Mind-Blowing Anime Masterpiece Tragically Claims its Creator's Life

Gintama, an anime based on Hideaki Sorachi's manga, showcased its creator as a commentator on anime production. However, it took its meta approach to another level with the Popularity Poll arc, where the creator is killed. Gintama's unique blend of absurdity and experimentation allowed it to push boundaries. Though the show appears simple on the surface, following Gintoki, Shinpachi, and Kagura as they assist others in a sci-fi version of historical Japan, it goes beyond that. Gintama delves into surreal humor and intense drama, striking a balance that later shows like Witch Watch would imitate. This is particularly evident in its multi-episode arcs, which take the narrative to unexpected places.

Gintama's Popularity Poll Arc Redefined "Meta" By Killing Its Creator

Episodes #182-184 of Gintama introduced the Popularity Poll arc, which stands out as the most meta arc in the history of anime. This story is based on the actual results of a Shonen Jump popularity poll where fans voted for their favorite characters. The characters who ranked lower in the poll were dissatisfied with their positions and resorted to extreme measures to humiliate and even kill the more popular characters in order to secure the top spot. Interestingly, the series' creator, Sorachi, was also included as a character in the poll, represented as a lazy gorilla. Therefore, in a quest to improve her own ranking, one of the more violent characters, Otae, not only aimed to eliminate Sorachi's anime version but the real Sorachi himself.

Gintama Does Meta Humor Right By Taking It To Its Extreme

Otae leaps out of the screen in a dramatic fashion to assassinate Sorachi in the real world. Although Gintama does not explicitly depict the murder, it is later mentioned that Otae achieves her goal. Meta humor has gained significant popularity across various forms of media, particularly in the Western world. Characters such as Deadpool, She-Hulk, and Rick Sanchez all playfully mock their fictional existence to varying degrees of success. However, the characters of Gintama surpass mere commentary on their fictional nature by eliminating their own creator. This elevates their meta jokes to a level of hilarity and novelty that surpasses other interpretations of the concept.

While meta humor may not be the most widely appreciated form of comedy in anime, Gintama proves that when executed adeptly, it can be both shocking and uproarious. Gintama's unique style of meta humor has not only left a lasting impact but has also inspired other comedy anime series such as Sket Dance and The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. Despite this, none of these shows can match the sheer meta brilliance displayed in Gintama's Popularity Poll Arc, where it audaciously portrayed the demise of the anime's creator. This unforgettable arc solidifies Gintama's position as a true comedic masterpiece.

Gintama is available to watch on Crunchyroll.