This evening, I presented a lecture on behalf of the Japan-America Society of Greater Austin on the topic of “Anime.” JASGA had asked me a few weeks ago to present on this topic. Initially, I was honored that they would think I was versed enough in this aspect of Japanese entertainment to present to them.
And then I realize how big of a challenge it was going to be, whittling down an entire medium such as anime into a 45-60 minute presentation. I would have better luck trying to give an overview of all of Western literature. Add to that the restrictions of keeping it clean and avoiding showing violent animes. This was going to be a family event after all.
Fortunately, I think I pulled it off without much of a hitch. Between 35 and 40 people showed up.
Here’s the slideshow:
Here are some pictures that my friend, Stina, took:
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Stina also videotaped the presentation. If the quality is good (and I don’t look like a complete buffoon), I’ll post it later.
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Recommendations:
Berserk (manga is better)
Black Lagoon
Bubblegum Crisis 2040 (just because it’s one of the first girl power animes i know of)
Elfen Lied
Fate/Stay Night
Gantz (not recommended if you don’t like violence)
Genshiken
.hack//sign
Hellsing
His and Her Circumstances
Moon Phase (well, maybe not….:))
Grave of the Fireflies (amazing)
Gunslinger Girl
Pani Poni Dash (like excel saga in it’s content, but more coherent in the delivery)
Wallflower
Welcome to the NHK (is one of the only series where all the characters have black hair)
Saiyuki
Hope you enjoy one or all
Wow. Great list. I’ve seen about 7 of those, including Gantz, which turned me on to Bonnie Pink’s music. I’ll have to check out the rest. Thank Anh!
If you liked the anime of Gantz, have you ever tried the manga? It goes on a lot longer, and in some ways is better, in my opinion. The same for Berserk.
I’ll definitely try it out. Thanks for the recommendation!
Great presentation!!
Thanks. Wish you and Tan-man could’ve been there.
Hi there, can u share with me your slide?? I like that slide very much, and wana show to my friend what anime is really are.. Thnx…
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