Latest news with #JujutsuKaisen
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
The art of power: Decoding Anime's unique energy systems
Credits: Reddit Anime often builds its worlds around unique energy systems that heroes must master. From Dragon Ball's ki and Naruto's chakra to Jujutsu Kaisen's cursed energy , My Hero Academia's quirks , and Demon Slayer's Breathing Techniques , each series invents its own rules of power. These systems are depicted in very human terms – inner strength, life force, determination – and often symbolize themes of growth, balance, or connection. In contrast, Western heroes (like Marvel's Avengers or Harry Potter wizards) usually gain abilities from accidents or mystical inheritance. By comparing these, we see how anime frames power as something to nurture and balance within oneself, rather than an external gift. The result is a rich tapestry of abilities that both fans and newcomers can appreciate, as we shall explore below. Eastern energies: Ki and chakra In many classic anime, power flows from an internal life force. In Dragon Ball , ki is literally described as a 'life force' energy inside every being. Heroes like Goku draw ki from deep within to power up their strength and speed, often speaking about balance of body and spirit to project more energy. Similarly, Naruto 's chakra blends physical and spiritual energy. As Naruto himself explains in Boruto , 'chakra is something that exists inside of everyone' and is essentially 'the source of connective power… the life force which ties all things together. This mirrors the idea of a universal force (like Star Wars ' Force) that connects people. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo In practical terms, Naruto's ninja training focuses on channeling chakra through elemental affinities (fire, water, wind, etc.), as illustrated above: each element counters another to create a balanced system. Thus in these shonen classics, heroes don't inherit power by chance – they cultivate it through training, meditation, and emotional growth, embodying themes of perseverance and harmon. Modern energies: Quirks, cursed energy, breathing Credits: Collider Newer anime build on this by creating imaginative spins on personal power. My Hero Academia introduces Quirks – unique, often quirky superpowers each person awakens with. Creator Kohei Horikoshi even calls MHA 'a love letter to superheroes,' freely borrowing Western comic ideas for inspiration. Unlike the magical life forces above, quirks are simply genetic or unexplained gifts (like teleportation, elasticity, or fusion with objects) that reflect each character's identity. Quirks still tie into a hero's journey: young Izuku Midoriya trains his body to bear the power of 'One For All,' learning that heart and willpower can amplify even inherited strength. In Jujutsu Kaisen , power is born from emotion. Cursed Energy literally 'leaks from humans as a result of their negative emotions' – fear, anger, sadness, etc. Curses (the monsters) form when that energy accumulates. Sorcerers learn to control even pain or hate, channeling it into techniques. In other words, JJK turns inner angst into fuel: the darker the emotion, the stronger the potential power. This theme – that strength can come from hardship if mastered – echoes the personal nature of anime power systems. In Demon Slayer , Breathing Styles are martial techniques that tap life energy through controlled breathing. They're not magical spells, but rituals that the Slayers train for years to perfect. Voice actor Natsuki Hanae notes how Tanjiro evolved: 'Initially, I played him as if he was desperate to perform, even when using a single Water Breathing Technique. But as he grew, he started to learn to be calm when using Water Breathing and Hinokami Kagura… he had burning passion in his heart, but he also possessed cool-headedness'. This shows a deeper meaning: true power here comes from mastering mind and body together. Each form (Water, Flame, etc. ) expresses the user's spirit, so Demon Slayer's energy systems celebrate discipline and inner balance. Western superpowers and magic Anime's energies often get compared to Western heroes' powers – think Spider-Man or Superman. The difference is striking. In Marvel and DC stories, characters usually gain powers from external sources: gamma radiation (Hulk), mutagenic experiments (X-Men), alien ancestry (Superman), or cosmic artifacts. For example, the Disney/Marvel anime Future Avengers introduces young heroes who 'gained superhuman abilities through Hydra's influence. Powers are often treated as a given, and heroes focus on using them to save the day. By contrast, anime frequently portrays power as earned or innate life energy. Rather than a radioisotope spider bite, an anime hero's strength is often something to unlock through training or deep emotion. For example: In Dragon Ball and Naruto, characters speak openly of cultivating their internal life force (ki or chakra) through discipline. In contrast, Marvel's Future Avengers notes characters who are simply 'granted' power by an organization. Harry Potter's magic is tied to bloodline or learning spells at school, whereas anime power often comes from within. This difference reflects storytelling choices. Anime tends to emphasize personal growth and responsibility – you train to become stronger, and your power often mirrors your values. A Naruto can only perform a great jutsu by willing it with compassion and friendship, and a Jujutsu sorcerer must master grief or anger to channel it. Even voice actors and creators highlight these human themes. Horikoshi's 'love letter to superheroes' shows how My Hero Academia bridges East and West, but even its quirks stories revolve around students learning to control their gifts. Similarly, Tanjiro's struggle with his breathing style underlines that courage and calm go hand-in-hand. In the end, whether it's ki, chakra, quirks or curses, anime energy systems are more than flashy mechanics – they are metaphors for the characters' spirits. They teach us that power isn't just given; it's discovered and refined. This resonates with fans and newcomers alike. As Naruto says of chakra, it's the 'life force which ties all things together' – a reminder that, in anime as in life, our inner strength connects us all. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
The dark allure of Anime villains: The psychology of Pain, Aizen, Sukuna and more
Credits: Sportskeeda Anime has a rich tradition of complex villains whose personal stories go beyond simple evil. Characters like Pain (Nagato) from Naruto Shippuden , Aizen from Bleach , and Sukuna from Jujutsu Kaisen each carry deep backstories – from trauma and loss to grand ambitions. Fans often find these anime villains as compelling as the heroes, sometimes more so. Psychology helps explain why. Research suggests that villains with tragic pasts or human motives can evoke empathy, making them relatable. In fact, when a villain faces defeat, our brain's 'pain matrix' can kick in – we worry about their fate and even root for them. One fan blog notes that viewers may think 'I hate you, but I understand where you're coming from' and may secretly want the villain to win. This empathic response to villains helps explain their popularity: by seeing 'the humanity and underlying struggles' in a foe like Pain or Madara, audiences can feel sympathy and admiration. Complex villains and Anime morality Unlike one-dimensional bad guys, many popular antagonists blur moral lines. For example, Pain Naruto's arc is fueled by real loss: he endured war, witnessed the death of loved ones, and concluded that shared suffering is the only path to peace. His philosophy ('If one does not experience the same pain, they will never truly understand') forces hero and audience alike to question what 'justice' really means. In Bleach , Aizen presents a friendly facade but is actually a manipulative mastermind who wants godlike power. His calm, condescending style (dropping polite pronouns only after revealing his true self) exemplifies narcissistic ambition. In Jujutsu Kaisen , Sukuna is unabashedly evil – he 'lives only to fulfill his own whims and pleasures'. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cinnamon: The Greatest Enemy of Blood Sugar Magazine Glyco Learn More Undo Yet fans are enthralled by his charisma and sheer power. Sportskeeda describes Sukuna as 'shrewd and strategic' with an 'extremely charismatic personality' that is 'both awe-inspiring and terrifying'. This mix of brutal power and confidence makes even a cruel character like Sukuna a fan favorite in the psychological anime community. Credits: CBR Trauma, power and redemption Many anime villains begin as victims of their world. Naruto's Pain grew up under war and was orphaned; his turn to villainy is steeped in that trauma. Similarly, One Piece's Doflamingo suffered childhood abuse as a former Celestial Dragon, feeding an extreme worldview. Fans often sympathize once they learn these backstories. As one analysis notes, anime series frequently reveal villains' humanity over time: Pain, Madara, Obito (also from Naruto ) 'initially appeared as detestable foes. However, as their backstories unfold, their humanity and underlying struggles become evident, earning them sympathy and admiration from fans'. Hunter x Hunter's Meruem illustrates this deeply. Born as the ruthless Chimera Ant King, he is utterly heartless at first. But through his bond with Komugi, a blind girl, Meruem begins to understand kindness and mortality. His transformation 'from a cold antagonist to an empathetic being is a storytelling masterclass' that challenges viewers' notions of evil and redemption. Such redemption arcs – often absent in Western villains – are key to anime morality : they show that even the darkest characters can reveal light, and that justice is complicated. Why fans love the villains Credits: CBR So why do complex villains sometimes outshine the heroes? Part of it is sheer charisma. Doflamingo's flamboyant cruelty and Aizen's cold genius make them endlessly entertaining. Part is relatability: many fans see a bit of their own struggles in these characters. Studies even suggest people pay more attention to villains than heroes, wondering if they'll ever get redemption. When Pain narrates the cycle of hatred or Meruem reflects on life, viewers get profound philosophy rarely seen in action shows. The result is a deep connection. Social media and surveys back this up: Sukuna topped many recent character popularity polls, and Meruem remains a fan favorite long after Hunter x Hunter ended. As Sportskeeda notes, fans tend to 'encounter villains whose actions, while unjustifiable, are rooted in circumstances that offer an understanding of their motivations'. This shift from disdain to empathy often makes villains more memorable and beloved. Indeed, timesofindia and other outlets list many anime bad guys (from Team Rocket to Dio Brando to Griffith) among fans' top favorites. These cult followings show that well-written antagonists have a real cultural impact: they spawn memes, inspire fan art, and even spark debates about justice. Conclusion In the end, the psychology of anime villains combines trauma, narcissism, power, and moral ambiguity. Pain Naruto's sorrow, Aizen Bleach's intellect, Sukuna Jujutsu Kaisen's brutality, and others show that villains in anime are rarely 'pure evil.' Instead, they often mirror the heroes' values in twisted ways – revealing deeper questions about empathy and morality. Fans are drawn to them because they are fully human (or superhuman) – flawed, deep, and at times sympathetic. As one analysis puts it, these characters 'transcend the label of 'absolute evil,' becoming more memorable and popular among audiences' who can't help but feel for their causes. By exploring their psychology, anime invites us to reflect on the gray areas of good and bad – and why sometimes the villains' stories leave as strong an impression as the heroes'. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Why Gen Z loves Gojo more than Goku: The new face of Shonen Anime
Credits: YouTube by Sacred Saiyan The era of raw power in the 1980s, Dragon Ball's Goku personified the classic shonen hero – cheerful, endlessly strong and focused on training and fighting. He rarely doubted himself or his morals, and simply pushing past limits was his goal. As one Times of India feature notes, Goku 'debuted in the 1980s' and remains 'the benchmark of all 'strongest anime characters''. His approach was straightforward: good beats evil through sheer strength. Indian fans who grew up with Goku still fondly recall playgrounds echoing with 'Kamehameha' shouts. These older heroes inspired loyalty by example – they were powerful role models, even if they didn't always show their struggles or fears. Naruto – The underdog with heart Credits: Crunchyroll By the late 1990s and 2000s, shonen protagonists began to show more emotion. Naruto Uzumaki's story – of an orphaned outsider who longs to be acknowledged – introduced themes of loneliness and acceptance. He still never gave up, but his journey was filled with tears, self-doubt, and complex backstories. For example, one Indian fan explained that Naruto 's appeal lies in the 'complex background of the characters and the protagonist's unwavering determination'. This reflects a shift: Naruto's perseverance (against all odds and internal pain) became a model of hope . A Times article notes that Naruto starts 'alone and unpopular, yet he never gives up,' embodying the message of 'never giving up' that Gen Z finds inspiring. Indian fans connected to Naruto's struggles with friendship and acceptance – problems they could relate to in their own lives. The new emotional hero – Deku and beyond Credits: Crunchyroll Today's shonen stars like Izuku Midoriya (Deku from My Hero Academia ) or Tanjiro ( Demon Slayer ) are even more openly vulnerable . Deku is a boy who cries, panics and overthinks – he's defined by empathy and self-doubt as much as his heroic drive. These heroes wrestle publicly with fear and guilt, showing tears on screen and talking about mental pain. They also inspire through kindness: as Times of India reports, newer heroes (including Gojo and Yuji from Jujutsu Kaisen , or Tanjiro) 'show courage, kindness and loyalty even when the odds are stacked against them'. In other words, their strength comes with soul. They teach young fans that it's okay to feel afraid or sad – and that true heroism can include asking for help and caring for others. This emotional complexity resonates strongly. One teen fan observed that 'anime characters often struggle with their identities… watching them overcome their challenges gives us hope'. Modern shonen stories openly tackle grief, injustice and self-acceptance, giving fans a language to describe their own feelings. Complexity and grey areas – Gojo, Yuji and today's trials Credits: Crunchyroll Some very recent heroes blur the line between hero and anti-hero. In Jujutsu Kaisen , Yuji Itadori's battles force him to choose between competing values (and even his own humanity), while his mentor Satoru Gojo hides a lonely heart behind a playful facade. These characters are powerful, but also far from perfect: they make mistakes, carry doubts, and sometimes question authority. Fans even debate villains – e.g. a recent Twitter clash over Sukuna (JJK) vs. Muzan (Demon Slayer) highlighted how audiences now admire complexity on both sides. As one Times of India feature notes, such rivalries 'reflect generational shifts' – Demon Slayer made anime mainstream, while Jujutsu Kaisen is seen as the 'hot new successor'. In other words, new heroes don't just punch their way to victory; they argue, grieve, and question the world . This moral ambiguity and depth speak to a world where right and wrong aren't always clear-cut. Gen Z, India and the fandom Gen Z fans have embraced these evolving heroes. Anime's rise here is undeniable: streaming services report that India is now Crunchyroll's second-largest market, with one exec noting anime's popularity has 'skyrocketed… particularly among Gen Z'. Younger viewers say they see their own journeys in these characters. For many, watching a hero cry or struggle feels real: 'the stories… are very relatable,' said one fan, adding that anime heroes teach 'fighting your battles [and] dealing with things with patience'. Indeed, fans often feel these shows mirror their own challenges : as one fan put it, seeing a character 'overcome their challenges gives us hope and sometimes even a roadmap for our own lives'. Indian fans aren't just passive viewers. Communities, clubs and cosplays are booming. For example, the Bangalore Anime Club screens shows and hosts meetups, and cosplayers across the country proudly create elaborate costumes. As one cosplayer explains, fans literally 'use their body as the canvas' for characters they love. Social media also amplifies fan culture: clips and memes on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram spread Naruto 's ninja way or Jujutsu 's epic fights, often with Hindi or Telugu dubs. In short, these heroes – from Goku's pure-hearted drive to Gojo's layered personality – now connect emotionally with a new generation. They reflect global cultural shifts that value empathy and inner strength, giving Gen Z fans in India (and everywhere) characters who feel like friends, mentors and fellow fighters all at once. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Anime stories and characters that speak to today's youth
Credits: Medium Anime's surge in India is unmistakable. Once a niche interest, anime is now mainstream among Gen Z: Crunchyroll recently named India its second-largest market. Fans even joke that playgrounds echo with 'Kamehameha' and 'Super Saiyan' moves. Iconic shows like Naruto and Dragon Ball Z created a loyal fanbase early on, and today younger hits like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen are just as popular. What draws these fans isn't just vibrant art, but deep, emotional storytelling . Many Indian viewers say anime heroes face struggles of identity, acceptance and loss – problems Gen Z can relate to. As one fan put it during the lockdown: 'Anime is not something I watch just to pass time. The stories… are very relatable, and they teach you… fighting your battles, dealing with things with patience'. In short, tales of friendship, found family, and perseverance (common in anime) resonate with young Indians. Icons and role models from every genre Credits: CBR Gen Z fans point to characters who feel like role models . For example, Naruto Uzumaki (from Naruto ) starts alone and unpopular, yet he never gives up. His perseverance and belief in friends become a powerful example of 'never giving up' – a message many youngsters admire. Similarly, Monkey D. Luffy (from One Piece ) lives for freedom and adventure, inspiring young fans to chase big dreams. Darker heroes matter too: Levi Ackerman (from Attack on Titan ) fights relentlessly to protect his team, teaching duty and sacrifice. In newer series, characters like Yuji Itadori and Satoru Gojo (from Jujutsu Kaisen ) or Tanjiro Kamado (from Demon Slayer ) show courage, kindness and loyalty even when the odds are stacked against them. Many Indian fans say they see their own journeys reflected in these heroes' ups and downs. As one fan explained, watching these characters 'overcome their challenges gives us hope and sometimes even a roadmap for our own lives'. (Anime's universal themes of friendship, family and overcoming adversity have long attracted Indian audiences. ) Streaming, social media and local voices Part of anime's success is sheer accessibility . Major streaming services have made anime easy to find in India. Crunchyroll launched a dedicated India service in early 2024, and giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime now pack their libraries with hits – even offering Hindi, Tamil and Telugu dubs for top shows. As Crunchyroll's India boss Akshat Sahu notes, 'anime's popularity in India has skyrocketed… particularly among Gen Z and young millennials'. Even kids' TV channels are embracing anime; shows like Pokémon and Shin Chan have become household names, and about half of Disney India's kids programming now features anime. Social media plays its part too. Fans share clips and memes on TikTok and Instagram, often set to catchy anime audios or fan art. For many young Indians, scrolling through Reels might introduce them to Your Name , A Silent Voice or other anime titles. Influencers on YouTube and Instagram proudly discuss anime: Delhi cosplayer Tulip Hazarika remembers discovering it 'with Animax and the show Naruto ' as a child. She and others say that seeing creators show off their passion makes more people curious. In fact, cosplayer Samarth Thakral points out that YouTube channels and anime-loving influencers 'have helped get more people hooked on anime'. Fan communities, fashion and cosplay Credits: Shutterstock Fans aren't just watching – they're living anime. Across India, clubs and conventions have sprung up. For instance, the Bangalore Anime Club (which began as an Orkut page in 2006) now organizes screenings, meetups and contests on WhatsApp and Discord. Even large events like Japan Habba in Bengaluru feature anime cosplay, music, and fan art booths. Individual fans pour creativity into cosplay (dressing up as anime characters). As Tulip Hazarika describes, cosplayers 'use their body as the canvas' for characters they love. Delhi-based Akanksha Solanki (pictured above as Shoto Todoroki from My Hero Academia ) notes that a full costume can take months of work on fabrics, wigs and props. The payoff is a real community: cosplayer Samannay says 'getting into the character… it's very fascinating — a lot of people flock to take pictures' at conventions. Anime's influence shows up in fashion too. Some fans embrace Japanese-inspired styles like Lolita dresses or Gothic streetwear. Brick-and-mortar stores have caught on: a comic shop owner in Bengaluru notes many retailers that once focused on Marvel/DC are now stocking anime hoodies, figurines and posters. Online, fan art and DIY accessories multiply. India's growing anime merch market even includes custom-printed tees and keychains when official goods aren't available. Emotions, values and identity At its heart, anime provides a language of emotions that many Gen Z find comforting. These shows don't shy away from pain, loneliness or conflict — themes that often match young people's lives. Characters learn to cope with grief, fight injustice, or accept themselves. Seeing heroes grow through hardship gives fans courage. As one teen fan said, 'Anime characters often struggle with their identities… watching them overcome their challenges gives us hope'. Parents and teachers have noticed that anime can start conversations about empathy, diversity and persistence. Importantly, Gen Z fans talk about found family : many favorite anime heroes form close bonds with friends who become like siblings or mentors. This resonates with young adults finding their place away from home. When a fan feels 'alone' or pressured by society, seeing that journey on screen can be therapeutic. In India's recent lockdowns, fans like Ananya Sharma found anime gave 'moral support amid the pandemic'. As she says, anime became 'a getaway' with stories that taught patience and fighting your battles. From its inspiring heroes to its lively fan culture, anime has truly become a new cultural vocabulary for Indian Gen Z. Streaming platforms, social media, and enthusiastic communities have turned what was once 'just cartoons' into something much bigger. For many young Indians, anime is not only a way to pass the time, but a mirror of their hopes, struggles and dreams. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
5 best anime series to watch on Crunchyroll
Dive into Crunchyroll top anime series that everyone's obsessed with (Image via Crunchyroll) If you're starting to watch anime, Crunchyroll offers you access to many amazing anime, wonderful animation and unforgettable characters. There are anime that entertain us. These five takes over your life. Explore some of the most talked-about series on Crunchyroll and you'll see why so many love them. You don't need to be a veteran of the genre to appreciate these five series which are sure to catch your attention from the start. Great anime includes drama filled by battles and bonds that hearten its viewers Taking on many situations, these shows mix drama, thrilling moments and the stories that change our lives. Get set to find your next favorite anime series. 1. Attack on Titan Brace yourself for an intense horror story in Attack on Titan, because this anime has humans struggling to live as Titans attack them. You'll find mystery, betrayal and raw emotions all in this series. The action in this film is intense, often painful to watch, but always captures how close humanity is to disappearing. What really attracts people is the way it mixes action, politics and detailed character development. At the end of each episode, you'll want to keep watching to find out what happens next. 2. Demon Slayer If watching inspiring scenes with an emotional plot is what you're after, Demon Slayer won't disappoint. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Esta nueva alarma con cámara es casi regalada en Berisso (ver precio) Verisure Undo Watch Tanjiro Kamado, a nice boy, change into a demon slayer after encountering great tragedy. Featuring beautiful artwork and storming fight sequences, the show is eye-catching. Apart from the fights, the tale includes ideas about family, being tough and having hope. The emotional story and beautiful music make the film unforgettable after events are over. 3. Jujutsu Kaisen Watching supernatural clashes with a new twist? Jujutsu Kaisen is bound to thrill you. Yuji Itadori foods on his knowledge when he takes in the power of a cursed object as a high school student. Jumping action, smart use of cuss words and detailed characters help make this anime different from others. Viewers are really drawn in by the mix of laughs, serious themes and nonstop excitement, presented in stunningly great visuals. Tonally, the show offers what fans of shonen love alongside something new and creative. 4. My Hero Academia Have you ever asked yourself what it would be like to live with superpowers all around? It addresses this question by introducing us to young teens just learning to control their abilities. While making their way through the main character's development from zero to hero, the episodes offer striking fights, encouraging growth and touching moments. Determination, friendship and choosing what is right are all honored and every character adds their own style. The games capture your attention by being hopeful and exciting in battle. 5. Spy x Family Want something funny, unusual and charming? You can't go wrong with Spy x Family. The film mixes spies and family jokes as a spy, an assassin and a telepath make up a stranger family for a covert task. The fun blunders and the heartfelt moments about family relationships in the film ensure you'll keep smiling all the way through. The series demonstrates that strong family bonds can grow between any kind of family. You can't go wrong with these five series from Crunchyroll which feature lots of action, unforgettable people and strong emotions. Getting ready to binge watch? All of these titles promise serious excitement to anime lovers. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
