Problematic Throwbacks: 9 '90s Anime We Loved (But Shouldn't?)

Hey guys! Remember waking up early on Saturday mornings, grabbing a bowl of sugary cereal, and diving headfirst into the vibrant world of anime? The 90s were a golden age for many of us, a time when Japanese animation exploded onto the scene, captivating our young minds with its unique storytelling, action-packed adventures, and unforgettable characters. We were hooked on everything from magical girls to giant robots, and these shows became a defining part of our childhoods. But, as we've grown and the world has changed, some of those beloved classics haven't aged quite as gracefully as we might have hoped. Looking back through a modern lens, many anime from the 90s contain elements that are, well, pretty problematic. Think about it – societal norms were different, cultural understanding wasn't as widespread, and what was considered acceptable then might raise eyebrows (or even spark outrage) today. So, let's take a trip down memory lane, but with a critical eye. We're going to explore nine fan-favorite anime from the 90s that, while cherished by many, have some seriously problematic aspects that we need to acknowledge and discuss. This isn't about canceling our favorites or saying these shows are inherently bad. It's about understanding how perspectives evolve, how media reflects the times it's created in, and how we can enjoy these classics while also recognizing their flaws. Get ready to unpack some nostalgia, challenge some assumptions, and maybe even cringe a little – because we're diving deep into the world of 90s anime and its problematic legacy. We'll explore themes of representation, gender roles, cultural appropriation, and more, all while celebrating the artistry and impact these shows had on us. So grab your comfiest chair, maybe a snack (though perhaps something a little healthier than sugary cereal!), and let's get started on this journey of reflection and re-evaluation. Because even our favorite childhood memories deserve a second look, right?

1. Pokémon: Gotta Catch 'Em All... But Should We Be?

Ah, Pokémon. The franchise that took the world by storm, spawning video games, trading cards, movies, and of course, the beloved anime. We all remember Ash Ketchum's quest to become a Pokémon Master, traveling across the land with Pikachu by his side, catching and battling these adorable (and sometimes terrifying) creatures. But let's pause for a moment and consider the core concept: capturing wild animals and forcing them to fight for your amusement. Doesn't that sound a little… problematic? The central premise of Pokémon, when viewed through a modern lens, raises serious ethical questions about animal rights and exploitation. We're essentially watching a world where creatures with their own sentience and abilities are treated as commodities, tools to be collected and used for battles. While the anime often portrays a strong bond between trainers and their Pokémon, and emphasizes the importance of respect and care, the underlying mechanic of capture and combat remains ethically dubious. It's hard to ignore the parallels to real-world animal exploitation, even if the show presents it in a lighthearted and fantastical way. And it's not just the battling aspect that's concerning. Consider the living conditions of Pokémon. They spend the majority of their time confined within Poké Balls, tiny devices that shrink them down to a manageable size. While the show implies that the inside of a Poké Ball is a comfortable environment, the idea of trapping a creature in such a small space raises questions about freedom and confinement. Furthermore, the concept of breeding Pokémon for specific traits, a common practice in the games, can be seen as a form of selective breeding, which has its own set of ethical implications. It's important to acknowledge that Pokémon was created in a different cultural context, where attitudes towards animals and their rights may have been different. However, as our understanding of animal welfare evolves, it's crucial to critically examine even our most beloved childhood franchises. This doesn't mean we have to stop enjoying Pokémon. But it does mean we should be aware of the ethical complexities and engage in thoughtful discussions about the messages the show conveys. We can appreciate the artistry, the storytelling, and the characters, while also acknowledging the problematic aspects and considering how we can promote more ethical treatment of animals in the real world. Perhaps a future iteration of the franchise could explore alternative ways for humans and Pokémon to coexist, moving away from the capture-and-battle paradigm and towards a more harmonious relationship. Food for thought, right?

2. Sailor Moon: Magical Girl, Problematic Tropes?

Sailor Moon! The quintessential magical girl anime that empowered a generation of young women. Usagi Tsukino, the clumsy crybaby who transforms into the valiant Sailor Moon, became a role model for countless girls (and boys!) who admired her courage, her kindness, and her unwavering determination to fight for love and justice. The show's emphasis on female friendships, teamwork, and the power of believing in yourself was truly groundbreaking for its time. But even this beloved classic isn't immune to scrutiny. While Sailor Moon celebrates female empowerment in many ways, it also relies on some problematic tropes and stereotypes that are worth examining. One of the most prominent issues is the hyper-sexualization of the Sailor Scouts, particularly in their transformation sequences and battle outfits. While the skimpy outfits are a staple of the magical girl genre, they can be seen as objectifying the characters and catering to the male gaze. The constant focus on their physical appearance distracts from their strengths and abilities as warriors and leaders. It's a complex issue, as some argue that the characters' agency in choosing their outfits and embracing their sexuality is empowering, while others see it as reinforcing harmful stereotypes about female beauty and sexuality. Another problematic aspect is the portrayal of gender roles and relationships. While Sailor Moon features strong female characters, it also reinforces the traditional idea that women need to be rescued by men. Tuxedo Mask, with his constant dramatic entrances and rose-throwing, often swoops in to save the day, diminishing the Sailor Scouts' own agency and capabilities. Furthermore, the romantic relationships in the show often adhere to heteronormative ideals, with little representation of LGBTQ+ characters or relationships. While there are hints of same-sex attraction in some of the characters' interactions, these subtexts are rarely explicitly addressed. In addition, the character dynamics within the Sailor Scouts themselves, while showcasing the strength of female friendship, also fall into some familiar tropes. There's the smart one, the athletic one, the shy one, and so on, which can limit the characters' individual complexity and reinforce stereotypical roles. Despite these issues, it's important to remember the significant impact Sailor Moon had on the landscape of anime and on the lives of its viewers. The show's message of female empowerment, its celebration of friendship, and its themes of love and justice resonated deeply with audiences around the world. We can appreciate these positive aspects while also acknowledging the problematic elements and striving for more nuanced and inclusive representation in media. Perhaps future iterations of the magical girl genre can learn from Sailor Moon's successes and shortcomings, creating stories that are both empowering and progressive.

3. Dragon Ball Z: Powering Up the Patriarchy?

Dragon Ball Z! The iconic shonen anime that defined action for a generation. Goku's quest to become the strongest warrior in the universe, his epic battles against formidable foes, and his unwavering Saiyan pride – these were the hallmarks of a series that captivated audiences worldwide. The explosive action, the over-the-top transformations, and the sheer spectacle of Dragon Ball Z made it a must-watch for any anime fan. But beneath the surface of the screaming and the powering up, lies a complex web of gender dynamics that are, to put it mildly, problematic. One of the most glaring issues is the underrepresentation and marginalization of female characters. While Dragon Ball Z features some strong female fighters, like Chi-Chi and Android 18, they are often relegated to supporting roles, overshadowed by their male counterparts. Chi-Chi, Goku's wife, is largely reduced to a nagging housewife, constantly scolding Goku for neglecting his responsibilities. Android 18, while initially a powerful villain, eventually becomes Krillin's wife and her fighting prowess is significantly diminished. The show's focus on male strength and dominance reinforces the idea that men are the primary protectors and warriors, while women are relegated to domestic roles. This disparity is further emphasized by the power scaling within the series. Goku and Vegeta consistently reach new levels of power, surpassing their female counterparts by a wide margin. Female characters rarely get the opportunity to shine in battles, and their contributions are often downplayed. Another problematic aspect is the portrayal of masculinity. Dragon Ball Z celebrates a very specific type of masculinity: stoic, aggressive, and physically dominant. Emotions are often suppressed, and vulnerability is seen as a weakness. This can be harmful to young boys who may internalize these messages and feel pressure to conform to this narrow definition of manhood. The constant fighting and violence also raise concerns about the glorification of aggression. While the show often emphasizes the importance of protecting others, the means of achieving this protection is almost always through physical combat. This can desensitize viewers to violence and create a distorted view of conflict resolution. It's important to acknowledge that Dragon Ball Z was created within a specific cultural context, where traditional gender roles and expectations were more prevalent. However, as our understanding of gender equality evolves, it's crucial to critically examine these representations and challenge the harmful stereotypes they perpetuate. We can appreciate the action-packed battles and the compelling characters, while also acknowledging the problematic gender dynamics and advocating for more diverse and inclusive representations in media. Perhaps future iterations of the Dragon Ball franchise can explore more nuanced portrayals of gender and masculinity, creating characters who are both strong and emotionally intelligent.

4. Neon Genesis Evangelion: Existential Dread and... Problematic Relationships?

Neon Genesis Evangelion. A masterpiece of anime, a psychological thriller that delves into the depths of human despair, trauma, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The series' groundbreaking animation, its complex characters, and its exploration of existential themes cemented its place as a cornerstone of anime history. But even this critically acclaimed series isn't without its problematic aspects, particularly when it comes to its portrayal of relationships and sexuality. One of the most controversial elements of Evangelion is the relationship between Shinji Ikari, the emotionally damaged protagonist, and Misato Katsuragi, his guardian and mentor. Misato is significantly older than Shinji, and their relationship often blurs the lines between platonic and romantic, creating an uncomfortable dynamic. While Misato provides Shinji with emotional support and guidance, her behavior towards him can sometimes be seen as inappropriate, especially considering his vulnerable state. The series also features several instances of implied or explicit sexualization of underage characters, which are deeply disturbing. Asuka Langley Soryu, another pilot of an Evangelion, is a complex and compelling character, but she is also frequently sexualized, often in ways that feel exploitative. These depictions can contribute to the normalization of the sexualization of minors, which is a serious concern. Furthermore, Evangelion's portrayal of mental illness is often sensationalized and stereotypical. The characters suffer from various forms of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but these issues are often presented in a melodramatic way, without a nuanced understanding of the complexities of mental health. While the series explores the characters' inner struggles, it also perpetuates some harmful stigmas surrounding mental illness. The show's creator, Hideaki Anno, has acknowledged his own struggles with depression and anxiety, and Evangelion can be seen as a reflection of his personal experiences. However, this doesn't excuse the problematic representations within the series. It's important to engage in critical discussions about these issues and strive for more accurate and sensitive portrayals of mental health in media. Despite these concerns, Evangelion's artistic merit and its impact on the anime landscape cannot be denied. The series' exploration of complex themes, its innovative animation, and its memorable characters have inspired countless creators and continue to resonate with audiences today. We can appreciate these aspects while also acknowledging the problematic elements and advocating for more responsible storytelling. Perhaps future works can learn from Evangelion's successes and shortcomings, creating stories that are both thought-provoking and ethically sound.

5. Ranma 1/2: Gender Bending Comedy or Transphobic Mishaps?

Ranma 1/2! A beloved comedy anime that features martial arts, slapstick humor, and a unique twist: the protagonist, Ranma Saotome, transforms into a girl when splashed with cold water. This gender-bending premise was groundbreaking for its time, and the series' lighthearted tone and quirky characters made it a fan favorite. However, looking back with a modern perspective, some of the humor in Ranma 1/2 feels less funny and more problematic, particularly in its treatment of gender identity. The core issue lies in the show's reliance on stereotypes and the frequent use of the female Ranma for comedic effect. The character's gender transformation is often played for laughs, with jokes centered around Ranma's discomfort with being a girl and the reactions of those around him. This can be seen as trivializing the experiences of transgender individuals and reinforcing the idea that gender identity is something to be mocked or made fun of. Furthermore, the show's portrayal of gender roles is often outdated and stereotypical. The male characters are typically portrayed as strong and assertive, while the female characters are often relegated to more passive or domestic roles. Ranma's female form is frequently used to exploit his/her attractiveness, and the character is often subjected to unwanted advances and objectification. While the series is a comedy, these elements can contribute to the perpetuation of harmful gender stereotypes. It's important to note that Ranma 1/2 was created in a different cultural context, where understanding and acceptance of transgender identities were less widespread. The show's creator, Rumiko Takahashi, may not have intended to cause harm, but the impact of the series on viewers should still be considered. We can appreciate the show's humor and its unique premise, while also acknowledging the problematic aspects and engaging in critical discussions about gender identity and representation. It's crucial to recognize that gender is a complex and personal issue, and that transgender individuals deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Perhaps future works can explore gender fluidity and gender identity in a more nuanced and sensitive way, creating stories that are both entertaining and inclusive. By acknowledging the problematic elements in Ranma 1/2, we can learn from the past and strive for better representation in the future.

6. Rurouni Kenshin: Samurai Swords and... Glorified Violence?

Rurouni Kenshin! A historical action anime that tells the story of Kenshin Himura, a former assassin who vows to never kill again and wanders Japan offering his protection. The series is praised for its compelling characters, its exciting sword fights, and its exploration of themes of redemption and forgiveness. However, beneath the surface of the samurai action lies a potentially problematic glorification of violence and a romanticized view of a violent past. The core of the issue is the way the show portrays violence as a means to an end. While Kenshin is a pacifist who tries to avoid killing, he is still a skilled swordsman who relies on his fighting abilities to protect others. The show often depicts graphic and bloody battles, and while Kenshin tries to use his skills to disarm opponents, he often inflicts serious injuries. The constant emphasis on combat and the glorification of swordsmanship can desensitize viewers to the real-world consequences of violence. Furthermore, the show romanticizes the Meiji Restoration, a period of significant upheaval and violence in Japanese history. While Rurouni Kenshin acknowledges the darker aspects of this era, it also tends to portray it in a nostalgic light, focusing on the heroism and the samurai code. This can gloss over the suffering and the injustices that occurred during this period. The series also features characters who are deeply traumatized by their past experiences with violence, but their trauma is often used as a plot device to drive the story forward, rather than being explored in a meaningful way. While Kenshin's journey of redemption is a central theme of the show, the series often relies on violence as a solution to conflict, which can send a mixed message to viewers. It's important to acknowledge that Rurouni Kenshin is a fictional work set in a specific historical context, and that it's not intended to be a documentary. However, the way the show portrays violence and history can still have an impact on viewers, particularly young ones. We can appreciate the show's storytelling and its characters, while also critically examining its portrayal of violence and its romanticized view of the past. Perhaps future historical anime can explore these themes in a more nuanced and responsible way, focusing on the consequences of violence and the importance of peace. By acknowledging the problematic aspects of Rurouni Kenshin, we can engage in a more informed discussion about violence in media and its impact on society.

7. Slayers: Hilarious Fantasy, Problematic Power Dynamics?

Slayers! A hilarious fantasy anime that follows the adventures of Lina Inverse, a powerful sorceress who loves treasure and destruction. The series is known for its witty dialogue, its over-the-top magic battles, and its quirky characters. But even this comedic gem has some problematic aspects, particularly in its portrayal of power dynamics and the way Lina wields her immense magical abilities. One of the main issues is the lack of accountability for Lina's destructive behavior. While she often fights against evil forces, she also causes a lot of collateral damage in her quest for treasure. Her powerful spells frequently level entire cities, and she rarely faces any serious consequences for her actions. This can send a message that power can be used without responsibility, which is a concerning theme for a fantasy series aimed at younger audiences. Furthermore, Lina's personality can be seen as problematic. She is often greedy, selfish, and arrogant, and she tends to belittle and manipulate those around her. While these traits contribute to her comedic appeal, they also raise questions about her as a role model. The show rarely challenges Lina's behavior, and she often gets away with her antics without facing any significant repercussions. The power dynamics within the group are also worth examining. Lina is the undisputed leader, and her companions, Gourry, Amelia, and Zelgadis, often defer to her judgment, even when she is clearly in the wrong. This can reinforce the idea that those in positions of power are always right, which is a dangerous message. It's important to note that Slayers is primarily a comedy, and that many of the show's problematic elements are played for laughs. However, humor can be a powerful tool for reinforcing societal norms, and it's important to be aware of the underlying messages being conveyed. We can appreciate the show's humor and its exciting magic battles, while also critically examining its portrayal of power dynamics and the responsibility that comes with wielding great power. Perhaps future fantasy anime can explore these themes in a more nuanced way, creating characters who are both powerful and ethical. By acknowledging the problematic aspects of Slayers, we can engage in a more informed discussion about power in media and its impact on our perceptions of leadership and responsibility.

8. Magic Knight Rayearth: Mecha, Magic, and... Cultural Appropriation?

Magic Knight Rayearth! A captivating blend of magical girl and mecha anime that follows three schoolgirls who are transported to a magical world and tasked with saving a princess. The series is known for its beautiful animation, its intricate plot, and its strong female characters. However, even this beloved series has some problematic aspects, particularly when it comes to its depiction of the fictional world of Cephiro and its potential for cultural appropriation. The core issue lies in the show's use of imagery and concepts that seem to be inspired by various cultures, but without proper understanding or respect. The designs of the characters, the architecture, and the mythology of Cephiro draw from a variety of sources, including Western European, Middle Eastern, and Asian cultures. While this multicultural approach could be seen as a positive thing, the show often blends these elements together in a way that feels superficial and lacks cultural sensitivity. The characters' clothing and hairstyles, for example, seem to be inspired by various cultures, but they are often presented in a generic or stereotypical way. The show also incorporates elements of different mythologies, but without fully exploring their cultural context or significance. This can lead to a sense of cultural appropriation, where elements of one culture are taken and used by another without proper understanding or respect. It's important to note that the creators of Magic Knight Rayearth may not have intended to cause offense, but the impact of their work on viewers should still be considered. Cultural appropriation can be harmful because it can perpetuate stereotypes, trivialize cultural traditions, and erase the history and experiences of marginalized communities. We can appreciate the show's animation and its strong female characters, while also critically examining its depiction of Cephiro and its potential for cultural appropriation. Perhaps future fantasy anime can be more mindful of cultural representation and strive for more authentic and respectful depictions of diverse cultures. By acknowledging the problematic aspects of Magic Knight Rayearth, we can engage in a more informed discussion about cultural sensitivity in media and its importance in promoting understanding and respect.

9. Revolutionary Girl Utena: Edgy Symbolism or Problematic Parallels?

Revolutionary Girl Utena! A visually stunning and thought-provoking anime that explores themes of gender, identity, and power through a unique blend of shojo aesthetics and surreal symbolism. The series is praised for its complex characters, its allegorical storyline, and its challenging of traditional gender roles. However, even this groundbreaking anime has some problematic aspects, particularly in its use of symbolism and its potentially troubling parallels to real-world issues. One of the most debated elements of Utena is its use of sexual violence and abuse as metaphors for power dynamics and social structures. The series features several instances of characters being sexually assaulted or manipulated, and these events are often presented in a stylized and symbolic way. While the show is not explicitly endorsing these actions, the way they are depicted can be disturbing and potentially triggering for viewers. Furthermore, the series' exploration of gender roles and sexuality can be seen as both progressive and problematic. Utena herself is a groundbreaking character, defying traditional gender expectations and challenging the patriarchal norms of her society. However, the show also features characters who are trapped by societal expectations and who struggle to express their true selves. The series' exploration of these themes is often nuanced and thought-provoking, but it also runs the risk of perpetuating harmful stereotypes. The symbolism in Utena is often open to interpretation, and viewers may have different reactions to the show's themes and messages. Some may see it as a powerful critique of societal norms, while others may find it to be exploitative or offensive. It's important to engage in critical discussions about the show's symbolism and its potential impact on viewers. We can appreciate the show's artistry and its challenging of traditional narratives, while also acknowledging the problematic aspects and engaging in thoughtful discussions about its themes and messages. Perhaps future works can explore these themes in a more sensitive and nuanced way, creating stories that are both thought-provoking and ethically sound. By acknowledging the problematic aspects of Revolutionary Girl Utena, we can engage in a more informed discussion about the representation of sensitive topics in media and its impact on viewers.

So, there you have it! Nine fan-favorite anime from the 90s that, while beloved by many, have some seriously problematic aspects that we need to acknowledge and discuss. It's not about canceling these shows or pretending they never existed. It's about understanding the context in which they were created, recognizing the evolution of societal norms, and engaging in critical thinking about the messages we consume. What do you guys think? Did any of these entries surprise you? Are there any other 90s anime that you think deserve a closer look? Let's keep the conversation going in the comments below! Remember, we can appreciate these classics while also striving for more inclusive, responsible, and ethical storytelling in the future. That's the real magic, isn't it?