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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
THE GALLEON FEBRUARY 2021
Anime Increases in Popularity Brianna Levine
Arts & Entertainment Editor Pop culture has increasingly embraced anime, which are Japanese hand-drawn and computerized animations geared towards a wide age range of audiences. In 1963, Astro Boy premiered in America, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that the presence of anime and manga began to increase, especially due to the release of popular anime such as Pokemon and Dragon Ball Z. Japanese culture as a whole has gained traction in recent years and is only going to continue on this trend. “I like anime because it shows the human potential that we all have inside of us to make things happen,” said senior Juan Hoyos. “The energy and vibes it gives are nothing short of inspiring. Anime also contains cool graphics with very different, unconventional story plots.” Anime is also a widespread inspiration for numerous clothing brands, the music industry, food trends, and TV productions. Brands such as Adidas, Bape, and Supreme have participated in anime collaborations, which succeeded in gaining the target
group as new consumers. Pokemon and Hello Kitty are two of the largest media franchises originating in Japan. Dragon Ball Z, One Piece, Sailor Moon, Naruto, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Bleach, and Hunter X Hunter are some anime franchises that have become popular throughout the world. In regards to the food industry, anime is not lacking in delicious recipes either. Fans of anime are constantly on the lookout for foods that resemble the glamorized foods illustrated in anime. These foods include boba tea, flavorful milk tea with tapioca pearls; matcha products, which are made of a japanese green tea powder; mochi, which is a soft rice cake occasionally filled with ice cream; taiyaki, which is a fish-shaped cake that contains various different fillings; and ramen, a japanese noodle soup. Restaurants that serve similar selections attract “anime food connoisseurs,” but the most common occurrence is the opening of more and more bubble tea (boba tea) shops that serve a wide variety of teas
and other sweets. “Staples in the anime community, such as ‘Giorno’s theme’ and ‘Caramelldansen,’ are part of the reason why I have been watching anime since 2014,” said senior Madelyn Wertheim. “I love visiting conventions, hunting down anime-themed merchandise, screaming the iconic Pokémon theme song, cosplaying as my favorite characters, and eating Japanese snacks with my friends as we discuss our favorite manga and anime.” Renowned celebrities such as Michael B. Jordan, Ariana Grande, Avril Lavigne, Chris Brown, Elon Musk, Keanu Reeves, Kanye West, and Zac Efron have demonstrated an interest in anime. A common reason for their appreciation of these japanese animations is due to their ability to bring back fond childhood memories of watching American cartoons. Regardless of how popular anime has become, there are still numerous people who oppose the concept of watching these foreign productions. Some argue that they appear to be silly cartoons that impose the annoyance of
having to read subtitles even though the majority of anime titles are available in dubbed versions. In general, the wide variety of genres enables anime to gather a wide audience, but it is not for everyone. One aspect of anime that stands out is how a cartoon could be primarily aimed towards teens and adults and in no way be appropriate for young children. A few examples of common anime genres include romance, mystery, and action. “My favorite genre is seinen,” said junior Xavier Brooks. “It appeals to a slightly older audience than shounen and often has heavier, more mentally engaging subject matter. My two favorite shows from this genre would be Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure and Code Geass.” While, in the past, watching anime was viewed as an oddity, nowadays it is a widespread trend that has become popularized by name brand, franchises and celebrities who enjoy anime and Japanese culture.
ART COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES
A Look into Astrology Horoscopes are the part of astrology that focuses on a forecast of one’s future according to their star sign, or zodiac, which depends on the date they were born. The positions of the planets and stars play a role in developing these horoscopes. Here are horoscopes for 2021 that are based on the ones provided by www.horoscope.com. With Saturn in your midst, embrace that intuitive side and remain appreciative of what the universe has in store for you. Anticipate surprises.
This year may present challenges, remaining on a grounded path will be helpful. Focus on communication and surround yourself with those who support you.
The lunar cycle will play an important role this year for you. Some aspects of yourself you avoid could be brought to light, and self-acceptance can come to follow.
Due to your creativity and reliability, you will gain many new friends and improve in your most gifted areas.
This year will relieve you from the judgment of others. You may be trying to determine your own communication patterns and subsequently learn new truths.
This is the year of letting go and learning how to deal with the unknown. Emotional tests and changes will come your way but persevering will leave you at ease.
It is important to understand that the hard work will help put you on the right track towards making your dreams come true but there will also be challenges.
As an air sign, you have a grasp for knowledge and creative forms of expression. Be on the lookout for resolutions involving love and investigate relationships deeply.
You are generally a powerful sign; this year might challenge you in that aspect. It is important to build self-confidence and not lose sight of the bigger picture.
This year brings reflection that might reopen past wounds, but can also be met with new beginnings in friendship. Open up your heart and let appreciate life.
You are naturally unique, wise, and a free spirit. This year brings many new lessons that can open your eyes to a new world. Remember to be open about your feelings.
Expect to be more aligned with your intuition, and continue to strive towards your goals even if you encounter bumps in the road.
MINDFULNESS TIPS To relieve stress, focus on where your breathing is coming from. Inhale to embrace the negativity and exhale to distinguish it. Lighting incense is a great way to calm the nerves and mind (use caution) Meditation can help relieve anxiety Set goals for yourself and appreciate life, even its minor moments. ART COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES AND MARIA VILORIA GARIA