Reflections on Popular and Unpopular Animations: Zoisite, Hunter x Hunter, and More
Animations have captivated audiences for decades, offering escapades, emotions, and worlds filled with wonder. However, some of the most beloved animations can hold unpopular opinions within their fanbases. This article explores one such opinion, delving into the complex world of animations, particularly focusing on two controversial characters: Zoisite from Sailor Moon and the easily forgettable moments in Hunter x Hunter.
Unpopular Opinion: Hunter x Hunter
In the realm of anime and manga, Hunter x Hunter stands out as one of the most critically acclaimed works by Yoshihiro Togashi. Despite its reputation, many argue that it falls short of expectations, particularly from the author of Yu Yu Hakusho, a series that shines with its engaging and memorable elements. Those who have given Hunter x Hunter a chance often find it wanting, with characters and plotlines that fail to keep the viewers engaged.
Listen to these thoughts from an inconspicuous fan: “Hunter x Hunter is flaming hot garbage. Everything about it is boring and none of it makes sense. The characters are plain obnoxious. Before you say ‘give it a try,’ I have. Many times. I don’t know what Yoshihiro Togashi was thinking when making Hunter x Hunter. Yu Yu Hakusho was a 10/10 knockout, why is Hunter x Hunter so bad?”
Popularity and Polarization
Popularity and polarization often go hand in hand in the world of anime and manga. While some series are universally admired, others attract a niche of fans fiercely divided. Consider Zoisite, a character from one of the most beloved series of all time, Sailor Moon. Zoisite's controversial identity as a male villain rather than a female character is a prime example of how a character's perceived identity can shape a fan's perception of a series.
One fan's heartfelt opinion: “It was better for Zoisite being a woman than a man and his love story with Zoisite in the 90’s anime was one of the worst ever.” This opinion is deeply rooted in the cultural and social context in which the show was first broadcasted. It speaks to how the character's portrayal has affected the overall fan experience and emotional connection.
The Character of Zoisite
Zoisite, originally voiced by a female character in Italy, is a fascinating case study in the complexities of character development and audience perception. This fan's experience highlights the importance of voice acting and the audience's expectations. For many, the female voice brought to life a character that was charismatic, powerful, and whose rivalry with Tuxedo Mask was intense and memorable.
The fan recalls, “In Italy, Sailor Moon was very controversial. Zoisite and Eye Fish were female characters because dubbed by female voiceovers. We found the truth only after 20 years. I remember I found Zoisite my favourite female villain when I thought she was a girl. I loved her uniform her rivalry with Tuxedo Mask. I thought it was very powerful to see a beautiful woman in uniform fight like a man and being dreaded by Tuxedo Mask more than Beryl and Zoisite itself.”
However, upon discovering that Zoisite was actually a man, the identity shift altered the fan's perception, leading to a sense of betraying the character they had come to love. The fan's reflection on this change of perspective provides a window into the subtle nuances of identity, charisma, and the emotional investment fans have in their favorite characters.
Gender Stereotypes and Masculinity in Anime
The case of Zoisite also sheds light on gender stereotypes and the portrayal of masculinity in anime. In the original series, male villains in Sailor Moon were often asexual, not showing any real interest in the female leads. This lack of sexual tension and complexity in their relationships has drawn criticism, particularly from female audiences who see a need for more well-rounded and complex female characters.
The fan's perspective on Zoisite as a male character highlights the issue: “When I found out [Zoisite] was a man, I felt almost betrayed. Beautiful women like Emerald or Kaorinite deserved to have at least a tragic plot for themselves instead of being relegated to the stereotypical ‘Too hot to handle’ type. They were attractive and intelligent. The way their love interest despised them was unrealistic and pathetic.”
This sentiment reflects a broader critique of anime and manga, where female characters are often treated as secondary, with their primary role being to be desired rather than respected. The series' emphasis on toxic masculinity and the absence of meaningful relationships adds to the critique, culminating in the fan's conclusion: “Men who want power want even to have sex. I knew that Zoisite was a male character, but it was better to leave him as a Sailor Mercury former love interest instead of making him a stereotyped homosexual. As I said, it would have been great if he was really a woman… she would have been probably the coolest villains of all time.”
Conclusion
As discussed, the world of anime and manga is rich with complex characters and intriguing storylines. While Hunter x Hunter may not meet the highest standards for all viewers, Sailor Moon has a wealth of stories and characters that continue to captivate fans. The identity of Zoisite, as an example, highlights the importance of gender representation, the impact of voice acting, and the nuanced ways in which characters can be reinterpreted and appreciated.
The world of anime and manga offers a spectrum of experiences, from the groundbreaking and iconic to the critically polarizing. Whether it’s questioning the identity of a beloved villain or finding the depth lacking in a once-admired series, each opinion adds to the vibrant and evolving landscape of animation.