rusialeksis

[rusialeksis]

Hello, I completely get where you're coming from with Hetalia. The stereotypes can be funny, but they also feel off, especially with how Italy is portrayed as helpless and obsessed with pasta. I also thought Germany's portrayal was strange, given the serious history behind that time period. It's interesting how you connected this to your own experience with stereotypes as an Indian. Like you, I see how these generalizations don't define us, and it’s important to remember that. The show does bring up important conversations, even if it doesn’t always hit the mark. I also found some parts funny, like the Chibi scenes, but overall, I agree, it didn’t really click for me either. Thanks for sharing!

Hetalia and Stereotypes

This was my first time watching Hetalia and I have to say I did not like it. I found the stereotypes to be amusing, but the overall experience was just not fulfilling. It may be that I have just watched Your Name, but the story of Hetalia did not hit. I was also surprised to find out how popular this was since I have never watched it or heard of it, but it has over 9 seasons. I think it is offensive, but like the reading suggests it inspires conversation which is also important. For this discussion, I want to talk about the stereotypes in Hetalia.

I want to preface this by saying that stereotypes are not inherently bad. They can be very comedic when used to that effect. They are generalizations about a population which is definitely bad if it is taken as fact. However, most will not take a stereotype as fact so it is not a bad thing. I did not get offended by anything Hetalia showed. A big part of my not being offended may be that my country was not represented heavily. I can see how people from Italy and England could be offended by the depictions Hetalia showed.

Italy is depicted as a very clumsy and helpless country. This is true in some regard since they were not big winners in any major wars. Where I can see Helalia stepping too far is when they make Italy a country or a depiction obsessed with pasta which may be offensive to the Italians, any generalization about a country's interests will be offensive to some people. One of the only things I found truly funny from the show came from the chibi form of the show where the Holy Roman and Italian relationship was shown which was hilarious.

I also think that the depiction of Germany especially in this time as being something noble and likable is a bit weird. To most people, this time period in Germany is definitely villainous. They did some undeniably heinous acts and to paint them as some kind of good character is very odd. Obviously, the show does not go out of its way to have any villains. It is just trying to showcase a funny telling of events. It is still a bit weird.

In my life, I have seen a lot of stereotypes about Indians told to me. I do not let these stereotypes make me feel bad. I know who I am, and while I do fit some of them I am still my own person. I am not a generalization of my people.

Overall, Hetalia is a short show that can comically tell you about the history of the Axis powers. If you have some time you should check it out.

[rusialeksis]

Hello everyone, I just finished watching the last anime assigned for this course. It is called Hetalia: Axis Powers which is an anime where countries are turned into human characters, and they act out historical events in a funny and often exaggerated way. The show takes on serious topics, like World War II, but uses humor to make them more lighthearted.

Right at the beginning, we meet Italy, Germany, and Japan as the Axis Powers. Italy is shown as lazy and obsessed with pasta, while Japan is quiet and disciplined. This reflects common stereotypes—Italy as carefree and Japan as strict and orderly. The episode lightly touches on Japan’s role in the war, but it does so in a way that avoids heavy historical details, which makes it more of a comedic take on serious events.

Later on in episode 6, there’s a scene where America and England are talking about how to handle Germany. America is loud and eager, trying to be the hero, while England is more reserved and thoughtful. This shows how the show plays with the idea of America being the dominant force in world issues, while England is seen as experienced and strategic. It’s interesting to see these portrayals because they reflect how these countries are often viewed in real life.

Watching Hetalia feels like a mix of fun and reflection. The stereotypes are exaggerated, which can be funny, but it also makes you think about how these images shape our views of different countries. For example, learning about World War II in a serious way at school and then seeing it turned into a comedy in "Hetalia" can feel strange. It makes you realize how media can simplify and even distort history for entertainment.

The readings for my course talk about how anime like Hetalia fits into Japan’s media industry, especially with its fan culture. Hetalia has a strong fan base, particularly among female fans who enjoy creating and sharing fan-made content. This shows that Hetalia isn’t just a show. It is a way for fans to connect and express themselves, which ties into broader trends in how media is made and consumed today.

Overall, Hetalia: Axis Powers uses humor to tackle serious topics, and while it’s entertaining, it also offers a lot to think about in terms of how we view history and other cultures. I got to say I really enjoyed it and it felt so quick to watch it. Thank you for reading and for following me through the entire semester!

[rusialeksis]

Hello, I really liked reading your take on Your Name! I totally agree that the animation is amazing, especially during the comet scene. It really stands out. The mix of sad and funny moments kept the movie interesting, and I also enjoyed watching Taki and Mitsuha figure out each other’s lives. It’s cool how they helped each other become better versions of themselves, even though they were so different. Your point about Foucault's idea that power comes from relationships was really interesting too. It made me think about how much our connections with others can shape our lives, just like Taki and Mitsuha did for each other.

Your Name

I watched this movie a while ago, but I completely forgot the plot until now. I was not disappointed rewatching it though, because this is a pretty good movie. The animation is beautiful especially during the comet scene.  

Even though there were some sad scenes, such as Mitsuha's town getting hit by the comet, and Taki learning she died, there will still some funny moments to balance it out. Seeing them interact with each other's friends was very funny, especially when Mitsuha didn't know which pronouns to use or when she got Taki a date with his crush. 

I think it’s also interesting how the characters are able to help each other. When Taki makes Mitsuha act more confident and “masculine”, she attracts a lot of attention and has both boys and girls confessing to her. When Mitsuha makes Taki act more kind and “feminine”, she gets his crush to notice him more. 

In Your Name, we see that the two main characters Taki and Mitsuha are influenced by unknown forces, that allow them to switch bodies. They find happiness living each other's lives until one day it stops. Taki learns that Mitsuha died when a comet struck her town three years ago. 

In the readings we are introduced to force relations by Foucault, the idea that power originates from within society and your relationships with people. We see that Taki and Mitsuha so desperately want to change their lives that they are able to switch. Foucault also points out that no one is able to control this force. Even though Taki is able to rewrite the past and save Mitsuha and her town, both still forget each other's names.  

I do relate to the characters in Your Name. The grass is always greener on the other side, and we always want something that we don't have. I see a bit of myself in both Taki and Mitsuha in the fact that they want to change their lives, but don't know how until they switch bodies. 

[rusialeksis]

Hello everyone,

I just finished watching, and it was a really interesting experience. The anime is about two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who start swapping bodies. Through this weird and cool experience, they learn a lot about themselves and each other, touching on themes like identity, connection, and how our lives are shaped by time and place.

The movie shows how people struggle with who they are and the expectations society puts on them. This is something that happens everywhere, not just in Japan. For instance, Mitsuha wants to escape her small-town life, and Taki feels overwhelmed in the city. This is a feeling many of us can relate to, no matter where we’re from.

I found the theme of connection and figuring out who you are really relatable. Just like Taki and Mitsuha, we all go through times when we question our paths and wonder about our purpose in life. As we grow older, these questions become more pressing, and we start thinking more deeply about what we truly want to do and who we want to become. The way Taki and Mitsuha swap bodies is a powerful metaphor for this journey of self-discovery. By literally living in each other's shoes, they gain a new perspective on life and start to understand not only the other person but also themselves in a much deeper way. This process of seeing the world through someone else's eyes helps them realize what matters most to them, and it’s a reminder that sometimes, understanding others is the key to understanding ourselves better. It’s about empathy, growth, and the importance of human connections in shaping who we are.

The way Your Name deals with identity reminds me of what we talked about in class, especially Foucault’s idea that our identities are shaped by society. In the anime, Taki and Mitsuha’s identities change depending on whose body they’re in, showing that who we are isn’t fixed; it changes with our surroundings.

Overall, Your Name isn’t just about body-swapping. it is also about figuring out who you are and connecting with others. It ties in well with what we’re learning and what many of us go through in real life.

Thank you for reading my posts and for being with me this entire semester!

[rusialeksis]

Hello,

I got to say, your post really hit home for me. Watching The End of Evangelion was definitely a wild ride. I felt that too, like I was on a crazy trip trying to make sense of everything going on. Just like you said, it’s like listening to a song with deep lyrics that you can't fully understand.

I totally agree with your take on the film showing a regression of the characters. It felt like they were making progress in accepting their own forms of masculinity, but then things took a darker turn. They became more violent, and it seemed like they started conforming to societal norms because they saw no other way to live peacefully. I also like your comparison to LGBTQ+ friends . It's tough seeing people change themselves to fit into society's expectations, just like your friend who went from being more feminine to adopting a traditional male image. I love to see people be who they want to be. We are born with a free will and we should not be affected by others.

It’s really sad that so many people feel the need to suppress their true selves for the sake of peace and acceptance. This issue is everywhere, not just in Japan or the US, but globally. All around the world you see people dealing with this stress, and its sad. Your hope for society to change and accommodate everyone so they can live peacefully is something I strongly share. It's a tough journey, but posts like yours help keep the conversation going. I wish everyone felt and thought the same way.

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts!

The End of Evangelion

Wow, wow, wow, wow. . . Wow! This film was a complete field trip to watch. I really do not know what I should say about it and I will definitely need to go read up on an explanation before continuing.

This film felt like a song where I know something deep is going on in the lyrics, but I seriously just don’t understand what is being said. Like an old fast memphis or brooklyn hip hop song. I honestly believe it was terribly executed but I digress. This film was really hard to take apart and analyze for the theme of masculinity, but I will try my best. To put it simply I believe that the movie is essentially showing a regression of our characters. As I said in the blog post for the second part, I thought that the characters had made progress towards accepting their non conformity to societal standards of masculinity. But they became far more violent in this film, leading me to believe that something changed. Perhaps they realized that the only true way to live a peaceful life was to change the system, and with that not being an option, started to conform. I’ve been using LGBTQ+ friends and acquaintances of mine in these posts to exemplify how this same concept applies in the real world and it can be seen once again in these people. I have a friend who I’ve known since high school who was once bisexual and a bit more on the feminine side, but he changed to be a more traditional male image. All around the world there are people suppressing their feelings and emotions in order to maintain the order and peace determined by the rest of society. It’s prevalent in Japan, the United States, and just about anywhere else.

As I have said, my personal relation to this film and topic is through my friends. I have had deep talks with several of them and know their struggles with this and fitting into society. Many suppress themselves for that purpose of peace and being non-problematic to others (Which is absolutely terrible). I hope we as a society are able to change to accommodate them so they may live as peaceful lives as the rest of us.

[rusialeksis]

Hello,

I really liked reading your post about Neon Genesis Evangelion. The pictures you provided and the whole way you structured and organized your post is something else. Like for real, it was so entertaining reading it. You made some great points about Shinji. It’s interesting how he’s different from other male characters in shows like Gundam. Shinji’s hesitation and softer personality are what make Evangelion unique.

I agree that Shinji is more relatable, especially for a 14-year-old suddenly thrown into a dangerous situation. It's nice to see a male character who isn't always brave or violent. The scene with Rei also shows that Shinji is more complex than just fitting a stereotype.

I also liked what you said about masculinity. Your point about how your friends don’t fit the old stereotypes but are still confident and assertive is spot on. It���s a good reminder that people don’t have to follow strict gender roles to be strong or successful. The idea that men with daughters might show less toxic masculinity was interesting too. It’s cool to see how these ideas play out in real life and in the show.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It was great to read your perspective on Evangelion and how it challenges traditional views of masculinity.

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Part 1, episodes 1, 2, 4, & 5)

The mindset of the main character of this anime is quite in contrast to the start of Gundam. They both start similarly with an overwhelming attack from an enemy, but in Gundam, the main character runs his way through an entire battlefield to steal, then learns on the fly how to pilot a brand new mech suit he's never seen before. In Evangelion, Shinji very much does not want to. Shinji in this show is depicted as a non-stereotypical male character who doesn't follow the same tropes as men in other shows. Although I would argue, at least in the first and second episodes, that if I were taking this show completely literally, I feel like most 14-year-old kids would probably react in the same way.

That being said, as they build Shinji's character over time, they make it clear that he is very much more of a less masculine character. He's thin, speaks softly, does his best not to be violent, is not brave, and doesn't like to participate in ogling women. Although, in a later scene where he finds himself in the room with a naked Rei, they seem to imply that he is attracted to her, so it doesn't seem like they were going for a gay stereotype. Shinji internalizes this hatred of his non-hegemonic masculinity, seemingly finding ways to force himself to become more normal so that he can gain the courage to do what needs to be done.

Wow, way to enforce the masculine hegemony 😤 (But it's actually fine since people were getting deleted by a skyscraper-sized alien while they were talking.)

Non-hegemonic masculinity is something that I encounter quite often since most of my friends are LGBTQ+ in some way. At least in my friend group, they very much don't act as stereotypical gay people you would see in the early 2000s media, just normal people that have different preferences. However, they don't adhere to hegemonic norms if they don't feel that it benefits them. Many of my friends love traditional masculine things and are traditionally assertive and confident, but if needed, they are able to share feelings or be vulnerable. They can also enjoy food or drink that is more feminine; they have no trouble doing so. I also believe I've seen a study showing that men who have daughters are less likely to adhere to the more toxic sides of masculinity. Something interesting to think about.

Or maybe the adults have too high expectations of a child.

[rusialeksis]

Hello,

I totally get what you mean about jumping around in the episodes feeling strange, but it’s great that you’ve watched Evangelion before and could follow along. I felt the same way too, but I had never watched this anime before so it kinda felt worse to me. I agree, meeting Asuka was interesting. She’s such a contrast to Shinji. Her confidence and skills definitely give off a more traditional sense of masculinity, even though she’s a girl. It’s fascinating how she embodies those expectations.

Seeing Shinji grow as a pilot was cool too, even if he still struggles with confidence. The berserk eva unit scenes were intense and show how complex his relationship with the eva is. And then we also have Kowaru whose kindness towards Shinji was refreshing, but it was heartbreaking when we found out he was an angel and had to be killed. That was definitely a sad moment for me and I guess for everyone else.

The final episodes are definitely a trip. Shinji’s internal conflict about not meeting expectations and then finally accepting himself is so deep. As I stated on the discussion we had, we have learnt to watch our heroes as strong individuals who always win and never give up, but in this scenario the case was different. Watching it through the lens of masculinity really adds another layer to the story. Evangelion is such a complex show, and looking at it from different perspectives always brings new insights.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! It was great to read your take on the episodes.

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Part 2)

After watching the first 5 episodes of Evangelion, it felt a little strange jumping around from episode eight to 16 and then all the way to 24 and 26. However, like I have mentioned in my last post, I have watched Evangelion before so it was a nice refresher of the story.

In these episodes we meet the new character Asuka, another eva unit pilot, that is very outgoing and is a much better pilot than Shinji. She is almost a direct opposite of Shinji, she shows off her skills, is not afraid to fight, and performs up to the standards that are given to her. Although she is a woman, I believe she relates to the idea of masculinity as she is performing as expected, performing how others expects he should be.

Later on, we see Shinji becoming a better eva pilot, he is much more confident and able to fight better. However, he is unable to beat the angel himself, and the eva unit does it for him by going berserk.

In the final episodes we are introduced to Kowaru, who is a boy like Shinji, who quickly becomes friends with him. Kowaru, like Asuka is very confident and outgoing, but unlike Asuka, he is more understanding and kind to Shinji. However, then we learn that Kowaru is actually an angel, and Shinji kills him.

The final episode is quite confusing, and shows Shinji both not liking himself for not being up to the standards the people have for him, and accepting the kind of person he is.

Personally, I enjoyed Evangelion and looking at it through the lens of masculinity was very informational and made me view the show differently.

[rusialeksis]

Hello,

I really enjoyed reading your post about Xenoblade Chronicles 2. Even though you haven't played the game,(I have not played the game either), it’s cool that you found the cutscenes interesting. I totally agree with you the story, art, and characters are all really engaging. I also liked your point about how the game shows that we can't separate humanity from nature. It’s true that we need to be part of the solution to fix the damage we've done to the environment. Sometimes we have been presented with facts that we should let nature heal on its own but its not always this scenario. The game’s use of technology to restore life highlights our responsibility to actively participate in repairing the planet.

Your comparison to using a bandaid for a cut is spot on. We need to think of ourselves as part of nature and take action to help heal it, not just wait for things to get better on their own.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It was great to see how you connected the game’s themes to our discussions in class!

We are Nature (Xenoblade Chronicles 2)

I personally haven’t played Xenoblade Chronicles 2, so watching through the cutscenes was a little bit of a strange experience for me. However, I did end up enjoying a lot of what I saw; the story was interesting, the art direction was cool, the worldbuilding seemed very interesting, and the characters themselves were very charming. When it came to themes, I didn’t know what I expected, but it absolutely wasn’t what I got. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 uses the worldbuilding I mentioned previously and uses it to craft a story about environmental disaster, rebuilding, and our role as part of the environment itself. 

The topic of not separating humanity from nature is something I immediately was hooked by within this module. I had been wondering much of the same things that were being questioned in the material for years, but I had never once heard others voicing the same ideas. So to see it in this class was something really cool and I think that same thinking can be applied to Xenoblade Chronicles 2.

In the game, we are introduced to 2 settings, Alrest, a world covered in a sea of clouds, and Elysium, a paradise where open fields abound and nature thrives. Elysium becomes this sort of macguffin for our heroes and once they get there, its revealed it isn’t a paradise of natural life, but a deserted ruinous landscape contained by some sort of futuristic technology. We learn that a long time ago, the earth underwent a cataclysmic event that killed almost all life on earth, but Klaus created the cloud sea, elysium, and the titans all to bring back life. Here we find the key aspect of this story: every single thing that is restoring life to the planet is tech, it isn’t naturally-occuring.

So finally we get to the connection to the idea that humans cannot be separated from nature, because we ourselves are natural. We must consider ourselves as natural and not try to let “nature” repair itself, but actively be a part of the repair process. Anything less is irresponsible and separates us from our true nature. We cannot heal what is broken, if we do not address two things, not either one, but both: 1. We broke nature

2. We are nature

When you get cut, you apply a bandaid, so why can’t we do something similar with our environment and work to heal ourselves?

[rusialeksis]

Hello,

I really liked your post about Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. You’re right about the strong environmental message. Especially the ending made it clear on the message and what actions us humans should take, It’s interesting how the Sea of Decay is actually nature’s way of healing from pollution, and Nausicaä discovers the plants aren’t toxic, but the polluted earth is.

Your point about the forest being a response to human waste was spot on. It highlights how our actions impact the environment. I also thought the movie was both entertaining and informative, which made it more engaging. Being able to enjoy the anime and also learn through it is something great. The way it shows the balance between humans and nature is a powerful reminder of the consequences of neglecting our planet.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It was great to read your perspective on the film and see how you connected with its themes.

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind

This film was very interesting but I actually did enjoy watching it. The overall plot was very unique and a bit odd, but the storyline was developed very well and it was pretty easy to comprehend what was going on the entire time. In the anime, Nausicaa tries to protect the Valley of the Wind and the Sea of Decay from Tolmekia and people who want to destroy the Sea of Decay. During her time trying to save the Sea of Decay, Nausicaa finds out something extremely important. The Earth is the reason the forest is poisonous, and when spores and other parts of the forest are taken out and grown in a safe environment, they are not toxic. It was thought that the poisonous forest was just filled with harmful spores and also home to the Ohmu, which are abnormally large insects. But the forest is actually cleaning out the environment and the Ohmu have a huge role in that, yet some people do not see it that way and still want to terminate it. The point of this anime is to represent how in the environment and nature, everything has its own role and it is important to leave animals and natural environments alone, instead of trying to alter them. Also, it shows how pollution and human damage to the environment is detrimental to nature and if it continues, the world will become a dangerous place. It is essential to preserve animals and plants that wildlife need in order to succeed and be healthy. I personally can not relate to this anime due to my lack of involvement in environmental issues and my lack of understanding. I was never really into nature or anything in that aspect, so I have a lack of knowledge regarding the whole situation. Overall, this anime was interesting but it was also entertaining, and I am happy I got the chance to watch it.

[rusialeksis]

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

I recently watched the cut scenes from Xenoblade Chronicles 2, a game set on a destroyed Earth, and it left a strong impression on me. The game's narrative revolves around the struggle for survival in a world drastically altered by environmental devastation, making it highly relevant to our current discussions on the Anthropocene and environmental issues.

One scene that stands out is where the characters talk about their world being in ruins due to humanity's past actions. This directly ties to the concept of the Anthropocene, where human activity has significantly impacted the Earth's geology and ecosystems. In Xenoblade Chronicles 2, the remnants of civilization and the ruined landscapes serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of exploiting natural resources without considering long-term impacts.

The themes in the game reflect broader global issues such as climate change, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. These are pressing concerns today, as highlighted in Cobb’s Drama of the Anthropocene. Cobb discusses how our modern civilization's practices have led to significant environmental changes, posing a threat to the survival of many species, including humans. The game’s setting illustrates a possible future if current environmental issues are not addressed.

Personally, the game's portrayal of a devastated Earth resonated with my concerns about the environment. It made me reflect on the importance of sustainable practices and the need to rethink our relationship with nature. Just like the characters in the game, we too face the challenge of finding ways to live sustainably on our planet. As I have stated in previous posts, humans tend to ignore their environment because their goal is to makeas much fortune as they can by using it negatively. We have completely ignored what GOD offered us, which has led us to the destruction of our surroundings.

In relation to our readings, Cobb’s essay emphasizes the need for a new approach to how we interact with nature, advocating for a balance between technological advancement and ecological preservation. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 echoes this sentiment by showing the dire consequences of failing to achieve this balance. The game’s narrative, combined with Cobb’s insights, underscores the urgency of adopting sustainable practices to prevent further environmental degradation.

Overall, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is not just a game. it's a reminder of the impact of human actions on the environment. It aligns well with the discussions in Cobb’s Drama of the Anthropocene, emphasizing the need for a shift towards sustainable living to ensure a viable future for our planet.

[rusialeksis]

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

Hello Everyone.

I recently watched Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. This film is famous for its strong environmental themes. Here are my thoughts on how it addresses issues in Japan and globally, how it relates to my life, and some connections to our readings.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind deals with big environmental problems that are relevant both in Japan and worldwide. The film shows a world where nature has taken over, and humans struggle to live with it. This reflects real concerns about pollution and the consequences of industrialization. In Japan, the film connects with experiences of pollution and natural disasters. Globally, it highlights the need to address climate change and protect our planet.

During the film we see the Sea of Decay, a vast toxic jungle that symbolizes the destruction caused by pollution. This powerful imagery shows the consequences of neglecting environmental protection.

I found the film's environmental message really powerful. It made me think about my own impact on the environment and the importance of living sustainably. Nausicaä, the main character, is a strong and caring leader who fights to protect both her people and nature. Her love for nature reminded me of the importance of being mindful of our actions and their effects on the environment. It also made me reflect on how small changes in our daily lives can contribute to a healthier planet.

In one scene Nausicaä shows kindness to an Ohmu, a giant insect, demonstrating her belief in coexistence rather than conflict. This reminded me of the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing environmental issues.

While our readings mostly focus on gender, identity, and societal norms, there are still some connections to Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. The film’s emphasis on living peacefully with nature links to discussions on ethical responsibility and the impact of human actions on the environment. The toxic jungle and its creatures show the delicate balance of ecosystems and what happens when they are disrupted, which relates to themes of environmental ethics and sustainability. Actually this anime brought me back to Spirited Away and the readings we were assigned in the very beginning of this course.

In the final scenes (around the 1-hour and 50-minute mark), Nausicaä's sacrifice and revival symbolize hope and the potential for renewal if humanity chooses to live in harmony with nature. This ties into our broader discussions on human impact on the earth, emphasizing the need for a sustainable approach to development.

Overall, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a powerful film that addresses critical environmental issues relevant both in Japan and globally. It made me reflect on my own actions and the importance of sustainability. While the film’s direct connections to our specific readings on gender and societal norms may be limited, its broader themes of environmental ethics and human impact resonate strongly with our studies. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is not just an animated film; it’s a call to action to protect our planet for future generations.

Thank you for reading!

[rusialeksis]

The End of Evangelion

Hey everyone,

I recently watched The End of Evangelion, directed by Kazuya Tsurumaki. This film is an intense and thought-provoking end to the Neon Genesis Evangelion series. Here’s what I thought about how it addresses issues in Japan and around the world, relates to my life, and connects to our readings.

The End of Evangelion deals with big issues like mental health and personal identity. For example Shinji faces his feelings of worthlessness and isolation, which reflect real-world struggles with depression and anxiety. In Japan, where mental health is often stigmatized, this portrayal is very relevant. Globally, the themes of isolation and needing human connection hit home, especially now when many people feel disconnected despite technology.

I found the themes in The End of Evangelion very relatable. The characters' battles with self-worth and identity mirrored some of my experiences. For example, Shinji breaks down and expresses his deep fears and insecurities. This reminded me of times when I’ve felt unsure of myself and looked for validation from others. Actually since a kid I would ask for validation. I would always want to make sure I am doing the right thing, and lots of times people would be bothered. Seeing this on screen made me think about my journey toward self-acceptance and understanding.

The film’s look at identity and mental health ties in well with our readings on gender and masculinity. Connell’s Masculinities talks about the pressure to fit into societal gender roles. Shinji’s character, who often shows vulnerability and emotion, goes against traditional masculine norms, which Connell discusses. This is clear when Shinji’s vulnerability is fully exposed. Heasley’s Queer Masculinities also comes to mind, as the film challenges strict gender norms and shows a more fluid view of identity.

The End of Evangelion is a powerful film that looks at mental health, identity, and societal pressures, relevant both in Japan and globally. It resonated with my own struggles with self-worth and finding connection. The connections to our readings on gender and identity made me understand these themes better. This film is not just an end to a series but a deep look at human experience and societal issues.

Thank you for reading my post!

[rusialeksis]

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Part 2)

Hey everyone,

I just watched episodes 8, 16, 24, and 26 of Neon Genesis Evangelion. This anime dives deep into psychological and societal issues using a sci-fi backdrop. Here’s what I thought about how it addresses issues in Japan and around the world, relates to my own life, and connects to our readings.

Neon Genesis Evangelion deals with some big issues. One major theme is mental health. In Episode 16, Shinji is trapped inside a black sphere and goes through intense psychological stress, getting memories back from his time and trauma with his father, showing how isolation and pressure can affect mental health. This is a real problem in Japan and globally, where many people face pressure and isolation.

I could really relate to the themes in Neon Genesis Evangelion. As I said on my previous post on part 1 of this anime, the pressure Shinji feels to pilot the Eva and the expectations placed on him reminded me of the pressure young people face today to succeed and meet society’s expectations. A lot of us feel that we carry weight with us and no matter how much it can hold us down, we believe that there is no time for rest, but we should keep going. Especially now I feel this too with school and thinking about my future career.

Our readings on masculinity from Connell’s Masculinities and Heasley’s Queer Masculinities help explain the different types of masculinity shown in the anime. Shinji’s struggles with being strong and emotional challenge the typical idea of being a tough guy. In Episode 26, Shinji faces his feelings and self-worth, which fits with Connell’s idea of different masculinities and the pressure to fit into a certain mold.

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a powerful anime that talks about mental health, identity, and societal pressures, both in Japan and around the world. It resonated with my own experiences of dealing with expectations and figuring out who I am. The connections to our readings on masculinity and identity made me understand these themes even better. This anime is not just entertaining but it also gives a deep look at human experiences and societal issues.

Thank you everyone for reading!

[rusialeksis]

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Part 1)

Hello everyone,

Neon Genesis Evangelion, produced by Kobayashi and Sugiyama from 1995 to 1996, is a profound anime that addresses complex issues both in Japan and globally. In this module, we were assigned to watch episodes 1, 2, 4, and 5, and I can say that I gained insights into societal challenges, personal struggles, and existential themes. Today I decided to change my way of creating the posts. I am mostly going to aim to talk about each episode and reflect on them.

In Episode 1, we meet Shinji Ikari, a 14-year-old boy summoned by his estranged father to pilot the giant bio-machine Evangelion Unit-01. This episode immediately delves into themes of abandonment and pressure, reflecting the intense societal expectations placed on youth in Japan. Shinji's reluctance and eventual acceptance of his role highlight the struggles many young people face when dealing with familial and societal obligations.

Episode 2 further explores Shinji's internal conflict as he grapples with his fear and responsibility. The battle scenes against the Angels serve as metaphors for personal battles and the psychological burden of living up to expectations. This resonates globally as many people, especially adolescents, face immense pressure to meet various demands in their lives.

In Episode 4, Shinji's mental state deteriorates as he attempts to run away, only to realize that he cannot escape his responsibilities. This episode reflects the broader issue of mental health, particularly in Japan, where societal pressures can lead to severe stress and depression. Shinji's isolation and struggle for acceptance are universal themes that many can relate to, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and support.

In Episode 5, we meet Rei Ayanami, another pilot who deals with pressure and identity differently from Shinji. Rei’s character shows emotional suppression and the struggle to fit into a strict system. This reflects Connell's idea of hegemonic masculinity, where people often conform to societal norms and hide their true selves.

Watching Evangelion reminded me of my own struggles with pressure and finding balance. Shinji's journey reflects the challenges many face in meeting expectations while taking care of themselves. Which is really hard for many people, including me to do. Sometimes we tend to give up on ourselves, setting responsibilities as a priority instead of our well being.The readings on hegemonic masculinity and queer masculinities also connect to the series, showing how characters like Shinji and Rei challenge traditional gender roles and norms.

Overall, Neon Genesis Evangelion addresses critical social issues through its complex characters and storyline. It serves as a powerful commentary on the pressures of society, mental health, and the struggle for identity, resonating with audiences worldwide.

[rusialeksis]

Hey,

I totally get what you’re saying about Wandering Son. The anime definitely highlights issues around cross-dressing and gender identity. It shows how society judges people based on what they wear, and how they can't tell the difference between cross-dressing and being transgender.

I also found it interesting how women can get away with dressing like men more easily than men can dress like women. Society has all these weird rules about what’s acceptable, and it's so true that boys and girls are conditioned from a young age to like different things.

We’re taught to behave in certain ways based on our gender, which makes it tough for anyone who steps outside those norms. It’s great that you think people should just be allowed to express themselves without judgment. The idea that there’s something wrong with liking things traditionally associated with the opposite gender is just outdated. I loved your thoughts and your post. Actually, I have not seen a better and most honest post ever.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Wandering Son

Honestly, at first I thought this anime was a comment on discrimination against transgender people. However, by the end of the show, I think the anime was more of a comment on cross-dressing. Either way, the discrimination portrayed could easily be applied to either one because most people can't differentiate between the two. Most people, if they saw a bio male in a dress, would automatically jump to the conclusion that the person was transgender.

I thought it was interesting how the anime portrayed the contrast between male and female cross-dressers. Women can pretty much easily get away with dressing as a man, but if a dude were to wear a skirt (unless you're about to whip out the bagpipes), people would judge him. My personal thoughts on the cause of this is that women tend to be more fashionable in general, so a woman dressing as a man could just be seen as fashion.

The anime makes a pretty clear statement that society frowns upon men to women cross-dressing. What I think is interesting is how we've applied gender labels to so many things. Even the color pink is seen as girly. Personally, as a dude, I love the color pink. Society, from a young age, conditions us to like certain things. Boys are given toys different from girls, they're dressed in different clothing, etc. There's nothing biologically that implies a guy can't like wearing a skirt. It's all psychological conditioning.

I wonder if transgender people feel that they were born into the wrong body because their interests happened to align with the opposite gender's. gender and sex are fundamentally different after all. One is based on psychological aspects while the other is based on biological aspects. In my opinion, theres actually nothing psychologically wrong with transgender people at all, rather, it's society assigning labels that's the problem.

Society is wrong for discriminating these people just because they don't fall under it's standards. Just let people like what they like. If it isn't hurting anyone, then what business do you have with them. To all my homies out there, if you wanna go dress up as a woman, go do it. To all the ladies out there, if you wanna dress up as dude, go do it. Who cares what society thinks, cause it's all BS anyways.

p.s. if you disagree or feel strongly about any of the things I said just know I don't read any of yalls reposts, but feel free to criticize🙏

[rusialeksis]

Wandering Son

Hey everyone,

I recently watched Wandering Son, an anime series by AIC Classic, produced by J. Ōgi. I checked out episodes 1, 7, 9, and 10. This anime explores gender identity and challenges traditional gender roles in a beautiful and thoughtful way.

Wandering Son's main goal is to show how society views gender identity, both in Japan and of course worldwide. In Episode 1, we meet Shuichi, a boy who likes dressing as a girl, and Yoshino, a girl who prefers dressing as a boy. Their experiences show the struggles of people who don’t fit into traditional gender roles. This is a relevant issue globally, as many face discrimination and misunderstanding due to their gender identity. It is an ongoing problem that a lot of times makes me think of these people. It is hard to think the difficulties and obstacles some people have to go through when talking about this topic.

While I haven’t gone through the same struggles as Shuichi and Yoshino, I can relate to feeling different and wanting acceptance. In Episode 7, Shuichi bravely wears a dress to school, challenging societal norms. This reminded me of times when I stepped out of my comfort zone to express myself, even if it meant facing judgment. It was back in middle school in Greece, where I would wear shoes that were "fake" because I could not afford the authentic ones. Students would approach my trying to provoke me and convince me to lie and say that they were real so they can make fun of me, but then one day I just decided to be honest and accept the fact that they are not authentic and be confident when I wear them. It just made me feel more comfortable and at this point, the students did not have what to judge and they simply stopped bothering me. So in this anime, it's inspiring to see characters who are true to themselves despite the challenges.

I would say that the themes in Wandering Son connect well with our readings on gender performance and identity. Judith Butler's work on gender performativity, which discusses how gender is constructed through repeated actions and societal expectations, is particularly relevant. In Episode 9, the characters discuss their feelings about gender and society’s expectations. This ties into our readings on how gender roles are enforced and the pressure to conform. The anime shows these concepts well, highlighting the personal struggles and triumphs of the characters. Additionally, the ideas presented in Cultural Economy by John Fiske, which discuss how cultural identities are formed and negotiated in everyday life, resonate with the characters' experiences in Wandering Son.

Overall, Wandering Son is a touching and thought-provoking anime that highlights the issues faced by those who challenge traditional gender roles. It made me reflect on my own experiences of seeking acceptance and staying true to myself. The show’s themes connect well with our discussions on gender performance and identity, emphasizing the importance of understanding and acceptance. Wandering Son isn’t just an anime but a powerful story about the journey to find oneself in a world full of expectations.

[rusialeksis]

Fan Gathering - League of Legends

Hey everyone,

As part of our discussion on postmodern culture and fandom, I wanted to share my amazing experience attending a League of Legends fan gathering. Unfortunately, I have not yet attended an anime convention, but I have participated in a fan gathering few years ago, while I still lived in Greece. So long story short, I've been playing League of Legends since I was a kid, and it’s still a big part of my life. Whenever I have free time, you can find me playing the game, exploring new strategies, and mastering my favorite champions. I’m so invested in the game that I even read each champion's stories to understand them better. I have been part of tournaments where I have played 1v1 or as teams against other and have won trophies, which made me feel that sometimes games are not as decribed by others a waste of time, but a part of my life. So, when I heard about a League of Legends fan gathering at a mall in Greece, I knew I had to go.

From the moment I arrived, I felt the excitement. The event was buzzing with energy, and the atmosphere was electric. Fans from all over had gathered, united by their love for the game. It was amazing to see how a simple game had grown into something so big, bringing people together.

The best part was seeing the champions of League of Legends come to life. There were people dressed as my favorite champions—Katarina, Lux, Darius, and Wukong—with amazing costumes. They even imitated the champions’ famous phrases with the right voices. Hearing Katarina’s “Violence solves everything,” Lux’s “Shine bright like the dawn,” Darius’s “Strength above all,” and Wukong’s “Every mistake is a lesson” felt like I was in the game.

Walking around the gathering, it felt like the game was more than just a game. It had become a shared experience, a community, and a world we all belonged to. The cosplayers did an incredible job, and it felt like I was interacting with the actual champions.

One of the best moments was meeting a cosplayer dressed as Katarina, by far my favorite champion. Her costume was perfect, and she had Katarina’s fierce attitude. When she said Katarina’s lines, I got chills. It felt like the champion herself was right in front of me. We talked about our favorite moments in the game and shared some tips. It was awesome to connect with someone who loved the game as much as I did.

This is not a real picture from the fan gathering, I just wanted to show what Katarina looks like in "real life". Unfortunately, back then I had an old phone and I do not have any picture at all from that time.

This is the actually champion, and her appearance in the game. In this picture we see Katarina in her basic custom which is her default skin. Every champion in this game has multiple skins, which back then you used to have to pay in order to unlock them. Now the game has made changes, and you can unlock this skin by completing missions.

The fan gathering also had booths and activities related to League of Legends. There were stands selling T-shirts and figurines, and I couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs. There were also gaming stations where fans could play matches, and it was exciting to watch the battles and also play with others. Everyone there had a deep love for the game, and it was heartwarming to see. After getting into the third place during this gathering, me and my teammates were awarded a $10 paysafe card each, which is like a gift card that you could use to buy various things online. I used it to buy the newest Katarina's skin back then which was made specifically for Christmas. One of my happiest days I could say. I have the picture of the skin below.

There was also a panel with well-known players and content creators from the League of Legends community. They shared their experiences and insights about the game. Listening to them made me realize how much League of Legends had grown beyond just being a game. It had become a platform for creativity, friendship, and even professional opportunities.

Reflecting on my experience, I realized that what made it special was the sense of community and belonging. Being surrounded by people who shared my passion for League of Legends was empowering. It reminded me that gaming is not just about playing; it’s about connecting with others and forming friendships. It was also our everyday discussion topic in the morning with my friends at school.

In conclusion, attending the League of Legends fan gathering in Greece was unforgettable. It was more than just an event; it was a celebration of the game and the community. Seeing my favorite champions come to life, interacting with fellow fans, and being part of such an enthusiastic community made me appreciate League of Legends even more. It’s amazing how a game can bring people together and create a shared world where we all belong.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you get to experience something similar someday!