10 Lessons Other Anime Can Learn From Sailor Moon
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With both the manga and the original anime debuting in 1992, Naoko Takeuchi’s Sailor Moon is a staple not just to the magical girl genre, but to the medium of anime itself. This franchise created many popular themes present today in modern anime; regardless, room for change is welcome. Whether it be better ways of showcasing mental health or how women (and the famous “hero” stereotype) are treated, Sailor Moon remains a textbook case on how to change the narrative for the better.
The 1992 manga debut remains a classic not just for its art style and humor, but for the delivery of events, no matter the importance. This also applies to the first anime adaptation as well, which remains a centerpiece in storytelling, in both visual and narrative aspects. Despite its age, Sailor Moon handles its topics in a manner that series which came after it, even modern anime, can still learn from. Some anime today still lack the emotional maturity and respectfulness to discuss more serious topics (such as suicide and grief), the narrative of a protagonist (the joy and sorrow of being the chosen hero), and the treatment of a female cast (whether they have a chance in the spotlight, or are held back by fan service).
In the pilot episode of the 1992 anime debut, Usagi Tsukino, also known as the titular protagonist Sailor Moon, faces off against the first of many foes: the cunning Morga. Usagi, understandably stressed about the fight, becomes frightened and begins to cry. For several action anime, this remains unheard of.
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