around the clock in a field that also requires intellectual prowess get nothing in comparison. This is similar to how many jobs in our world, like influencers, make almost double or even triple the amount something like an average engineer or even doctor would make, despite the latter professions requiring a bit more physical and mental work than the former.

Cyberpunk also critiques capitalism. The very idea that every person is linked up to some network and has cybernetic enhancements comments on the idea that we are all integrating with technology and having it become an essential part of our lives. The internet of things, smart devices, and our phones are all ways we are constantly connected to the internet. We can no longer fathom a world without it because it's our main form of communication, knowledge, and entertainment. Think of it. Teachers, professors, and other instructors provide class material, books and work that all require you to have some form of digital device to work, without it you’d fail. Video games and shows/movies run the entertainment world and what used to be physically present material (like books) are being slowly replaced with ebooks, audiobooks, and digital versions of the source material. We rely on phone calls and messages to communicate with people at all times (even those right next door). We are living in a world that is highly connected. This is not to say technological innovation is bad (trust me I’m all for it), it’s just that we cannot forget our humanity and let tech become more of the human identity than social/soft skills. In addition, Cyberpunks' focus on tech and social class also provides a commentary on the idea of consumerism. Everything is a commodity in Night City, even using your own laundry. This resembles how capitalism can make a product of anything in our world, and how it is hard to escape. Similar to A Place Further than the University, Lucy tries to escape the capitalistic world and go to the Moon. But just like Antarctica (which was believed to be the exterior of the world of consumerism), the Moon became a commodity and was already integrated into the world of capitalism, implying how we cannot escape it just yet.

The final point I want to make is that anime explains how life isn’t fair nor perfect. The real world is filled with challenges and difficulties. No one is the epic anime hero that will live a perfect life and always “get the girl” in the end. Sometimes, life takes a sudden turn no one sees coming and can result in some tough stuff. Though there is no recipe for success as some online gurus would say, the show does comment on the subject by saying to keep your head high. Don’t let the sacrifices of those you are close to be in vain. Carry your torch and use the tools at your disposal well to achieve the best life you can make for yourself.

[kaiojustin]

I completely agree with you. This show is crazy. It's a shame that we only have 4 episodes assigned for class. I also caught its portrayal of capitalism and inequality. I like your take on its representation of life not being fair or perfect. Great post!

[kaiojustin]

Cyberpunk Edgerunners (Ep. 1, 2, 6, 10)

One of the societal problems that is represented in Cyberpunk Edgerunners is corporate greed and its impact on society. In the world of Night City, corporations have taken over the government, leaving ordinary citizens at the mercy of their whims. The corporations control everything from food and water to healthcare, and those who can't afford to pay are left to suffer. This creates a society where the rich get richer, and the poor get poorer. The show makes me consider about the role of corporations in society, and whether they should have so much power and influence over people's lives. Another societal problem that is represented in Cyberpunk Edgerunners is police brutality. The show is in a world where the police are corrupt, and violence is often used to maintain control. The police force is in the pocket of the corporations, and they use their power to suppress any dissent or rebellion. This is a reflection of the real-world issue of police brutality, which has sparked protests and outrage in recent years. The show portrays how a society can become dystopian when those in power abuse their authority. Cyberpunk Edgerunners also represents the impact of technology on society. In Night City, technology is everywhere, and people are increasingly reliant on it for their daily lives. However, this dependence on technology has a dark side. The corporations use technology to control people's minds and manipulate their behavior. This is a reflection of the real-world issue of data privacy, where companies collect vast amounts of personal data and use it for their own purposes. Finally, the show represents issues of identity and individuality. In Night City, people are forced to conform to the expectations of society, or risk being outcast or even killed. The main characters in the series struggle to maintain their identity and sense of self in a world that wants to control them. This is a representation of the real-world pressure to conform and fit in, and the importance of embracing one's individuality.

[plusultranumber1]

My Thoughts on Perfect Blue

This watch was definitely stressful. I enjoyed the fantasy psycho-thriller vibe to it, and it reminded me a little bit of American Psycho, but I did not care for some of the graphic scenes, even if they were fake or imagined. The film follows a pop-idol turned actress and her subsequent identity crisis as she deals with the pressures and serious dangers that come with fame. The film addresses issues of mental health and positive self image, as well as the decrepitness that can come from obsessive fan culture. The film questions the perceived realities that individuals can create from their subconscious, and the importance of being comfortable in one's own skin. 

A great deal of the conflict that arises within the film comes from Mima, the main character, and her struggle to accept herself and come to grips with reality. After leaving a career as a pop idol to pursue the risque lifestyle of an actress, Mima undergoes a psychosis that morphs into dissociative identity disorder, where reality and her subconscious combine to torment her. Mima is visibly emotionally and physically shaken from the pressure to perform well, and is consistently put into situations that dehumanize her and take advantage of her femininity. Mima represents the harsh lifestyle of celebrities who are pressured into doing things that they would not otherwise do under the guise that they must in order to succeed in their profession. On top of this, she is further influenced by a disturbing online presence that plays into her doubts about the life she lives. Mima eventually overcomes this nightmare by confronting her tormentor, and coming to the self realization that she is who she is. The film demonstrates that the power of having a strong sense of identity holds more value than the opinions of others. 

The film also highlights the startling extremes to which fan culture can go to achieve its means. Mr MeMania acts as one of the antagonists who stalks Mima’s every single move, and records it in an online forum. He uses his platform to speak for Mima, and spreads misinformation about how she feels toward her career. MeMania acts as an extreme example of an Otaku who has not separated fiction from reality, and is now attempting to bring his fantasies into fruition. Rumi, who was once Mima’s trusted friend and now turned psychotic killer, provides a glimpse of an insane case of identity crisis, as she tries to live through Mima’s career. She becomes so caught up in her life, that when things do not go the way she wants, she adopts Mima’s identity so that she can set things right in her own mind. Mr MeMania and Rumi provide two examples of individuals who have lost sight of reality due to their obsession.

[kaiojustin]

I agree that it was very stressful. Mima's struggle to accept herself and her identity crisis was difficult to watch. I like what you said about fan culture. That is something that I didn't consider during watching it, but I absolutely agree with your point. Overall, I found the movie to be very thought-provoking. Great post!

[kaiojustin]

Perfect Blue

This movie was so sad and showed the disturbing reality of how some women are exploited in the entertainment industry. Throughout the movie, Mima was consistently objectified and sexualized by her fans and industry professionals. It showed how women are often reduced to mere objects of desire, and their talents and abilities are often overlooked or dismissed. The movie's portrayal of Mima's journey showed the gender inequality that exists in the entertainment industry and the double standards that women face. Another problem that was shown in this movie is the objectification of women's bodies. Mima's body being exploited by photographers and fans showed the damaging effects of objectification on women's self-esteem and mental health. The movie represented how the constant scrutiny of one's physical appearance can lead to body dysmorphia and eating disorders. Mima's difficulties with her body image and self-esteem reflected the societal pressure placed on women to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.Lastly, the problem of the impact of social media on mental health was also represented by this movie. The character Me-Mania, Mima's stalker, obsessed over her social media profiles and used them to construct a false narrative of her life. The movie showed how social media can be used to manipulate and control individuals. It also showed the dangers of social media addiction. Also, Mima's dissociative identity disorder can be related to the effects of social media on mental health, because her struggle to distinguish reality from fiction was amplified by her exposure to social media. This movie was eye-opening to me and really made me think. It's hard for me to recognize how bad reality can be sometimes. Especially since, as a male, I don't think I will ever experience anything like this. However, this movie allowed me a glimpse of some of the harshest realities that some women go through. To think this movie was made so long ago, and the problem still remains, and very well might be worse. With enough representation and discussion of the topic, I'm sure it can be solved.

[jjraderftw]

Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)

This is literally my favorite movie ever. I’ve seen it a countless number of times and can’t recommend it enough to anyone who hasn’t had this viewing pleasure. The animation looks absolutely stunning, the music is the type of beat I still hum to this day, and the characters are fun and memorable. The anime revolves around Mitsuha and Taki, two teenagers living in different towns and times who mysteriously swap bodies. They are tasked with preventing a comet disaster from occurring that would kill Mitsuha and her whole town. They prevail and eventually fall in love with each other, making for a really wholesome and fun watch. The anime talks about a vast array of themes including the possession of power, the idea of fate, modernity vs tradition, and sexuality and its connotations.

The idea of power is prevalent throughout the anime. Power is something that exists everywhere and is a force that a person can exert. With this in mind, the question becomes who holds power, or better said, who has the ability to control fate and exert a force of change? When the two main characters switch bodies, the power to control the lives of Mitsuha and Taki respectively shifts to the other protagonist. They are no longer in direct control of their lives, and are subjects to the power exerted by each other. Thinking of this idea on a larger scale, the entire cast is at the mercy of the power exerted by fate and destiny. Since Mitsuha lives in the past, fate has exerted power and control over her by controlling how she will die. It’s initially fated that her town will get destroyed. However, this power is subject to resistance in the form of Taki’s character. His determination to meet Mitsuha and save her town switches the position of power from fate/time to Taki. He, using Mitsuha’s body, helps devise a plan to save everyone. However, when he switches back to his own body and Mitsuha takes over the town’s evacuation effort, the position of power is given to Mitsuha, where she can now determine her own fate.

The idea of fate goes hand in hand with this idea of power. The red string of fate, a popular symbol for the control of one’s destiny, is a prominent theme in this movie. Mitsuha’s grandmother describes how strings represent time, how strings flow but can sometimes come undone, meet new ends, and reunite to form new threads. The idea is symbolic of destiny. Strings are the flow of time that represent the timelines in which certain events are meant to happen. However, certain “masters of fate” (string weavers) can cut the timelines, change them, and create a new future. Since Mitsuha is a string weaver, literally, she holds the power of fate. This is also symbolized with her red hair tie which is an alias for the literal red string of fate. She symbolically shares this power with Taki who is given the red string by Mitsuha. He wears fate on his hand and uses that power to change the course of history. When Mitsuha unravels her hair tie at the start of the movie, she undoes the current timeline. Taki, by wearing the hair tie, is making a new timeline by having the string meet a new end. At the end of the movie, when he gives Mitsuha her hair tie back, she wraps it around her head once more, solidifying the new flow of events.

Taki and Mitsuha contrast each other in not their bodies, but also in the locations, cultures, and ideas each character was raised in. Taki’s life is very modern and is rooted in a city where traditional beliefs are not the main focus of life. Conversely, Mitsuha lives in a rural town surrounded by nature where religious practices and traditions encompass a large facet of her life. Though the idea of a body swapping adventure sounds fantastical and nonsensical, the movie has many allusions to Japanese spirituality for its explanation of the phenomena. The movie alludes to the notion that many facets of life such as fate, time, and salvation are tied to spiritual practices and how believing and partaking in old traditions are the key to understanding and controlling such concepts. It is implied that someone living in a modern setting is devoid of such understandings of the world and thus incapable of changing the world nor their lives compared to a person of spiritual background. As a result, the movie suggests that we need tradition and spirituality in our lives in order to be true masters of our own lives. For example, Taki, in order to save Mitsuha and her village, had to commute from the city to the nature filled town out in the countryside. Once there, he was only able to get another chance to save Mitsuha by drinking sake made through traditional means in a shine.

Finally, the movie touches upon the idea of sexuality. Though I have talked about this topic a lot in the past few posts, I will say this anime has a similar mindset as other anime where it suggests that there shouldn’t be a gender norm. When each main character switches bodies, the people around Taki and Mitsuha notice how each of them act either more “masculine” or “feminine.” Their bodies act differently and show different sides of people that exist within them. Not all boys are super tough and unaccepting of emotion while not all girls are soft and frail. This show challenges the idea of conformity and encourages you to express yourself however you want. The fact that friends and families of each main character seem happy (for the most part) about their differences in behavior critiques how society should accept people who don’t conventionally fit into any preexisting mold of gender.

[kaiojustin]

I completely agree with you on the stunning animation, amazing music, and memorable characters. I appreciate how you delved into the themes of power, fate, tradition, and sexuality. Your analysis of the power dynamic between Mitsuha and Taki, and the role of tradition in understanding and controlling fate, was particularly interesting. It's amazing how this movie was able to weave these themes into a heartwarming and engaging story. Great post!

[kaiojustin]

Your Name

This was such a beautiful movie that I've been meaning to watch for a long time. I really enjoyed how unpredictable the movie was and the absolutely gorgeous artwork. It represents a few societal problems that are relevant to the modern world. First, it represents the issue of distance and disconnection in modern society. Taki and Mitsuha, despite living in the same country and being of the same age, are initially strangers to each other. They come from different backgrounds and have different experiences, yet they are able to connect through their shared experiences of body-swapping. The movie reminds me of how technology, while making communication easier, can also create distance and disconnect between people. It shows how meaningful connections can be made when people take the time to understand and empathize with each other. Additionally, the movie involves the theme of memory and the importance of preserving it. The comet that the town is preparing for is said to wipe out all memory of the town and its people. It shows how the loss of memory can lead to the loss of culture, history, and identity. This shows the importance of preserving and passing down memories, stories, and traditions to future generations. Finally, the movie demonstrates the issue of gender roles and expectations in modern society. Mitsuha, who lives in a traditional, patriarchal family, is expected to fulfill the role of a daughter and carry on her family's traditions. However, she longs for more independence and freedom to pursue her own dreams. The movie shows her struggle to break free from gender roles and expectations. This can also be seen when they swap bodies and behave differently than they normally do. While they normally act in their stereotypical way for their genders, they act opposite while being swapped. This causes people to think they are weird, when in reality, them acting masculine or feminine should not dictate whether they are weird or not. This was a really fantastic movie and I am very glad this course gave me the motivation to finally watch it.

[leiogerio]

I kind of went into this anime thinking it might be a little cringey, but I was pleasantly surprised by how funny this anime was. There were quite a few banger gags, but for some reason, none of them made me laugh as hard as when Italy yelled, “Pastaaaaaaaa!” in the first episode. I did a lmao in real life. From then on, I knew this show was gonna slap.

Personally, I think Hetalia does a great job of utilizing national stereotypes without making it too offensive. Even though the series puts heavy focus on the Axis Powers (it’s in the title, after all), it was a good move to avoid mentioning war crimes. It definitely helps keep the lighthearted tone. The series never takes itself too seriously and is not afraid to poke fun at its own characters. For example, the character representing Italy is portrayed as being lazy and cowardly, while the character representing America is depicted as being overly enthusiastic and brash. By highlighting these flaws, the series invites viewers to think critically about national stereotypes and their consequences. 

In addition to its comedic elements, Hetalia Axis Powers also provides insights into the complex dynamics of international relations. The series portrays how different countries interact with each other, often through alliances and conflicts. I even learned a few cool historical things from the series, such as when the US planned to dye Mount Fuji red as a form of psychological warfare. It sounds like something an insane supervillain would do.

[kaiojustin]

I also noticed that the countries were portrayed in a very stereotypical manner. I agree that the show did a great job at using stereotypes for comedy without making it too offensive, but maybe some people do find it offensive. It was a funny and interesting show for sure! Great post!

[kaiojustin]

Hetalia Axis Powers  (S1 Ep. 1–19)

One of the most prominent issues addressed in Hetalia Axis Powers is nationalism and its role in fueling conflicts and tensions between countries. The characters in the show show exaggerated versions of the stereotypes associated with their respective nations, highlighting the ways in which nationalism can lead to harmful and divisive attitudes. For example, in episode 1, Germany becomes increasingly frustrated with Italy's perceived laziness and lack of discipline, embodying the idea of German superiority and the Nazi ideology that led to World War II. The show also touches on issues of imperialism and colonialism, particularly in the characterizations of England and America and their relationships with their former colonies. Another problem that is represented in Hetalia Axis Powers is the issue of cultural stereotypes and the way they can reinforce prejudice and discrimination. While the show does make jokes about various cultures and nationalities, it also shows the ways in which these stereotypes can be harmful and perpetuate harmful ideas. For example, in episode 3, the character of France is portrayed as being overly flirtatious and aggressive towards women, perpetuating the idea that French men are inherently sexual predators. Similarly, in episode 9, Japan is portrayed as being overly obsessed with anime and manga, reinforcing the stereotype that all Japanese people are otakus. Gender stereotypes are also addressed in the show, particularly in the way in which it portrays male and female characters. While male characters like America and Russia are often depicted as powerful and dominant, female characters like Hungary and Ukraine are portrayed as more passive and subservient. This reinforces the idea that men are supposed to be strong and assertive, while women are supposed to be nurturing and accommodating. Finally, the show also represents the issue of cultural appropriation and the way that dominant cultures can appropriate and exploit the cultural practices of marginalized groups. In episode 13, the character of America is depicted as trying to appropriate and commercialize traditional Native American culture, reflecting the way that Western societies have often taken from and exploited the cultures of indigenous people.

[plusultranumber1]

My Thoughts on Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind

I thought that this film was pretty okay, it wasn’t great but it wasn’t terrible. The heroism of Nausicaa and Lord Yupa definitely carried. The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world a 1000 years after the collapse of industrial civilization, and the landscape has turned to a toxic jungle like The Last of Us, which spreads and threatens the survival of the human race. I thought the dynamics of the plot also held similarities to Dune. The film has a strong anti-war sentiment and is heavily focused on the dire ecological consequences of humanity’s pollution. The film features a young princess named Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, and her struggle to protect her people and save humanity from certain extinction. Nausicaa is a protector of all life, and uses her strong connection to nature and her strong yet gentle disposition to save the day.

Nausicaa is portrayed as an idealistic strong female protagonist, as she is capable of overcoming insane tribulations while maintaining traditional femininity. She is a pacifist and nature conservationist at heart, and is willing to be the sacrificial lamb at any moment. While she is more than capable of fighting for her people, she becomes afraid of herself when her rage drives her to kill during the siege, and breaks down when she encounters others who are willing to wage war. This is meant to show the downside of the hegemonic masculine norm, and the harm of violence and warfare. Nausicaa represents a balance of a kind spirit who is willing to lay it all on the line for the righteous cause. Her selflessness and steadfast determination make her the ideal candidate as the prophesied savior, a metaphorical Christ-figure, who is meant to guide humanity back to purity. 

The film’s anti-war sentiment can be seen through the devastating effects of war on not only the planet, but also its inhabitants. The Kingdoms beyond the Valley of the Wind are torn by war and starvation, which have led them to become heartless conquerors and rulers. Despite Tolmekia coming in the name of peace, its true goals were much more nefarious, and its counterpart Pejite was no better. The nations have become infected with greed, and have lost sight of their shared humanity, much like the world of their past. The differences in ideology can also be seen in Princesses Kushana, a warmongering maniac who, despite being saved and shown mercy, continues on her destructive path. Nausicaa on the other hand is appalled at the justification of killing people for the good of the planet, and stands in defiance of solutions born of violence. 

The film’s stance on the protection of the ecosystem is evident throughout its runtime. While the people believe that the creatures which have come in response to rid humanity, the insects only serve to preserve the planet because of humanity’s failure in the past. Aside from Nausicaa and the Obaba, humanity believes that humans and insects cannot coexist, and the insects are meant to be exterminated despite having done nothing wrong.  Because of her belief that life is sacred, Nausicaa learns to make a connection with the creatures, and becomes the only one able to communicate with them. I found the scene towards the end of the film when Obaba gives up hope when she sees the stampede of Ohms as a symbol of the old generation who has given up trying to save the earth, while the Princess, representing the younger generation, has not yet given up. Ultimately, the Princess is rewarded for her efforts to save the Ohms, and is given new life, representative of nature giving humanity a chance to change its way in its rebirth. 

[kaiojustin]

I also caught the anti-war and protection of the ecosystem stances in the movie. I thought it was a great movie that did a great job representing some major issues in society both at the time it was created and in the modern day today. Great post!

[kaiojustin]

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind

One of the societal problems represented in Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind is environmental destruction and its impact on society. The world in which the movie takes place has been devastated by pollution and war, and this has caused widespread ecological damage. The toxic jungle that threatens to overrun the remaining human settlements is a symbol of the destruction caused by humanity's greed and disregard for the environment. The movie portrays the consequences of environmental degradation, including the loss of fertile land, clean water, and biodiversity. This theme resonates with contemporary society, as the world faces an ongoing climate crisis and environmental degradation caused by human activities. Another societal problem represented in the movie is the consequences of war and militarism. The movie takes place in a world that has been devastated by war, and the remnants of the conflict still impact society. The remnants of weapons of mass destruction continue to threaten human settlements, and the tension between factions can lead to further conflict. The movie also portrays the consequences of militarism, including the dehumanization of the enemy, and the destructive impact it can have on society. Nausicaa herself embodies an anti-war sentiment, advocating for peace and understanding between different factions. The movie also explores the societal problem of social inequality and oppression. The world in which the movie takes place is divided into different factions, each with its own set of rules and social norms. The Tolmekian faction, which seeks to use military force to control the world, oppresses the inhabitants of the Valley of the Wind. The movie portrays the struggles of the common people against their oppressors and the power dynamics between different factions. This theme resonates with contemporary society, where social inequality and oppression continue to be significant issues. Finally, the movie explores the societal problem of the human condition and the search for meaning in life. Nausicaa is depicted as a compassionate and empathetic character who is driven by her desire to bring peace to the world. The movie portrays the search for meaning in life and the importance of living a life that is true to oneself.

[kaiojustin]

SwampCon

SwampCon is an anime convention that celebrates otaku culture. Otaku culture is characterized by an intense interest in anime, manga, video games, cosplay, and other forms of Japanese pop culture. Otaku culture has become a significant part of youth culture in America, and SwampCon is one of the many events that celebrate this subculture. I had the privilege to be able to attend SwampCon and experience what otaku culture represents and what it meant to be a part of the otaku community. While I was there, I walked around and checked out what was going on. I popped into the art room room and saw all sorts of wonderful anime-related art. I also checked out the game room and saw people having a blast. However, possibly best of all, I watched the cosplay competition and caught a glimpse of people bringing their fictional passions into reality and making it with their own creative flair. SwampCon demonstrated to me a consistency with what we learned in class regarding youth culture, fandom, and cultural identity formation. Otaku culture represents these in several ways. First, otaku culture is a subculture that emerged in Japan and is now popular among youth in America. Otaku culture has become an important part of youth culture in America because it provides a space for young people to express themselves and connect with others who share their interests. Second, otaku culture is closely related to fandom, which is a shared interest in a particular subject, such as a television show, movie, game, or book series. Fandom is characterized by a sense of community and a shared identity among fans. Otaku culture and fandom provide a space for young people to connect with others who share their interests and experiences, which can lead to the formation of a shared cultural identity. Which leads to the third point of cultural identity formation. Otaku culture is an important aspect of cultural identity formation. This shared cultural identity can be expressed through creative expression, social interaction, and other forms of cultural engagement. Cultural identity formation is a complex process that is influenced by many factors, including ethnicity, nationality, and language. Otaku culture and fandom provide a space for young people to explore their identities and connect with others who share their experiences. This can lead to the formation of a shared cultural identity, which can be expressed through creative expression, social interaction, and other forms of cultural engagement. Something else that I noticed about SwampCon that was discussed in class was the concept of unofficial cultural capital. Because SwampCon provides a space for fans of anime, manga, and other forms of Japanese pop culture to connect with each other and share their interests, this social networking allows them to form relationships with others who share their interests and values, which can lead to increased social status and opportunities in their community. Also, SwampCon offer opportunities for people to display their knowledge and expertise in various aspects of otaku culture. This display of cultural knowledge is an important aspect of cultural capital because it can demonstrate an individual's social status, intelligence, and cultural competencies. This can be seen in cosplay competitions, trivia contests, and other events where participants are recognized for their knowledge and skills in otaku culture. Additionally, SwampCon provides a marketplace for the buying and selling of anime merchandise, artwork, and other items related to otaku culture. The ability to purchase and own these items can be seen as a form of cultural capital because it demonstrates an individual's dedication and commitment to the culture. The possession of these items can also signify social status and cultural competency within the otaku community. This also allows fans to make an income off of their passions. Overall, attending SwampCon was a very enjoyable and insightful experience.

[jjraderftw]

The End of Evangelion

The first five minutes of The End of Evangelion are the most infamous scenes in classic anime. Not only is it memed to high hell, but it’s just downright wack. This movie serves as an explanation to what is happening to the last few episodes. Though often labeled an alternate ending, episodes 25 and 26 flow perfectly after the events of the movie. The series finale shows the psychological side of what’s happening in the anime while the movie explains what physically happened and how we got there. The vast amount of biblical references come full circle in this movie as we finally realize the true purpose of Gendo’s actions and Nerv’s existence.

The Human Instrumentality Project (HIP) was a way to unite all people. In our society, we are fragmented. Shattered in our views because we see people as different. Regardless of the fact that any two people are essentially the same in having a consciousness and body, discrimination happens between humans. This can be societal outcasting due to not fitting the established gender norms, differences in worldviews, or cultural/racial differences. Regardless, all of this leads to turmoil within people like Shinji, who find it not only hard to find himself as is, but finds it difficult to belong in a world constantly telling him that he isn’t normal for not fitting the established molds of masculinity. The HIP combines everyone into one consciousness where they can all grow and learn together. Though the steps taken to achieve this are quite bizarre, they are nonetheless poetic. The original beings, Adam and Lilith, meet again. In the Bible story, they were the dawn of humanity and were the ones that flooded the world with individual human life, full of sin and tainted with flaws. Here, their new meetings bring humanity back to a state that isn’t individualistic: the primordial soup. They all return to Adam and Lilith and become one mind. Since everyone shares the same mind now, Shinji can learn how others see him and they can learn the struggles and deep thoughts he has himself. When he is left alone in the new world with Asuka, the two of them serve as the new dawn of man, ones who have learned from the past and have integrated the souls of everyone who has come before them. The Union of Adam and Lilith has destroyed the old and created the two new pioneers of humanity: Shinji and Asuka. They are the new genesis. The Neon Genesis.

[kaiojustin]

This movie is crazy. It opens our mind up to so many complex philosophical thoughts. I think you raise a good point about the Human Instrumentality Project. This is certainly a way to go about dealing with the problem. Rather than what is represented in shonen manga and anime, where people are pushed to "ganbaru" and become respected.

[kaiojustin]

The End of Evangelion

The End of Evangelion tackles a wide range of societal problems that are relevant to contemporary society. One of the central themes of the movie is the issue of identity and the struggle to find one's place in society. This is particularly evident in the character of Shinji, who struggles with his own sense of identity and purpose throughout the film. The movie highlights the difficulties of navigating societal expectations and the pressure to conform to social norms, particularly in relation to gender roles and sexuality. This theme is further explored through the character of Asuka, who is shown to be struggling with her own sexuality and the expectations placed upon her as a female pilot. Another key theme of the movie is the role of authority and the potential for abuse of power. This is highlighted through the actions of the organization SEELE, which seeks to bring about the end of the world in order to achieve their own goals. The movie makes us question the motivations and actions of those in positions of authority, particularly in relation to global politics and international relations. It also highlights the need for transparency and accountability in decision-making processes, particularly in the face of global crises and the potential for catastrophic consequences. The movie also explores the issue of mental health and the impact of trauma on individuals and society as a whole. This is particularly evident in the character of Rei, who is shown to be struggling with her own sense of self and the impact of her traumatic past. The movie shows the importance of seeking help for mental health issues and the need for greater understanding and empathy towards those who are experiencing mental health challenges. Finally, the movie touches upon the issue of existentialism and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic and meaningless world. This is particularly evident in the final scenes of the movie, which portray the characters grappling with the concept of the "human instrumentality project" and the merging of all human souls into a single entity.

[jjraderftw]

Evangelion Ep 1,2,4,5

Evangelion is another classic anime that a lot of people have probably heard of. Aside from having one of the most recognizable openings ever, the show has garnered a lot of attention for its action and themes. The anime is a deconstruction of the mecha anime genre as it explores the psyche of the main character Shinji. Though it is a psychological brainbuster, I would like to focus on the idea of masculinity in this show.

Shinji himself goes against the definitions of masculinity. He is a timid boy who is trying to get through life. He is shy, sysnative, and prefers to receive instructions rather than be a leader. These are seen as weakness by characters of the show who harass and tell Shinji to “man up” everytime he shows nontraditional male features. This is social commentary on the very nature of masculinity and what it means to be a man. Shinji is not wrong in being the way he is and his character serves as an interesting case study about what society would label a “sissy” or “pushover.”

As a man, society has made it the norm to be considered fearless. To be a man according to the social construct, means to jump headfirst into danger and the unknown in order to protect others. It is expected that a man is free of emotion, is strong in physique, and confident and proud. But what happens when a male is without these traits? They go against the socially accepted hegemonic masculinity that encompasses our world and are considered different and out of line. These types of males who don’t align with these views could be different for a variety of reasons. They may be sensitive, have a frail voice, be shy and worried, may find fun in “girly” things, or not be physically strong. There are also times when males are even labeled strange or out of line for simply liking things that aren't socially acceptable/normal like video games (at least niche ones, but it's gotten better recently), anime, or otherwise niche hobbies. They may be labeled as “soy”, geeks”, “gay” etc simply because a person in question does not fall in line with the traditional expected definition of a man, despite some of these traits having nothing to do with sexual orientation. There isn’t anything wrong in liking something or behaving a certain way, but society often expects something that isn't always the case. There is no definition of a man, it's a historical label made that has become normalized. Males should be able to freely express themselves however they want. I myself have struggled with these contrasting views too. I see myself as flamboyantly expressive and sensitive but it has often been seen as a “sign of weakness” for my “male character.” I will spare the details but this has never brought me much trouble, but I know it is a pressing issue facing many people globally. Having said that, the very idea of having a gender binary serve as the basis for standardized views on how to expect a male or female person to act puts artificial pressure and expectations on individuals who do not see themselves as fitting either existing category.

[kaiojustin]

You have a really good take on this show and its representations of reality. I agree that masculinity has been an idea that is very rigid. It is pushed that men must embody these traits, or they are a failure. I think there is a lot of value in many of the defined masculine traits, but for it to be a dichotomy of you either embody it or you don't, I think is a huge mistake.

[kaiojustin]

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Ep. 1, 2, 4, 5)

One of the most significant issues that Neon Genesis Evangelion explores is the impact of trauma on mental health. Throughout the show, Shinji is shown to be struggling with emotional pain and a sense of loneliness, which is largely the result of his strained relationship with his father and the trauma of his mother's death. The show highlights the importance of mental health and the long-term effects of trauma, which can impact individuals in profound ways. By portraying Shinji's struggle with mental health, it encourages us to have greater empathy and understanding for those who may be dealing with similar issues. Another societal problem that is addressed in the show is the use of children in warfare. The Eva pilots, including Shinji, are all children who are forced to confront their fears and insecurities in the face of danger. The show highlights the moral and ethical implications of using children in warfare and the need for greater accountability on the part of adults. I think it is challenging us to consider the potential consequences of using children as soldiers and to advocate for greater protections for children in conflict zones. The show also addresses the relationship between humans and technology. The Eva units are depicted as both powerful weapons and living beings, and it raises questions about the nature of humanity and the impact of technology on our lives. It encourages us to consider the potential consequences of relying too heavily on technology and to advocate for responsible development and use of technology. This problem represent my life experiences because when I was a kid and teenager, I relied exclusively on technology to give myself happiness. I neglected relationship building/human connection and other physically and mentally healthy activities. I lived in a digital world, while the real world actually offers us everything we need and more.