How One Anime Fixed Isekai's Main Issue

Summary

This video examines how 'Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood' was dethroned as the highest-rated anime by 'Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.' The video discusses the rise of fantasy anime, particularly the isekai subgenre, and how 'Frieren' stands out. Unlike many isekai stories focused on power fantasies and second chances, 'Frieren' emphasizes growth, memory, and relationships over time. The story follows an elven mage, Frieren, as she reflects on her long life, her companions, and the lessons learned through fleeting human relationships, presenting a refreshing, heartfelt narrative that resonates with viewers.

Takeaways

• 📈 Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood held the top spot on MyAnimeList for over a decade, but it has recently been dethroned by 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End.'
• 🎉 'Frieren' has surprised many with its rise to the top of the anime rankings, offering a fresh take on traditional fantasy in an oversaturated market.
• 🌍 Isekai, a popular anime genre where characters are transported to other worlds, has become prevalent, often focusing on power fantasies with easy success for protagonists.
• 🤔 Unlike most isekai, 'Frieren' focuses on personal growth, reflection, and responsibility, showing the protagonist, an elven mage, learning from past mistakes and evolving emotionally.
• 💔 The story starts after the defeat of the Demon King and explores themes of loss, immortality, and the consequences of neglecting relationships.
• 👥 Frieren's journey becomes more meaningful as she takes on the responsibility of a human apprentice, learning to live differently and to cherish the fleeting lives around her.
• 💡 The show emphasizes the importance of memories, relationships, and how short-lived humans can leave a lasting impact on an immortal being like Frieren.
• 🧙‍♂️ Despite her long life and vast knowledge, Frieren still exhibits human-like quirks, making her relatable and showing that immortality doesn't remove the need for companionship or personal connection.
• 🎭 The story's depth lies in its reflection on time, change, and the beauty of ephemeral things, contrasting with the often hollow triumphs of traditional isekai narratives.
• 🌟 'Frieren' celebrates the idea that it’s never too late for personal change and growth, and that it's okay to rely on others for support and to help shape who you want to be.

Q & A

What made *Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood* such a highly rated show for over a decade?

*Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood* consistently excelled across multiple aspects of storytelling, including character development, plot, and emotional depth. It managed to hold the top spot on MyAnimeList due to its broad appeal and ability to engage audiences with its well-rounded narrative.

What is the premise of *Freiren* and why has it dethroned *Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood*?

*Freiren* follows an Elven mage named Freiren who, after defeating the Demon King with her comrades, reflects on her life as her human companions age and pass away. It has resonated with audiences due to its unique approach to themes like mortality, regret, and personal growth, setting it apart in a saturated fantasy anime market.

How has the fantasy anime genre evolved in the past decade?

Fantasy anime has seen a massive surge in popularity, particularly with the rise of the isekai subgenre, which involves characters being transported to another world. This genre has expanded to include a wide range of stories, though many isekai narratives focus on power fantasies and wish fulfillment.

What criticisms are directed at the isekai genre in the script?

The isekai genre is often criticized for its over-reliance on self-insertion protagonists, lack of character depth, and worlds that serve as superficial settings for power fantasies. Many protagonists are portrayed as being unfairly favored in their new worlds, which leads to unearned victories and oversimplified storylines.

In what way does *Freiren* challenge the isekai genre?

*Freiren* offers a contrast to isekai by focusing on reflection and emotional depth. Unlike the typical isekai protagonist, Freiren is not a blank canvas but a fully developed character who faces the consequences of her choices, particularly the regret of not fully cherishing her time with her companions.

What sets *Freiren* apart from other traditional fantasy anime?

While *Freiren* features traditional fantasy elements such as elves, dwarves, and magic, its focus on slow, character-driven storytelling and themes like loss, memory, and personal growth makes it stand out. The narrative unfolds at a gentle pace, with action scenes occurring naturally rather than being the focus.

How does *Freiren* explore the theme of immortality differently than other fantasy stories?

*Freiren* explores immortality not as a curse or a source of endless sadness but as an opportunity for reflection and growth. Freiren learns to appreciate her memories and the lessons of her mortal companions, emphasizing that even an immortal can change and find meaning through relationships and experiences.

What role do Freiren's companions, Fern and Stark, play in the story?

Fern and Stark, former pupils of Freiren’s companions, accompany her on her new journey. Through their interactions, they not only learn more about Freiren’s past and personality but also help her develop a deeper understanding of human emotions, relationships, and the passage of time.

What is Freiren’s philosophy regarding magic and spells?

Freiren sees magic as a way to preserve the memories and work of those who came before. Every spell, no matter how small or seemingly trivial, is the result of someone's effort and creativity. For Freiren, learning and passing on spells is a way to honor and immortalize the people who created them.

Why does the script suggest that *Freiren* is a story about change and self-improvement?

*Freiren* emphasizes that it's never too late to change and grow. Freiren, despite her long life, comes to realize the value of human connections and how those relationships shape who we become. The show promotes the idea that learning from past mistakes and relying on others for support are essential parts of personal growth.