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Take a look at how My Hero Academia took a westernized approach. Let’s discuss how they revolutionized the superhero anime genre.
Western pop culture, particularly Marvel and DC, has long dominated the superhero genre. They are a major reason why the concept of heroes and villains has become mainstream. However, when My Hero Academia debuted, it brought a refreshing perspective to the genre. It combined signature storytelling style with the traditional elements of Western superhero shows. The result? A really cool show that is just as awesome as popular superhero stories and has changed the way we think about the superhero genre in anime!
My Hero Academia’s influences from Marvel are evident, with Deku being an underdog in the beginning, similar to Spider-Man’s story. There are a lot of Star Wars references like Gran Torino training both Deku and Toshinori similar to Yoda training Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi. It also appears in place names like Dagobah Municipal Beach Park or Tatooine Station. These enrich the series and make it more relatable to a global audience.
My Hero Academia has reimagined what it means to be a hero in a world where superpowers are commonplace. It fused the traditional “superhero” cliché with an emotional and character-driven story. But how exactly did it achieve this, and why has it become a pivotal part of the modern otaku’s watchlist?
Superhero Anime Before My Hero Academia
Before My Hero Academia, superhero anime as a concept was not entirely foreign. However, it did not have the same cultural reputation as its Western counterpart. Shows like Tiger & Bunny (2011) showed everyone a look at how superheroes can be more corporate as part of big companies and special deals. One Punch Man (2015) delivered a funny breakdown of the genre. However, these works were often niched and lacked the universal appeal or emotional weight to pull in a broader audience.
Magical girl anime, such as Sailor Moon, also deserves mention. These series became a cultural wonder in the West because they provided justice-driven themes while appealing to an urge to fetishize Japanese culture. It was very successful internationally that multiple versions in another language of the show exist to date. While magical girl shows embraced themes of teamwork and righteousness, they lacked the realism of how society is structured that My Hero Academia would later bring to the superhero genre. They were primarily aimed at younger audiences and didn’t resonate well with older viewers.
The gap was clear: the superhero genre needed an anime that could rival Western narratives without losing its “anime-ness.”
How My Hero Academia Revolutionised the Superhero Anime
Enter My Hero Academia, a story about a boy born powerless in a world where superpowers known as quirks are the norm. The way this story begins is really clever and different from what we usually see with superheroes. Deku, the main character, doesn’t get his special powers by chance or luck or by birth. His story is all about never giving up, fuelled by his hero, All Might, the greatest hero in the whole world.
What makes My Hero Academia special is how it mixes the fun of superhero stories with the deep feelings and growth of characters that you find in anime. Here are some ways it revolutionised the genre:
- A Structured Hero Society: Unlike most superhero stories where heroes operate independently or in small groups, My Hero Academia presents a fully fleshed-out society where heroism is a regulated profession. Heroes go to school, earn licenses, and find their way through rules and systems—something that seems new but also kind of familiar.
- Complex Characters and Morality: By highlighting the shortcomings of its heroes and the humanity of its antagonists, My Hero Academia goes beyond the moral dilemmas often faced by Western superheroes. Characters like Shigaraki Tomura and Endeavour blur the boundaries between good and evil, providing viewpoints not often seen in popular superhero tales.
- The Underdog Narrative: Deku’s journey from a ’’quirkless’’ dreamer to a powerful hero-in-training is a masterclass in underdog storytelling. His mental and physical hardships speak to everyone, which makes his triumphs all the more satisfying.
- Global Appeal: My Hero Academia bridged the cultural divide by fusing anime clichés of friendship, rivalry, and emotional intelligence with Western-style hero features (such as capes, costumes, and large-scale fights). It became accessible to Western audiences while keeping the distinct Japanese storytelling that makes anime interesting.
Is My Hero Academia Essential for the Modern Otaku Diet?
The short answer? Yes, absolutely.
My Hero Academia is not just a good anime. For modern otakus, it offers a perfect entry point into anime, especially for those who grew up on Western superhero shows. The show’s themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and moral ambiguity make it universally appealing because most people experience that.
Furthermore, the anime’s sheer popularity has made it a cultural touchstone. It is hard to participate in anime discussions or attend conventions without encountering someone passionately debating whether Bakugo’s character development is good or mediocre. It is a series that resonates with the mind of anybody who has ever desired to become greater, regardless of their preference for anime.
However, it is not without its flaws. Some arcs, like the Provisional Hero Licence Exam arc, can feel drawn out, and the show occasionally relies on shonen tropes like overpowered protagonists and predictable power-ups. However, these are little complaints in a stunning series.
What To Expect (and What Not to) When You Watch My Hero Academia
What to Expect:
- Dynamic Characters: From Deku’s relentless growth to Bakugo’s fiery arrogance and Todoroki’s calm demeanor, the characters are layered and constantly evolving. No two characters can be called mirrors of each other.
- Intense Battles: The fights in My Hero Academia are a visual treat. Expect creative uses of Quirks, tactical planning, and emotionally charged showdowns. The creative usage of abilities in the show also contributes to its overall appeal.
- Heartfelt Moments: Whether it’s Lemillion’s sacrifice or Deku’s tear-filled determination, the show knows how to tug at your heartstrings. All Might’s “you are next” moment after his fight with All for One was blood-pumping.
- World-Building: The Hero Society is richly detailed, with everything from school rankings to media coverage adding layers of realism. It is similar to how influential people are treated in the real world.
What Not to Expect:
- Perfect Pacing: While most arcs are engaging, some story plots can feel slower than others, especially in the middle seasons.
- Simple Morality: Heroes aren’t always perfect, and villains aren’t always evil for the sake of it. This complexity is a strength but might frustrate those seeking to turn off their minds and watch a show. There are no clear-cut good vs. evil dynamics.
- Standalone Storytelling: My Hero Academia thrives on long-term character development and interconnected arcs, so it’s not the kind of show you can jump into mid-way.
Conclusion
My Hero Academia reinvented the superhero anime genre rather than just westernizing it. Inspired by Marvel’s storytelling and Star Wars’ cultural legacy, it produced something completely original by combining the best aspects of Western superhero storytelling with the character-driven tales and emotional depth of anime. It delivers both exciting action and heartfelt stories, making it stand out in modern anime.
As a fan, I believe its blend of cultural influences has given anime and superhero enthusiasts alike something new to enjoy. Whether its intense battles, emotional arcs, or love for heroism draw you in, My Hero Academia offers something for everyone. It’s a must-watch that sets the bar high for future superhero-themed anime and will undoubtedly remain a classic for years.
So, whether you’re a seasoned otaku or someone looking to dip their toes into anime, give My Hero Academia a chance.
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