Best anime series – Kicking off with the best of the best, we dive into the world of Japanese animation, tracing its early history and evolution into the global phenomenon it is today. From traditional Japanese art forms to influential anime series, we’ll explore the key milestones and events that shaped the medium.
Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey through time, genres, and cultures as we explore the art of world-building, the impact of anime on global popular culture, and the innovative ways in which creators have experimented with genre and format to push the boundaries of storytelling.
Diving into the World of Japanese Animation
Japanese animation, or anime, has a rich and diverse history that spans over a century. From its humble beginnings as a form of advertising and product promotion to its current status as a global phenomenon, anime has evolved significantly over the years. This evolution can be attributed to a series of key milestones and events that shaped the medium.
One of the earliest forms of anime was the work of Japanese filmmaker Ōten Shimokawa, who is often credited with creating the first anime film in 1917. However, it was not until the 1950s and 1960s that anime began to gain popularity both domestically and internationally. During this period, anime was heavily influenced by traditional Japanese art forms, such as ukiyo-e woodblock prints, which imparted a unique visual style to the medium.
Traditional Japanese art forms such as Manga, Ukiyo-e and Kabuki have had a significant impact on the storytelling in anime. The influence of these art forms can be seen in the use of vibrant colors, exaggerated facial expressions, and dramatic plot twists.
Early Influential Anime Series
Some of the earliest influential anime series include:
- Astro Boy (1963) – This series, also known as Tetsuwan Atom, is often credited as one of the first sci-fi anime series and a pioneer in the use of animation to convey complex themes such as human identity and social responsibility.
- Lupin III (1971) – This series, created by Gosho Aoyama, has been a huge success and has spawned numerous movies, TV specials, and OVAs. Its blend of action, adventure, and comedy has made it a staple of the anime genre.
- Space Battleship Yamato (1974) – This series, also known as Space Battleship Lylah 4, combines elements of science fiction and drama to tell a compelling story of a spaceship crew fighting against alien invasion.
These anime series paved the way for more complex storytelling and laid the foundation for the wide range of genres and styles that we see today in anime. The evolution of anime has been shaped by a series of key events and milestones, including the introduction of TV broadcasting, the development of new animation techniques, and the increasing popularity of anime globally.
Notable Anime Series of the Past Decade: Best Anime Series
The past decade has brought forth a diverse range of anime series that have captivated audiences worldwide for their exceptional storytelling, memorable characters, and impact on popular culture. From fantasy to science fiction, romance to action-adventure, these series have raised the bar for the anime industry, pushing the boundaries of creativity, emotional depth, and visual spectacle.
These series have not only entertained fans but also inspired new generations of creators, influencing the world of anime and beyond. As we explore the notable anime series of the past decade, we will delve into the world of fantasy, science fiction, romance, and action-adventure, highlighting the standout titles that have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Fantasy Series
Fantasy anime often transports us to new worlds, rich in magical realism, where heroes and villains collide in epic battles of good vs. evil. The following series showcase the diversity and creative scope of fantasy anime in the past decade.
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The Rising of the Shield Hero
This 2019 series, directed by Takao Yoshioka, is based on the novel of the same name by Aneko Yusagi. The story follows Naofumi Iwatani, a young man from modern-day Japan, who is transported to a parallel universe where he becomes one of four heroes tasked with saving the world from destruction.
Series Title Genre Release Year Note The Rising of the Shield Hero Fantasy 2019 This series is notable for its portrayal of trauma, PTSD, and social commentary, adding depth to the traditional fantasy genre. -
The Seven Deadly Sins
Directed by Tensai Okamura, this series, released in 2014, follows a group of powerful warriors known as the Seven Deadly Sins, who are reincarnated to fight against the corrupt Holy Knights.
Series Title Genre Release Year Note The Seven Deadly Sins Fantasy 2014 This series is praised for its unique blend of action, comedy, and drama, making it a standout in the fantasy genre.
Science Fiction Series
Science fiction anime often explores the realms of science, technology, and space, taking us on captivating journeys through the depths of our universe. The following series represent the groundbreaking advancements in science fiction anime in the past decade.
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Attack on Titan
Directed by Tetsuro Araki, this 2013 series is set in a world where humans are on the brink of extinction, with giant humanoid creatures known as Titans terrorizing the remaining cities.
Series Title Genre Release Year Note Attack on Titan Science Fiction 2013 This series is praised for its dark, atmospheric portrayal of a world in peril, exploring themes of humanity, sacrifice, and redemption. -
Promised Neverland
Directed by Mamoru Kanbe, this 2019 series is set in an orphanage where a group of children discovers a disturbing truth about their seemingly idyllic lives.
Series Title Genre Release Year Note Promised Neverland Science Fiction 2019 This series is lauded for its clever plot twists, thought-provoking themes, and gripping tension, making it a standout in the science fiction genre.
Romance Series
Romance anime often takes us on emotional journeys through the complexities of love, heartbreak, and relationships. The following series represent the tender and captivating experiences of romance anime in the past decade.
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March Comes in Like a Lion
Directed by Akiyuki Simbo, this 2016 series follows a professional shogi player as he navigates his personal life, encountering various people who challenge his perspectives and emotions.
Series Title Genre Release Year Note March Comes in Like a Lion Romance 2016 This series is praised for its nuanced portrayal of emotional growth, exploring themes of depression, relationships, and self-discovery. -
A Silent Voice
Directed by Naoko Yamada, this 2016 film is set in a world where social media and technology dominate our lives, exploring the complexities of bullying, guilt, and redemption through the story of a high school student.
Series Title Genre Release Year Note A Silent Voice Romance 2016 This film is lauded for its thought-provoking exploration of social media, identity, and relationships, making it a standout in the romance genre.
Action-Adventure Series
Action-adventure anime often thrills us with epic battles, heart-pumping action sequences, and heroic feats. The following series represent the electrifying experiences of action-adventure anime in the past decade.
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My Hero Academia
Directed by Kenji Nagasaki, this 2016 series is set in a world where superpowers are the norm, following the story of Izuku Midoriya, a young boy who dreams of becoming a hero despite being born without powers.
Series Title Genre Release Year Note My Hero Academia Action-Adventure 2016 This series is praised for its colorful world-building, engaging characters, and thrilling action sequences, making it a standout in the action-adventure genre. -
Dragon Ball Super
Directed by Masahiro Hosoda, this 2015 series is a sequel to the popular Dragon Ball series, following Goku and his friends as they face new threats and challenges in the universe.
Series Title Genre Release Year Dragon Ball Super Action-Adventure 2015 This series is lauded for its epic battles, intense action sequences, and dramatic plot twists, making it a standout in the action-adventure genre.
How Anime Influences Global Culture – Discuss the ways in which anime has influenced global popular culture, from music and fashion to film and literature.
Anime, often regarded as a form of Japanese animation, has become an increasingly powerful force in shaping global popular culture. Beyond its original medium, anime has permeated various aspects of cultural expression, including music, fashion, film, and literature. It is the intention of this discussion to illuminate the ways in which anime has affected global culture, drawing comparisons between its influence on Western and Eastern societies where notable differences are apparent.
Anime has profoundly influenced various domains of culture. Music, for instance, has seen significant impact, with numerous artists borrowing from anime soundtracks. The incorporation of Japanese melodies and rhythms can be observed in various global pop music genres. For instance, K-pop and J-pop have become more accessible globally, influencing contemporary music trends. In fashion, anime aesthetics have inspired runway designs and clothing. Many designers incorporate anime-inspired patterns, such as bold graphics and vibrant hues, in their collections. The global fashion industry has taken note of the cultural significance of anime, recognizing its influence in the ever-changing landscape of global style.
Impact on Western Culture
Anime has significantly affected Western culture. The increasing popularity of Japanese animation has led to a heightened interest in various aspects of Japanese culture, including food, art, and spirituality. As anime becomes more mainstream, Western audiences are exposed to diverse styles and themes that may not be commonly found in traditional Western media. For example, the incorporation of anime-style visuals in Western film and television is becoming more prominent. Anime has also inspired Western artists, who find themselves influenced by the unique storytelling and character development found in anime. However, anime’s integration into Western popular culture can also raise concerns about cultural appropriation, where elements of Japanese culture are taken but not accurately represented or understood.
Comparison to East Asian Culture
Anime’s influence on East Asian culture varies greatly. While anime has become an integral part of Japanese culture, influencing various aspects of society, its impact on other East Asian countries is more complex. In countries like China and Korea, anime is viewed more critically and with a mix of fascination and skepticism. Anime’s depiction of certain themes and stereotypes can be seen as reinforcing existing East Asian stereotypes, such as the “model minority” trope and the portrayal of East Asian characters as submissive or weak. As a result, some East Asian communities respond cautiously to anime’s influence on their cultures, while others openly embrace anime as a form of globalized entertainment.
Examples of Anime-Inspired Fashion and Music
Anime-inspired fashion has taken various forms. Cosplay, short for costume play, has become a popular way for fans to express their creativity and showcase their favorite anime characters. Anime aesthetics can be seen in clothing and accessories, with designers incorporating bold graphics and vibrant colors into their designs. Music, too, has been influenced by anime. Anime soundtracks, known as anime music, have inspired numerous artists, who incorporate J-pop and J-rock elements into their own work. J-pop has seen significant growth globally, with artists like BTS and Twice achieving worldwide success.
Anime has made a lasting impact on global popular culture, influencing various aspects of music, fashion, film, and literature. As anime continues to spread its influence, we can expect to see even more innovative and groundbreaking content in the years to come. The increasing exposure to anime and its various elements is likely to result in a more interconnected global culture, where artists and creators continue to draw inspiration from this vibrant and dynamic form of Japanese animation.
The Art of World-Building in Anime
World-building is a crucial aspect of creating immersive anime series. It involves crafting a rich and detailed environment that draws viewers in and makes them invested in the story. A well-built world can transport audiences to new and exciting places, evoking emotions and sparking imagination.
Effective world-building requires a delicate balance of setting, mythology, and history. Setting refers to the physical environment in which the story takes place, including the geography, climate, and architecture. Mythology and history, on the other hand, provide the underlying framework of the world’s creation myths, legends, and cultural background.
Setting: Creating a Sense of Place
Setting is a critical component of world-building as it provides the foundation for the story’s events and characters. A well-developed setting can evoke a sense of nostalgia, wonder, or excitement, drawing viewers into the world. Anime series like “Attack on Titan” and “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” feature unique and captivating settings that transport viewers to dark, dystopian futures and rich, steampunk-inspired worlds.
In “Attack on Titan,” the setting is a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. The series’ creator, Hajime Isayama, drew inspiration from European art and architecture to create the world’s unique blend of gothic and baroque styles. The setting’s eerie atmosphere and emphasis on claustrophobia heighten the sense of tension and urgency.
Mythology: Weaving a Rich History
Mythology and history provide the underlying framework for a world’s creation myths, legends, and cultural background. A well-crafted mythology can add depth, complexity, and richness to the world, making it more believable and immersive.
Anime series like “Spirited Away” and “Goblin Slayer” feature elaborate mythologies that shape the world’s narrative and themes. In “Spirited Away,” Hayao Miyazaki draws inspiration from Japanese folklore to create a richly detailed world of spirits, gods, and supernatural creatures.
The mythology in “Goblin Slayer,” on the other hand, is rooted in medieval European folklore, where goblins and other supernatural creatures are real and pose a threat to humanity. The series’ creator, Kumo Kagyu, uses this mythology to explore themes of survival, community, and the power of storytelling.
History: Shaping the World’s Narrative
History plays a vital role in shaping the world’s narrative and themes. A well-crafted history can add depth, complexity, and richness to the story, making it more believable and immersive.
Anime series like “The Last Exile” and “Bleach” feature elaborate histories that shape the world’s narrative and themes. In “The Last Exile,” the creator, Koichi Chigira, draws inspiration from European history and folklore to create a world of airships and pirates.
The history in “Bleach,” on the other hand, is rooted in Japanese folklore and mythology, where spirits and gods are real and play a significant role in shaping the world. The series’ creator, Tite Kubo, uses this history to explore themes of identity, community, and the power of friendship.
Challenges of Balancing World-Building with Pacing and Character Development
Balancing world-building with pacing and character development can be a significant challenge in creating immersive anime series. A world that is too rich and detailed can slow down the pacing, making it difficult for viewers to follow the story.
However, a well-crafted world can be woven into the narrative and pacing, adding depth and complexity to the story without slowing it down. Anime creators and writers often use techniques like foreshadowing, clues, and subtle hints to build the world and its mythology, allowing viewers to piece together the mysteries as they unfold.
For example, in “The Last Exile,” the creator uses subtle hints and clues throughout the series to reveal the world’s history and mythology, adding depth and complexity to the story without slowing down the pacing.
In “Attack on Titan,” on the other hand, the creator uses foreshadowing and clues to build the world’s mystery and horror, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they piece together the secrets of the Titans.
Conclusion: By crafting a rich and detailed world that draws viewers in, anime creators can transport audiences to new and exciting places, evoking emotions and sparking imagination. The art of world-building is a delicate balance of setting, mythology, and history, requiring a deep understanding of the world’s underlying framework.
Unconventional Anime Genres and Formats – Explore the diversity of anime genres and formats, from historical dramas and sports anime to psychological thrillers and magical girl series.
In recent years, anime has evolved to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling. From historical dramas that delve into the intricacies of Japan’s past to sports anime that showcase the dedication and perseverance of athletes, creators have continually experimented with new and innovative formats. This has led to a diverse range of anime genres and formats that cater to various tastes and interests.
The world of anime has also given rise to unique and unconventional genres, such as magical girl series, which combine elements of fantasy and adventure to create captivating stories for young audiences. These genres often blur the lines between different styles, resulting in a fresh and exciting viewing experience that deviates from traditional conventions.
Sub-Versioning: Experimentation with Traditional Anime Genres
The boundaries between traditional anime genres have become increasingly blurred, allowing creators to experiment with and combine different styles to produce something entirely new. This process of sub-versioning has led to the development of various sub-genres within existing categories.
- Slice-of-Life with Science Fiction Elements: Series like Space Brothers and Planetes blend the everyday struggles of everyday life with the excitement and wonder of science fiction.
- Historical Dramas with Fantasy Elements: Anime like Rurouni Kenshin and Basilisk combine historical accuracy with fantastical elements to create engaging and captivating stories.
This experimentation with traditional genres has resulted in a wide range of unique anime series that cater to diverse tastes and interests. By combining elements from different styles, creators have been able to push the boundaries of storytelling and produce something entirely new.
Merging of Genres: Innovation and Experimentation, Best anime series
The merger of different anime genres has led to some truly innovative and groundbreaking series. These fusion shows often result in a unique blend of styles that captivate audiences and challenge traditional notions of storytelling.
- Psychological Thrillers with Magical Elements: Anime like Death Note and Tokyo Ghoul combine the suspenseful and unpredictable nature of psychological thrillers with magical elements to create captivating and thought-provoking storylines.
- Sports Anime with Historical Settings: Series like Prince of Tennis and Kuroko’s Basketball take the competitive spirit of sports anime and set it in historical or contemporary settings, adding an extra layer of depth and complexity to the narrative.
These fusion shows showcase the creativity and experimentation that is at the heart of anime. By merging different genres, creators have been able to push the boundaries of storytelling and produce something entirely new and captivating.
New and Unconventional Formats
In addition to the innovative combinations of traditional anime genres, creators have also experimented with new and unconventional formats. These formats often involve unique storytelling styles, perspectives, or presentation methods that set them apart from traditional anime.
- Short Films and Series: Anime like “The Tatami Galaxy” and “A Silent Voice” showcase the possibilities of short-form anime, often with a focus on character development and emotional depth.
- Interactive Anime: Series like “Steins;Gate 0” and “Danganronpa” incorporate interactive elements, allowing viewers to influence the story and shape the outcome.
These unconventional formats offer a fresh and exciting way to experience anime, often with a unique perspective or style that sets them apart from traditional shows.
Anime’s Influence on Video Games and Animation
The world of anime has had a profound impact on the video game industry and animation in general. From iconic characters to immersive storytelling, anime has inspired game developers and animators to create their own unique experiences. In this segment, we will explore the mutual influence between anime and other media, such as video games and Western animation.
Animation Techniques and Storytelling
Anime’s distinct animation techniques and storytelling styles have influenced game developers to create more engaging and immersive experiences. Anime-inspired games often feature vibrant visuals, complex characters, and intricate storylines that keep players engaged for hours. Developers such as Studio Ghibli and Production I.G have collaborated with game developers to bring their expertise in animation and storytelling to the gaming world.
- The Legend of Zelda series, which has been inspired by classic anime and manga, showcases the impact of anime-inspired storytelling on game development.
- Games such as Ni no Kuni and Xenoblade Chronicles demonstrate the incorporation of anime-style animation techniques, such as cel-shading and detailed character designs.
- Developers like Grasshopper Manufacture and Suda51 have drawn inspiration from anime and manga to create games with complex narratives and quirky characters.
The influence of anime on Western animation is also apparent in the increasing popularity of anime-inspired shows such as Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra. These shows have adapted anime-style storytelling and character development to appeal to a global audience.
Crossover Projects and Collaborations
The lines between anime, video games, and Western animation have become increasingly blurred, with numerous crossover projects and collaborations emerging in recent years. Anime creators and game developers have worked together to bring their respective expertise to a new audience.
| Project | Collaboration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch | Studio Ghibli and Level-5 | a critically acclaimed RPG that combines Ghibli’s animation techniques with Level-5’s game development expertise. |
| Final Fantasy XV | Square Enix and Production I.G | a JRPG that incorporates Production I.G’s expertise in animation and character design. |
| The Walking Dead | Telltale and Production I.G | a episodic graphic adventure game that adapts anime-style storytelling to the Walking Dead franchise. |
Conclusion
The influence of anime on video games and animation is undeniable. As the boundaries between anime, video games, and Western animation continue to blur, we can expect to see even more innovative and immersive experiences emerge from these collaborations. The mutual influence between anime and other media is a testament to the power of storytelling and animation to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
The Global Popularity of Anime – Discuss the reasons behind anime’s growing global popularity, including the rise of streaming services and social media platforms.
The global phenomenon of anime has been steadily gaining momentum over the years, captivating the hearts of audiences worldwide. The ever-growing demand for anime has led to an explosion of content creation, with various platforms and media outlets providing exclusive anime streaming services. This trend suggests that the industry is heading towards a more digital and accessible future. The increased popularity of anime can be attributed to the accessibility of streaming services such as Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Funimation, which have made it easier for global audiences to discover and enjoy anime.
Anime’s unique visual style, storytelling, and emotional resonance have contributed significantly to its widespread appeal. The intricate details and vibrant colors of anime have made it a standout in the world of animation. The emotional connection that viewers form with anime characters is unparalleled, allowing audiences to empathize and connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The Rise of Streaming Services
The streaming revolution has transformed the way people consume anime. Platforms like Netflix and Crunchyroll have made it possible for audiences to access anime content from anywhere in the world, at any time. This has led to an explosion of anime production, with creators pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual effects.
Some key statistics highlighting the impact of streaming services on anime’s global popularity include:
- Crunchyroll has over 50 million registered users globally, with over 1 billion minutes watched per month.
- Funimation has over 20 million subscribers worldwide, with a library of over 600 anime titles.
- Netflix has invested heavily in anime production, with several high-profile titles such as Devilman Crybaby and Spirited Away.
The accessibility of streaming services has not only increased anime’s global reach but also led to the emergence of new trends and sub-genres. Fans are now able to engage with each other through online communities and social media platforms, creating a global anime fandom.
Social Media’s Role in Anime Fandom
Social media platforms have played a significant role in anime’s global popularity, allowing fans to share their passion and connect with others worldwide. Fans can now share their favorite anime memes, cosplay, and fan art, creating a thriving community that transcends geographical boundaries.
The widespread adoption of social media has also led to the emergence of online communities dedicated to anime, with platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok becoming hotspots for fans to share their love for anime.
Global Audiences and Adaptation
Anime creators and industry professionals are now more than ever aware of the diverse global audience and the importance of adapting content to appeal to a broad range of viewers. This has led to a shift towards more inclusive and culturally sensitive storytelling, allowing anime to connect with audiences from different backgrounds and cultures.
Some examples of anime that have successfully adapted to the global market include:
- Attack on Titan
- The Seven Deadly Sins
- Haikyuu!!
These titles have all gained massive global followings, with fan communities emerging across the world.
Anime’s global popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how anime creators and industry professionals adapt to the changing landscape and continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
The Future of Anime – Provide a vision for the future of anime, including emerging trends, technologies, and creative directions.
In the ever-evolving world of anime, creators and industry professionals are constantly pushing boundaries, exploring new ideas, and adapting to changing viewer habits and technological advancements. As we look to the future, it’s essential to consider the emerging trends, technologies, and creative directions that will shape the industry in the coming years.
The Rise of AI and Virtual Reality in Anime Production
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) is transforming the anime production process, offering new possibilities for storytelling, character development, and world-building. AI-powered tools are being used to generate character designs, backgrounds, and even entire episodes, freeing up creators to focus on high-level creative decisions. Meanwhile, VR technology is allowing fans to immerse themselves in anime worlds like never before.
“The future of anime is not just about creating content for screens, but about creating experiences that transport viewers to new dimensions.”
The impact of AI and VR on anime production will be multifaceted, with potential applications including:
- Automated content generation: AI algorithms can generate episode scripts, storyboards, and even entire episodes, speeding up the production process and allowing for more creativity.
- Virtual production: VR technology enables creators to visualize and interact with virtual sets, characters, and objects, streamlining the production process and reducing costs.
- Personalized experiences: AI-powered recommendation engines can create tailored anime experiences for individual viewers, taking into account their preferences, interests, and viewing history.
Adapting to Changing Viewer Habits and Technological Advancements
As anime fans worldwide adopt new technologies and viewing habits, creators and industry professionals must adapt to stay ahead of the curve. The rise of online streaming platforms, social media, and virtual reality experiences requires anime producers to rethink their content strategies, distribution channels, and audience engagement methods.
“The lines between creators and fans are blurring, and the boundaries between physical and virtual spaces are becoming increasingly ambiguous.”
The changing viewer landscape demands a shift in anime production and distribution, with implications for:
- Streaming platforms: Anime producers must navigate the complex landscape of streaming services, ensuring their content reaches the right audiences and stays competitive.
- Social media engagement: Creators must leverage social media platforms to build direct connections with fans, share behind-the-scenes content, and foster a sense of community.
- Virtual reality experiences: Anime producers must develop new strategies for creating immersive experiences that take advantage of VR technology and its limitations.
The Future of Anime Creators and Industry Professionals
As anime production becomes increasingly reliant on technology and AI, creators and industry professionals will need to develop new skills and adapt to changing roles. This shift will create opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and growth in the anime industry.
“The future of anime is not just about creating content, but about forging new paths for creators, innovators, and storytellers.”
The evolving anime industry will require creators and industry professionals to:
- Upskill and reskill: Professionals will need to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, including AI and VR, and develop new skills to complement their existing expertise.
- Collaborate and innovate: Creators and industry professionals will need to work together, share knowledge, and experiment with new ideas to drive innovation in the anime industry.
- Emphasize storytelling and emotional connection: Amidst the rise of technology, anime creators will focus on crafting compelling stories, memorable characters, and emotional connections with audiences.
Outcome Summary
As we conclude our comprehensive guide to the best anime series, we’ve taken you on a journey through the history, culture, and creativity that make this medium so beloved by fans worldwide. From iconic characters to thought-provoking themes, we’ve explored the elements that make an anime series truly exceptional.
Whether you’re a seasoned anime enthusiast or just discovering the magic of Japanese animation, this guide is your ultimate companion to exploring the best that anime has to offer.
Query Resolution
Q: What is the most popular anime genre among fans worldwide?
A: The most popular anime genre among fans worldwide is action-adventure, followed closely by science fiction and fantasy.
Q: How has anime influenced global popular culture?
A: Anime has influenced global popular culture through its unique visual style, storytelling, and emotional resonance, which have inspired music, fashion, and film trends worldwide.
Q: What are some of the most iconic anime characters of all time?
A: Some of the most iconic anime characters of all time include Naruto, Light Yagami from Death Note, and Goku from Dragon Ball Z.
