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Where Is My Mind?; JJK

JJK is many things to many people- the inspiration behind fanfiction, a medium from which to source cosplay ideas, the subject of thinkpieces, the occasional “who would win in a fight” YouTube video, and an excuse to watch a story that is essentially a portmanteau of Naruto and Harry Potter- but I never expected it to get to me. Full disclosure, I was never really able to get into JJK; not for any one reason, it just never stuck with me. Maybe I’m Shonen Jump-ed out or suffering from “Chosen One” fatigue, but the show never seemed to make it’s mark on my soul the way it had for other people- which is something that gnawed away at me for months, if not years on end, my inability to assimilate into the current cultural supernova; however- I think that’s changed now.

Season Two of JJK, the “Hidden Inventory” arc, is essentially a prequel, which might be part of why I was able to really get into it this go-round. Chronicling the story of Gojo “Six-Eyes” Satoru and his struggle to overcome what very well may be the worst day of his life, this section of the anime delves into how children, at least in JJK’s world, are made to shoulder the burdens of their fellow man, to serve as vanguards for the betterment of humanity, disregarding their own safety. One of the core characters, one Suguru Geto, echoes this same sentiment, making a moral argument that the strong have a duty to protect and safeguard the weak, in order to allow them to remain weak, as is their lot in life.

This deterministic outlook parallels many of the same philosophical treatises proposed by those who adhere to determinist philosophy, some of which relates to the nature of strength vs weakness. There are those who would posit that those burdened with excellence, sheer overwhelming power, have a responsibility to use it in order to shield those who do not share that privilege- however, there are also voices in the mist that argue that, no, strength should be used to subjugate the masses and enforce one’s will, as the strong have the proverbial mandate of heaven to do as they please, as determined at their birth.

In JJK, these philosophies are represented by Geto and Gojo respectively, however, after the former’s tragic death and subsequent transformation into the anime’s antagonist, their philosophies appear to reverse, which I found to be fascinating.

Overall, this anime speaks to the morality of power, the nature of rationalizing how to contend with your innermost self, ego, and even how authority may seek to take advantage of those who are blessed with extraordinary ability, in order to enact their own interests. Tragedy that I’ve already seen how the story ends though- would've loved to have seen how it all played out in real-time. C’est vie, I suppose.

radiorams

This was a really enjoyable read. To be honest, your interpretation of JJK increased my appreciation for it. I thought your discussion of the change in Gojo and Geto's ideologies and the ways in which power can corrupt or redefine people was excellent. I was also deeply impacted by the burden of strength theme. Very thought-provoking.

JJK

More than just a captivating action anime, Jujutsu Kaisen is a potent meditation on trauma, fear, and grief. The idea that negative emotions, such as pain and resentment, can literally materialize into curses is one of the main themes. When you consider Japan's cultural emphasis on repressing emotions in order to maintain social harmony, that idea strikes particularly hard. This concept is reversed in the anime, which claims that unsaid pain festers and grows instead of going away. This message seems equally relevant on a global scale. Mental health issues affect people all over the world, and Jujutsu Kaisen transforms those internal conflicts into physical form. I can relate to the show because it avoids romanticizing loss or suffering. After losing those he cares about, Yuji Itadori is always wondering what it means to live a good life. I believe that many of us experience that internal conflict—wanting to do the right thing but not always knowing how—especially in college when we're still developing our identities. The program also highlights how our relationships—friends, mentors, and even adversaries—influence our development. Seeing the characters persevere in the face of their trauma serves as a reminder to me that resilience is about learning to move forward while bearing the burden, not about being emotionless. Jujutsu Kaisen links this anime to texts about identity and accountability by posing the same queries: Who am I when no one is looking? In a world full of suffering, what am I supposed to do? This anime questions the notion that having power automatically makes one good, much like the readings that examine duty and selfhood. Rather, it emphasizes choice and how individuals choose to behave in high-stakes situations. Jujutsu Kaisen is ultimately about facing our inner darkness and deciding to protect others despite the fact that it isn't just about fighting monsters.

ace-o-spades-777

Hope Springs Eternal; Violet Evergarden

My god, what a work of fiction. For one, allow me to get out a thought that has been haunting me ever since the introductory credits rolled- Violet’s own name. Now, I understand that it might be a bit of a low-brow assertion to make, but I implore you to follow along with me and suspend your disbelief for just a moment. Violet, the word “violet”, phonetically sounds VERY similar to vio-LENCE, for good reason obviously, as I’m sure you’ve begun to think, seeing as how they share many of the same letters. However, “read” and “read” are the SAME word, but sound radically different, as do “rouge” and “rouge” - a handsome “rouge” and the color “rouge”, respectively. I make mention of this because Violet is herself, very nearly indistinguishable from violence. A child soldier, raised in the ways of warfare, some would argue, even engineered by it, now faces a world that has no need for her any more, a largely peaceful land, fertile, lush and rich with life, perpetually green. This “Violet”, must shed vio-LENCE, and learn to inhabit a world of ever-gardens. Beautiful, no?

The anime’s handling of the innate traumas that come with being a child soldier, the training that one must be subject to in order to survive such an ordeal, time and time again, both physically and mentally, is stellar. When we are first introduced to Violet, it would appear she has no identity outside of being a warrior, her first instinct is to seek her commanding officer, to prostrate herself before his authority and operate, not as an individual who is a member of an armed force, but rather, a tool- a tool to be used in any way seen fit by those who one views as superior. It would appear that war has rid Violet of any desire to be anything but an extension of warfare, greeting her new patrons with a military salute, standing at parade rest when in the midst of being offered a softer, peaceful life, and even addressing individuals in a matter-of-fact way, as one would expect a junior officer to address a CO.

The entire length of the anime chronicles how Violet fails to see any innate value within herself that does not involve violence or her commanding officer in some way- she constantly attributes effectively everything in her life to being the result of an authority’s role in her life, attributing herself no agency whatsoever outside of executing commands, and as such, fails to find any reason to stay alive after the end of the war, explicitly requesting to be cast to the side, as she has failed to be useful.

This parallels the struggles that military members face when returning to civilian life, the rigor and structure of the military, having overridden their psychology as it was designed to do, now has no place in their new world, and the process of shedding something that was ingrained within you by force and then reinforced time and time again over the course of several years is an arduous task, and one that can be likened to taking scrap metal, forging it into a sword, melting it down, forging it again, repeating the process until it becomes nigh-unbreakable, then tossing it to the side, expecting it to become scrap metal again on it’s own.

Equal parts heart-breaking and thrilling, this anime whisked me off my feet, then proceeded to kick me in the sternum- and God save me, I love it all the more for it.

radiorams

Your description of Violet's name as a reflection of "violence" versus "ever-gardens" was incredibly poetic, and it gave me a completely new perspective on the show. I truly enjoyed reading your post. It was really accurate how you connected her trauma and inflexible identity to the difficulties that veterans face in the real world. Well put.

Violet Evergarden

Violet Evergarden: Recollections is a stunning and moving journey that explores the aftermath of war through its characters' silent grief and healing rather than politics or combat scenes. Violet's story reflects cultural values of perseverance, responsibility, and emotional control in Japan, where postwar identity has been shaped by introspection and reconstruction. The difficulty of dealing with loss and the value of empathy are universal themes that the anime touches on. Particularly in a digital age where genuine emotional connection is more difficult to find, the notion of someone writing letters to express emotions that others are unable to verbalize is ageless and universal. Violet's emotional development struck a deep chord with me personally. She begins the story as someone who is emotionally distant from herself and unsure of how to relate to other people, which I believe many people can identify with, particularly after experiencing hardship or trauma. I was struck by how crucial it is to confront your emotions rather than repress them as I watched her gradually come to understand love, grief, and even joy. Her experience served as a reminder to me that healing is a gradual, painful, and educational process. Violet's story fits in nicely with the readings' themes of memory, communication, and the need for human connection. This anime takes that same discussion into a more poetic realm, much like the articles that examine how technology is altering our means of self-expression. Although it may seem archaic, writing letters can be a potent metaphor for expressing emotions. Violet Evergarden demonstrates how empathy and storytelling can help heal divisions, between individuals, generations, and even cultures, even when they are quiet or straightforward. It's about us all rediscovering how to feel, not just about one girl.

ace-o-spades-777

A Lethal Mind; AKIRA

AKIRA is a post-apocalyptic film unlike any other. Where most movies would tend to go down the route of “Mad Max” or “I Am Legend, where the world has been transformed beyond any hope of true human existence, AKIRA instead takes the path of questioning what life would be like if humanity, rather than capitulate to the destruction of the world as they know it, instead opted to rebuild, and construct a newer, higher existence, in the face of insurmountable odds. AKIRA takes place in a Japan just over three-decades following the dropping of the atomic bomb on Japan- however, rather than being dropped by the United States on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the late 1940s to end WWII, this bomb is instead dropped by unknown forces on Tokyo in 1988, effecting the start of World War THREE.

The post-war, 21st-century Tokyo depicted in the film, dubbed “Neo” Tokyo, is portrayed as this glittering faux-paradise, characterized by neon light, futuristic vehicles, and glittering city-scapes, similar to those found in Evangelion. In this way, AKIRA is more of a cyberpunk film than anything else, as the culture and aesthetics of Neo Tokyo mirror those to be found in the fantasies of many other works of fiction that postulate a technologically advanced future. Oddly enough, AKIRA tends to also be relatively close in it’s predictions for what 2019 Tokyo would look like- the film was released in the late 80s, but is shockingly accurate all the same. The film itself follows a motorcycle-gang leader as he navigates a corrupt and morally depraved world. Said leader, Shotaro Kaneda, or simply “Kaneda”, is the boss of the Capsules, a name which comes to hold great relevance as the plot progresses. Kaneda and his Capsules engage in road-warrior antics with their rival biker gang one night, which ends in tragedy as one of their underlings, a boy by the name of Tetsuo, wipes out after coming into contact with what seems to be a small boy.

This small boy, we soon learn, is being hunted by the Japanese military, who arrive on the scene and subjugate Kaneda and his men at gunpoint, whisking away the small boy and Tetuso alike. Over the next handful of minutes, we witness the Japanese government, as well as what we assume is a third party, engage in genetic experimentation on children, in what we come to understand is one of the precursors to the now established “super-soldier” trope. What took me by surprise is the degree to which those who are/were in charge of the experiments were detached from the reality of what they were doing. Biologically engineering children in order to harness “the power of God”, only to snuff out a young life if it, not they, but rather “it”, fails to perform as desired or simply cannot hack it, is a callous portrayal of the nature of power, and the cold indifference of authority. We soon learn that the bomb dropped on Tokyo that set off WWIII was, in fact, dropped by the Japanese government itself after it’s child experimentation project(s) went awry, and necessitated the incineration of failed subjects, lest they rise up.

After his abduction, Tetsuo goes on to be just another subject of the government's experiments, where they discover that he just so happens to be shockingly powerful, so much so that he potentially could rival the very pinnacle of psychic ability. Tetsuo is nurtured, cultivated and molded into the ideal superweapon- but of course, it all goes sideways. Tetsuo gains powers, this is true- powers that enable him to do things no life form should be able to, but the strain of said abilities causes havoc on his psychological state, causing crippling mental illness. A sickness of the mind is a horrible thing in any situation, but doubly so when your superpowers, the very same ones that arguably make you nigh-omnipotent, come from that very same mind.

The film's core conflict is between Tetsuo and his inner self, the nature of his psychological degeneration and how that same degeneration endangers the whole of Neo Tokyo, if not the entirety of the world. AKIRA's ending takes Tetsuo to the natural resolution of his inner conflict- his demise. There is no world where a young boy, given the powers of a god, can overcome such deeply ingrained issues, and as a result, Tetsuo falls on the battlefield at the hands of his best friend and former partner, Kaneda. The story of a young boy, searching for meaning, craving adoration and power, ends with his evolution into a monster, and subsequent euthanasia.

The Japanese government’s pattern of attempting to subjugate children, experiment on the innocent, and attain power by any means necessary is indicative of why it is one of the most powerful films of the last century, and easily one of my favorite works of anime ever.

radiorams

Loved your take on Akira! You explained the government’s role and Tetsuo’s breakdown so well. The whole “faux-paradise” idea in Neo-Tokyo really stood out to me too. It’s wild how the movie mixes cool visuals with deep messages about control, power, and identity. Definitely made me think more about it!

Akira

Watching Akira was like entering a chaotic, dystopian future that somehow captures contemporary anxieties in Japan and around the world. The trauma of nuclear destruction, which has a long history in Japan, is discussed in the movie. With its chaos and corruption, Neo-Tokyo represents a society gone awry, reflecting worries about unbridled governmental power and the speed at which technology is developing. Akira discusses the effects of militarization, youth rebellion, and scientific overreach on a global scale. These topics are still pertinent in light of environmental crises, the development of artificial intelligence, and social upheavals. Not only is the devastation in Akira physical, but it also reflects deep societal anxieties and is cultural and personal. I was particularly struck by how much I could identify with the younger characters' sense of insecurity and annoyance, particularly that of Tetsuo and Kaneda. There is a similar sense of tension in real life, even though I'm not riding a motorcycle through a post-apocalyptic city, particularly when it comes to finding meaning in a system that frequently seems rigged. Tetsuo's battle for identity and control made me think about the pressure, insecurity, and comparison that today's youth face. Akira's examination of power and how individuals seek it, abuse it, and are destroyed by it, and in the end they feel emotionally authentic and painfully familiar.

ianjapanblog

Hetalia

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like if countries had personalities, wore cute outfits, and argued like siblings at a holiday dinner—Hetalia: Axis Powers is your answer. On the surface, it’s a wild, comedic take on world history where nations like Italy, Germany, Japan, and America are personified into characters with over-the-top traits. But underneath all the absurd humor, Hetalia actually taps into some surprisingly thoughtful conversations about nationalism, cultural stereotypes, and global history—especially from a Japanese perspective.

For Japan, Hetalia becomes a form of soft reflection. The character Japan is reserved, polite, and often emotionally distant—mirroring real-world cultural norms around stoicism and collectivism. The show gently pokes fun at these characteristics, offering a self-aware look at how Japan sees itself and how it thinks the world sees it. It's not a deep political analysis, but it is a safe way to bring up sensitive topics—like war, imperialism, and international relationships—without making anyone feel attacked. That’s pretty rare in anime.

Globally, Hetalia taps into shared cultural quirks and historical rivalries in a way that makes people laugh while still recognizing the weight behind them. The show doesn’t shy away from WWII or the Cold War—it just delivers them through satire. That approach opens up dialogue. It encourages viewers from around the world to reflect on their own country’s role in history without the usual defensiveness. It also shows how silly and human a lot of international conflict can be.

Is Hetalia politically correct? Absolutely not. But maybe that’s the point. It exposes how countries carry historical baggage and national pride, often to comedic extremes. And in doing so, it creates space to talk about things—colonialism, global tension, cultural bias—that still matter today. Just with a wink, a laugh, and some pasta-loving Italy in the mix.

radiorams

This was such a clever and enjoyable take! I think your comparison of the characters to siblings over a holiday dinner is spot-on. When you mentioned that Hetalia uses humor as a gentle way to address serious subjects, you were spot on. It piques interest, but it's most definitely not a textbook. Indeed, it struck me that Japan is self-aware through its character; it's as if the nation is subtly roasting itself. Your observation that the show allows for global reflection without being overly heavy struck a chord with me as well. Honestly, it's kind of brilliant how it can be both funny and perceptive at the same time.

Hetalia

Hetalia: Axis Powers is one of those anime that blends humor with history in a way that’s both ridiculous and surprisingly insightful. With a primary focus on World War II, it transforms nations into strange, exaggerated characters that interact based on actual historical events. Although it appears to be pure comedy at first glance, it actually starts a discussion about how different countries view one another and how history is remembered or not. In terms of issues in Japan, it’s interesting to see how the anime approaches the portrayal of Japan as a quiet, reserved character who often seems detached from the chaos of the others. That reflects how Japan has historically positioned itself post-WWII: reserved, efficient, and trying not to stir conflict. Globally, the anime touches on stereotypes that many cultures carry, and while it's done in a lighthearted way, it does raise questions about how humor and nationalism intersect. Like, where’s the line between funny and offensive when it comes to historical trauma? Although I wouldn't say Hetalia has a direct bearing on my life, it did cause me to consider how nations are portrayed in the media more carefully. It also made me think about how simplified world history can be when it's taught to us in textbooks or even cartoons. I had to remind myself not to take things too literally, but seeing nations as personalities helped me remember some events more clearly. If anything, Hetalia demonstrates how, even through jokes and stereotypes, anime can make world history more approachable. Although it's only a beginning point and not a comprehensive history lesson, it allows people to delve deeper into the actual events that led to the laughter.

heyyywydlol

Your Name

Your Name is an anime that is about Taki and Mitsuha. These two high school students swap bodies when they go to sleep, although they do not know each other at all and have never met. It’s funny how they find a way to communicate through leaving messages and notes on their body and whatnot, setting ground rules for what they are allowed to do with each other’s selves.

Your Name sends across some interesting themes. The first theme I pulled from this anime was that the writers must believe in fate and destiny. In this case, it was destined to happen that Taki and Mitsuha would meet. Despite never meeting beforehand when they were occasionally swapping in and out of each other’s bodies, they became best friends, and even lovers. This raises the question of spirituality, especially with the Shinto rituals Mitsuha and her family would perform.

From time to time, I’m able to feel a connection that could develop between a person and myself just based on their personalities and interactions with people alone. Though, I could never say that I have gone to sleep and felt a connection with someone I have never met. This is where Your Name’s magic is interesting, because of course there’s a subtle feel to the movie that it could be real and it could happen in real life.

All in all, Your Name is an anime film that takes aspects of fantasy, romance, and spirituality to tell a love story about Taki and Mitsuha. The unique way they communicate and the spiritual feel to the film make it feel somewhat believable, almost as if it can mirror reality. Your Name leaves its’ audience wondering about the deeper meaning of the film, such as interpreting the world as a fabric of reality, and everyone is connected in one way or another.

radiorams

I completely agree with you, Your Name has a unique way of making seemingly bizarre things, like body-swapping, seem genuine and emotional. To be honest, it was kind of cute and ingenious how they left each other notes and rules. Indeed, it has a deeper layer because of the spiritual and fateful elements.

Your Name

Your Name is one of those movies that just hits you emotionally, but also makes you think. It's not just about two teenagers switching bodies; it's also about memory, connection, and how people handle significant life changes or even tragedies. Although it appears to be a cool, almost magical love story, it really highlights the conflict between Japan's rural and urban areas. Taki's hectic life in Tokyo is completely different from Mitsuha's desire to leave her small town. By trading places, they both gain insight into one another's lives and become aware of how much they have been missing. I found the film's treatment of time and disaster to be particularly noteworthy. The entire comet phenomenon is somewhat reminiscent of actual tragedies, such as the 2011 Japanese earthquake and tsunami. Overnight, people lost their homes and loved ones, and the film depicts this abrupt loss and the accompanying confusion. Emotionally, it feels very real despite being a work of fiction. Personally, I could relate to Mitsuha's annoyance with her hometown. I recall wanting something greater, like more freedom or adventure, because I felt trapped in one spot. In the same way that body-swapping allowed Mitsuha and Taki to develop, college gave me that opportunity. The sensation of being somewhere new and learning from someone else's point of view is incredibly relatable, even though I didn't magically awaken in someone else's body. All things considered, Your Name is more than just a romance; it's a tale of time, distance, and how people can bond despite all the obstacles in their way. Although it's stunning to look at, it's also profound in ways you won't realize until it's over.

heyyywydlol

Nausicaa

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, or Nausicaa for short, is an older anime created by Hayao Miyazaki, the director that also laid the foundation for Studio Ghibli. Earlier on in this class, we did an assignment on Spirited Away, a film created by Studio Ghibli. They share the same art style, yet two different stories.

Nausicaa is a princess in a world where Earth has been run over by war. Because of this, like the Fallout series and The Glowing Sea, the Sea of Decay is home to a toxic wasteland full of giant insects. Nausicaa goes on to revive the Giant Warrior to burn away the Sea of Decay but learns that the Sea of Decay is helping break down the toxins.

A lighthearted message I received from the film was that nature is not the enemy, more so the creatures that inhabit nature are. In this case, the creatures would be people of the past for causing such destruction to the Earth from the war. It’s also a nice narrative to learn the insects in the Sea of Decay were not ever necessarily evil, rather they were only acting out of defense.

This anime must have been the inspiration for the other anime presented so far in the class, Barefoot Gen. Both anime films show the after-effects of war and the toll that war takes, where Barefoot Gen focuses on the mental and physical toll, and Nausicaa focuses on the physical toll (when relating to the sea of decay).

Overall, I enjoyed Nausicaa but did enjoy Barefoot Gen more for what it was and the message that it delivered to its’ audiences. I do enjoy what Nausicaa was trying to push as well, that being nature can and will heal on its’ own.

radiorams

Great post Brandon! I think your comparison of Nausicaä and Barefoot Gen is excellent; both depict the devastation caused by war, albeit in different ways. I also concur that the idea of nature healing is extremely effective and still very much relevant today. I appreciate your insightful comments.

Nausicaä

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a powerful anime that tackles environmental destruction, war, and the need for balance between humans and nature topics that are both important in Japan and across the world. Created not long after Japan’s rapid industrialization post-WWII, the film reflects concerns about pollution and the loss of natural harmony. Globally, these themes are just as urgent today, especially with climate change, deforestation, and environmental exploitation growing worse. The toxic jungle in the film acts as a symbol of nature trying to cleanse itself, showing how human carelessness can lead to nature pushing back in dangerous ways. For me, Nausicaä's persona was incredibly motivating. I try to be compassionate in my own life, and her leadership, empathy, and desire to understand rather than destroy inspire me. Instead of viewing the world in black and white, she looks for connection and serenity amidst chaos. As a student balancing obligations and stress, I admire her ability to remain composed, inquisitive, and optimistic. I make an effort to think like that, seeking understanding rather than responding in fear or rage. Nausicaä is a prominent example in the readings we have done on environmental themes in anime and Japanese media. It criticizes how militarism and power struggles result in destruction and reflects the Shinto belief in the sanctity of nature. This anime is consistent with other works that we have studied that advocate for a more sustainable and respectful relationship between ourselves and our environment. It's a call to action encased in a stunning, poignant film, not just a post-apocalyptic tale.

heyyywydlol

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is an anime video game. Growing up, I played a couple of anime-style games, such as Final Fantasy X. I have not played XC2, but based off reviews I’ve heard, it is most comparable to a modern-day version of FFX. After watching the provided cuts from the link in the class, I can confidently say that the ending of XC2 where Pyra/Mythra give their lives to break the destructive cycle is a great ending with a good lesson to be learned.

The audience can take away from this ending that we all have the power to choose our purpose in the world. For Pyra/Mythra, their purpose is asserting their own life to protect lives, rather than destroy them. Rex is heartbroken over the decision, of course, yet deep down, Rex knows they had to do what they did to have the ending that everyone deserved.

Pyra/Mythra do make a return, this time as their own individual beings as a sort of reward for making the sacrifice that they chose to make. A new world is formed, this time without Klaus. This sets up XC3, which, after some quick skimming on how the plot of XC3 goes, is an entirely new story when compared to XC2. Nonetheless, the choices made in XC2 set up XC3 well, even if it’s not a direct continuation of the story.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2, judging from the clips and the notable characters (Rex, but mostly Pyra/Mythra that are also in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate), seems to be a great storyline game that pushes a strong-willed narrative that urges its’ audience to make the sacrifices that need to be made in order to set up success in the future. I enjoyed watching the compilation of mini-clips and believe this is a good game.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 delves deeply into themes that are both deeply ingrained in Japan's history and still relevant today, such as class conflict, environmental degradation, and the effects of war. Alrest, the game's setting, is a world where people live on the backs of slowly dying Titans, signifying how human carelessness has destroyed the natural world. As a nation accustomed to striking a balance between technology and tradition, Japan frequently examines these themes in its media, and Xenoblade 2 is a perfect fit for that cultural reflection. It also addresses a worldwide concern for survival and sustainability in a world that is reaching its limits. For me, Xenoblade Chronicles 2's emphasis on identity and belonging made it incredibly relatable. Rex, the protagonist, is just a regular guy who becomes entangled in something far more significant than himself. That speaks to how I've frequently felt juggling obligations, school, and trying to figure out who I am. The bonds between Drivers and Blades also emphasize empathy, trust, and teamwork—values I strive to uphold in my own life, particularly when assisting friends or working on group projects. Beyond the gameplay, the story feels meaningful because of the character development and emotional ties. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a good reflection of the concepts we have read about in our readings, particularly those that deal with identity and socio-political conflict in anime. The game examines how people are impacted by systems of power and control, a theme we've seen in television series like Neon Genesis Evangelion and Attack on Titan. It uses dramatic imagery and poignant storytelling to tell a story while pushing the player to consider freedom, sacrifice, and hope. In addition to being a game, it serves as a mirror for issues in the real world and personal development, which makes it a powerful tool for introspection and analysis.

ace-o-spades-777

The End is Not the End is Not The-

"End of Evangelion"

End of Evangelion is one of the bleakest films I have ever watched, which is saying something coming from someone with a Letterboxd the length of the Nile. After hours upon hours of bearing witness to the evolution of countless characters, plot twists, and the veritable loop-de-loops that the story takes you on, to know that this is how it all shook out left me borderline catatonic. EoE, in my eyes, is comprised of three parts: Shinji’s recognition of his futility within the grand scheme of his wider existence in the world, the maturation (or lack thereof) of his relationship with Asuka, and finally, the Human Instrumentality Project (H.I.P.) and the Third Impact’s clear relation to Christianity and Christendom as a whole.

Over the course of the film, we watch as Shinji, who previously has been little else but an instrument of his father’s will and a reluctant participant in the whole of NERV’s works, struggles to reconcile himself with the very things that he has been doing, as well as form meaningful relationships. Everyone who once looked kindly upon Shinji met their demise, leaving him completely and utterly alone, resulting in Shinji adopting a rather self-flagellating worldview. Misato, his former mentor and elder-sister figure, gives her life saving Shinji, protecting him from harm, closing out the pair’s narrative loop where she rescued Shinji from certain death in episode 1 of the original series. Misato also advances herself sexually onto Shinji mere moments before her death, promising that she will sleep with him if he returns to her alive and in one piece—an obvious extension of Misato’s compulsion to use her femininity to communicate things she is incapable of saying verbally—and sends off the character with a bang, albeit with the implication that her death was less than final.

It’s impossible to discuss Evangelion without making mention of that hospital scene—but first, we need context. Shinji and Asuka have always been at odds, first as roommates, then rivals, and finally as emotionally stunted lovers who dance around one another in a manner that results in the pair regarding one another through a lens where each perceives the other as running counter to their own existence, contradictory on the grounds of differing beliefs and behaviors. When we are first introduced to Asuka, we see her as a child prodigy, a true genius who was all but made for the EVA program. We witness Asuka thrive in her role as a pilot, standing on the cutting edge of the program and serving as the basis against which her fellow pilot, Shinji, is measured. The pair are obviously attracted to one another, but their psychological issues prevent them from truly sharing their feelings with one another—Shinji, with his timidness and sexual ineptitudes, fails to pick up on Asuka’s pursuit(s) of him, effectively shunning her by consistently passing by any opportunity to engage with Asuka in any manner outside the surface level, if even that. Asuka’s headstrong nature and conception(s) of what Shinji ought to be as the “strong male” to her “strong female’, coupled with Shinji’s own deficiencies, make for a relationship that suffers a great many twists and turns, eventually culminating in the infamous hospital scene where Shinji kisses Asuka while she is in a coma and even pleasures himself to her naked body, which is implied to be a common occurrence.

Both Shinji and Asuka, on separate occasions, ask the other to be their devoted, romantic partner, and on both occasions, the other refuses. Asuka implores Shinji to surrender himself to her in his entirety, a request he refuses out of a lack of self-esteem and the belief that nobody truly loves him in any way that matters, and Shinji begs Asuka to be his better half, to be with her forever—a request that she denies despite desiring him anyway. Asuka and Shinji’s relationship is the final thing that the viewer sees in terms of the overarching story of Evangelion, with Shinji attempting to choke the life from Asuka whilst in tears after the Third Impact, only to give up once the latter caresses his cheek before spitting nigh-venomously in his direction, alone in an ocean of red. The two are the perfect illustration of what havoc toxic love, genuine as it might be, can wreak when exhibited by two deeply traumatized individuals.

As for the Third Impact itself, it has overt similarities to the Biblical concept of The Second Coming, or the Rapture. The liberation of souls from physical form to unite with a singular entity, within which they will be complete and want for nothing, rationalized as the natural progression of humanity—its destiny truly—is likely the basis upon which the Third Impact and the H.I.P. are predicated, not to mention the wealth of cross motifs to be found across the length and breadth of the anime, chief among them being Misato’s pendant, which we see Shinji journey on with, and the cross-shaped beams that erupt forth when the entire occurrence is at hand and the souls of Evangelion’s world are being harvested. Shinji, as close to a messianic figure as Evangelion ever gets, falters in the face of absolute power, condemning himself and the entire world to death on the back of his sense of inferiority and belief that the human race is beyond saving—only to then about-face and champion individuality, determined to bring about change, only to succeed and realize the damage is done; the world is barren and forever unchanged.

EoE wraps with the realization that Gendo Ikari, through bringing about the Third Impact, technically won—and now, his son, alongside his Madonna, must go forth and remake the world in his image—a Neo(n) Genesis.

radiorams

Whoa, this analysis of the End of Evangelion was so poetic and perceptive. I truly like how you organized it into layers of emotion, relationships, and religion; it perfectly captures the intricacy of the movie. Your interpretation that the relationship between Shinji and Asuka is based on shared trauma struck a deep chord. You're absolutely correct—Shinji inherits that broken world whether he wants to or not. I hadn't previously considered Gendo to have "won." Particularly potent is the statement regarding "toxic love, genuine as it might be." My comprehension of the movie has truly increased as a result of this post, I appreciate how well you presented everything.

ianjapanblog

Neon Genesis Evangelion (pt.2)

Exploring Neon Genesis Evangelion: Episodes 8, 16, 24, and 26

Neon Genesis Evangelion is the kind of show that starts off as a mecha anime and slowly unravels into something much deeper—an exploration of identity, loneliness, and the human condition. Episodes 8, 16, 24, and 26 highlight some of the most intense emotional and psychological moments in the series, addressing struggles that resonate not only in Japan but around the world.

Episode 8 introduces Asuka Langley Soryu, a fiery, confident pilot who seems like the polar opposite of Shinji. But beneath her bravado is deep insecurity—a reflection of Japan’s rigid expectations of success. Asuka represents the pressure to be "the best" while suppressing emotional vulnerability, something many people globally can relate to, especially in competitive cultures.

Episode 16 is where things get existential. Shinji is trapped inside an Angel and forced to confront his own fears and self-doubt. His struggle mirrors Japan’s growing conversation around mental health, especially among youth who feel lost in a rigid system. Globally, it touches on themes of self-worth and the fear of truly knowing oneself.

Episode 24 is one of the most pivotal in the series. Kaworu, the mysterious Fifth Child, offers Shinji unconditional acceptance, something he’s never received before. His presence challenges ideas of human connection and love, themes that are universal. His tragic fate speaks to the pain of losing someone who truly understands you.

Then we reach Episode 26—the mind-bending conclusion. Instead of a traditional action-packed finale, we dive into the human psyche, tackling themes of isolation, self-acceptance, and identity. It’s chaotic but profound, echoing struggles faced worldwide: Who are we without external validation? Do we deserve happiness?

These episodes solidify Evangelion as a series that isn’t just about giant robots—it’s about what it means to be human.

radiorams

Hey Ian, I thought it was great how you analyzed each episode and related it to more general emotional and cultural themes. It really caught my attention when you pointed out that Asuka symbolizes the pressure to be the best; I had never considered how her persona mirrors both Japanese and international standards for strength and success. I also liked your explanation of Kaworu's acceptance of Shinji. I was also deeply affected by that scene; it seemed to be Shinji's first genuine moment of calm. You did a great job capturing the emotional impact of these episodes. I was reminded by this post of why Evangelion remains in the minds of viewers for so long.

heyyywydlol

True Otaku

I have not personally been to a convention of the sorts before, yet I have heard how social and fun they can be. Therefore, I have decided to write about the docuseries provided on YouTube, True Otaku. True Otaku explains what it means to be otaku, and what helps drive their passion to being one. This docuseries highlights the dedication, the time, and the passion that anime and manga fans bring to conventions, showing how they connect with the culture. It also explores the impact of said conventions by displaying cosplay and the mechanics behind building their own.

There are three parts to the docuseries. The first part is an introduction to what an otaku is and why the conventions are held. In Japan, the word Otaku often carries a negative connotation of obsessive fandom, but in the United States, it has been embraced by anime enthusiasts as something to be proud of. Also, this part delves into the origins of anime’s popularity in America, highlighting how Dragon Ball, Z, Sailor Moon, and Neon Genesis Evangelion captivated American audiences in the 1990s or early 2000s. Part one wraps up with explaining how anime conventions serve as a hub for Otaku culture. Events like Otakon or anime USA serve as conventions where fans can cosplay, participate in panels, and overall express their love for anime and manga. Attendees share personal stories about their first conventions in the sense of belonging they found within the fandom.

Moving on to part two, this part of the documentary focuses on the sense of community within the otaku culture, particularly through cosplay. Cosplay allows fans to embody their favorite anime, manga, and video game characters through hyper-realistic costumes that often mirror the anime/manga quite well. The video then goes on to follow several dedicated cosplayers as they prepare for conventions detailing the process behind making their costumes and the excitement of performing as their favorite anime character. The cosplayers interviewed in this part discuss how cosplay serves as a form of self-expression. Many describe how dressing up as their favorite characters gives them confidence and helps them connect with others who share similar interests. Also, this part examines the challenges of cosplay, including the time spent, money spent, and skill required to craft these hyper realistic outfits.

The final part focuses on the future of otaku culture in America. Highlighting notable moments in the future of anime would be Crunchyroll and Kissanime, opening the door to anime consumption and making it that much more accessible by making it free and online. Alongside this would include the commercialization of anime as a whole, and the pros and cons that coincide with it. Commercialization helps to publicize anime and make merchandise more available, but this could be an issue with how corporate influence could alter the community-driven experience of going through a convention process, such as personally creating their own merchandise and costumes. The closing moments of the docuseries includes a message inviting people that are curious about otaku culture to celebrate their love for anime however they would please.

True Otaku was an interesting documentary to watch, coming from someone that has never been to an anime convention before. This docuseries emphasizes the profound impact that Japanese media has had on America. Through interviews and personal stories, the film captures what it truly means to be an otaku: someone who finds happiness and friendships through a shared passion for anime and manga.

radiorams

Hey Brandon, I really liked your summary and reflections on True Otaku! You did a great job breaking down each part of the series, and I agree, it really shows how anime conventions are more than just fun events. I particularly appreciated how you emphasized cosplay as a way to connect and express oneself. It's great that the docuseries allowed you to interact with the community even though you haven't yet attended a scam. Seeing that enthusiasm and inventiveness up close is truly an incredible experience, so I hope you get to go someday!

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