This bachelor thesis examines how the characters in Nakashima Tetsuya's horror film, Kuru (It Comes), released in 2018, fit into specific stereotypes within contemporary Japanese society and...Show moreThis bachelor thesis examines how the characters in Nakashima Tetsuya's horror film, Kuru (It Comes), released in 2018, fit into specific stereotypes within contemporary Japanese society and analyzes the implications of these stereotypes on gender, sexuality, and class division. The study utilizes semantic and narrative analysis, focusing on mise-en-scene and cultural context to contextualize the characters within Japanese society. The research breaks away from previous academic work, which primarily focused on older Japanese horror films, as it draws on a more recent release that reflects the changes in gender identity and roles in Japan over the past two decades. This research aims to contribute to understanding contemporary Japanese society by examining the representation of stereotypes and the challenges faced by individuals who do not conform to societal expectations. It highlights the need for greater awareness and efforts to promote gender equality, work-family balance, and acceptance of diverse family structures in Japan.Show less
Belgian comic book artist Hergè, the pseudonym of Georges Prosper Remi is one of the most notable and widely renowned artists of the early 20th century, most prominently known for his works ‘The...Show moreBelgian comic book artist Hergè, the pseudonym of Georges Prosper Remi is one of the most notable and widely renowned artists of the early 20th century, most prominently known for his works ‘The Adventures of TinTin’ (org. Les Aventures de Tintin). His style is distinct and recognisable, and he is seen as a pioneer of this style as a comic art movement at the time. The use of clear lines, and the clear, realistic backgrounds, in contrast to the caricaturist appearance of the figures and creatures in the foreground, are some of the distinct markers of his style. This style was later named Ligne Claire. Hergè, like many contemporaries, were interested in the Japanese woodblock prints that were available in Europe at the time. This thesis explores why characteristics of Japanese Ukiyo-e prints, impressionism, and Shin-hanga prints can be found in Hergé’s work through orientalist theory and the lens of cultural appropriation.Show less
This paper will argue that isekai anime is different from the genre fantasy due to its cultural history tied to the Japanese game and anime industry use of media mix. First, a literature review on...Show moreThis paper will argue that isekai anime is different from the genre fantasy due to its cultural history tied to the Japanese game and anime industry use of media mix. First, a literature review on what "genre" is will be provided to lay a foundation for the readers, as this should help understanding the "why" and "how" isekai as a genre can be seen seperately from the fantasy genre argued in this paper. Examining the narrative tropes, the character's self-awareness and game mechanics in specific isekai anime, compared to the classic fantasy stories: Alice in wonderland and The Wizard of OZ will reveal similarities, but more importantly its difference. How is isekai different will be discussed in the final chapter where this paper will examen Japan's anime and game industry, the history and influence of noteble phenomenon "media mix" and Japan's work culture that all clearly make up for the genre isekai.Show less
The debate around what exactly Anime, or Japanese Animation, exactly is is still very unclear. Anime does not have clear boundaries or characteristics. This thesis takes Avatar: The Last Airbender...Show moreThe debate around what exactly Anime, or Japanese Animation, exactly is is still very unclear. Anime does not have clear boundaries or characteristics. This thesis takes Avatar: The Last Airbender as a caste study to find out what exactly makes an animation an anime and challenges the contemporary criteria of anime and it's arbitrariness. It looks at what exactly anime-esque acts and characteristics are and compares these to the standards of cartoons, once again proving the inabilty of anime to be defined.Show less
