Why Is the Ending of My Hero Academia Controversial?
Thank you for the question. The ending of My Hero Academia (MHA) has indeed sparked a great deal of debate and controversy, drawing in fans from around the world. Even though the anime and manga have been running for over ten years, several key factors have contributed to the ongoing discussions and mixed reactions.
What's Behind the Controversy?
The ending of MHA is so polarizing largely due to three main elements: Deku losing his powers, Midoriya and Uraraka not hooking up, and the lack of resolution for some plotlines.
Deku Losing His Powers: A Severe Letdown
Majority Disappointment: The loss of One For All left many fans disappointed, as they had grown accustomed to the idea of Izuku Midoriya becoming the greatest hero of the world under the promise of a grand narrative. Although the final chapters emphasize that it is the journey that matters—highlighting that heroes are not only the powerful but also those who embody the qualities of compassion and resilience—this shift did not satisfy every fan. The fact that his classmates could become heroes without the powers deeply frustrates many, especially considering the overwhelming obstacles Bakugo faced.
Timing and Expectations: Midoriya's delayed return to heroism, having to wait for the "Iron Deku" suit, also contributes to the disappointment. The sudden and somewhat abrupt resolution, analogous to receiving a new power at the last moment, fails to satisfy the readers who had been invested in the narrative and its promise of a grand finale. This timing issue, coupled with the expectations built over ten years, makes the ending particularly contentious.
Midoriya and Uraraka: A Heartfelt Connection...
Unfulfilled Expectations: A significant portion of the fanbase was invested in the potential romantic relationship between Midoriya and Ochaco Uraraka. The second-to-last chapter, while touching, does not fully resolve this subplot, leaving many fans feeling let down. The fact that they share a heart-to-heart conversation but do not explicitly reciprocate feelings is a source of frustration. The final chapter, lacking any clear indication of a relationship, further exacerbates the disappointment. In contrast, the final scenes of Naruto show a clear connection between Naruto and Hinata, which adds to the feeling of an incomplete resolution in MHA.
Lack of Resolution for Some Plotlines
Unfulfilled Story Arcs: While some storylines, such as the Todoroki family subplot, were given sufficient time and space for closure, others were left dangling. Plotlines like the undercurrents within All For One's corporation or the broader implications of the One For All power were not addressed adequately. This lack of resolution leaves fans with a sense of incompleteness, unable to fully process the impact of the story's ending.
The Prolonged Buildup and High Hopes
Expectations Over Time: The ten-year run of My Hero Academia has cultivated a sizable and dedicated fanbase. However, the longevity of the series also means that fans have high expectations for each new chapter and arc. The culmination of a story that has been built over years can either bring immense satisfaction or significant disappointment. The ending of MHA, with its mix of resolution and unresolved elements, cannot satisfy everyone's expectations.
Conclusion: Fans Divided on Major Elements
The ending of My Hero Academia is a complex and multifaceted issue that reflects the diversity of fan preferences and interpretations. While some fans appreciate the emphasis on character growth and the importance of the journey over the destination, others miss the traditional closure and clear resolution that they expected. Ultimately, the controversy surrounding the ending highlights the inherent subjectivity in interpreting and evaluating stories, especially those that span a long period of time and attract a vast audience.