UchihaRin's Anime Blog

A place where anime discussions are welcome and encouraged!

[schneiderc1]

Jujutsu Kaisen

So I have watched Jujutsu Kaisen before, and honestly it’s not one of those anime where you think too hard about themes presented. In my eyes it was always one of those fun shounen that you watch mainly for the fights. But going back and rewatching part of it while actually trying to pick out some themes made me appreciate it a bit more. In the hidden inventory arc specifically, there were a couple of ideas/questions presented to the viewer, such as should traditions be followed instead of making progress? How important is one person's life in comparison to the well-being of society? Is being powerful all that matters? 

This was definitely one of my favorite arcs in the series, as I got to see younger versions of a lot of my favorite characters. We get to see how Gojo, who is said to be “the strongest,” got to be where he is. One of the big themes in this arc is how important one’s life is, as Riko is set to be the sacrifice for Tengen to ensure the preservation of the Jujutsu society. Throughout the anime she is fine with it because it’s for the greater good, but Geto continues to ask her if she is really okay with it, and she finally admits that she would rather live. We can also see how trauma affects people differently. After Gojo lost to Toji, he used his grief to push himself past his limits in order to become stronger, whereas Geto thought of himself as too weak and instead wanted to get rid of curses by killing all the humans. We can see how their two different approaches to the same problem cause a rift in their friendship.

Overall, rewatching this made me come to love this series even more.

[uchiharin0413]

I've also watched Jujutsu Kaisen before. It's one of my top ten anime to enjoy. I also found it to be a fun and easy to watch shonen. I had the same experience as you with my rewatch of JJK. I think it was smart for us to watch the Gojo's Past Arc because it tells the backstory of how Geto converted from sorcerer to villain. However, it puts a deeper lens on things and makes you wonder if Geto really is a villain. I feel that JJK was trying to make us question if the good guys are always right and if the bad guys are always wrong.

I like that you pointed out the question we see exercised in the Gojo's Past arc of how important one person's life is compared to the well-being of society. I think this is the vexing question that Geto had to grapple with when he decided to offer Riko a chance to live instead of becoming Master Tengen's vessel. I also like that you pointed out how Gojo used his frustration from losing to Toji to fuel his growth into the master sorcerer he became. Just like you, rewatching this part of JJK absolutely deepened my appreciation for it.

[uchiharin0413]

Jujutsu Kaisen

I have watched Jujutsu Kaisen before and really enjoyed it. It’s in my top 10 favorite anime. It was even better watching it again with an analytical eye on societal issues. I believe that JJK was trying to argue that not one side, good or bad, has the correct answer to all of the world’s problems (aka the curses).. The episodes we watched for class covered the Gojo’s Past arc. In this arc we get to see Suguru Geto convert into a villain and the driving factors behind his transition from ally to enemy.

This arc starts off with Gojo and Geto being assigned the role of escorting the plasma star vessel, Riko, to Master Tengen so she could merge with him. Every 500 years Master Tengen must merge with a new vessel to maintain his abilities and protect the jujutsu sorcerer world. Geto and Gojo wind up battling it out with a sorcerer killer, Toji Zenin, who was sent to kill Riko. Geto is able to get past Toji with Riko and gives Riko the chance not to perform the merger with Master Tengen. Riko decides to take Geto up on his offer and live out the rest of her life, but Toki winds up catching up to them and killing Riko. Gojo and Geto are both ultimately defeated (not killed) by Toki despite his inability to use jujutsu since he is a non-sorcerer. After this battle and the bitter loss of Riko, Geto starts on a downward spiral trajectory and begins to question his purpose as a sorcerer. During his spiral, he meets special grade sorcerer Yuki who wants to get rid of curses. She explains to him the non-sorcerers emit cursed energy much more than sorcerers do. After learning this, Geto decides that he must eliminate all non-sorcerers. It’s at this point where Geto officially converts to a villain. Although in Geto’s eyes, he feels that he is doing society a favor.

[schneiderc1]

Violet Evergarden: Recollections

This is one of those anime that I’ve always wanted to watch but never got around to. But man, it was a lot sadder than I thought it was going to be. I might have to go watch the full series now. Anyway, this anime follows Violet Evergarden, a former child soldier who was mainly treated as a weapon instead of a person. Since she grew up in the military and was never really treated as human, she never learned the social skills many children learn throughout their childhood. In the beginning she is kind of emotionally detached, speaking very formally and not understanding the nuance of human emotion. But as the story goes on, she gradually begins to understand, picking up on other people's feelings and using them to understand her own. This story is very well written, as we see her constantly struggling with her own feelings. Since she grew up in the army and fought in wars, she had taken many people's lives. She struggled with the idea of being free and helping people with their own feelings, as she, one, had trouble expressing her own feelings, and two, didn’t think she should be allowed to since the same hands she used to articulate people’s feelings took many lives. This anime also did a great job of showing how grief affects people. When Violet found out that Gilbert died, she first didn’t accept it, believing him to somehow still be alive. Once she finally saw his grave, she tried to take her own life but ended up stopping short, realizing that it’s not going to change anything.

Overall, this anime was really good. I will definitely be watching the actual series whenever I find the time. Also, I kind of want a typewriter now. Is that weird?

[uchiharin0413]

Vilet Evergarden: Recollections has also been on my Anime to Watch list for a while now. I was happy that it won the class poll since I hadn't gotten around to watching it yet but always wanted to. I also didn't think it was going to be so sad. The way they conveyed emotions in this movie was so well done. I could really feel what each character was feeling. I also think I'm going to have to watch the full anime series of Violet Evergarden now. I'm excited to see how much emotion they are able to convey without the time constraints of a movie. Violet is absolutely devoid of emotion due to lack of exposure and understanding of emotions. She went from not knowing what the words "I love you" meant to becoming an excellent scribe that captured people's most private and emotional thoughts. I agree this story was well written; I was incredibly impressed by it!

Also, no it's not weird that you kind of want a typewriter now lol! What if there was an RGB typewriter made by Razer?! Now I'd definitely want that!

[uchiharin0413]

Violet Evergarden: Recollections

Violet Evergarden: Recollections is not only stunning visually with its animations, it’s also emotionally vibrant. This film was very well made. The story easily drew me in and held my attention. I could feel the emotions pouring out of the characters much more than I usually do in other media. This film was able to really articulate each character’s feelings and emotions. I was amazed at how much emotion they were able to convey in the limited running time of a movie. I can only imagine how much emotion they were able to convey in the entire anime series. After watching Violet Evergarden: Recollections I feel compelled to watch the entire Netflix series. The series has always been on my list of anime to watch but I hadn’t gotten around to it yet. I will absolutely be watching it after I finish the anime I’m currently watching.

 I was captivated by Violet Evergarden’s ability to adapt after she attempted to take her own life. She was in such a deep, dark, and secluded place mentally and emotionally when she made that attempt. Violet Evergarden: Recollections gives us an example of just how important it is to feel you have a purpose in life and to not be isolated from society. Friendship and the support of the community allowed Violet to develop the emotional and mental skills she so badly needed. She was able to see herself as more than an emotionless weapon through her interactions and experiences with others. I found it very captivating how Violet developed from being unable to process or convey emotions, to working as a personal scribe (referred to as a doll in the film), who captured and communicated people’s deepest feelings. I found the scene where she scribed 50 years’ worth of letters from a dying mother to her surviving daughter to be so emotionally deep and meaningful. Through her work as a scribe, she was able to successfully transform into a very genuine, caring, and emotionally intelligent individual.

[parkersanimetedworld]

Akira initial post

Watching Akira feels like being dropped into a neon-lit nightmare that’s both visually stunning and emotionally overwhelming. But beneath the chaos and explosions, there’s a deep commentary on both Japan’s post-war identity and global anxieties about power, progress, and memory.

Set in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo, Akira reflects Japan’s lingering trauma from World War II—especially the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The film opens with a nuclear-like explosion and centers on a society rebuilt over the ruins of unimaginable destruction. It’s a fictional future, but the emotional fallout is rooted in history. The fear of technology spiraling out of control and the consequences of government secrecy feel incredibly grounded in Japan’s real past.

But Akira doesn’t just speak to Japan—it resonates globally. The film critiques militarization, corruption, and the exploitation of youth for the sake of control. Tetsuo, a powerless teen turned god-like weapon, is a symbol of how systemic neglect and personal trauma can manifest as rage. Bullied, overlooked, and desperate to prove himself, Tetsuo’s transformation is both tragic and terrifying. He’s not just a villain—he’s the product of a society that fails its most vulnerable.

What makes Tetsuo’s arc so powerful is that it’s deeply human. He lashes out not because he’s evil, but because he’s scared. He’s trying to take control in a world that’s never offered him stability or love. His pain, and eventual unraveling, speaks to a global crisis of mental health, especially among young people who feel unseen or disposable in today’s high-pressure systems.

Personally, I saw a lot of my own questions about power and identity reflected in this film. Akira isn’t just about destruction—it’s about what comes after, and whether society is brave enough to rebuild with empathy, not just control of others.

[uchiharin0413]

Excellent post about Akira. This film was a difficult watch for me since the story seemed to be lacking detail and put together in a choppy manner. You opened my eyes to how emotionally overwhelming this film is. Despite not liking it, I did find it to be quite an emotion jerker. I felt like I got chewed up and spit back out after watching it. I do agree with you that despite the chaos, there were some messages about real world issues in Akira.

I like how you made a point that Akira is a fictional future with its emotions rooted in history. I think you make a good argument about Tetsuo being a product of his society. I also found his transformation to be sad. I couldn't blame Tetsuo for what he did since he was morphed into the monster he became as a result of the crazy experiments that were run on him. I actually felt bad for Tetsuo since their experiments essentially demolished every aspect of his body and life.

[uchiharin0413]

Akira

Akira was not a very enjoyable watch for me. While it was interesting and had impressive animation especially for the film’s age, the story just didn’t do it for me. It was a bit challenging to piece together what was going on in the film. In my opinion, the way the story was told in this film was lacking some detail and very choppy. I feel that Akira could have used some more character background information and character development to make it easier to understand the plot of the film. It was not easy to understand who all of the characters were.

Akira tells the story of Shotaro Kaneda, the leader of a biker gang, and Tetsuo Shima, his friend who seems to have powers from being a corrupt governmental experiment. I do think Akira was trying to send a message that corrupt governments can bring detrimental effects upon society. Government and political corruption are global issues that ravage our world today.  I also feel that Akira was making an argument about how risky improperly regulated experimentations can be to all of society. The experiments that were run on Tetsuo were completely inhumane. He went from being a timid boy to an absolute violence-crazed murderer. If the government could have diverted its focus from its corrupt interests, perhaps proper regulations of experiments could have been exercised, and Tetsuo would not have turned into an absolute maniacal murderer. This message is meant to be a warning for current day society all over the world to not make the same mistakes they did in Akira and let experimentation and technology destroy us from the inside out. If we don’t put the proper controls in place, technological advancements can become our worst enemy, like Tetsuo was. The experimentation on Tetsuo got completely out of hand and turned him into an uncontrollable monster.

[schneiderc1]

Hetalia: Axis Powers

This anime was actually so funny. There were so many times when I was genuinely laughing. Although most of the humor is just exaggerated stereotypes, I still think that this anime would probably pair nicely in some history class. I’ve never been big into history because I feel the way it was taught was kind of boring, so I feel that if you were to watch certain clips after learning some topic, the information might stick better. I know for some people the show could kind of come off as a bit insensitive since it’s reducing monumental events like world wars and historical alliances into funny conversations between countries, but I think it makes the subjects easier to talk about. By reducing these huge parts of history into short, summarized jokes, it provides a medium for the audience to explore topics of imperialism, militarism, and political rivalry without having to get into the nitty-gritty details of history. I also like that they poke fun at all the major countries, and not just the ones with obvious flaws. I believe that this show is both good and bad at representing the people of a country. I think that stereotypes can be an easy way to get the main gist of a certain topic, and I think that Hetalia uses humorous stereotypes as a gateway to understanding historical and cultural differences, such as America needing to lose weight or Italy being a lovestruck, pasta-loving character. But these cliches obviously miss the complexities of many people's national identity. I feel that many people who watch this are able to take these gibes at their culture in stride and see it as something they are proud of or something they need to work on. Humor can be used to both unite and divide; it all depends on how it is used and perceived.

Overall, it was a fun show!

[uchiharin0413]

Once I got past the initial what the heck is this anime about feeling I was able to understand and appreciate the humor. I found it to be an interesting method of conveying history. I agree with you that it could be a useful tool in a history class, especially for people who struggle to have an interest in history. If you find history to be boring, it is definitely difficult to retain all the pieces of information you need to remember for classes so this anime could definitely help make historical facts a bit easier to memorize.

I did feel a bit of that knee jerk reaction when I first encountered Italy in Hetalia: Axis Powers because I'm Italian. However, I was able to almost instantly get past that once I saw what they were trying to do with this anime. You make a good point about them poking fun at all of the countries in this anime. No country was exempt to the stereotype bashing we saw in Hetalia Axis Powers. I absolutely agree that humor can be used to unite and divide based on perception. I think this anime is a great support to your point. Depending on how you perceive this anime, it can be used in a positive or a negative way.

[uchiharin0413]

Hetalia: Axis Powers

My initial thoughts upon watching Hetalia: Axis Powers were not very pleasant. I had to really open my mind to what I was watching as I caught onto what message this anime was trying to state. Hetalia: Axis Powers is a series of super short episodes that provide a comedic representation of the Axis and the Allies from World War II. Countries are portrayed as cutesy styled young boys who behave in manners that are considered to be stereotypes for each country they represent. I am fully Italian, so I think that is why I originally could not buy into the humor of this anime. The character for Italy was portrayed to be a paste-obsessed, dumb pushover who couldn’t accomplish anything. However, I quickly learned that this series wasn’t intended as a dig against Italian people. Hetalia: Axis Powers is a retelling of historical events with a comedic spin on it. When I really think about it, this anime is a clever approach to sharing facts about historical events through the guise of comedic stereotype bashing. That will definitely draw in an audience and get viewers interested. After reading the article about this anime I was not surprised to learn how wildly popular it is. I can also see the allure this anime provided for young fujoshi girls, the cute young boys and their mannerisms were perfect for that demographic of viewers.

I found this anime to have another purpose. The more I thought about it, the more I started seeing it as a mechanism to open our eyes to just how ridiculous many of the stereotypes in the world are. All of the characters in this anime have their stereotypes magnified exponentially and on display for all to balk at. This was done on purpose to help viewers make the connection of how ridiculous stereotypes usually are.

[schneiderc1]

Your Name

So I watched this anime a couple of years back, and I remember liking it, but rewatching it made me appreciate it even more. This movie follows two characters, Mitsuha Miyamizu, a high school girl in a rural city, and Taki Tachibana, a high school boy who lives in Tokyo. These two high schoolers start swapping bodies one day for no apparent reason, leading to some pretty funny situations and interactions between their close friends and family. This film had some pretty good messages in it. One of the ones liked was how they both had to try blending into opposite gender roles when they were in each other's bodies, although they didn’t do that good of a job, especially Taki. You could always tell when they switched because Taki in Mitsuha’s body would always be “masculine,” like not caring about his outward appearance, being really straightforward, and being quick to anger. Mitsuha, in Taki’s body, on the other hand, would act more “feminine.” She was nicer to the people around her, she knew how to sew, and in general just acted softer. I think that it was cool seeing people of the opposite gender having to see what life is like for the other. This film also explores the importance of community. Mitsuha, since the start of the movie, has said she wants to live in Tokyo and that there’s nothing to do in her small rural town. Throughout the movie you can see how close her community is to each other, especially in comparison to Taki’s life in Tokyo. The reason the townspeople were able to be saved was because of their shared efforts and mutual trust, getting everyone to the school safely.

Overall, this movie was a really nice watch. I kind of wish there was a spinoff series about Mitsuha and Taki’s life after they found each other, though.

[uchiharin0413]

I like how rewatching Your Name deepened your initial level of appreciation for it. It was my first time watching this film and I loved it. I agree that we got to see Mitsuha and Taki in some pretty hilarious situations with their friends and family when they were in body swap mode. I couldn't hold in my giggles each time these things would happen. I also picked up on the need to conform to gender performance expectations when they swapped bodies. This really stuck out to me when Mitsuha in Taki-form spoke using feminine phrases and was called out for it by Taki's male friends.

I also appreciated that we got to see what it was like for each of the characters to experience life as the opposite gender and then return back to their biological gender. That aspect of the movie was very unique and I appreciated it. I also wish they did a spin off series about Mitsuha and Taki after the film! I would definitely watch that!

[uchiharin0413]

Your Name

Your Name is by far one of my favorite anime that we’ve watched during this class. I was immediately enamored at how incredibly beautiful the animation and visuals were. The depth of the colors used in this film were very pleasing to my eyes. The story told in Your Name equally blew me away. It was very emotionally deep and easy to relate to. I tend to favor fantasy themed anime, so the time travel aspect of this film was a nice bonus for me.

Throughout the film I came to feel like I got to know Mitsuha and Taki on a personal level. What drew me into this film most of all was the connection that Mitsuha and Taki were able to forge despite the challenges of space and time between them. They were both completely dedicated to doing whatever it took to find each other and never forget each other. That dedication struck me as very inspiring. I found their relationship to be much more than just an average love story. It struck me as teaching a lesson that a relationship based on pure dedication to connect with each other can survive any trials it may face, just as their relationship did. Taki literally figured out how to go back in time through his perseverance to find Mitsuha so he could warn her of the doom her town was facing because of the approaching comet. All because of his efforts, Mitsuha was able to rewrite history and save the people of her town. She was able to live her life instead of dying young and finally encounter Taki in person years later. The moment they crossed each other’s paths at the end of film was a tearjerker for me.

Although Your Name was an incredibly beautiful film, it covered a time of trauma and tragedy. Mitsuha’s town and its people were obliterated when they were struck by the comet. Many people died as result of the destructive impact. I took this to be a representation of all the disasters that Japan has suffered through over the years. We also get to see some gender performance expectations when Mitsuha and Taki swapped bodies.

[parkersanimetedworld]

xenoblade initial post

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 may be a sprawling JRPG packed with sky-high titans, flashy battles, and complex lore, but at its core, it’s a deeply emotional journey about identity, purpose, and connection. As the main protagonist Rex forges a bond with the Blade Pyra, the game invites players to reflect on what it means to be human—even if you’re technically not (even if you are a blade like what).

The game touches on several issues relevant to both Japanese society and the world at large. Japan’s cultural emphasis on duty and self-sacrifice is echoed in Rex and Pyra’s willingness to give everything for others. Pyra, in particular, embodies the fear of being “too much”—too powerful, too different—and desires only to live peacefully, even if it means hiding parts of herself. That mirrors societal pressure (especially in collectivist cultures) to suppress individuality in favor of harmony.

Globally, Xenoblade 2 speaks to environmental anxiety, inequality, and human exploitation. The world of Alrest is literally crumbling, and its people fight over limited resources. Themes of technological hubris, lost civilizations, and cycles of violence reflect broader fears about climate change, colonization, and what happens when humanity forgets its history.

Personally, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 resonated with me in ways I didn’t expect. The characters’ journeys—especially Rex learning to trust himself and Pyra/Mithra reconciling dual identities—reminded me of what it feels like to grow up not fully understanding who you are or where you belong. Growing up mixed was hard for me as a child, trying to navigate my identity and where I felt accepted. Their evolving bond felt less like fantasy and more like an honest portrayal of what it means to see someone for who they truly are and choose to stay.

In the end, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 isn’t just about saving the world—it’s about saving each other through empathy, understanding, and the courage to be seen just like everyone else.

[uchiharin0413]

Your thoughts on the cut scenes from Xenoblade Chronicles 2 really resonated with me. I like how you dissected cut scenes from a video game into such deep information. I also appreciate that Xenoblade Chronicles 2 in itself provides such riveting material to allow us the platform to make such analyses. It’s definitely a very emotion packed journey for the characters fighting alongside Rex and Pyra/Mystra. The scene blew me away when Klaus revealed how he destroyed the world and that the world Rex and his comrades were attempting to save was created by Klaus in an attempt to make amends and recreate the society and ecological system that he destroyed. That was deep!! I love how Rex developed bonds with all different walks of life in this game. He was the beacon that enabled them to remain strong during such dismal and trying times. 

You tying this to Japan's cultural emphasis on self-sacrifice is brilliant. Rex and Pyra/Mythra embody this throughout the entire game, especially at the very end when Pyra/Mythra sacrifices herself to grant her friends a chance at saving their world and starting over.

[uchiharin0413]

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

 I was surprised and excited to see that we were assigned to watch cut scenes from a video game for class. I’m an avid gamer so this was right up my alley. I’ve never played Xenoblade Chronicles 2. I was amazed to see how in depth its cut scenes are. This JRPG has a myriad of goodies to enjoy but also offers a deep message about the importance of harmony between humans and nature. 

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is set in a post-apocalyptic world that was brought about by Klaus. He essentially destroys every facet of life and the world as we know it. I found his charcter to be a representation of the destruction humanity can bring upon our world if we don’t treat it with reverence and give it the tlc it deserves. Klaus also makes me think of how humanity can be implosive and destructive if we segregate ourselves from each other and tumble down a lonely hole of destruction. It makes me think of downward spirals that can be caused by depression.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 shows us the technologically recreated world that Klaus created in an attempt to make amends for the destruction he brought upon the world. After evolution in this new world takes place, we wind up with a new humanoid type people who coexist with blades and live in the ecological systems that grow on the backs of titans. We see Rex forge relationships with all the characters he rounds up to join him in his journey to preserve what is left of their world and find their next livable ecological system. He is able to bring together Pyra/Mythra (the blade) as she fights alongside him. She winds up making the ultimate sacrifice of her own life to save Rex and all her friends. Her great sacrifice allows them to escape their crumbling world and reach a livable ecology system to allow their species to carry on. 

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 can also serve as a warning against what could happen if we do not rally together to put an end to the human-caused Anthropocene geological era that we read about in this week's article.

[parkersanimetedworld]

Nausicaa of The Valley of The Wind

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is more than just an early Miyazaki masterpiece — it’s a incredibly beautiful real reflection on ecological collapse, war, and the human spirit. The film was released in 1984, and it speaks directly to Japan’s historical relationship with nature and post-war trauma, while also addressing global concerns that remain pressing today.

In the film’s world, humanity teeters on the edge of extinction, surrounded by a toxic jungle created by centuries of pollution and warfare. For Japan, a country that experienced the horrors of atomic bombings and has long dealt with natural disasters, Nausicaä’s desolate landscapes echo both man-made and environmental catastrophes. The imagery of creeping toxicity and masked survivors evokes fears of radiation — something deeply etched into Japan’s collective memory.

Globally, the film resonates with current anxieties around climate change, deforestation, and militarization. Nausicaä herself stands in stark contrast to the warring factions around her. She is empathetic, curious, and deeply connected to nature — a reminder that healing comes not through domination, but understanding. In a time when conflict and environmental degradation feel overwhelming, the film remains a beacon of resistance against apathy and violence.

Personally, I’ve found Nausicaä’s story to be both humbling and hopeful. Her ability to stay grounded in compassion, even in a broken world, reminds me of the kind of resilience we all need — especially when trying to make change in a society that often rewards the opposite. Her love of nature resonates with my own desire to live more consciously and reduce my environmental impact, even when it feels like a drop in the ocean.

Ultimately, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a call to action — not through force, but through empathy, care, and the courage to believe in something better.

[uchiharin0413]

I think your opening paragraph was very well stated. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind was definitely a well done film with an important message about ecological hardships suffered by Japan and across the globe. I like that you mentioned the human spirit as well. Nausicaa is such a great representative of the human spirit that refuses to give up on the journey to establish harmony between humanity and nature for the sake of the world.

I absolutely agree with you that the masks we see worn by the characters in this film are symbolic of the nuclear attacks and exposure that Japan has been sadly subjected to. I also found Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind to be a depiction of the ecological crises faced globally. Many people are not in tune with nature and have little regard for its survival, even though the survival of nature is key for the survival of hominy. Nausicaa is a true representation of how humanity should be, more respectful and synchronized with the wellbeing of nature. I love how you pointed out that Nausicaa displays the resilience humanity needs, I agree. She is strong, genuine, humble, and determined to drive positive change in a society that has tendencies to self-destruct. I also like how you corelated the impact we have as individuals to a drop in the ocean. I also feel this way, but it is all of our drops in the ocean that make the ocean move. Nausicaa helps stir courage to contribute to the greater good of the world.

[uchiharin0413]

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

I’d never seen or heard of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind prior to coming across it in our class. I was blown away at how deeply relevant this film is in a timeless way. It doesn’t matter that this Studio Ghibli film is from 1984, it's relevant now and will remain relevant forever. The message we learn from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is incredibly important and always will be as it implores humanity to have more reverence and respect for nature to allow it to flourish and provide in return for us. The animations also blew me away for a film from the 80s, but that’s what we can expect to get from the incredibly talented Studio Ghibli. This film is a classic that teaches a very important lesson about environmentalism and respect for nature. It is very relevant to the nuclear and environmental issues faced by Japan in addition to the plethora of environmental issues we face globally like global warming, deforestation, and pollution (just to name a few).

We get to see just how much humanity has misused, disrespected, and destroyed the world through environmental abuse and neglect in Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. I found it very heartwarming and inspiring to follow Nausicaä on her journey to repair the relationship between nature and humanity. Even though Nausicaä is a young princess, she is such a genuine and intelligent leader, with a natural instinct to treat nature (including all the creatures that nature includes) with the respect they deserve. Her pure energy is immediately detected by the little creature Teto that immediately befriends her the moment it encounters Nausicaä. Teto was typically known for being feisty, but after trying to bite Nausicaä it quickly realizes that she is not a threat. Throughout the entire movie, Nausicaä never wavers from her peacemaking ways. Even in the toughest of times, she stands firm in her fight for peace and for a healthy relationship with all that nature entails. Even though the communities of humans in their post-apocalyptic world disagree with her pacifist ways, she never lets that deter her.

[ianjapanblog]

Convention

​The "True Otaku" documentary series offers an in-depth exploration of the anime fandom, delving into the lives, passions, and societal perceptions of individuals deeply immersed in anime culture. By examining the content and themes presented in these videos, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the significance of the anime fandom and its impact on both individuals and society.​

Understanding the Otaku Phenomenon

The term "otaku" originates from Japan and refers to individuals with an intense passion for anime, manga, and related subcultures. While in Japan the term can carry a somewhat negative connotation, implying social withdrawal or obsessive interests, internationally, "otaku" has been embraced more positively, symbolizing a deep appreciation for Japanese pop culture.​

The documentary series sheds light on the daily lives of otaku, showcasing their dedication to collecting merchandise, attending conventions, and engaging in cosplay. These activities are not merely hobbies but are integral to their identity and social interactions. For many, the anime community provides a sense of belonging and an avenue to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar interests and values.​

The Social Dynamics of Anime Fandom

Anime fandom is characterized by its vibrant community and the strong bonds formed among its members. Conventions and online forums serve as hubs for fans to discuss their favorite series, share fan art, and collaborate on projects. This communal aspect fosters creativity and allows fans to express themselves in unique ways.​

However, the documentary also highlights the challenges faced by otaku, particularly concerning societal perceptions. In some cultures, intense involvement in anime fandom can be misunderstood or stigmatized, leading to stereotypes of otaku as socially inept or overly obsessed. These misconceptions can result in social isolation or discrimination. Despite this, many otaku embrace their identity with pride, challenging societal norms and advocating for a broader acceptance of diverse interests.​

Cultural Impact and Global Reach

The global spread of anime has led to the formation of diverse fandoms worldwide, each adapting the culture to their local contexts. The documentary illustrates how anime has transcended cultural boundaries, influencing various aspects of art, fashion, and entertainment globally. This cross-cultural exchange has enriched the anime community, introducing a variety of perspectives and interpretations that enhance the overall experience.​

Moreover, the rise of digital platforms has facilitated greater accessibility to anime content, allowing fans from different regions to connect and share their passion. This interconnectedness has fostered a more inclusive and expansive community, where fans can celebrate their love for anime without geographical constraints.​

Personal Growth and Identity Formation

Engagement in anime fandom often plays a significant role in personal development. For many individuals, anime narratives resonate deeply, offering insights into complex themes such as friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery. These stories can provide comfort and guidance, especially during formative years, helping fans navigate their own life challenges.​

Additionally, participation in fandom activities like cosplay or fan fiction writing allows individuals to explore different facets of their personality and express themselves creatively. This exploration can lead to increased self-confidence and a stronger sense of identity.​

Conclusion

The "True Otaku" documentary series offers a comprehensive look into the multifaceted world of anime fandom. It highlights the passion and dedication of otaku, the communal bonds formed within the fandom, and the cultural impact of anime on a global scale. Despite facing societal challenges, the anime community continues to thrive, providing a space for individuals to connect, create, and grow. The significance of this fandom lies not only in its entertainment value but also in its ability to foster meaningful relationships and personal development among its members.

[uchiharin0413]

Hi, Ian. I enjoyed your take on the True Otaku documentary. I agree that True Otaku really dives in and allows us to see just how impactful the anime fandom is. It provides great contributions to personal development and self-identity in addition to giving a sense of community and acceptance that we so badly need as humans. I'm glad that you highlighted how the term Otaku went from being an insult to something positive. I agree that it is a deep appreciation and passion for aspects of Japanese culture. Being a fellow otaku myself (I usually call myself a weeb lol), I can say that the impulse to buy tons of merchandise is very real and hard to resist. I have over 40 anime t shirts, collector's edition Sailor Moon Vans sneakers, a plethora of Funko pops of anime characters, about 50 anime pins on my gym bag, an anime keychain on my purse, and around 10 anime stickers on the water bottle I use daily. Anime is a huge part of my life, every single day. Being a part of the fandom has greatly shaped who I am.

You are absolutely correct when you say that the activities done by otaku are not simply hobbies, they truly are a core part of who we are. I do indulge in the sense of community that the anime fandom brings. My husband and I are both Otaku, and our passion for anime is one of the components that brought us together.​

[uchiharin0413]

Fandom/Convention Post

I have never been to an anime convention before, but I have seen people in cosplay going to anime conventions in Orlando, FL multiple times. I have been an avid anime fan since I was a child. I started watching Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball Z on Toonami when I was in grade school. The otaku Anime Con attendees I've encountered over the years in Orlando always have such vibrant energy. They appear to be happy and full of excitement to embark on their anime and Japanese culture filled adventures. You could feel the deep sense of community that had been built amongst their similar interests. I am always enamored by their costumes, whether they ranged from cool graphic anime t-shits (I have about 40 anime shirts haha), to a few adornments like earpieces and a tail, to the most intricately designed outfits that went from head to toe. I find their participation in cosplay to be fascinating. It makes me think of how people band together and form a community for those who love Halloween and everything about it. Anime fandom and otaku-ism in my opinion are similar to people’s passion for Halloween, however, I thnk being an Otaku is even better since you can celebrate Otaku fandom 365 days out of the year.

I have frequently visited an Arcade in Oviedo, FL (Arcade Monsters) that is an anime and cartoon themed arcade. Many of the games there are from Japan and in Japanese. All of the prizes you can win and items in the crane machines are relative to anime and Japanese culture. I absolutely love it! They have a game like Guitar Hero but for the drums that allows you to select songs from many different hit anime and popular J-Pop artists. What is there nt to adore about drumming away to Blue Bird from Naruto or the opening theme song to Attack on Titan?! I absolutely LOVE that arcade! Every time I’ve gone, I’ve bought the unlimited access band and stayed until closing time. I feel safe when I’m there. Being in that environment makes me feel empowered to be myself and let my true weebness out. There are so many like-minded individuals there, which increases my energy exponentially.

A few years ago, I had another weeb adventure (as I like to call it) in Little Tokyo. I traveled with my husband and his family to California for a vacation. We had a jam-packed schedule, and since we all did everything together, each couple essentially got to pick one thing they wanted to do. Many of our family members chose to go to wineries, shopping, and sightseeing. On the other hand, my husband and I mandated that we go to Little Tokyo for our activity. When we went, nobody else in the family could enjoy the atmosphere so they left us there. We were in our glory! My husband is just as much of a weeb as I am. We felt at home in Little Tokyo! There was an indoor and outdoor shopping area that had nothing but Japanese culture merchandise. Many stores sold wide varieties of anime merch and manga. I went berserk in those stores! I, unlike quite a few people, am a fan of the series Boruto. I was super excited because I found a bunch of Boruto merch, which I never usually find. It’s super easy to find Naruto merch, but when it comes to Boruto merch you can only find the main characters usually. I adore Mitsuki from Boruto, he is my favorite little guy! Well, I found a chibi Mitsuki keychain in one store and I screamed so loud once I grabbed it because I was beyond ecstatic. I named the keychain “My Mitsuki” and he goes everything with me as he resides on my purse that I use every day. Needless to say, I spent A LOT of money in those stores. There were entire stores dedicated to Funko Pop merchandise. I’m not talking about just any Funko Pops, there had the rare goodies in there. I bought so many funkos that we had enormous bags leaving that store. I was also able to snag a very cool Itachi Akatsuki pullover hoodie that I’d never seen before. To this day I’ve not encountered another outlet that offers such amazing weeb merch. Also, they had so many different Japanese food stores and stands in Little Tokyo. It was such a great immersion in the Japanese culture. We filled our bellies on Tonkotsu ramen and pigged out on many different flavor taiyaki for dessert. The Boruto fan in me was super happy about the taiyaki because Kawaki from Boruto LOVED taiyaki, especially the custard filled ones. We lived it up during our weeb date day, as we like to call it. To this day his family lovingly teases us for being nerdy and weird and claim they cannot understand why we like “that stuff”. Meanwhile we are blissfully happy in our own little otaku weeb world. Our passion for anime is a backbone of our personality and self-identities. I can absolutely say I would not be the same without it.

I did watch the True Otaku documentary even though I have my own personal fandom experiences. I thoroughly enjoyed the insider’s view it gave me into what a convention entails. Since I’ve never actually been to one, I wanted to watch it so I could get a deeper view in Anime Cons. I can say that Anime Cons are all that I've hoped and dreamed of. Anime Cons make me think back to our experience in Little Tokyo, so I'm very inspired to go to one soon. I loved hearing all the details about how the cosplay contests work, seeing all the different and rare merch you can buy, and most importantly the sense of community and safety that otaku around the world share with each other. It’s a beautiful thing! Community is such a great medication and support for mental health, therefore, in my opinion the Otaku movement brings many different health benefits to the table for people of all ages and types.

[bellak1414]

The End of Evangelion

It is safe to say that this ending felt much more intense than the one portrayed in Neon Genesis Evangelion. However, I still enjoyed this anime as a whole, and I believe that, similar to Neon Genesis Evangelion, this anime is quite an impactful one. 

While the scene in which Shinji objectifies Asuka in the hospital was a tough watch, men objectifying women is an unfortunately common reality. However, we witness Shinji, instead of being proud of his actions, refer to them as “pathetic”. My hope is that other men will witness this scene and question their own actions and whether or not they too have objectified women in their own life. If they do come to the realization that they have done this, I equally hope that they come to the same conclusion that Shinji did: objectifying women is pathetic behavior. 

Following Shinji’s final attempt at hegemonic masculinity and his failure at achieving it once more, we witness Shinji become incredibly passive. He feels that he can’t figure out how to do anything right, he cannot be masculine in the correct way, he is worthless. He seems to believe that he’d be better off dead, and he does not view his life as one that should be protected. He has directly correlated his self-worth with whether or not he fits the mold of the man who displays perfect hegemonic masculinity. Correlating our self-worth with the “standards” created by society is an issue that happens in our own world as well. This is something that leads many to question their value and often leads one to a depressed and rather hopeless state (just as we saw with Shinji).

However, when we look at this anime, from an outside perspective we are able to recognize that there is nothing actually wrong with Shinji. Further, the fact that he does not exhibit hegemonic masculinity like the majority of other men and instead exhibits queer masculinity means that he brings something different to the table. While he may not be as physically intelligent (i.e., his lacking robot fighting skills), he is emotionally intelligent and this is equally as important when it comes to navigating the world, as humans are incredibly complex creatures. I hope that viewers who see themselves in Shinji recognize that just as Shinji should not be putting this dangerous amount of pressure on himself to perform, they should not either. 

[uchiharin0413]

I also found End of Evagelion to be much more intense than the ending we watched in the anime series. The movie’s ending was much darker and foreboding. It absolutely left a deep impact. You make a good argument about men’s objectification of women being a common reality. It’s unfortunate that this type of behavior is part of expected hegemonic male gender performance standards. In my opinion, objectification of women does not equate to being a man.

It was incredibly tough to watch Shinji spiral out of control as he grew to feel more and more worthless. So many people in the world today face that same downward spiral and feel horribly about themselves when they can’t perform to the various standards they are held to. I agree with you that bringing something different to the table is necessary and refreshing for society. It makes for diverse and inclusive environments that can help humanity thrive and grow instead of spiraling into destructive depressive black holes.