In recent days, an intense debate has arisen on
various Japanese forums about the perception that the standards of anime fans
have fallen considerably over the years. Members of these forums argue
that more and more anime are currently categorized as “ masterpieces ” by otakus,
which has led to a loss of relevance and importance of this designation.
The discussion began when several users expressed
their frustration at seeing anime that they believe lack depth or narrative
quality being elevated to the status of masterpieces. Other
debate participants pointed out that this inflation in the use of the term
“masterpiece” has led to a devaluation of the recognition given to truly
exceptional series.
Critics of this trend also mentioned
that the proliferation of streaming platforms and the accessibility of a vast
amount of content has contributed to this situation. With
more anime available than ever, fans have the opportunity to watch and follow a
wide variety of series, which some say has led to a normalization of
mediocrity.
However, not everyone agrees with this view. Some
proponents argue that the increase in the number of anime considered “masterpieces”
reflects a diversification of tastes and a broader appreciation of the medium. This
debate highlights how the evolution of the anime industry and changing fan
perceptions affect how content is categorized and valued.
- « Suzumiya
Haruhi, Mahou Shouo Madoka Magica and Bocchi the Rock!. In fact, I think
they also include Kimetsu no Yaiba and I think Your Name too .
- « For
people who spend their time on the Internet, I think that anything that
becomes popular is classified as a “masterpiece” ».
- " It
can't be helped, it's the otaku perspective ."
- « Neon
Genesis Evangelion a masterpiece? Standards have fallen very low .
- " It
hurts me that Suzumiya Haruhi is considered in this category, the second
season was a fiasco ."
- « I
knew that Bocchi the Rock! inspired more guitars to be bought on the
market, isn't that enough? ».
- « Thinking
that normal people also watch anime makes them feel like they are normal
people too. It is as if an old man desperately claims that his hobby is
popular among young people .
- « Why
do otakus so overvalue Studio Ghibli projects or projects that emerged
from Shonen Jump? ».
- « Space
Battleship Yamato, Mobile Suit Gundam, Neon Genesis Evangelion and the
Studio Ghibli films, I think they are the only ones that fall into the
category . »
- « What
criteria would you use to define a masterpiece? Would it be something that
becomes extremely popular, or something good that only few know about? ».
- « I
think a masterpiece is any anime that even old people know. That's why
Kimetsu no Yaiba definitely falls into the category .
- « I
don't think it's valid to call it a masterpiece if only otakus evaluate
it, or if we only consider that it was popular or had a good income. There
has to be a huge boom, a level of recognition that reaches even the morning
news and incalculable merchandise sales .
- « It
just occurred to me, but wouldn't a masterpiece be those works that
increased the number of otaku women? I certainly feel grateful to those
series .
- « There
has been a lot of talk about the subject, but I don't consider Bocchi the
Rock! like an anime masterpiece ».
Source: Yaraon!
