Class musing

[orionautoparts]

Death Note eps. 1, 2, 5, 10, 11

Fun fact: Death Note was the first series that I read the manga before I watched the show. The all-in-one edition is just a brick. I love it. Anyway, the reason why I liked this series was because it features a morally gray character like Light. Light’s power of killing anyone in the world by just writing their name down in a small black notebook is a scary kind of power, and episode 1 does a great job showing how easily it can be corrupted. Light starts off saying he wants to make the world a better place, but by the end of the episode, he’s already gone full megalomaniac. Then episode 2 really started to show how terrifying Light can be. He’s incredibly smart, but also extremely manipulative and delusional. The scene where he outwits the fake news broadcast just to test his power was insane. That moment reminded me that the illusion of justice can devolve into a tool for control and ego. When we see more of L, he’s just as smart as Light but with a completely different energy. The dynamic between Light and L feels like a high-stakes chess match, and it's fun to watch. You can really feel the tension building with every small move either of them makes. The later episodes only deepen that intensity. Seeing how Light manipulates the FBI agents was shocking. It’s wild how he can take a life so calmly, just to eliminate any threats. It made me ask the question: if you had the power to kill without consequence, would you use it? 

[nicky62]

I think that if a person had the power to kill without consequences, they would inevitably use it. The level of which they use it may vary depending on the person and their individual circumstances, but knowing you have that option will greatly influence how a person would handle themselves. Whether trying to become a perfect pacifist, because of the fear that you might use that power, until the eventual mental snap or abusing it from the get go like Light. And the many in between those situations that will inevitably use it. Just my pessimistic thoughts.

[nicky62]

Death Note - Individual vs Societal Justice

Personally when I realized we were going to be watching Death Note I was tempted to skip the anime and watch the live action adaptation, and then just compare my thoughts with the thoughts of those who watched the anime. I decided against it, because I’ve seen the movie before and honestly, it is painfully cringeworthy. I guess the producers thought a flashy reboot would save a story that doesn’t translate well to a two-hour format.

So I just watched the recommended episodes and found that a major theme is developed in the cat-and-mouse game between Light and L. Throughout the anime we see the growing conflict between Light and L as they play a dangerous mental game of lies and questions. It creates a constant tension in the anime as

their conflict isn't just about catching a criminal or proving who's smarter; it digs deep into the realms of individual and societal morality, justice, and power dynamics. It’s fascinating to see how both characters represent different philosophies regarding what justice truly means. 

Light Yagami, as Kira, embodies a sort of self-appointed god complex where he believes he has the right to judge who deserves to live or die. His sense of justice is incredibly personal and subjective, showcasing how power can corrupt even the noblest intentions. On the other hand, L represents a more systemic approach to justice, relying on rules, logic, and due process. This clash creates not just a battle of intellect, but also raises questions about the ethics of vigilantism versus institutional law.

Throughout the series, as Light and L engage in their dangerous mental game filled with lies and manipulative strategies, the tension becomes almost palpable. Every episode leaves you on the edge of your seat, wondering who will come out on top. Their interactions are so thrilling that you can practically feel the stakes rising with every new twist and turn. It’s this constant push and pull that makes Death Note, in my opinion, not just an engaging story, but also a deep reflection on justice in society.

[clnme]

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

I haven't seen Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood before, so I don't have much of the context of the episodes outside of the ones we were tasked to watch. I was able to notice the themes of war and racism in the Ishvalan genocide and war in the show, which was apparently orchestrated by someone who shot an Ishvalan child while disguised as an Amestrian soldier, for the purpose of creating a Philosopher's Stone. I don't really know how to talk about war and stuff in an analysis though. However, I did notice that this was similar to the claim made in Sensōron that Chinese soldiers had disguised themselves as Japanese soldiers and orchestrated a large portion of the Nanjing Massacre. In both of these scenarios, the end result fuels the war through the dehumanization of the side who apparently committed the atrocity, which is how further war and genocide often get justified by modern nations.

Aside from dehumanization, I also noticed a sort of cyclic nature of vengeance and hatred. As the different sides in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood commit evil, it causes the opposite side to fight back as a result of this vengeance and hatred. This can go on back and forth between the two sides over and over again, and eventually the original reason is lost. I didn't really notice that last part in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, but it was a theme that I was reminded of from other works.

There were also themes of surveillance and government control. King Bradley is a strong example of this, as through his "Ultimate Eye," he maintains control through constant surveillance. This is very similar to the concept of Panopticism that we explored earlier in the semester, and also similar to the method of control used by authoritarian regimes in the real world as well.

[nicky62]

I hadn’t even thought about connecting King Bradley’s “Ultimate Eye” to the Panopticon, but I do see the connection now and am curious how much someone could explore the theme. Because while we do see so some level of self-regulation due to the “Ultimate Eye”, it is distinctively not the overwhelming control explores within the idea of the Panopticon. Even in Psycho-Pass there was a lack of complete control. So what do these anime’s have to say on the ‘complete and total’ power of the Panopticon idea?

[nicky62]

FMA:B - The Cost of Ambition

I’ve watched FullMetal Alchemist before, both the original and brotherhood. Personally I enjoy brotherhood more because of the little fixes and alterations to the plot that make everything flow smoother. I am a little sad that our episode list didn't let me see Nina, cause she is my most favorite character. It’s horrible what was done to her, but she is an adorable and kind character before and after, (really wanted her father to suffer more than he did). 

Anyways, watching those specific episodes made me realize a couple of things. Since I had seen the entire series before, it was a bit hard to focus on the themes or ideas specific to those episodes, especially when I had all this backstory in my mind. But if I had to pinpoint a main idea covered in those episodes, I think they all explore the cost of ambition. You see the characters pushing themselves to their limits, whether it’s striving for power, knowledge, or even redemption. They’re constantly weighing their desires against the potential consequences, and it raises some tough questions. What are you willing to sacrifice for your goals? Is it worth the price? Those deeper themes are what keep the show so compelling and they provide a great means of exploring human hubris and our pursuit of desire. 

And in each episode, we see that so often the price isn’t worth it. It may be deemed an equivalent exchange, but often the characters are left regretting their choice. (Horrifically enough, Nina’s dad is one of the few people who never regret the cost of their ambition… he should have suffered more.)

[tayonpa]

Akira

Akira is a film that, whether you realize it or not, you have likely heard something about it. Specifically, there is a high chance that you have at least heard the audio from him saying “Leave me alone!” Nonetheless, it is a film that I have never watched and was intrigued to see. 

Diving in, there was definitely a heavy tone surrounding the entire film. We watch as our main character goes through intense changes and is unable to control them. The film is set in Neo-Tokyo, the aftermath of the explosion caused by Akira. Akira’s ability to create this destruction stems from his psychic abilities that emerged following the experiments conducted by the government on children. This heavily reminds me of our discussion of Shin Sekai Yori. Although immoral, the government believes that they can harness the evolving power of the human race, but only by finding ways to experiment on/control the youth. This film also reminded me of our discussion on Barefoot Gen, and how children following these mass-destructive events are essentially lost. They are forced to find their own sense of purpose/drive as everything that has been known about their world has been altered. Focusing on the physic abilities, we watch as the film comments on power dynamics. Tetsuo starts off as a weak child, but eventually unlikes these abilities that empower him. Essentially, all forms of control are removed from him, which could be liberating for him. However, his inability to control these abilities, leads his mental state to decompose. Once again, this reminds me of the Fiend from Shin Sekai Yori and her enormous power which leads to uncontrolled destructive capabilities. Overall, this film was entirely different than I was thinking it would be. With its heavy tone and overall disparity, I was very surprised with its perspective, but I found the film to be quite good.

[nicky62]

since this is one of my personal favorites, I’m very happy that you enjoyed it. I also agree with the way you pointed out the movies focus on the suffering youth. I personally think that Kaneda and his gang are a great exploration of how the younger generation can be frustrated by those that lived through such large scale destruction, and subsequently act out. Such frustrations stem not wholly from a lack of understanding, but also from the way the older generation may disregard or oppress the newer generation, because ‘they are so young and don’t fully understand’. It’s a ln interesting take.

[nicky62]

Akire - Contrasting endings

Akira is undoubtedly one of my favorite anime, not only because my dad introduced it to me but also due to its captivating story and stunning visuals. The movie is a hallmark of the cyberpunk genre and has left an indelible mark on the anime landscape since its release. It is a really good anime that explores themes such as power, rebellion, and the implications of technology on human existence. However, what was most interesting to me is the ending of the film, which contrasts sharply with its original manga source material. 

When I first watched Akira, I was completely unaware that it was based on a manga series created by Katsuhiro Otomo. I simply enjoyed watching the anime, and never thought to actually explore the story and its origins. Once I learned about the manga and started reading it, I was struck by how different it was from the anime adaptation. The manga obviously delves deeper into the characters and has more time to workout and explore the themes, offering a richer story overall. In particular, there is a notable amount of content that the anime omitted, some of which plays a significant role in the overall arc of the story. However, I believe that the decisions made in the adaptation were largely for the best, given the constraints of the movie, the need for a more streamlined narrative, and the dark content of the omitted material. Focusing on the movie's ending, I find it to be a more optimistic conclusion to Tetsuo's arc compared to what is presented in the manga. In the anime, the climactic moments see Tetsuo, alongside Akira and the other Espers, transcending their destined paths to leave behind their chaotic reality. This suggests a sense of hope and renewal—the idea that despite chaos and destruction, there is potential for rebirth and a new beginning. Conversely, in the manga, Tetsuo meets a starkly more dismal fate; he is destroyed rather than saved, illustrating a pessimistic outlook on the impact of youthful rebellion against systemic injustices.

 These contrasting endings provoke thought about the nature of growth and consequence. The anime’s optimistic resolution suggests that transformation can emerge from turmoil, embodying hope in the face of adversity. On the other hand, the manga highlights the tragic potential outcomes of rebellion when ideals clash with harsh realities. This duality in endings serves as a great commentary on the struggles faced by youth in a society plagued by injustice, ultimately reflecting the complex nature of human experience through these narratives. Both versions offer valuable insights, making Akira a masterpiece worth exploring in both forms.

[o1kiwi]

Sensoron

I found the overall work of Sensoron to be a great example of revisionism and, at times, flat-out misinformation. Given what the author was trying to communicate, about how 'Japan was treated unfairly' and 'the Allies did bad stuff too' clearly attempts to downplay the atrocities committed by the nation during the war. Instead of taking an objective standpoint and accepting that, while the Allies did do some morally questionable things during the war, Japan is guilty of the same, the author attempts to frame the West as the "real" bad guys, and the root of a grand array of problems in modern Japanese society. One thing I think the author did not intend to showcase (but does) is the mental gymnastics that he has to go through in order to justify Japan and delegitimize the West. I thought the entire first sequence about the trials and the subsequent Western involvement in Japan was far-fetched, with elements of truth buried in it - but as soon as the author started accusing photos displaying Japanese war crimes as fake, comparing them to UFOs and ghosts, the argument lost any shred of legitimacy. Through these perspectives, Sensoron communicates a perspective that is unhinged at best and deliberately deceptive at worst.

[nicky62]

I agree with your analysis on how the manga downplays Japan's own faults while arguing against the wrongs of America. That attitude is one of the most distinctive things about war and conflicts, in that there is always an argument for the other side. In my opinion, it is an interesting, if incredibly biased read.

[marsisfried]

Sensoron Analysis & Review

This manga initially presents itself as a patriotic reflection on Japan's history but it becomes far more poltiical and crafts a selective and emotionally charged retelling of World War II that attempts to rehabilitate Japan's image. This revisionist framing doesn't jjust distort history, it actively undermines broader effort to onfront the darker aspects of the past.

One of the most surprising things is how the manga idolizes Japanese soldiers. They're portrayed as selfless heroes defending their nation, while modern Japanese society is criticized for being weak and overly individualistic. This glorification completely disregards the suffering experienced by civilians in countries affected by Japanese imperialism. The manga doesn't just minimize those experiences, it completely erases them. Gellner argues that nations are built through shared symbols and myths, not natural identities. Sensoron reads like an attempt to construct a national myth, favoring pride over accountability. The manga uses carefully chosen narratives to build a sense of collective identity rooted in heroism while omitting the voices of the people who were harmed.

The mangaka criticizes modern activists for discussing wartime atrocities, arguing that people who weren't alive during the war can't fully understand it. YET he wasn't alive then and still uses his voice to create works of his interpretation of the art. He denounces individualism, yet pleads with readers not to judge the entire Japanese military for the actions of a few individuals. He does this while also not having an issue generalizing other societies (Americans and Europeans) and describes them as morally weak and selfish which I find funny. The manga tries to debunk atrocities and present them as historically dishonest and can be deeply offensive to the memory of the victims. It uses actions and comparisons to deflect rather than reflect on their actions.

So while the manga may present itself as a meditation on national identity and war, it almost functions more as propaganda, prioritizing national pride over historical honesty.

[nicky62]

I definitely agree with your thoughts. The manga definitely proposes strongly biased ideas that argue for a very traditional and stereotypical idea. The idea of how heroic the Japanese soldiers and people were during the war and how united they were completely disregards the many soldiers and people who were forced to fight and suffer in a war they had already lost. Yes, both sides did wrong, and yes, the winners got to write the history books. However, the idea that in war one side is good and one side is bad will forever be a fallible ideology.

[nicky62]

Sensoron - Paradoxical Individualism

Kobayashi’s Sensoron is a provocative satirical manga that examines the nature of societal control, individualism, and the power of propaganda. The manga offers a sharp critique of post-war Japanese identity and the pervasive influence of historical narratives in shaping the collective consciousness of individuals. The chapter explores how people, especially those influenced by the Tokyo War Crimes Trial, become entrapped in a version of individualism that is, paradoxically, the result of external manipulation and state-sanctioned narratives.

The Tokyo War Crimes Trial, which took place after World War II, served as a pivotal moment in Japan’s reckoning with its wartime actions. However, Kobayashi’s satire in this chapter suggests that the trial and its aftermath led to a form of ideological brainwashing, where the population’s sense of self and identity was shaped by an imposed narrative rather than organic, critical thinking. The manga critiques the post-war environment where citizens, driven by a desire to rebuild and conform to Western ideals, accepted a form of individualism that was, in fact, a product of political manipulation.

In Sensoron, this brainwashing manifests as characters who believe they have developed their own sense of autonomy, yet they are unknowingly following a narrative constructed by the authorities. This manipulation is subtly embedded within their everyday lives, where they think they are asserting their freedom and individuality, while in reality, they are merely conforming to the expectations of the powers that be. Kobayashi illustrates how these individuals, while appearing free-thinking, have their actions and beliefs shaped by the legacy of the War Crimes Trial and the larger political landscape that followed. The manga’s critique is multifaceted: it touches on the themes of historical revisionism, the shaping of collective memory, and the consequences of a population disconnected from its true history. Kobayashi’s satire in chapter 4 ultimately highlights the irony of a society that values individualism but is unknowingly trapped by the very structures that supposedly allow for self-expression and autonomy. Through humor and exaggeration, Sensoron explores the tension between genuine self-determination and the manufactured versions of individuality imposed by political powers.

[difanime]

Your Name Foucault - "Method"

This anime has always been known for its stunning animation, but after watching it closely this time, I began to feel how much it quietly expresses emotion through absence and silence. At first, the story felt like a romantic mystery. Taki and Mitsuha keep waking up in each other’s bodies, writing notes to one another as they try to live each other’s lives. They never meet in person, yet somehow their feelings grow stronger. They share memories, but not all at once. They are connected by emotion, but not always by time. The anime never forces an explanation on us. Instead, it builds meaning through gestures and moments.

What made this story feel deeper is the way it ties personal memory to collective loss. When the characters learn about the comet disaster, the tension shifts from romantic confusion to a race against time. Mitsuha’s whole town is in danger. Taki tries to save people he cannot even remember. Even though the story uses magical realism, it reflects something very real. This is a story about remembering those who are forgotten. About holding on to what matters, even when you are not sure why it matters. It is also about the quiet spaces between people, where love and care can form without words.

Foucault talks about power not as a single structure, but as something that is everywhere, hidden inside ordinary relationships. I thought about this while watching the way Mitsuha’s life is shaped by tradition, family, and gender expectations. Her choices are watched closely. Her actions are tied to her role as a daughter and a shrine maiden. Meanwhile, Taki is shaped by a different set of expectations in the city. Neither of them is completely free, but their connection lets them see the world differently. They help each other break away, not through rebellion, but through mutual care.

This anime never directly critiques society. It never raises its voice. Yet it still questions the systems that determine who we remember and who we forget. The body-switching is not just for laughs. It becomes a way to imagine empathy, to experience someone else’s world without explanation. It shows how power works quietly through memory, emotion, and relationships. The comet is not just a disaster. It is a metaphor for what disappears when people are not seen. The final message is not about changing history, but about carrying forward what we almost lost.

[nicky62]

I think this is a great exploration of the themes and messages in this anime. The idea that both aspects of the main plot symbolize human connection and loss is a really interesting thought. Personally, I loved the way this anime communicates human empathy and the intrinsic desire people have to form real and meaningful connections with others.

[nicky62]

Your Name - Human Connection

"Your Name" directed by Makoto Shinkai, explores the theme of human connection through its unique narrative and stunning visuals. At its core, the story revolves around two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously begin to swap bodies. This strange experience serves as a catalyst for their new relationship, highlighting the intrinsic human desire for connection in both a physical and emotional sense. From the moment Taki and Mitsuha first experience their body swaps, they are thrust into each other's lives, providing a perspective that transcends their geographical and cultural differences. Taki, a boy living in Tokyo, struggles with his busy urban life, while Mitsuha, a girl from a rural town, yearns for the excitement of city life. As they navigate each other's daily routines, they inadvertently form a bond that goes beyond mere curiosity; they develop an understanding and empathy for one another's circumstances. This connection becomes a vital lifeline, showcasing how even in a disconnected world, individuals can forge deep, meaningful relationships. The film beautifully emphasizes the non permanent nature of human connections. As Taki and Mitsuha grapple with their timelines and the consequences of their body-swapping phenomenon, they confront the pain of potential separation. This theme resonates deeply, reflecting the real-world struggles of maintaining relationships amidst life's unpredictability. Their journey is a great reminder of how connections can be both a source of joy and a source of heartache. Moreover, the stunning visual portrayal of Tokyo and the rural landscapes of Itomori serves as a backdrop that enhances the narrative. The change of seasons, vibrant colors, and moments of stillness reinforce the emotions tied to their connection, providing a visual language that resonates with the audience. The film culminates in a breathtaking climax that encapsulates the essence of longing and the desire for reconnection, culminating in an emotional payoff that leaves viewers reflecting on their own relationships. By blending fantasy with relatable themes, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own lives and the unpredictable nature of human connection. "Your Name" is a universal exploration of how humans seek connection despite the overwhelming forces that often divide them.

[luigi-schia]

Hetalia Axis Powers

I never thought there would be an anime about the countries in this way, but I guess I was wrong. To be fair even "I was reincarnated as a vending machine" is a manga so anything is possible I guess. This anime is very clearly a silly anime, but it does tackle real world problems, though in this case it depicts the major wars and disputes between countries as minor arguements between people. This whole decontextualization I believe is one of the main points of this anime, much like what Annett talks about in her essay. Although Im sure the parodic nature of the anime was not meant to harm or offend anyone, it often does and its a problem that has more or less happened with anime as of late. With the main goal of generating more interest or content by using niche or funny topics to create discourse about the subject. Although the anime is funny and having the countries do silly things can be cute, I do think talking about very serious problems like these in this manner could not have the intended effect. After all anime is for kids and im not sure how the airing situation was with this anime I feel like downplaying it this much can give kids the wrong idea. If someones concern is whether or not they can handle the actual reality of these events, then I would say the simple answer is to just not talk about it until they are. Stuff like this shouldn't be dumbed down because then it loses the real effect it had on the world.

[nicky62]

I have to disagree with one point you made, saying that anime is intended for kids. Anime is just one of many different media used to express a story. In particular, because this anime is an extremely characterized, satirical work, I agree that it should not be for kids. It deals with major historical tragedies out of context, and in a way meant to showcase how 'childish' and 'petty' they were. However, as you said, this means the anime disregards the actual causes and consequences of these events to the detriment of those who are unaware. But once again, this piece is a work of satire intended for those who know history, not to learn about it for the first time.

[nicky62]

Hetalia Axis Powers - Overshadowing themes

“Hetalia Axis Powers” is a unique anime created by Hidekaz Himaruya that combines history with humorous portrayals of different countries during WWII as humans. While this is mostly a joke anime to people, a fun but essentially simplistic anime, it does notably display the complex relationships between the Axis Powers—Germany, Italy, and Japan—and the Allies, notably America, Britain, and France. It also touches upon some other themes through the comedic interactions of the different countries.

The most prominent theme in "Hetalia" is the anthropomorphization of nations, which allows for a humorous yet poignant exploration of national stereotypes and cultural differences. Each character embodies distinct traits that reflect the histories and common perceptions of their respective countries. For example, Italy is depicted as carefree and pasta-loving, while Germany is portrayed as rigid and disciplined. This exaggeration serves as both entertainment and commentary on how national identities shape people’s interactions and diplomacy. The method of turning each country into a human version connects back to the objectification of parts of nature, or in this case societal ideas.

Another significant theme is the absurdity of war and conflict. While the backdrop of the story is World War II, the portrayal of the characters and their interactions transforms serious historical events into comedic situations. The series highlights the ridiculousness of national rivalries through lighthearted skits and misunderstandings, making it accessible and engaging for audiences. The use of humor diffuses the tension typically associated with discussions about war, encouraging viewers to reflect on the absurd aspects of international relations. 

Key plot points often revolve around misadventures and interactions between the main characters. Episodes frequently depict everyday life scenarios infused with historical context, such as negotiations that devolve into slapstick comedy or iconic battles represented through amusing caricatures. This narrative style invites viewers to not only appreciate historical events but also recognize the human elements behind them—friendship, misunderstanding, and rivalry are universally relatable themes that transcend time and geography, and in this particular anime they overshadow the themes of human violence and hubris so often associated with conflict.

In conclusion, "Hetalia Axis Powers" successfully blends comedy with history, utilizing exaggerated stereotypes and humorous plot points to explore themes of national identity and the absurdity of conflict. By doing so, it offers a unique perspective on history that encourages reflection while entertaining its audience.

[marsisfried]

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

I went into Xenoblade Chronicles 2 expecting a fun fantasy JRPG with cool swords and yeah, it has all that. But what I didn't expect was how devastatingly real it would get with its themes. After watching Nausicaa Valley of the Wind, I found myself thinking more about climate change, exploitation, and the whole "what are we even doing as a species" thing.

The world of Alrest is made up of these giant living Titans that people live on but they're all slowly dying. Sinking into the Cloud Sea and no one knows how to stop it. Every cutscene reminds you: that the lad is disappearing. People are running out of space, resources, and hope. The slow collapse isn't just a part of the scene but the main problem everyone's trying to survive.

Cobb writes about how humans, unlike every other species, live beyond natural limits. We don't adapt to nature, we remake it. But power has a cost. We've pushed ecosystems to the brink and now we're not sure how to live in the world we've broken. What Xenoblade 2 gets right is the idea that when nature collapses, everything else does too. Politics, society, identity. The nations in Alrest are clashing because the land itself is shrinking. It's the same story Cobb tells about modern civilization pushing past limits, ignoring that nature has limits, and now scrambling to hold itself together. Additionally, the Blaes are sentient beings with memories, emotions, and tragic fates. They get used and reused, sometimes with care and sometimes just for power. It's an allegory for nature. They're resources and people. The way we treat Blades says everything about how we treat the world and each other. Schimelpfenig talks about how we've bought into a worldview that treats nature as something to use, not something we're a part of. The strongest characters are the ones who bond with their blades, not control them. It's Merleau Ponty's philosophy in action, we're not observers of nature, we are nature, and the split is a lie we've told ourselves.

With Elysium, what if we're chasing it the same way we chase Mars or post-apocalyptic survival fantasies because we've given up on Earth? Cobb warns us that faith in heroic science is just another illusion. We think we can fix the planet's carbon capture, electric cars, etc, but it's the mentality that needs fixing.

[nicky62]

I totally agree with the idea that it is our mentality about nature that needs to change first. Humans are so enamored with our abilities to alter our environment beyond what any other animal can do that we have removed ourselves from the cycle of nature. It connects back to the idea that humans chase after divinity and often try to become God-like in search of purpose, superiority, or power. It's a complex theme that connects back to the ideas of human nature and inherent evils. Anyways, I won't go on a tangent, but it is an interesting discussion.

[nicky62]

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 - Connections to Nausicaa

Understanding the actual details of the plot for this game, much less understanding or even caring about the characters introduced, is a ridiculously difficult task. While watching anime, we have seen how confusing things can get when you skip episodes, but because animes are meant to be solely watched, it is still possible to get an understanding of the characters and plot. Only watching about half of the cutscenes and not having any of the supporting gameplay or dialogue made understanding or caring about anything in this game near impossible. However, it was still possible to get an idea of the similar themes presented in Nausicaä that Xenoblade Chronicles 2 explores.

The core theme in Xenoblade Chronicles 2 revolves around humanity's interplay with nature and the consequences that arise from exploitation. Players witness a world filled with Titans, colossal creatures that are a source of life and embodiment of nature. This mirrors the narrative in Nausicaä, where the film argues against human shortsightedness and its impact on the environment. Throughout the game, the struggle between maintaining balance in nature and succumbing to greed is evident. Characters grapple with moments of destruction that serve not just as battle mechanics but as poignant reminders of choices that lead to ecological ruin.

Furthermore, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 delves into the concept of destiny versus free will, echoing themes from Nausicaä once again. The characters are often faced with choices that challenge their preconceived notions of power and responsibility. They must confront the legacy of their actions not just for themselves but for future generations, paralleling Nausicaä’s fight against the destructive tendencies of her own people.

In conclusion, despite the convoluted way in which we had to view the plot, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, compellingly explores these themes of environmental stewardship and the cyclical nature of life. Through engaging with these narratives, we can glean insights into human responsibility toward the world, invoking critical reflection on the balance humans maintain with their surroundings.

[nicky62]

Swamp-Con

I’ve had quite a few experiences with Comic-Cons and other conventions, including some foreign and limited edition conventions. However, my experiences were a little different than someone who was just casually attending. I usually worked the conventions as part of the guest hospitality team. I helped provide refreshments and maintained the break area where the convention's guest speakers, VIP’s, and other important personalities went to get away from the chaos of the convention. So while I could attend the con after working and when on break I still had to deal with my work requirements first. My thoughts on those conventions were always about how diverse and impressive the cons were. Whether it was a single day event or a week long convention, the size of the audience and the amount of work put into it was amazing. On an individual level the work put into the cosplays was incredible, I got to see some impressive as fuck cosplays and some weird ones to. Comparing those cosplays to the ones I saw at Swamp-Con would probably be the only good comparison. The variety in quality and subject matched with what I expected at a con, and while yes the cosplay designs at Swamp-Con were not as large scale as some I’d seen before they still showed cosplays with a lot of work and detail and some that were just weird.

Swamp-Con was interesting, but definitely smaller than any other convention I had been to. The art was cool and there were a lot of local artists, which makes sense considering that Swamp-Con is a UF attempt of a larger con. I think that is the most notable aspect of fandom, the fact that people and fans will work to create their own gatherings and conventions in order to enjoy that sense of community. The artworks themselves are also interesting to me, because while there were a lot of works of fandom, shadow culture capital, there were just as many works of art that could be considered part of ‘normal’ cultural capital. Which is very similar to actual large conventions.

Which brings us back to the differences of UF Swamp-Con and any larger conventions. While this may sound overly critical, having experienced so many other cons this was a rather dismal one. The biggest detail I noted was that this was very much a one faceted convention. Swamp-Con is a UF attempt at an Anime-Con specifically, which is not bad, but it limits the audience. I am sure if you dug through the whole con you could find plenty of non-anime stuff, but it would still be anime adjacent and greatly outweighed by the anime focused material. I get that Swamp-Con is a means of bringing the convention environment to college students who may not be able to attend the larger conventions, and it gives them an opportunity to both attend and participate. In my opinion it is a so-so experience and could use improvement for future times. Overall, a fun event to go to with friends!

[niertiers]

Media Analysis: Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

[BEGIN REPORT]

Whoa… this movie’s world reminds me a lot of how the Earth looks like right now… except the humans are still living in it. One could easily compare the Giant Warriors in the movie with the aliens that invaded Earth and drove humans off thousands of years ago. As for the bugs… could they possibly compare to the machines...?

Bahahahah- I-I mean, there’s no way! Machine lifeforms could never be so intelligent… right?

Well, enough about machines. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind was a very, very interesting watch. I thought the depictions of human destruction of nature to be very creative and smart.

Although we are led to believe that the destruction of nature that was brought about by the Seven Days of Fire was not the fault of humanity, the movie does hint at the fact that nature’s failure to restore itself is by Nausicaä’s mention of the soil having been made infertile by some sort of entity. Seeing as most humans find the only solution to mitigating decay to be to burn it, there’s no doubt that they were likely responsible for this.

I was really touched by the protagonist’s empathy when I watched the movie. I think it really goes to show how empathy is something of a virtue in humanity. It is a quality that few possess, but that has the power to end suffering once and for all. Nausicaä does a really good job at showing this, as her way of resolving conflicts is always through peace, using violence only when her people are being attacked.

Speaking of peace, the movie definitely means to send a message about the destructiveness of war. Because of the conflict between the Pejite and the Tolmekia, insects were angered, decay was spread even further, and several human lives were lost. The parties at conflict thought that only more destruction could bring peace to the Earth, without realizing that they were only perpetuating the destruction of life itself. This is not only in line with the anti-war sentiment reflected in other Miyazaki films, but also presents environmentalist messages that would continue to be relevant for decades after the film’s release.

With all the warnings that they had, how did humans manage to still ignorantly destroy their environment…? Perhaps this attitude is worth exploring further.

[END OF REPORT]

[nicky62]

Okay, so your introduction to this post confused me to no end. I reread that first paragraph at least eight times, trying to figure out what you were talking about, but I eventually moved on, and the rest of your post made a lot more sense. I do agree that this movie presents some strong anti-war messages and explores themes of human-nature balance. I think the bugs are a great way of representing the natural order of life, and how, when it is disturbed, it will destroy everything around it to right that sense of balance. I think this makes Nausicaa's willingness to engage peacefully with them all the more impactful as she shows how humanity can coexist in balance with nature and the world around us.