Anime is often seen as a style of animation with an Asian flair, often featuring quirky characters, magical worlds, and fantastical adventures. However, to see anime at face value. These works of art serve as a powerful platform for creators to address various social challenges. It’s important to understand that anime is not just about thrilling battles or imaginary worlds. It invites us to delve into our society, tackling a range of sensitive topics with depth. From mental health concerns to political corruption, the consequences of war, and the problems of exploitative workplaces, no issue is left unexplored. Here are some of the best anime series that not only entertain but also offer meaningful insights into real-world issues.
Zom 100: Examining Exploitative Workplaces
In many Asian cultures, particularly Japan, work and job dynamics can be complex and intense. Many anime tackle this subject, and “Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead” is one of them. The story revolves around Akira Tendo, who is trapped in the struggle of corporate life, marked by office bullying, endless hours, and oppressive work conditions.
Akira is stuck in 24-hour shifts without a day off for three years. Despite this, he continues to deliver continuous productive output, which is a testament to his exploitation. One day, an unlikely source of liberation emerges for Akira – the onset of a zombie apocalypse. This cataclysmic event serves as his escape from the clutches of his overbearing employer. With society upended, Akira finds himself freed from the obligation to work, providing a bizarre yet compelling release from his former life of misery.
This narrative serves as a reminder that one should not wait for extraordinary circumstances, such as a zombie apocalypse, to reconsider the impact of an exploitative job situation. If your employment is causing you distress and turning your existence into a nightmare, it might be wise to pause and reevaluate your circumstances.
Kakegurui: Navigating the Risks of Gambling
“Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler” is a manga series from Japan created by writer Homura Kawamoto and artist Tōru Naomura. First appearing in Square Enix’s Gangan Joker magazine in March 2014, the series has been compiled into seventeen volumes by July 2023.
Set within the elite Hyakkaou Private Academy, “Kakegurui” follows Yumeko Jabami, a new student with a penchant for gambling. She upends the school’s social order by exposing and defeating the underhanded tactics of her fellow gamblers.
As the series looks into the dark aspects of gambling, it’s important to remember that it is important to gamble responsibly. Playing casino games with minimal risk is possible, such as with the free bonuses on sites like nodeposit.org. “Kakegurui” also underscores the significance of practicing responsible gambling by understanding and managing the risks involved, ensuring that gaming remains a form of entertainment rather than a source of harm.
Love and Lies: Exploring Arranged Marriages
“Love and Lies” is a story set in a dystopian society where the government decides who should marry based on compatibility, social status, and genetics. This is to ensure that the marriages are optimal. The protagonist, Yukari Nejima, falls in love with someone other than his assigned mate, complicating his life.
His experience highlights the tension between personal desires and societal expectations. This theme is relevant in societies like India, where the debate between arranged marriages and love marriages is common. In these societies, individual choices often conflict with long-standing cultural practices, with arranged marriages still being widely accepted. The anime invites viewers to consider whether love can conquer societal norms and constructs.
Tokyo Magnitude 8.0: Human Connection in Crisis
“Tokyo Magnitude 8.0” is an anime series that begins with a massive earthquake hitting Tokyo, causing enormous destruction. The show explores the aftermath of this event, delving into the chaos, confusion, and trauma that follows. The story mainly focuses on two siblings, Mirai and Yuki, who struggle to survive and find their way home amidst the devastation. They meet Mari, another survivor who helps them on their journey.
The series highlights the extraordinary lengths people will go to protect and aid their loved ones during times of crisis. It also emphasizes the importance of self-care and the power of collective resilience and unity when facing and overcoming adversity.
Final Words
The anime highlighted here are just a sample of the many series that address serious topics often ignored by society. Anime creators boldly tackle mature themes, allowing viewers to engage with complex issues such as social commentary, politics, and philosophy. A relevant example is the growing popularity of online casinos and sports betting in Japan, highlighting the importance of discussing gambling as a social issue. There are countless other subjects explored in this genre that might surprise you. Like any art form, anime uniquely conveys important messages that might otherwise go unnoticed, making it a powerful medium for reflection and discussion.
