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Sanrio Boys, a 2018 anime series, breaks away from the typical mold you might expect when you hear it’s about a group of high school boys who love Sanrio characters. Yes, those Sanrio characters: Hello Kitty, My Melody, and the like, traditionally seen as the purview of young girls and not teenage boys. This show takes that premise and turns it on its head, offering a fresh narrative that explores themes of friendship, societal expectations, and the joy of loving what you love, no matter what others might think.
The Basics
Before we get into the meat of the matter, let’s lay down some groundwork. Sanrio Boys was produced by Studio Pierrot, known for their work on Naruto and Bleach, among others. It aired from January to March 2018 and consists of 12 episodes. The story follows Kouta Hasegawa, a high school student who loves the Sanrio character Pompompurin. Kouta feels he must hide his affection for what many in his world see as “girly” interests. However, he soon discovers other boys at his school share similar passions for Sanrio characters. This revelation leads Kouta and his new friends, each with their own favorite Sanrio character, on a journey of self-acceptance and camaraderie.
Breaking Stereotypes
One of the show’s strongest points is its challenge to gender norms and stereotypes. In a society where interests are often gendered, Sanrio Boys asks, “Why?” It showcases characters who, despite societal expectations, embrace their love for things deemed by many as not for them. This narrative is crucial, not just for the anime world but for media consumption as a whole. It sends a powerful message about the importance of being true to oneself, regardless of societal pressures.
Examples of Breaking Stereotypes
- Kouta Hasegawa loves Pompompurin. He initially hides this interest out of fear of being mocked but learns the value of openness and honesty.
- Yu Mizuno, a fan of My Melody, is a perfect example of someone who defies traditional gender roles. He’s depicted as cool and popular, showing that interests traditionally seen as feminine don’t detract from one’s masculinity or social status.
- Shunsuke Yoshino, the athletic member of the group, adores Hello Kitty. This combination of athleticism and affection for something cute challenges the notion that physical prowess and “cute” interests are mutually exclusive.
The Power of Friendship
At its heart, Sanrio Boys is a story about friendship. It’s about finding people who accept you for who you are, share your interests, and support you in your passions. The camaraderie among the main characters is not just heartwarming; it’s a testament to the show’s underlying message that there’s strength in being true to yourself and finding a community that embraces you.
How Friendship is Portrayed
- Supporting Each Other’s Interests: The boys not only share their own Sanrio passions but actively celebrate and support each other’s. This mutual respect and encouragement is a refreshing take on friendship.
- Overcoming Challenges Together: Whether it’s dealing with bullying, facing personal insecurities, or working on a school project, the characters tackle their problems together, showing the power of a supportive group of friends.
The Joy of Fandom
Sanrio Boys does an excellent job of portraying the joy and community that can be found in fandoms. It highlights how shared interests can bring people together, create bonds, and offer a sense of belonging. The show celebrates the idea that there’s no “wrong” thing to be a fan of, as long as it brings you happiness.
Fandom as a Positive Force
- Community Events: The series showcases events like school festivals and trips to Sanrio Puroland, emphasizing the communal joy of fandom.
- Online Communities: Characters also engage with online forums and social media, reflecting how modern fandoms often find a home on the internet.
Critiques and Considerations
While Sanrio Boys has many strengths, no show is without its critiques. Some viewers might find the series a bit on the nose with its message, or feel that it leans too heavily into promoting Sanrio products. However, these criticisms don’t overshadow the series’ overall positive messages and enjoyable storytelling.
Why It Matters
In a world where interests are still often unnecessarily gendered, Sanrio Boys serves as a reminder that it’s okay to love what you love. It challenges viewers to think beyond societal norms and embrace their passions and the passions of others without judgment. This message is particularly important for younger audiences who are navigating their identities and interests in a world that’s quick to categorize and label.
Conclusion
Sanrio Boys is more than just an anime about high school boys who love Sanrio characters. It’s a story that challenges stereotypes, celebrates friendship, and champions the joy of being part of a fandom. Its message is simple yet profound: Be true to yourself, find your community, and embrace your passions, no matter what they may be. In doing so, Sanrio Boys offers a narrative that’s both refreshing and needed, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for a story that warms the heart and challenges societal norms.