Manga and Anime

Manga and anime are arguably the most consumed Asian media in the West. Many people in America, especially under the age of 30 or so, keep up with their favorite manga or anime series. I am certainly no exception, taking part in fandoms galore.

Japanese manga and anime are probably the most popular (compared to Chinese manhua or Korean manhwa), with many legendary series like Hana Kimi, Fruits Basket, Naruto, One Piece, and the list goes on. The great thing about this media is that it ranges far beyond book and movie format. A look at the home page of an online art community like Deviantart, and manga drawings or manga-inspired drawings will quickly pop up. It also has its claws in my notebook, which is filled with manga doodles.

Because the Japanese anime style is so prominent, it has spawned Western TV shows like it as well. My childhood was filled with such TV shows, especially Teen Titans and Avatar: The Last Airbender. In fact, I admit I am still a bit obsessed with Avatar, just because of the depth of the plot and characters and the rich animation... And need I mention that Prince Zuko is incredibly attractive? Don't get me started on his voice.

Prince Zuko

I admit you might not agree with me, seeing as he is a cartoon character. Such is the life of a manga geek. While manga and anime can be awesome, I have to admit, it can be a bit weird. Take, for example, the anime Dai Mahou Touge, the source of this viral clip:

Kind of disturbing, right? But admittedly amusing. Did anybody else notice at the end the onion on the left peeled itself and jumped into the pot?

--Julia