There are more than a few shows that manage to defy genre conventions and differentiate themselves from their contemporaries as a result, through means such as inserting comedy where it otherwise wouldn’t be present, or introducing deep sociopolitical messages in otherwise fluffy stories. Another, being the brilliant show that it is, manages to follow in this same vein. After a few episodes of predictably gruesome deaths (Umbrella through the throat? Yawn), episode six of Another has begun to break new ground and push the very boundaries of anime through witty scenes of whimsy and the acceptance of Kouichi and Mei’s new lives of relative nonexistence.
The complexity is such that you almost forget the horror that was so present early in the series, and the real message, which I assume was some kind of “Stamp out bullying” or “Yay misanthropy!” philosophy, is brought to the forefront. As Mei and Kouichi tango with destiny (and each other), the real questions are brought forth for the audience to contemplate. Are they the ones who aren’t considered alive? Or are their classmates, who are forced to abide by stringent rituals? We may truly never know, but one thing is for sure: Another is really here to make us think through extended metaphors, not to provide cheap scares through gratuitous deaths.
I mean it really says something for the overall brilliance of the show that it manages to subvert the horror to such a degree that I entirely forget about its existence. It’s a one of a kind horror anime, one that isn’t even remotely scary because of how unbelievably competent the story is. It’s what every other series regardless of genre should aspire to be. This is a small rant directed toward everyone who’s saying that it’s “silly” or “impossible to take seriously”. It’s just so multifaceted and cerebral with its horror that you simply can’t comprehend the ability to be scared by it. And for that, I pity each and every one of you who don’t understand; you’re truly missing out on a one of a kind experience that transcends the medium through that one urge more universal than fear: dancing.
So when everyone refused to tell Kouichi anything about what was going on, it was the author trying to illustrate how nobody truly has the answers but are completely unwilling to admit it?
…you know, that sounds better than the actual reason they did it.
You’re one of the few people that truly get the magnificence and genius of this show.
Now that you phrased it that way, I can see how brilliant it really is. Kudos on a transformative post!
I’m so very pleased that you’ve seen the light, and now view this wonderful show as it should be.