Why Sailor Moon Deserves a Watch

It is often the case that when discussing classic anime series, many automatically think of Sailor Moon. This beloved series, which I revisited during my teenage years, has many attributes that make it a must-watch. It is not just a beloved Magical Girl series but has also left an indelible mark on the anime and manga landscape.

The Friendship and Originality

One of the primary reasons I found Sailor Moon worth watching was the strong friendship among its characters. This bond between the Sailor Soldiers offered a refreshing take on Magical Girl genres, influencing many subsequent titles like Poison Pen and Carnival Phantasm. The show's originality also stood out as it broke the mold set by many other Magical Girl series of the time.

Aesthetic Appeal and Relatability

The visuals of Sailor Moon are iconic, enhancing the overall relatability of the series. From the colorful costumes to the dynamic action sequences, every aspect of the show was designed to captivate its audience. It’s one of the reasons why Sailor Moon resonated with me, despite not having childhood memories of it. The contagious positivity and the wholesome environment promoted by the show added to its appeal.

Lifting Spirits Through Humor

Mars, in particular, is known for dumb and funny insults towards Usagi, which lighten the mood and make the show more enjoyable. These moments of levity add a layer of relatability and humor that enrich the storytelling. This enjoyable dynamic between the characters makes the journey of the Sailor Soldiers more engaging for viewers.

Iconic Status and Cultural Impact

Apart from its internal merits, Sailor Moon’s iconic status is undeniable. It revitalized the Magical Girl genre in manga and anime during the 1990s, paving the way for successful Magical Girl series to come.

In the Western world, Sailor Moon played a significant role in popularizing manga and anime culture. Alongside Pokemon and Dragon Ball, it helped expand the anime fandom in the West, which is a testament to its cultural impact.

Feminist and Empowering Elements

One of the most discussed aspects of Sailor Moon is its feminist themes. The series features strong, independent female characters who stand up against evil and demonstrate aggressive, strong personalities. Despite these masculine traits, the Sailor Soldiers are clad in idealized feminized outfits, showcasing a blend of strength and beauty. This mix of opposing stereotypes challenges traditional gender norms, making the show a significant part of the feminist and Girl Power movements.

Furthermore, Sailor Moon was pioneering in terms of character representation. It was the first series that prominently featured a female protagonist and cast, positioning itself as the anime equivalent of Wonder Woman. This portrayal was a response to the male-centric nature of comic book audiences, similar to Wonder Woman, which sought to broaden the appeal of its universe to a more diverse audience.

Ultimately, Sailor Moon remains a thematic and cultural landmark, combining engaging storylines, vibrant characters, and empowering messages that continue to resonate with new generations of viewers.