Two girls; example of a picture in manga (Japanese animation) style
Vol. 2, No. 3 — May 2008 Why use anime? One of the main reasons to use anime with youth is that millions of young people are already watching it. Anime has generated a multi-billion dollar industry and a “global craze” for film, television shows and related merchandise (Business Week). Leaders can take this opportunity to become familiar with this form of entertainment to help youth critically evaluate the positive and negative aspects of what they watch. Anime, then, can be more than a tool to start conversations about faith. Leaders can also use it to help youth develop assessment skills for the programming they typically watch. Another reason to use anime is that it often explores God and spirituality, uses imagery also used in the Bible, deals with the complex realities of good and evil, evaluates technology, critiques war and violence, and encourages care for the earth. Although Christians are a minority in Japan and religion plays a small role in daily life, people in churches around the world are familiar with these themes. Anime is one way that young people can explore Christian concerns and their faith questions by engaging media from another culture. Caution: Although many anime films can be used to help young people think about their faith in new ways, leaders should be aware that some of these films feature mature content. Some anime films shown on Japanese television contain nonsexual nudity that, while culturally acceptable in Japan (like scenes from public baths), is not necessarily appropriate in North America. Others, however, contain graphic violence and sexual content (The Anime Encyclopedia}. Like films produced in the United States, it is important to exercise viewer discretion. The Anime News Network encyclopedia has detailed descriptions and age ratings to help make good decisions. Sample group activity: Film: Princess Mononoke (Miramax Films, 134 minutes; rated PG13; English audio available) Summary: “Inflicted with a deadly curse, a young warrior named Ashitaka sets out to the forests of the West in search of the cure that will save his life. Once there, he becomes inextricably entangled in a bitter battle that matches Lady Eboshi and a proud clan of humans against the forest’s animal gods who are led by the brave Princess Mononoke, a young woman raised by wolves!” (From the DVD) Goal: To help youth reflect on the complexity of “good” and “evil.” Tips for Viewing: In order to do this activity, it’s best for the group to watch the entire film. If time constraints prevent you from watching the film in one sitting, you might want to reflect on some of the discussion questions after each session. Explain: In today’s society, television shows, movies, video games and other media promote the idea that the “good” people are so good that they are practically sinless. Meanwhile the “evil” people are so totally evil that they deserve only scorn, punishment and death. Yet, the Bible contains innumerable stories of people who have committed grave sins but have found redemption. David, a king chosen by God, arranged the murder of Bathsheba’s husband to make her his wife. Abraham, whose faith made him righteous, slept with his maidservant Hagar and then scorned her. Even Paul, a great messenger of the gospel, started out as a violent oppressor. While the Bible is clear that we are to renounce sin and live faithful lives as best we can, it also demonstrates that no human being is all good or all evil. Instead, we are all in need of the saving love of Jesus, who spent time with prostitutes, tax collectors and other disreputable people because they weren’t lost causes. Before the film: Begin by reading Romans 7:14-15; John 8:2-11; and/or Matthew 9:9-12. List the names of the different characters and invite each member to choose a person to watch throughout the film. Ask them to pay attention to their character’s behavior, and to the ways in which their character is “good” and/or “bad.” Have paper and pens ready in case people want to take notes. After the film: Have each person say who their character was and describe the ways in which the character was good or bad. If you have a board available, you might want to list each person’s reflections. If time permits, have the group discuss the following in pairs for a few minutes. Then discuss as a large group:
Nekeisha Alexis-Baker is a Master of Arts: Theological Studies student and looks forward to graduating this May from Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS), where she also serves as graphic designer in the communications department. In addition to watching anime whenever she can, she also enjoys making cards, enjoying vegan food and spending time with her husband Andy. |
