imkindacoolngl

[imkindacoolngl]

I really enjoyed reading your take on these three works! I felt the same way about Your Name—the music and visuals really amplified the emotional moments, especially when Taki and Mitsuha finally see each other again. It’s amazing how the film blends its personal story with universal feelings of connection and longing.

Your comments on Hetalia stood out to me because I also had mixed reactions. The stereotypes and humor didn’t always land for me, but you’re right that it mirrors how pride and history still shape global relationships today. That’s something I hadn’t considered until I saw your perspective.

As for Sensōron, I agree that it’s harder to connect with, though I found the way it plays with argument and persuasion interesting. Even if it didn’t click emotionally, it definitely made me think about how narratives—whether about war or peace—can still be selective

A Grand Finale To Anim-alysis

The animes that were made as the final choices for me to watch most certainly left me wishing for more. The way that each of the characters are portrayed and highlighted through the use of so many elements of anime, like their stylistic choice, music choice, and overall character development, most certainly left me in a very happy state of mind.

Your Name was beyond incredible. The way that the style so very much connects to each of the characters and how each moment is highlighted through the use of very appropriately toned music definitely left me absolutely shocked that I had not seen this anime prior to the course. I was at the edge of my seat through numerous times during the anime, though I was mostly intrigued about how the characters began to connect with each other, though going through initial struggle, as we all do in our lives. I have most certainly had times in my life where I would wish to start over the day or feel bad about certain choices or events, but then wake up the next day all freshened up and ready to make my own personal world a better place. This was one of the first animes I can definitively say was very engaging and relatable even in the 21st century.

Although initially rubbing me the wrong way with its overall plot and factoring in different stereotypes, Hetalia was definitely one that I had to backtrack and look at how each of the elements connected with each other. Everytime I went back to certain scenes, I began to realize that this is similar to the world we live in today, and most definitely a relatable factor in regards to Japan and the US. These are two countries who are very prideful of their own heritage and ideologies, especially when we started moving into the 20th and 21st century. While it was not immediately appealing to me, unlike Your Name, it was definitely not a bad watch and certainly one I can look back at viewing every now and then.

Sensoron, however, was one piece of media that did rub me the wrong way and still partially does. While I can definitely see the contexts it is trying to spread, I really did not have much interest, nor could I relate to anything within it. The way that it is drawn though is quite interesting, and one of the few times I am seeing a manga rather than seeing mostly anime.

Overall, my experience with this course has been a surprisingly pleasant one. I was not deeply knowledgeable of anime prior to the course, but now, I can definitely say I have seen quite a few unique animes.

[imkindacoolngl]

Goodbye Animeted World

Your name was incredible. I love everything about it. The animation was stunning, the music hit every note just right, and the story had so much emotional weight that it stayed with me. The moment when Taki and Mitsuhameet on the train after Taki learns he can save the town. I was nervous until the very end, when they finally saw each other and exchanged names. The anime made me think about how people can feel connected even when they don't fully understand why. I love that, thanks to his plan, the town's culture was saved, and he still got what he wanted. 

Hetalia wasn't as interesting as I thought. I liked the character designs, even though they are stereotypes like America always holding a hamburger or a shake, I found it amusing. The exaggerated voices and sexual undertones were often distracting and annoying, but I can see why this anime had such a huge fan base. It turns the serious events of World War II into something funny and laughable. At times, it worked well; other times, it was a little too serious, which was unsettling. I respect it for tackling a new topic.  

Sensoron was unsettling. The author was very persuasive in his way of convincing you of his side, and how the war stories can and were manipulated, yet I think his writing does something similar, especially how he can selectively pick his arguments after hearing that in the lecture, it showed how when he makes points, you can trust him, either because of his own tactics and visual rhetoric.

All of these works reflect different aspects of Japan, like memory, identity, and war. While I connected with Your Name the most, I still think the rest of the anime had a unique idea, and I wish I could have connected with them more.  

So for a final send off, it was fun reading y'all's post and making them, good luck at UF and Sayōnara

[imkindacoolngl]

I really like your post, it was fun to read, and I agree that Nausicaa had such a warm feeling throughout. Even though the world is on the brink of war, her kindness and calmness made it feel peaceful, and hope was on the horizon. She is a unifying figure between humans and nature. I also like what you said about Xenoblade Chronicles 2. I also loved the grandpa titan. The one thing I noticed was that Kalus acts like a god-like figure, even though he is human; he tried to play God and regretted it.

Overall, great post! The symbolism was powerful.

"Do not be afraid": Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind / Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Kon'nichiwa!

I watched a fantastic Studio Ghibli movie this week, and I really want to delve into it for today's blog post. Starting outfrom the characters to the plot, the whole film was just so excellent; I had to give it a round of applause.

In Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Nausicaa's character was such a powerful character that it is the best way to describe her. She had a beautiful spirit, personality, and a power for befriending and calming people and animals. She acts Christlike when she says "do not be afraid" with her arms in a cross, causing people and animals to trust her and calm down. I loved the way that the movie used Naussica to unite the nations as well as humans and nature. I preferred this movie over Spirited Away, but all the Ghibli movies are awesome. The Studio Ghibli animation is so iconic and adds another level of immersion. 

The environment of the movie felt light most of the time, perhaps because of the warm love that comes from Nausicaa, as well as the people in the Valley and all the heartwarming connections. It kept me entranced for the whole movie, and I loved that aspect of this movie.

The movie was not only light but also deep through the conflict and symbols. Making connections from the toxic world and sicknesses from the anime to climate change and other diseases that arise from polluted water and air.

Now, as for Xenoblade Chronicles 2, I absolutely loved the plot twists and animation. The titans were cute, especially the grandpa. I was confused at first how we move from the cloud to water, then I realized it was a cloud sea, which is so cool, but scary at the same time, because you can't see what's in the water. The movements of the animation and the games' different environments also immersed me. This game had similarities to Nausicca, but the main difference here is that nature doesn't repair itself, and there is no Christ-like figure; it was just human intervention, which showed me a different perspective. 

Thanks for reading, さようなら, Sayōnara.

[imkindacoolngl]

Nausicaa, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Symbols of Hope

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind was a refreshing change of pace from some of the heavier, more psychological anime we have been watching. Even though the film shows how humans are powerless to undo the damage, we have one option: letting nature take its course. It still left me feeling hopeful. The idea that nature has its own way of healing, even if we can't understand or control it, is powerful and engaging to think about. The way the Ohm symbolizes the rage of the Earth was great symbolism. These vast, powerful, unkillable creatures reminded me of what happened when we push nature too far. It made me reflect on how we treat the environment globally.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 was a story I was interested in, mainly because Shulk is in Super Smash Bros. The world and story turned out to be deeper than I expected. Just watching the cutscenes at times felt a bit slow, but the payoff was worth it. The twist about Elysium not being what it seemed was a strong example of how the search for paradise or perfection can distract us from the reality we live in. The soundtrack really helped build that emotional bridge between illusion and reality; the music made every moment feel immersive and meaningful. The ending, especially the bond between Rex and Pyra/Mythra, while sad, I think, leaves the viewer with the same sense of hope as with Nausicaa

In the end, both stories left a lasting message. While their pacing was slow at times, they reward the viewer with emotional depth and beauty, whether in the form of Nausicca being the hero and letting nature heal, or Rex's team reaching the new land that the titans built. These works remind us that even when the world is broken, there is still hope. Hope is not naive; it is necessary. Sometimes believing in a better world is the first step towards building one.

[imkindacoolngl]

Your take on Neon Genesis and the movie really captured the emotional and psychological weight of the series. The explanation of inner conflict effectively conveys the show's message, particularly in how each character reacts differently. Your take on how the movie is a necessary destruction puts the film in a new light I didn't see. This post highlights why so many people love this series.

Neon Genesis Evangelion / The End of Evangelion

My experience watching Neon Genesis Evangelion and The End of Evangelion proved to be one of the most emotionally demanding anime experiences I have ever had. The anime presents itself as more than a mecha series because it explores deep themes about isolation and depression while searching for identity in a collapsing world. The series effectively portrayed the internal turmoil, which shows that the true conflict exists within the minds of the characters rather than outside.

The show presents a disorderly, fragmented, and often disturbing portrayal, which creates an authentic sense of reality. The depiction of anxiety in Evangelion showed strong similarities to modern mental health issues that people experience during high-stress situations at school and work. The extreme personality traits of Shinji , who seeks approval and Asuka, who is perfectionistic, and Rei, who is emotionally numb, all reminded me of common behaviors that young people exhibit when they try to understand their role in a demanding society.

The show presents a Japanese cultural perspective by showing how society expects people to conform, yet the universal human emotions remain intact. The End of Evangelion destroyed all remaining comfort that the series provided to its audience. The film presents a brutal, surreal experience that serves as a necessary destruction to reveal the authentic nature of both characters and viewers. The realization that pain cannot be escaped , yet living through it with meaningful connections, became a profound message for me. Evangelion presents no definitive solutions, but it explores essential questions about human existence , including our purpose in life and our identity outside of relationships, and our right to simply exist.

Anime and media rarely explore human nature at this profound level. Through its storytelling, Evangelion compels viewers to engage in self-reflection. The show remains unforgettable because it forces viewers to think about their existence.

[imkindacoolngl]

Pen-Pen is the goat (Neon Genesis Evangelion and EOE)

Watching Neon Genesis and EOE was a frustrating but unforgettable experience. I went in expecting giant mechs, epic battles, and character growth, but what was waiting felt like a psychological maze. I don't mind complex ideas in media, but I found the ending of the TV series extremely dissatisfying. The flashing visuals and repetition of Shinji's self-doubt made it hard for me to enjoy or even feel bad for Shinji. Shinji's inner journey is a tough one, and is not able to be overcome by fighting in giant mecha suits, but I felt like he didn't grow, which made it hard for me to believe everyone just claps for Shinji and the viewers is supposed to walk away stasified, Im not even sure what the messsage was about without the help of the lecture.

The movie The End of Evangelion did improve. Visually, it's stunning, the animation is a clear improvement espically with new techonology, the soundtrack is top tier this is all let me to belive that maybe the movie will be a rebirth story and the ending may feel stasfting, while its a passionate, bold piece of art, Shinji doesn't fight and the conclusion echoded the same despair I felt watching the show. The emotional highlight came when Asuka showed Shinji a brief moment of compassion. It was the only time the ending gave me something to hold onto. I'm not criticizing the ending for being sad, but it just felt hollow, almost as if the director is suggesting there is either hope or a world of destruction, with nothing but two teenagers.

I can see how the series reflects global anxiety and generational disconnection, and those themes translate in terms of mental health, but it doesn't make the experience any easier. Maybe that's the point of the movie: closure isn't guaranteed. Still, it left me more irritated than moved.

I respect what Evangelion brought to life; it's ambitious and personal. I wish the characters, especially Shiji, had been developed in a way that made it easier to care about them.

[imkindacoolngl]

This was a powerful reflection. I appreciated how you portrayed fandom as more than just consuming media, but as a means of survival and self-expression. Your point about how True Otaku breaks the stereotype of fans being isolated really stood out to me because I also saw the connection to fandom while watching.

The final line was excellent: "These fans aren't running from reality, they're rewriting it to include themselves. That sums up the emotional core of the documentary. Great post!

Convention Post

Watching True Otaku gave me a deeper appreciation of anime fandom not as some fringe niche, but as a legitimate subculture where people form identities, communities, and even worldviews. The documentary breaks the stereotype that otaku are just isolated nerds, it shows that for many, fandom is a lifeline. It’s not just about watching shows; it’s about connecting, creating, and sometimes surviving through fiction. That really hit me. You don’t just consume anime as a fan, you actively use it to process real-life struggles, to find people who understand you, and to explore sides of yourself you don’t always feel safe expressing in everyday life.

One of the strongest themes was how otaku culture is productive, not passive. Fans don’t just accept what creators give them. They remix, reinterpret, and reimagine it through fanfiction, fan art, cosplay, AMVs, doujinshi, or even full-on fan animations. It reminded me of Jenkins’ theory of “participatory culture,” where fans reshape the original media and build communities around their interpretations. A girl in the documentary said she wrote alternative storylines to help herself deal with real-life emotions. Another fan said cosplay gave him the confidence to act like the stronger, more decisive version of himself. That ties directly into Judith Butler’s theory of performance, not just with gender, but with identity more broadly. These fans perform who they want to be by stepping into fictional worlds.

I also noticed how much of fandom is about negotiating identity, especially for people who feel like they don’t fit the norm. One of the older otaku in the documentary talked about how he couldn’t find meaning in typical Japanese jobs or adult responsibilities, but anime gave him a space where he felt understood. For him, the fantasy world of anime wasn’t a form of escape—it was more real than the rigid world around him. That really stuck with me. Because in many ways, fandom isn’t an escape from reality, it’s an alternative reality that people use to survive the emotional and social alienation they experience in everyday life. It’s a space to be seen.

This sense of rebellion against conformity is something that makes otaku culture deeply tied to youth identity and counterculture. The documentary shows how Japan’s intense social expectations of school, work, and appearance leave very little room for anyone who doesn’t naturally fit the mold. And that’s not just a Japanese problem. Even in American culture, liking anime can get you labeled as weird unless you’re into the most mainstream stuff. Fandom gives people an outlet to create meaning on their own terms. The fan events in the documentary—especially the cosplay scenes—felt like watching people breathe for the first time. Like they could finally be free.

I also appreciated how the documentary didn’t ignore the gender dynamics within the fandom. Female fans often dressed as male characters because it earned them more respect, especially in male-dominated convention spaces. One woman even said she felt more confident being a male character than when she was herself. That’s a real example of how gender is performed and rewarded based on social scripts. Butler’s theory of gender performativity plays out literally in cosplay. It’s not just dress-up. It’s identity exploration, and for some, it’s about survival in a world where being yourself doesn’t feel safe.

In the end, True Otaku wasn’t just about anime fans, it was about what it means to be human in a postmodern world. Where traditional identities break down, where institutions feel distant, and where people turn to fictional worlds to find the connection they don’t get in real ones. Anime fandom becomes a tool for self-expression, resistance, and emotional truth. It challenged me to see fandom not as a distraction, but as a deeply personal and political act. These fans aren’t running from reality, they’re rewriting it to include themselves.

[imkindacoolngl]

Hello, I thought your reflections on the recent anime were thoughtful and effectively highlighted the unique strengths of each anime. I especially appreciated how you described Wandering Son's refusal to turn gender identity into a lesson as a great point, which helped show how honest the show is. The take on Aggretsuko also stood out. The humor and exaggeration really highlight how real and stressful societal expectations can be, even beyond gender. I also agree that Sailor Moon remains emotionally powerful even decades later.

Overall, I think your post did a great job showing how all three anime handle gender differences in meaningful ways. It illustrates how media can shape our perception of identity.

Sailor Moon / Aggretsuko / Wandering Son

The combined viewing of Sailor Moon, Aggretsuko , and Wandering Son helped me understand how anime presents and disrupts gender norms across both Japanese and worldwide audiences. The three shows present unique viewpoints because Sailor Moon uses magical girl tropes to showcase feminine friendship, while Aggretsuko reveals the hidden suffering of corporate life for women, and Wandering Son depicts the intricate emotional aspects of gender identity in teenage years. These shows collectively revealed to me that gender discussions exist as deeply personal and complex matters that transcend not only Japanese culture to affect every society. Wandering Son especially hit home. Shuichi and Yoshino's gender identity journey through confusion and fear, and bravery made me think about my own discussions with friends who share similar experiences. The show presents unresolved situations that create an authentic viewing experience. 

The show maintains its power through its refusal to transform gender identity into a didactic lesson while it stays with the uncomfortable feelings and longing. Aggretsuko presents an authentic portrayal of how societal gender expectations can become oppressive during adulthood. Through Retsuko's silent anger and monotonous work experience, viewers can recognize the feeling of being trapped by unwanted expectations, which affect both women and people from any background. The show uses comedic exaggeration to depict real-life stress and pressure that people experience alongside their desire to express themselves through screaming. Sailor Moon surprised me by remaining relevant because it does. 

The show presents emotional power along with dedication and bravery , which continues to inspire audiences. The show introduced queer representation through Sailor Uranus and Neptune before its time , although Western audiences experienced censorship during early dub releases. These shows made me analyze how media influences our gender perceptions in a deeper way. These stories function as cultural elements that help culture expand while healing itself.

[imkindacoolngl]

True Otaku: Not Just About Anime, But About Belonging

Watching True Otaku: The Documentary was not just an educational experience; it was surprisingly emotional. I went in expecting to learn about anime fandom and cosplay, but what I found was something meaningful: a story about identity, community, and the power of shared passion. Across all three parts, the documentary paints a vivid picture of what it means to be an otaku, not just in Japan but also in the United States, and how identity is expressed through creativity and connection. 

In Part 1, the documentary introduces the term "otaku" and attempts to define the word through multiple interviews. We see how its meaning shifts depending on where you are. In Japan, it often carries a negative connotation, suggesting someone obsessive and socially withdrawn. In the U.S., the meaning is entirely different; the term has been repurposed into something empowering. From what I understand, an otaku is a super fan, just like someone might be a fan of sports or any other media event. This definition of the term sets the tone for the documentary. We aren’t just watching a documentary on people who watch anime, but rather on individuals who build identities and form relationships through it. 

Part 2, we focus on one of the many people during the convention: a cosplayer named Dustbunny. Who is preparing for a big costume contest at Anime USA, and we follow her as she describes the designing process of creating and bringing the cosplay to life. This part opened my eyes to the amount of work that goes into cosplay. It's not just about throwing on a wig and an outfit; it's about utilizing various skills, including crafting, sewing, engineering, and performing. This increased attention to cosplay is helping new people learn essential skills that are seen as losing popularity. We hear Dustbunny talk about her nerves, her hopes, and the satisfaction of creating an outfit that you connect with and that you created yourself. There is something powerful in cosplay that allows people to express aspects of themselves that they don’t always get to express in everyday life. 

In part 3, we finally arrive at the contest, where we get to see Dustbunny evaluated by the judges. She explains that the process is never-ending but kind of fun, and how everyone there, including the judges, is pleasant, friendly, understanding, and appreciative of your hobbies. We also receive a few more interviews from other people who share their experiences of how they view the conventions. This is the final piece of the interview that shows just how connected everyone is and how this hobby and lifestyle people have isn't weird but essential. The quote by Takamasa Sakurai stuck with me. “If you can find joy in something you can build bridges.” This quote stuck with me because it's powerful and uplifting. That's what we try to do as a human population: build bridges and connections. Seeing people come together through this shared passion was powerful and uplifting. 

By now, I’ve only watched about 15 anime series, so I came to the idea that I wasn't a real fan. However, at the end of the documentary, I realized that the idea was silly. The documentary showed me that fandom isn't about how many shows and facts you know. It's about finding joy, sharing it with others, and building a space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. The whole documentary was uplifting and made me want to attend a convention. You don't have to be the most hardcore fan to belong; you just need to show up, be curious, and open to the experience. Because in the end, it's not just about anime, it's about connection, and that's something everyone can relate to.

I picked this image due to recently becoming a Borderlands fan, so seeing a cosplay of characters from the series made me interested in watching the documentary

[imkindacoolngl]

Sailor Moon, Aggretsuko, Wandering Son

These anime weren’t my kind of shows. I didn't connect with any of them the way I have with some of the others that we have watched. I still can see what each one of them was trying to express. 

Sailor Moon felt dated and overly dramatic to me, but that being said, I can still see why it was groundbreaking. It promoted the idea that girls can be powerful, even when being emotional or stylish. I did like the character Luna; she helped make the show feel more grounded and interesting as she was like Sailor Moon's sidekick, even if she was only a cat. The show highlights girl power and challenges traditional ideas of femininity, which I respect, even if it wasn't particularly exciting to watch. 

I enjoyed Aggretsuko the most out of all the anime. I liked the twist that Retsuko expresses herself through death metal Karakoe to break gender roles and conformity. While Im not a metal fan myself, I do listen to a lot of music and often play it loud, so that part connected with me. It was interesting to see a show use that to represent her bottled-up frustration with work and gender expectations. Even though the show focuses on how women can be treated in strict workplaces, I think it's essential to demonstrate that anyone can feel trapped between what they want to do and what society expects of them. 

As for Wandering Son, I didn't connect with it. Still, I recognize that it's trying to say something about gender identity and social pressure. It showed how different life can be when someone doesn’t fit into traditional roles and how hard it is for them to be accepted and for them to accept themselves.  While it wasn't something I enjoyed as much as the other anime during this module, I understand the messages they were trying to convey, and I think it's essential that they have some sort of representation.

[imkindacoolngl]

I like what you said about how the characters felt real. How they were awkward and unsure if they would fit in. Instead of making them feel weak, it made them more relatable. I think everyone has felt the same way about holding back on interests in fear of being judged.

I also think the point about pressure to fit in is essential; we are all trying to fit in with society, but also within smaller spaces, such as fandom communities. It's interesting how, even in communities built around specific interests, people can still feel like outsiders. The "real fan" was a nice touch since everyone is always trying to prove they are a bigger fan than another person.

Genshiken

Watching Genshiken felt really different from most anime I’ve seen. It wasn’t about big action or fantasy, it was just a group of students who love anime, manga, and games. What I liked most was how real the characters felt. They were awkward, unsure of themselves, and sometimes afraid of being judged for the things they liked. I could relate to that a lot.

Even though I’m not super into anime clubs or fan circles, I’ve definitely held back from sharing things I enjoy because I was worried people wouldn’t get it. Seeing the characters in Genshiken slowly become more comfortable with who they are made me think about how important it is to find people who accept you for you.

The show also made me think about how society (especially in Japan, but also around the world) puts pressure on people to fit in. Some characters in the group feel left out or judged, especially the girls, and it reminded me that even in “nerdy” spaces, people can still feel excluded. That’s something I’ve seen happen in real life too, where people get told they’re not “real fans.”

What I took away from Genshiken is how important it is to have a space where you can be yourself. The group wasn’t perfect, but they still supported each other and shared what they loved. That kind of community really matters.

Genshiken wasn’t dramatic or intense, but it felt honest. It made me think about my own interests and the people I feel most myself around. I didn’t expect to enjoy it so much, but it left a real impression on me.

[imkindacoolngl]

Genshiken: A Thoughtful View on Otaku Culture

Watching Genshiken was a somewhat refreshing shift from some of the darker and more intense anime we have been watching in class. The show started light-hearted, with the club members joking around and having fun, as some of them goofed around and were obsessed with their favorite series featured in the show. Even though the main character found him self still lost by realizing that he saw a club that was like him, it bonded the characters. The doujinshi, which was a main focal point of the show, was quite explicit and extremely niche in its subgenres; it had some unsettling themes, but the anime did a good job of explaining its significance. 

What stood out to me was how Genshiken handled the idea of otaku. I always thought that word was somewhat of a term to describe someone who is different from other people. For example, someone who is so disconnected from reality and maybe socially awkward due to their interest in manga, which made me avoid anime and manga for a while, as I didn't want to be categorized in the same group. This anime made me rethink that, the characters aren't crazy, they just have their way of engaging with the world, just like someone who loves music might. Fandom is a way for them to express themselves, build friendships, and feel a sense of belonging. That's not different from other hobbies or interests people have, even if their hobbies might be different due to mainstream standards. 

Globally, I think Genshiken reflects how fan culture can sometimes be misunderstood, a theme that is evident multiple times in the anime. However, it also creates a space for people who might feel out of place somewhere. Whether in Japan or even the America, everyone wants to feel like they belong, and fandom is precisely the place where it happens. For example, I am a massive fan of the music artist Glaive and a fan of the game Cyberpunk 2077. By being a fan and expressing my ideas about them, I am in that fandom. I think Genshiken's goal is to help people see that even when a fandom seems weird or niche from the outside, it serves the same purpose as any community: providing a place for people to express themselves and feel understood.

[imkindacoolngl]

I appreciate how you connected Naruto, A Silent Voice, and Wolf Children through the theme of ostracization, where all three characters were punished for things beyond their control. Talking about Naturo choosing not to kill pain to take revenge shows his goals and empathy. I didn't notice that it links with how Shouko forgives Shouya. It's great that we get to see all the characters push through in their own way.

Naruto / Wolf Children / A Silent Voice

Naruto Shippuden faces our main character with breaking the cycle of hate. Naruto is a heroic, well-intentioned main character. I really enjoy him as the lead, and I feel he's comparable to Gon in Hunter x Hunter. Despite the harm Pain has caused to Naruto, Naruto is still able to feel empathy for Pain's tragic story. Pain is acting in violence as result of of the violence committed towards him. Naruto struggles to forgive Pain for the damage he's caused, and he can't help but be tempted to respond in the same violent manner. However, out of goodness and sympathy, Naruto takes the heroic path and decides against killing Pain. Naruto's understanding towards Pain could be from the resonation of ostracization for Naruto as seen in episode 1 of the original anime.

Speaking of ostracized characters, this theme can be seen again in A Silent Voice with Shouko Nishimiya. Shouko is rejected by her classmates because of her hearing disability. Rejection escalates into serious bullying problems. The major similarity in this case between Naruto and Shouko is that they're being cast out by society for things they were born with, things they can't control. These being Naruto's fox, and Shouko's disability. When faced with the opportunity to choose revenge, Naruto and Shouko both choose the high road against their enemies. Naruto spares Pain, and Shouko seems to forgive Shouya.

Ame and Yuki from Wolf Children are also forced to be recluse due to ostracization of features they can't control. Because of their half-wolf, half-human breeds, they are forced to hide their true identities. Naruto, Shouko, Yuki, and Ame all seek to belong in some way. They want to be accepted despite their differences, and all of them face mental hardships in consequence.

[imkindacoolngl]

Isolation to Connections

Watching Naruto, Wolf Children, and A Silent Voice gave me a lot to think about, especially in how they deal with identity, isolation, and the possibility of change. Something I’m sure we have all experienced and found a solution to. While Naruto didn't catch my interest due to maybe being under my age group, I still remember how his struggles with discrimination affected him. He is hated and feared for something he can’t control, which represents a birth problem like the Nine Tails inside him, yet he pushes forward, not just to be acknowledged but to protect others. It reminds me that while suffering isn’t something people should have to go through, it can sometimes be a source of personal strength. Naruto becomes someone who lifts others because he knows what it’s like to be alone.  

Wolf children hit me differently, while it isn't as action-heavy, its emotional depth hits hard. Watching the two children grow into different identities, one choosing the human world and the other choosing the wilderness, made me reflect on how society leaves little room for people who don't fit in. Still, like in the film, people can carve out small spaces where they can figure themselves out. The ending was bittersweet, especially with how the mother has to let go. It's sad, but it illustrates how love means giving others the freedom to grow and develop. 

Out of the three, A Silent Voice had the most personal impact on me. The idea that society, not just the individual, needs to change resonates. The main character’s journey through guilt, depression, and anxiety felt real. I also liked the message of when life gets tough, there seems to only be one option, but we learn that it isn't the correct one I feel like it shines light on the fact that there is hope through redemption and even friendship. What also stood out was how his effort to change himself led to others reaching out to him and becoming friends, thereby creating a new social circle for him. It reminded me that while people can do terrible things, they can also grow and help others heal. That kind of message feels important, especially today. 

[imkindacoolngl]

I agree that the world looks peaceful and safe, while it is hiding dark truths. The contracts between the two worlds are what make Shin Sekai Yori so disturbing when it switches into a more horror aspect. The queerrats were also unsettling when we learn that they were actually humans and were genetically modified to become less than humans. It reminds me of how easily real-world systems can change us. Your point about Saki and the others accepting the system stuck with me, really thinking about it. It's chilling to think that they have no way to change the system and are helpless; they can only accept the system and its violence.

Shin Sekai Yori

Watching Shin Sekai Yori really shook me. At first, the world looks calm and peaceful, with small villages and kids learning to use psychic powers. But underneath, it’s terrifying. The society kills its own children to keep things under control. That hit me hard because it reminds me of how some places, even in real life, pretend everything is fine while hiding awful truths.

It also feels very real when you think about the world today. The way the elders lie about history to control people reminded me of governments or groups that rewrite the past to justify violence or stay in power. The part where humans treat the Queerats as animals, only to reveal they’re actually humans, felt like a clear metaphor for racism and discrimination. It made me think about how easy it is to see people as “less than” if it helps us feel safe or in control.

Personally, I found it disturbing how the main characters, even Saki, end up accepting the system once they learn the reasons behind it. It made me wonder if I’d do the same. I think everyone compromises sometimes, maybe not in such extreme ways, but we all look the other way or make excuses for things we know are wrong.

It reminded me of dystopian stories I’ve read where society trades freedom for safety. The anime shows how hard it is to have both. While it has a very Japanese focus on the group over the individual, the message is universal. It left me thinking about what any society is willing to sacrifice to stay “peaceful,” and whether we’re honest about those sacrifices. Overall, it was haunting, but also made me reflect on my own choices and the world around me.

[imkindacoolngl]

Shin Sekai Yori

Shin Sekai Yori has been the most complex anime I've watched so far, primarily due to its strange pacing and gradual shift in tone. Initially, I thought it would be a light-hearted coming-of-age story about kids learning to use their psychic powers, known as Cantus. The idea of telekinesis fascinated me. Who wouldn't want the power to move things with just their mind? But even though the concept is rich, the show spends so long building its world that the cantus feels underused. The early episodes almost lose their direction before the darker themes finally take over.

Things shift after the kids meet The False Minoshiro. That’s when the anime transforms into a psychological thriller, and we begin to understand how strict and terrifying this society is. Kids who show even a hint of instability are killed and disappear, unknown to the other kids. This connects to the wild child concept from the readings. Similar to Japan’s Shonen A case and the rise of surveillance in U.S. schools, the anime illustrates how children are perceived as the most dangerous, necessitating constant societal monitoring. What stuck with me was the pritoritize of control over care rather than support the troubled kids, society erases them it doesnt give a chance for redemption and i feel like this is the problem in real society is that we also overlook care and focus more on controlling the children and stopping the problem right before it happens than trying to find a solution before it beginnings. The anime does give us some hope, where Saki suggests a future where children are no longer feared and society eventually stops treating them as threats. 

Although I found parts of this anime slow and tedious, its internal message is a profound and impactful issue that needs to be addressed more globally. By focusing on this, we can prevent the problems of wild children before they begin, and let us rethink how to treat them, not just with surveillance but with compassion. 

[imkindacoolngl]

I liked the comparison to 1984; the "thought crime" is perfect for Psycho-Pass. Your point about citizens being treated like assets under Sibyl was a great note on how demanding it is. Especially how their values come from how mentally stable they appear, not who they really are. This even happens in our world, where systems can reduce people to roles, and altogether skip over mental health, which is a massive factor in how people act. Great Post!

Psycho-Pass

Psycho-Pass is a really interesting example of panopticism. In the show, the Sibyl System is constantly monitoring citizen's psychological states to determine how likely they are to commit a crime. Individuals with a high possibility of committing crime are dealt with, often times lethally. The 24/7 government surveillance is intended to serve as a threat to keep citizens in line. The intense government interference additionally takes away a sense of identity. In attempt to create a crime-free utopia, the Sibyl System is actually creating a codependent dystopia. The surveillance and psychological monitoring are very reminiscent of George Orwell's "1984," especially the "thought crime" scenes from the book.

Something I was able to identify about the Sibyl System was its neoliberal ideas. The citizens' value is determined by their mental status. They are treated as assets rather than real people. The character, Makishima, goes against these neoliberal ideals with his free thinking. He advocates against the Sibyl System and claims its casting a numbness over the citizens. Through violent crimes, Makishima is causing scenes in an attempt to wake them up. Though his methods were unjust, I found myself able to understand the need for freedom under a system like Sibyl.

Psycho-Pass is additionally a very good example of what can happen when technology goes unchecked. It digs up a lot of fears I personally have with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). I also was able to identify with the pressure to maintain stable mental health out of fear of societal consequence. In Psycho-Pass, mental health is heavily stigmatized, and this is representative of a real-world struggle to appear "well" in order to present stability to others. It also goes to say that society, in general, should work to destigmatize mental health, and focus on rehabilitation.

Where does the line between safety and freedom get drawn? Regardless, checks and balances become increasingly important as technology advances.