rosiebee-18

[rosiebee-18]

Hi. Taki and Mitsuha's relationship was perfectly portrayed that it seems as though the cosmos is bringing them together in a way that is both mysterious and real. Their relationship feels genuine and valuable because of the significant tie that is formed between them as a result of sharing one other's life experiences. Theme of meeting your soulmate as well as introducing time-travel did wonders for the plot.

Your Name

I had heard of the anime “Your name” before but never was interested in watching it or learning what it was about.

Your Name is a Japanese animated film directed by Makoto Shinkai. The story follows two teenagers, Mitsuha Miyamizu, a girl living in a rural town, and Taki Tachibana, a boy living in Tokyo, who mysteriously begin to swap bodies intermittently. As they experience each other’s lives, they form a connection and develop feelings for each other, even though they have never met in person. The plot thickens when they realize that they are not just swapping bodies but also living in different times—Mitsuha's timeline is three years in the past. Taki discovers that Mitsuha’s town was destroyed by a comet, leading him on a mission to save her and the townspeople. The film blends elements of romance, fantasy, and drama, culminating in a touching and bittersweet conclusion as the two struggle to meet despite the challenges of time and memory.

After watching I can say, this film was absolutely stunning! I really appreciated how the film resonated with people from different genders, ages, and backgrounds, as it focused on finding similarities despite these differences. I truly loved how the story highlighted the fleeting nature of time and its potential to be manipulated, adding a captivating element of mind-bending time travel to the plot. I was really captivated by the bond between Taki and Mitsuha. I believe the way their paths crossed at that moment perfectly complemented the idea of soulmates, as it felt as though the universe brought them together in mysterious ways instead of the classical cheesy rom-com way that we often see. After truly experiencing each other's lives, they have an incredibly deep understanding. Overall, this was a cute and fun movie to watch and I definitely recommend.

[rosiebee-18]

Hi. I do agree that Hetalia Axis Powers is very stereotypical with the portrayal of countries. For example, Germany is often shown as a disciplined and efficient character, with little focus on the atrocities committed during the war. Meanwhile, Italy is portrayed as a bumbling, pasta-loving coward, which, while funny, reduces a complex nation to a simplistic stereotype.

Hetalia Axis Powers

Hetalia Axis Powers is basically just a comedy show where countries are represented by a single person who embodies the nation's stereotypes. What's interesting about this show is that it supposedly takes place around the WW2 period, yet many of the stereotypes used are actually more contemporary. For example, stereotypes such as the US eating too much and Japan's quietness are stereotypes I would argue didn't exist during WW2.

What was very concerning to me as I watched this show is how it sort of downplays the events of World War 2. Germany repaying his debts to France is portrayed seemingly to make you feel bad for him. Germany's character overall is depicted in a cute trying to act tough sort of way. In reality, Germany was murdering millions of innocent people at this time.

This anime also glazes Japan like crazy which makes sense considering its anime. All I could think about during the whole sweet China x Japan scene was how Japan literally massacred hundreds of villages, raping and torturing people while doing it. They also show how amazed Germany is by Japan's industrial rising. Japan is portrayed as someone who's just trying to defend his lands when in reality Japan was actively invading people at the time.The only Axis Power they really poke fun at is Italy. They talk about Italy's obsession with pasta and their cowardness during WW2.

Anyways, this anime is obviously satire, but there's definitelyconcerning elements within it. I would consider this a kid's show, and I don't know if I'd want kid's introduction to WW2 to be cute Axis Power anime boys.

[rosiebee-18]

Hetalia: Axis Powers

Hetalia: Axis Powers is a satirical animation that portrays countries as characters and uses humor to investigate historical events, international relations, and cultural stereotypes. Hetalia addresses both Japanese-specific and worldwide themes through its distinctive portrayal of world history and geopolitics.

One of the primary ways Hetalia handles challenges in Japan is through its examination of Japan's own national identity. Japan's persona is described as shy, reticent, and somewhat isolated, reflecting the country's historical isolationism and distinct cultural identity. For example, in anime, Japan frequently struggles to comprehend the more outgoing and expressive actions of other characters such as America or Italy, reflecting Japan's historical reluctance to completely embrace Western practices and ideas. This representation emphasizes the struggle inside Japan between preserving traditional culture and adjusting to global influences, a subject that remains pertinent today as Japan navigates its place in an increasingly globalized world.

Hetalia explores the complexity of international relations and the folly of war. The anime typically presents historical wars, such as World War II, in a cheerful and amusing style, yet this satire emphasizes the pointlessness of war. For example, exchanges between Germany, Italy, and Japan at Axis Powers meetings are shown as fumbling and inefficient, serving as a critique of war's futility and destruction. This historical method enables viewers to consider the nature of war as well as the value of diplomacy and collaboration, both of which are universally relevant concerns.

Hetalia addresses the topic of cultural stereotypes and misunderstandings, a global problem that continues in international relations. The anime plays up national clichés for hilarious effect, such as Italy's fondness for pasta and Germany's stringent discipline. While these images are intended to be funny, they also encourage viewers to ponder how preconceptions affect and distort our perception of other cultures. By emphasizing these characteristics, Hetalia  preconceptions about other countries and promotes a greater awareness of global cultures.

[rosiebee-18]

Your Name

The story of the movie, which centers on the lives of Taki and Mitsuha, two teens who mysteriously switch bodies, provides an opportunity to examine disparate lifestyles and the wider social consequences of these distinctions.

In the movie, the contrast between rural and urban life in Japan is one of the main topics. Taki resides in Tokyo, a city known for its modernism, ambition, and fast-paced way of life. On the other hand, Mitsuha lives in the made-up rural town of Itomori, where people lead slower, more conventional lives that are closely entwined with the environment and regional traditions. The act of body-swapping makes one character face and adjust to the surroundings of the other, emphasizing the widening gap between Japan's rural and urban locations. This gap shows a major problem facing modern-day Japan: the exodus of young people from rural areas to cities in search of better prospects, leaving behind aging populations and collapsing communities. The movie gently criticizes this pattern by showing the abundance of life in Itomori and the value of preserving cultural and community ties. Without realizing the mysterious body-swapping, Mitsuha yells out, "Please make me a handsome Tokyo boy in my next life!" since she is fed up with her small-town life. This film effectively contrasts the calm, traditional way of life in Itomori with the busy, modern surroundings of Tokyo through this paranormal event. When Taki takes up Mitsuha's body, he finds it difficult to adjust to the slower, more intimate pace of country life because he is used to the fast-paced city life. On the other hand, Mitsuha enjoys the quiet and energy of Tokyo while in Taki's body.

This film is presented in the theme of natural disasters. This incident is similar to the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami of 2011 in that it happened suddenly and had a catastrophic effect on a town. When Mitsuha learns of the impending disaster, she works diligently to alert her village, emphasizing the need of being prepared for disasters and the resilience of people. 

Your Name looks into how people are bound together by unseen strands of destiny, touching on themes of connection and fate. This idea is popular to viewers, particularly in this day and age when globalization and technology have both connected and isolated people. Another potent image in the film is the red thread that Mitsuha wears. It symbolizes the "red thread of fate," the traditional Japanese notion that individuals who are meant to meet are bound together by an unseen red thread. The scene where Taki and Mitsuha ultimately cross paths on the crater lake's edge is a clear example of this pattern. Even though they are separated by time and location, the thread represents their destined bond. The essential human need for connection and the conviction that there is a greater force directing our interactions are both discussed in this scenario.

[rosiebee-18]

Hii. I also made the same point about the film being environment focus. I think that every individual and government can help promote a healthier relationship with nature. The film is not only entertaining, but it also serves as inspiration to action, pushing audiences to embrace sustainability and conserve the Earth, which is our shared home. It's a message that is more relevant than ever as the world's environmental challenges grow.

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind Blog Post

I can immediately tell there’s a strong focus on the environment, its degradation, and the impact it has on human lives. It seems pretty obvious that the Toxic Jungle is a metaphor to pollution. Japan, especially Tokyo, has experiences many environmental challenges, so this anime being a reflection of that is actually interesting. It is imperative countries across the world recognize the detrimental impact of environmental degradation, like pollution, and find an urgent need to practice suitable actions. Nausicaa’s relationship with the Jungle creature is another metaphor for her respect to nature I believe. Nature is an interconnected force that’s he recognized, which is contrary to what many others believe. It challenges the viewer and forces them to see a positive perspective with nature. Preserving the planet and keeping it clean is what every individual, citizen, government, and country should strive for as it is all our homes after all!

Personally, I am not too much of a nature or out-door person. This anime, however, made me reflect on my relationship with the natural environment. I do my best to use paper straws instead of plastic, recycle, and every year I participate in a walk-a-thon to raise money to plant trees. (#WalkGreen) When I was in Student Government at UF, I even advocated for a more Green Campus to better help the environment and individuals who attend here! However, there is always more you can do. Like, for example, I could reduce plastic use or where clothing materials that are more ecologically friendly to better preserve our environment! Every actions counts towards reducing our ecological footprints and I do believe it starts with you. This anime aligns with past readings or other anime in the sense that it highlights how we interact with our planet and how it further affects human lives. It brings a conscientious and respectful approach to showcasing the detrimental effects of pesticides and toxic wastes on the environment.

[rosiebee-18]

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.

The anime Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind examines key challenges facing Japan and the world through the lenses of environmentalism, war, and the human condition. Set in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by ecological calamity, the film's plot focuses on the environmental implications of human actions, mirroring Japan's own challenges with industrialization and environmental destruction. The Toxic Jungle, a dangerous habitat overflowing with mutant flora and fauna, is a metaphor for humanity's neglect of nature, implying that environmental disasters come from a lack of understanding and respect for the natural world. This problem is particularly relevant in Japan, where fast industrialization has frequently resulted in environmental issues such as pollution and biodiversity loss.

 Nausicaä, shows a concern for all living species, which transcends her contemporaries' aggressive impulses. Her attempt to comprehend and harmonize with the Toxic Jungle symbolizes a larger appeal for cohabitation rather than dominance, which is consistent with Japan's historical relationship with nature and cultural appreciation for the environment. For example, her relationship with the Ohmu, huge insect-like animals who guard their home, exemplifies the possibility of harmony between humans and nature when treated with respect and understanding. In contrast, figures like as Kushana, who aims to exploit the land for military benefit, depict the devastating forces of war and greed, echoing Japan's own historical conflicts and issues of ethics.

The anime also addresses the ineffectiveness of war by depicting the never-ending fight between the Valley of the Wind and the Tolmekians. The resulting violence and loss show the cyclical nature of conflict and the devastation it causes for all parties involved. Nausicaä's willingness to find peaceful solutions rather than turning to violence shows the significance of empathy and communication in resolving conflict. This message sheds light of Japan's postwar identity and the ongoing debate over militarism and pacifism.

[rosiebee-18]

Hii. It is an interesting point you made about the environment. The turning of Elysium into a wasteland serves as a sad warning about the fate of our own world if we do not solve environmental challenges. Klaus' death, signifying the loss of this promised paradise, shows the fragile nature of utopias and our need to protect our environment. I didn't really realize this until your post.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Not going to lie, the cut scenes of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 were kind of hard to get through. It was also hard to follow, but that might just be because I’m not used to consuming videogame plots. Nonetheless, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 did have some environmental commentary, which is what I’ll be discussing in this post.

In the beginning Rex talks about a world where his ancestors came from called Elysium. This is a paradise, but for whatever reason these people were banished from Elysium and forced to live a much harder life. Rex dies and meets Pyra who brings him back to life so that they can go to Elysium. Like in Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, this rebirth can be seen as painting Rex as a sort of messiah whose purpose is to help better the world by reaching the promise land.

A lot of plot happens, but the most important part is that when Rex and his clan reaches Elysium, it is essentially a wasteland. This is a warning to the audience (those playing the game) of what our earth or paradise could become if we don’t work to better the damage that we have done to the environment. After this they meet a guy named Klaus. Then they had to fight some people, but after that, Klaus dies. With his death is the death of Elysium and the cloud world that everyone has previously lived in is a green and lush land. I suppose this is supposed to show that you need to fight for the environment and only then will you be rewarded with a so-called promise land. This is different from Nausicaa because we are encouraged to take action towards good rather than just end the bad.

Again, I had a hard time understanding this and I watched it on x2 speed so there’s a solid chance that I’m missing something, but this is what I got from this game.

[rosiebee-18]

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a super interesting video game that has expansive world-building involving a future in which the themes of survival, environmental degradation, and the consequences of technological advancement are intensely explored and addressed. The game's world is known as Alrest, and as the character states, humans used to all live in harmony in a great tree in the center of the world with their creator known as the Architect. However, the humans were cast out of their original world, Elysium, to live in the sprawling expanse due to destroying it by overusing a powerful energetic artifact known as the Conduit (definitely mirrors our overuse of energy). In a last plea of mercy, the Architect sent them the Titans in which civilization could live on the backs of these giant creatures. The Titans, just like our planet, are living beings whose health and wellness directly impact the humans health and wellness.

We enter the video game as the Titans begin to die, causing significant unrest and uneasiness over the future of human survival. I believe this mirrors issues in Japan and globally as we are running out of our natural resources yet we have no plan to replenish them as we are just simply using and taking these naturally made resources, like fossil fuels, too fast. The game's narrative echoes our current geological age, the Anthropocene, characterized by significant human impact on the environment. I can personally relate to the game's protagonist, Rex, as he tries to stay positive in the face of his planet being on the brink of ecological collapse. Although not as dire as the situation in Xenoblade, I also try to stay positive and do my part to not contribute to more waste in our world because I believe that if everyone develops a nonchalant attitude then there is no chance for us to bring back mutualism with our environment, like it used to be.

[rosiebee-18]

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

The game explores a prevalent subject in Japan: societal pressure and individual identity. The protagonist, Rex, is under enormous pressure as a Salvager to provide for his community, reflecting the cultural expectations put on individuals in Japan to contribute to collective well-being. This reflects the strong pressure many Japanese, particularly teenagers, endure to conform to societal norms. Furthermore, the game addresses the friction between technological growth and traditional values, which is a major issue in Japan. In other terms globalization. In Alrest, new technology coexists alongside traditional ways of living, mirroring Japan's struggle to strike a balance between rapid modernization and cultural heritage preservation. The story frequently emphasizes the repercussions of misusing technology, serving as a warning about unchecked technical progress without ethical limits.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 explores the concept of objectification, particularly through the depiction of Blades and their interactions with their Drivers. Blades are powerful, sentient beings designed to serve those who are human, known as Drivers. Despite their sentience and distinct personalities, blades are frequently viewed as tools or weapons rather than individuals with rights and emotions. This relationship raises serious concerns about objectification and the moral implications of treating sentient humans like things. One example of objectification in the game is how certain Drivers perceive and use their Blades. Blades are frequently viewed as a means to a goal, valued largely for their combat capabilities or strategic benefits. It reduces Blades to tools of power and usefulness, denying them of agency and personality. The commodification of Blades, as evidenced by how they are summoned, exchanged, and sometimes even discarded, shows the game's ubiquitous objectification. The game also questions the consequences of objectification through Blades' character development and interactions with Drivers. Some Drivers see their Blades' humanity and individuality, which fosters mutual respect and understanding. This evolution represents a critique of objectification, pushing for the recognition of sentient beings' worth beyond utility.

[rosiebee-18]

Hii. The overwhelming temptation to conform and succeed, frequently at the expense of personal well-being, is a serious problem, particularly among young males. Shinji's identity struggle and mental crisis are representative of these societal issues and can be understood globally.

Neon Genesis Evangelion Part 3: End of Evangelion

Ill admit, I did not think part 3 would be even more intense and mind-bending. The conclusion to the series not only deepened the psychological complexities of the characters but also pushed the boundaries of storytelling and visual art. 

In Japan, the themes of isolation, societal pressure, and mental health are depicted through the characters' journeys. Shinji’s struggle with his identity and the immense pressure to conform mirrors the real-life pressures faced by many Japanese individuals, especially men. The film's chaotic and introspective narrative reflects a society grappling with the consequences of its rigid social structures and the high expectations placed on individuals. Globally, these themes relate as well, as mental health issues and the search for identity are universal experiences. The film's exploration of existential dread and the desire for human connection speaks to a broader audience, making its impact felt far beyond Japan's borders.

In America, the portrayal of Shinji’s breakdown and the apocalyptic scenarios reflect societal anxieties about the future and the individual’s place within it. The depiction of mental health crises, loneliness, and the need for validation are issues that resonate deeply in American society, where these themes are increasingly part of the public discourse. The rawness of Shinji's psychological turmoil and his interactions with the other characters highlight the damaging effects of trying to meet societal expectations while grappling with personal demons.

The readings on masculinity, particularly Raewyn Connell’s "Masculinities" and Robert Heasley's "Queer Masculinities of Straight Men," provide a valuable framework for understanding Shinji’s character. His vulnerability, reluctance to engage in violence, and emotional depth challenge the traditional notions of what it means to be a man. This critique of hegemonic masculinity is central to the film’s narrative, highlighting the need for a broader and more inclusive understanding of gender.

"End of Evangelion" is a powerful, disorienting, and thought-provoking finale that forces viewers to confront the darker aspects of human nature and societal expectations. Its exploration of mental health, identity, and masculinity makes it a timeless piece that continues to resonate across cultures, challenging and inspiring its audience to think deeply about their own lives and the world around them.

[rosiebee-18]

The End of Evangelion

One of the key topics addressed in "The End of Evangelion" is Japan's demand for societal conformity. This is notably visible in the character Shinji Ikari, whose struggle with discouragement and a sense of worthlessness mirrors the real-life difficulties that many young Japanese people confront. The film depicts Shinji's inner suffering and anxiousness for approval, echoing the expectations placed on Japanese adolescents to excel academically and professionally, often at the sacrifice of their emotional well-being. Shinji's isolation and emotional instability have been made worse by the pressure to perform and conform, which reflects the high expectations placed on Japanese adolescents. His repeated requests for aid, as well as his hesitation to pilot the EVA, underscore the overwhelming pressure and lack of emotional support that many people face. For example, Shinji's internal conflict and eventual decision to renounce Instrumentality in favor of individual existence show the significance of personal identity and the dilemma that humans face. His decision is a rejection of escape and a reaffirmation of the importance of personal experience, despite the natural pain and suffering that comes with it. 

"The End of Evangelion" also addresses issues that are universally relevant. The film's depiction of the Human Instrumentality Project, which seeks to integrate all human souls into a single consciousness, raises significant questions about individuality, human connection, and the meaning of reality. This mirrors global fears about the erosion of identity in an increasingly interconnected and homogenous society. The film's apocalyptic visuals and destruction themes serve as a commentary on humanity's tendency for self-destruction. The film's ending, with the near-total annihilation of humanity, might be interpreted as a critique of the arms race and the existential threat posed by nuclear weapons—issues that are both internationally relevant and particularly painful given Japan's history with nuclear warfare. For example in the film, The uncontrolled destruction of Tokyo-3 and the persistent assault on NERV headquarters demonstrate the futility and damage caused by human conflict. These sights serve as a harsh warning of the dangers of reckless militarism and the vulnerability of human civilization.

[rosiebee-18]

Hii. I made the same point in my blog too. I agree with your findings regarding Shinji's departure from traditional masculine norms. Shinji's reluctance to serve in the conflict or operate the Evangelion distinguishes him from other main characters in similar anime series. His indifference in conventionally masculine pursuits, such as war games or pursuing girls, indicates his departure from societal standards of masculinity.

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Part 1)

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a giant robot anime that takes place in a dystopian world where we are at war with beings (or robots, I’m not sure) called Angels. For the sake of this lesson, Im going to focus on the character Shinji and how he is presented different in terms of masculinity.

Shinjo is much more reserved than most main characters in these types of anime. He does not want to fight in the war or pilot the Evangelion. Right off the bat, we can see that Shinji is not inline with the societal expectations of masculinity. His classmates love to play war games and a very interested in girls, all traditionally masculine traits that Shinji doesn’t have. He’s looked down on by his father for not being enough. Some of the women even have more masculine traits that Shinji, particularly Misato who is a slob compared to Shinji’s clean nature.

Shinji is forced to pilot the Evangelion, a very masculine weapon attributed with bravery and relentless destruction. This is similar to the pressure to perform in a very masculine way. Shinji essentially wears Evangelion as one would wear a masculine identity to fit into the world around us.

It’s worth mentioning that Shinji and his peers are all children. It’s natural that he wouldn’t want to pilot a war machine. Who would? It’s terrifying and deadly. Still, he is thrown into it. This could be an allegory for men being thrown into hypermasculine roles and being expected to meet this.

Overall, I thought this show was a little boring, although the Angles were pretty cool in terms of character design. I found Neon Genesis Evangelion not completely applicable to masculinity, if anything it was more related to themes of war. Nonetheless, I hope you got something out of my analysis.

[rosiebee-18]

Neon Genesis Evangelion (part 1)

The plot is set in a post-apocalyptic future and follows Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy who is recruited by the organization NERV to operate an Evangelion, a massive bio-mechanical robot, to combat strange monsters known as Angels.

Characters such as Shinji Ikari demonstrate the deep influence of their previous experiences. Shinji experiences sentiments of abandonment as a result of his troubled connection with his father, Gendo. This interaction exemplifies the issue of parental neglect and its consequences for kids, echoing the difficulties encountered by many Japanese youngsters who endure familial expectations and emotional estrangement. Shinji's internal turmoil, in which he continuously craves validation while feeling worthless, reflects a greater cultural stigma around mental health in Japan. For example, Shinji's relationship with his father, Gendo Ikari, provides the foundation for his struggle within. Gendo's chilly and detached personality represents a traditional, authoritarian father role, fostering a setting in which Shinji feels eternally inadequate. This dynamic leads Shinji to seek his father's acceptance by piloting the Evangelion, a mission fraught with heroism and manly responsibility. Shinji's reluctance and dread, however, stand in stark contrast to these expectations, emphasizing his inability to embody traditional masculine attributes such as bravery and stoicism. Another example is Shiniji's masculinity. Shinji's self-worth cannot be separated to his duty as an Eva pilot. While piloting the Evangelion is a sign of strength and masculinity, it also causes Shinji to experience intense psychological pressure. In one key scenario, Shinji is forced to combat his friend Toji, who has been assigned as the pilot of another Eva. This conflict shows the internal struggle between his own desires and societal expectations. Shinji's hesitancy and sorrow during the battle show his rejection of the violence that is commonly associated with traditional masculinity. Shinji's character arc in Neon Genesis Evangelion creates a critique of traditional masculinity. His journey points out the negative consequences of society pressure and the need of self-acceptance, encouraging viewers to reconsider traditional gender stereotypes .

[rosiebee-18]

Hii. I like that you pointed out their characteristics. Asuka's aggressive pursuit of recognition through traditionally masculine traits and Shinji's self-destructive quest for worthiness as a 'masculine' man provide a compelling commentary on societal expectations and personal identity.

Neon Genesis Evangelion (part 2)

I really enjoyed the ending of Neon Genesis Evangelion even if it was hard to follow because of all the skipping around. In episode 8, we are introduced to the character Asuka who, despite being a girl, holds a lot more hegemonic masculine traits than Shinji who demonstrates more traits of queer masculinity, piloting the Eva to ‘pass’ and give himself a sense of worth. Asuka is daring with her violence and commands a room. When Shinji tries to make a daring move like Asuka, he almost dies. This is another failure to perform hegemonic masculinity, which only adds to his hatred of himself. While he is dying confronts himself and confronts himself with his fear of how he is perceived. He realizes that he lives in avoidance of every bad thing in his life, resulting in perpetual misery.

Later in the season we learn that although Shinji and Asuka are complete opposites, they have a lot in common. They both are dependent on validation. This causes Asuka to develop a personality with more masculine traits. Shinji on the other hand, self-destructs because he has convinced himself that he will never be worthy of the validation he craves. He pilots the Eva to prove his worth as a ‘masculine’ man. Asuka is a symbol of everything that he could never be. In the final episode, Shinji sees that he is not stuck in the life and mindset that he stubbornly remains in out of self-hatred. He takes steps to learning to have self-worth and realizes he is worthy of being loved as he is. The pressure to perform hegemonic masculinity that he put on himself was never something he could fulfill. He knew this so he spiraled into a cycle of self-hatred and rejected those around him. He had to unlearn this to take steps towards accepting himself and living his life.

[rosiebee-18]

Neon Genesis Evangelion (part 2)

Neon Genesis Evangelion gets more cryptic and complex in the second part. The scene in which Shinji first meets Kaworu is among the most interesting ones. The fact that Kaworu, an angel in human form, chooses to save humanity after meeting Shinji is fascinating, and their relationship seems to be hinting at romantic inclinations. Viewed from the viewpoint of our lecture, I think Shinji's issues with feeling worthless and rejected had an impact on Kaworu's decision to sacrifice himself. Characters like Shinji face immense pressure to pilot the Evangelion, reflecting Japan's rigorous work ethic and societal expectations. Shinji's battle to fit in with a society that expects him to conform and make sacrifices. Towards the end it started to make more sense in the later epidsodes. I was extremely moved by Shinji's journey of self-acceptance and love, yet I was overwhelmed with the rich lore. The scenario in which Shinji imagines a simpler, happier life is one of the most intriguing ones. He represents traditional masculinity in this parallel universe, even objectifying women who are with other men. The fact that he fits society's ideal of a man in a previous life is intriguing. He is finally able to embrace himself since this other version of himself makes him realize that he is not as powerless as he formerly believed.

Another character was Asuka. The psychological effects of constant competition and the pressure to achieve are often underappreciated, as seen by Asuka Langley Soryu's decline into melancholy and eventual breakdown. It is extremely painful to watch Asuka's decline, especially as she starts to look thin and wither. The way society views kid soldiers makes me think of the anime we used to watch about war. It was impossible not to be drawn to Asuka's bright vitality and her sense of purpose from giving her life to the war effort.

[rosiebee-18]

Hi. You can see the how Usagi evolves in each episode. Usagi's transformation from a carefree young woman to a resolute leader serves as an example of the value of self-determination.

Sailor Moon

Sailor Moon is a 14-year-old middle school student who describes herself as a klutz. She tends to lose focus quickly and displace her priorities. She is portrayed with a Western appearance of the hero character through her blond hair and big round eyes. Overall, I really liked this anime because of its bright colors and its girly aesthetic. I feel like the character is relatable to teen girls.

The first episode begins when Serena has failed her English test. Serena encounters a cat with a moon crescent on her forehead. This cat is named Luna, and by the end of the episode, it reveals that she has been looking for Serena for a long time. When Luna gives Serena a pendant, she is distracted by the shiny object. This appeals to her young and feminine nature.

In the second episode, we see Serena have a crush on a boy. Serena is the embodiment of hyper-femininity and youth, thus her character is restricted from masculinity. When she encounters danger she does not care for her mission and instead focuses on her future with her current crush. Unlike usual heroes, she does not run toward danger and is scared to take on intimidating tasks. Whenever she faces danger she cannot remember the phrase to transform. This aspect reinforces the air-headed portrayal. A superhero in a tuxedo rescues Serena by telling her not to give up. She crushes on the man in the tuxedo who comes and saves her, which is so real.

In the later episodes, Serena weighs herself and has a breakdown about her body. This is an issue that is relatable to young teenage girls but may promote toxic beauty standards. Her family tells her that to lose weight, she must cut back on what she eats. During this episode, we see the anime representation of someone who is "unattractive", they are shorter and bigger. The focus of the episode is the girls trying to improve their physical appearance. This demonstrates how restricted the nature of "girl power" is rather than empowering. In another episode, she tries to improve herself to keep up with her classmates academically. The female characters in the anime are stereotypical and tend to have one strong point. In the eighth episode, the character that is really smart and good at games is unnatural and perceived as having negative energy. The mystery of the episode is trying to figure out where the energy is coming from. This enforces the idea that females cannot have it all, and must find their power from others.

[rosiebee-18]

Sailor Moon

The story revolves around Usagi Tsukino, a teenage girl who discovers that she is Sailor Moon, a magical warrior destined to save the Earth from various threats. Alongside her are other Sailor Senshi (Sailor Scouts), each named after planets in the Solar System, who join her in her quest.

With its representation of "girl power," "Sailor Moon" is a classic anime that highlights female empowerment via the experiences of its main characters. Among the main characters in the series are Usagi Tsukino (Sailor Moon) and her fellow Sailor Guardians, who collectively defy gender norms by embodying power, independence, and leadership. This transformation shows that women are capable of exhibiting courage, strength, and leadership. With her distinct skills and personality, every Sailor Scout defies preconceived notions of what it is to be a strong woman and represents a range of possibilities. This image both reflects and advances the current discourse in Japan regarding gender equality and women's empowerment.

Usagi Tsukino begins as a typical, a little awkward girl but develops into a strong leader who is well-liked and has a lot of influence. Her story shows that every girl has the capacity to achieve greatness, despite early self-doubt or social expectations. In "The Return of Sailor Moon," for instance, Usagi bravely and resolutely fights powerful opponents, demonstrating her transformation from a timid adolescent into a self-assured leader.

The series also reimagines traditional roles for women, with its heroines portrayed as the world's protectors rather than as defenseless characters. They confront strong opponents and take charge of their fate. As Sailor Moon and her comrades valiantly and jointly battle the Dark Kingdom and other bad villains, this empowerment is made abundantly evident. Through these portrayals, "Sailor Moon" sends a powerful message about the resilience and strength of women while celebrating "girl power" in a way that appeals to audiences worldwide.