3 Anime Series That Omitted ‘Iconic Moments’ From Manga Series
Anime adaptations of beloved manga series often bring joy to fans by bringing their favorite stories to life. However, in the process of adaptation, some iconic moments from the manga can be left on the cutting room floor. In this article, we’ll explore three anime series that, despite their acclaim, omitted iconic moments from their manga counterparts. We’ll delve into why these omissions occur and how they can impact the overall viewing experience.
- Fruits Basket (2019): A Faithful Adaptation with Missing Pieces
The 2019 reboot of “Fruits Basket” received praise for its overall faithfulness to the manga. Yet, even in this well-received adaptation, there were moments from the source material that didn’t make it to the screen. Notably, Kakeru’s backstory, which sheds light on his motivations for his kindness towards Tohru, was left out.
In the manga, Kakeru’s backstory added depth to his character, helping viewers understand his actions and interactions better. Its omission in the anime left some fans feeling that an essential piece of the puzzle was missing, even in this faithful adaptation.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – A Few Omissions in an Otherwise Stellar Adaptation
“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is celebrated for its close adherence to the manga. However, there were still a few iconic moments that didn’t find their way into the anime. One notable example is the intense showdown between Edward and Hohenheim in the final arc.
While this omission didn’t significantly detract from the overall quality of the anime, fans of the manga may have missed the emotional depth and character development that this confrontation brought to the story. It serves as a reminder that even in the most faithful adaptations, some sacrifices must be made.
- Attack on Titan: Straying from the Manga’s Path
“Attack on Titan” gained fame for its faithful adaptation of the manga, but there were instances where iconic moments were omitted. For example, the anime chose not to include the scene where Eren transforms into a Titan for the first time, witnessed by his mother.
In the manga, this scene was a pivotal moment, showcasing Eren’s powers and the dire circumstances of their world. Its absence in the anime left manga readers longing for the intensity and shock that this moment originally conveyed.
Why Do These Omissions Occur?
Several factors contribute to the omission of iconic moments from manga in their anime adaptations. First and foremost, the constraint of time plays a significant role. Anime series typically have a limited number of episodes, often around 24, making it challenging to adapt lengthy manga series comprehensively.
Additionally, anime studios may opt to create their own unique spin on the story. While they aim to remain faithful to the source material, they might tweak certain elements to improve pacing or accessibility for a broader audience.
Budget constraints also come into play. Some manga series feature complex action sequences or intricate special effects that can be costly to animate. To manage expenses, anime studios might choose to omit these scenes, prioritizing other aspects of the story.
Kubo’s Unique Perspective on Heroism in Bleach
Bleach, a long-running manga and anime in the Shonen genre, has captivated audiences with its epic sword fights and extensive cast of characters. It’s earned its place among the most popular manga and anime series of all time. However, the anime adaptation had been infamous for its omission of the final story arc, “The Thousand-Year Blood War Arc,” for years. Fans had been eagerly awaiting its adaptation, and the good news is that it’s finally airing.
Created by Mangaka Tite Kubo, Bleach’s central character, Ichigo Kurosaki, embodies many heroic qualities—nobility, kindness, and righteousness. Interestingly, Kubo himself shared a childhood fascination with superheroes, particularly Kamen Rider, which inspired his desire to become a superhero. Surprisingly, despite Ichigo’s heroic deeds throughout Bleach, Kubo doesn’t quite see him as a traditional hero. He also revealed his favorite heroes, which didn’t include Ichigo, further highlighting his unique perspective.
This insight into Kubo’s views adds an intriguing layer to the interpretation of Ichigo’s character. Additionally, the recent censorship of a scene involving Orihime in the anime adaptation has sparked debates among fans, with Kubo himself commenting on its exclusion due to its provocative nature. These revelations provide a deeper understanding of Bleach’s creator and his distinctive take on heroism.
Final Thoughts
The omission of iconic moments from manga in anime adaptations is a common occurrence, driven by various practical factors. However, these omissions don’t necessarily diminish the quality of the anime. In fact, many of the series mentioned here are highly acclaimed and beloved by fans.
As viewers, it’s essential to appreciate anime adaptations for what they are—a reinterpretation of the source material. While some iconic moments may be omitted, these adaptations still capture the essence of the manga, bringing beloved stories and characters to a broader audience.
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