Anime's American Invasion: How Accurate is the Portrayal?

Anime's appeal lies in its unique expression of Japanese culture through storytelling techniques, visual styles, and tropes that have become niche genres in their own right. However, creators in the medium emphasize the importance of seeking inspiration beyond anime. It's fascinating to see how Japan portrays other countries, particularly the United States, in their anime. While it's not an uncommon occurrence, there are notable examples that come to mind, such as the cult classic Baccano and the recent hit Kekkai Sensen. What makes these portrayals captivating, and is it accuracy or another quality that draws viewers in?

The Period Piece

Baccano stands out among anime set in America due to its reputation, which has been bolstered by its popularity in the West. Although the show did not perform well in Japan and its home video sales were lackluster, it remains a beloved classic in the eyes of Western fans. Despite its unavailability for purchase or streaming in America, Baccano continues to be a topic of discussion among anime enthusiasts. One reason for its enduring appeal is its well-regarded English dub, which is considered one of the best in the industry. The series is similar to Ryohgo Narita's other famous work Durarara, in that it features a chaotic ensemble cast and intersecting storylines that span three distinct timelines over the course of its 13 episodes.

The train journey from Chicago to New York is a captivating sight, with a blend of romanticism from the 1930s era, including the fashion, scenery, and diverse accents of the passengers. The Japanese studio's vivid portrayal of the time period is impressive, with a story that incorporates elements of classic gangster movies and a supernatural twist to keep things interesting.

The dedication to immersive escapism in 91 Days, a prohibition-era gangster series, is comparable to that of supernatural anime. The period-appropriate clothing, abundance of jazz, and gritty tone set by the overcast sky all contribute to the show's atmosphere. However, it's worth noting that many notable anime set in the U.S. are more so homages to gangster films and cop dramas than true reflections of American culture. Gunsmith Cats, for instance, takes place in Chicago but was created by an author whose primary references were prohibition, Al Capone, and gun violence.

The Sights & Sounds

Anime is widely known for its striking backgrounds, which are often created through the use of photography and location scouting. As a result, it's rare for these shows to miss the mark visually, and when they do, it's usually easy to spot whether the team did their research or not. However, this attention to detail extends beyond just aesthetics and includes aspects of American culture as well.

In the case of Studio MAPPA's Banana Fish, the anime takes place in the present day, but it's clear from watching it that the original manga was set in 1980s New York. Despite attempts to modernize the story, certain details make it obvious that it's a period piece. For example, while cell phones are featured in the adaptation, the way the story plays out suggests that they aren't widely used. Additionally, there are instances where the show overlooks important cultural changes, such as the fact that carrying a gun into an airport in post-9/11 America would be highly unlikely.

Kekkai Sensen stands out as one of the most impressive anime portrayals of America in recent times, despite the fact that its version of New York City is referred to as Hellsalem's Lot. The city is home to both humans and supernatural beings, who coexist in a delicate balance, thanks to the efforts of superhumans. The series offers a remarkable experience of being in a bustling American city, with its captivating storytelling and stunning artwork.

In Kekkai's tenth episode, the three main characters are on a mission to find the perfect spot for their lunch break at work. This relatable episode captures the essence of what it's like to navigate a big, intimidating city for young adults. Throughout the series, this theme is used to depict the challenges and fears that come with exploring an unfamiliar place.

The show's portrayal of Hellsalem's Lot is amplified by the comedic elements, supernatural elements, and unique directing style of Rie Matsumoto. Despite this exaggeration, there is a sense of casualness in the way the characters interact with their environment, whether it be a visit to a convenience store or a commute. Although not always aesthetically pleasing, it adds depth and character to the city. Hellsalem's Lot may be shrouded in fog and populated by both humans and aliens, but it successfully captures the essence of America through its portrayal of the people and their interactions with their surroundings, rather than just the architecture.

Americans, According to Anime

The portrayal of Americans in anime can reveal some of the idiosyncrasies of how Americans are perceived. Often, these depictions are exaggerated and rely on stereotypes, which can be humorous but also reflect America's history of portraying other cultures with varying degrees of sensitivity. In anime, Americans are frequently characterized as boisterous, assertive, or excessively talkative. Political figures are either portrayed as benign or depicted as corrupt and even comically villainous. More serious anime, such as Genocidal Organ, do not shy away from portraying the darker aspects of the American military.

It's worth acknowledging that America has its flaws, and it can be refreshing to see those flaws highlighted in media. At the same time, it's important to recognize that there is a lot of admiration for American culture in many parts of the world. Even outside of explicitly American media, works like the Resident Evil games, written by Japanese creators, can showcase a unique and almost hyper-patriotic version of America.

Few of the top American-set anime rely on one-dimensional stereotypes for their characters. Kekkai Sensen and Baccano feature complex and fascinating casts, and the setting is a deliberate choice to create a unique sense of space. Many of the directors behind these shows were inspired by the diverse genres of American filmmaking, and the medium's exceptional art design only adds to its ability to capture cultures in a captivating way.

Source: Dark Horse