Looking at Napier and Cavallaro (2006), discuss how anime is culturally ‘located’ – in the East or West, or somewhere else?
If one were to discuss 'where' anime is located it would be difficult to use the case study of Princess Mononoke as Napier discusses in detail the differences between 'traditional' anime and Miyazaki's interpretation of the genre, combining the traditional lore and aesthetics with western influences such as the cinematography and the conversion from television series's to feature length movies.
The line between east and west also becomes blurry. Miyazaki's influences from his culture are undeniable, but in doing so they also appeal to a universal audience as the message can still be interpreted openly. For as Napier explains Miyazaki's portrayal of aggressive expansion is not only explained by the reputation of the Japanese but is understood internationally because the issues being discussed are universal, rather than a story with socio-political issues only pertaining to his culture.
Hi Gabriel,
ReplyDeleteThanks for this post - a good answer just remember to reference your sources correctly, on APA style.
So in the blurring of 'where' anime is located in the example of Princess Mononoke, do you find it easy enough to see the film as part of the anime genre?
I think as a genre anime does have a broad appeal, and that Miyazaki is not the only artist that could claim this, but that the Japanese origins, in all that I have seen anyway, are clear and forefront. Do you find the themes and issues east to relate to, from your own cultural and personal Background?
Esther :)
P.S. please remember to answer 2-3 questions for each week, as instucted - thanks,
ReplyDeleteEsther :)