Bleach

I just finished episode 135 of this anime series. It still amazes me that there’s nothing remotely like this anywhere in the world. Apparently, only one culture recognizes that cartoons are not just for children.

Over 135 episodes, a lot of character development can happen. Sure there are the big action and fighting episodes that you would expect from any good anime. With 135 episodes though, there is plenty of room to develop the characters to be more than these people who fights all the time. There are a lot of people who wouldn’t enjoy these episodes as they’re kinda boring in comparison, but I think these are the episodes that makes the show great.

These interlude/plot/silly episodes make the characters more than just ‘cartoon’ characters. These are the episodes that make the show more than just good guys vs. bad guys. Sure, fighting bad guys is one thing, but knowing why the good guys really fight for makes you cheer for them so much more.

The main character nearly goes insane because he blames himself for not being strong enough to protect his friends and family. Many times you see him just get beaten down badly and you feel for this guy cause you know why it’s so bad. It’s not just bad because he’s getting his ass kicked, but you feel bad because of his feelings of not being able to be strong for others. You also cheer that much more when he powers up and fights back (yes, I know most anime I watch has the exact same pattern).

How often do you see a cartoon that has that level of story? No, most of the ones out there are good guys beat bad guys the end. That’s the other thing, why do good guys always win? They really don’t you know. Just think, how much do you know about cobra commander reasons for taking over the world? OK, that’s a silly example, but you know what I mean.

I’m sure no one really knows what I’m talking about. I just wanted to make sure I remembered.