Wandering Son Remains One of the Best Examples of Queer Representation in Anime

Though anime as a complete has made some progress in recent times with the illustration of queer identities, the medium has a technique to go in showcasing its range and particular portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters and themes. That is particularly the case with regards to highlighting characters that battle not solely with their sexual orientation but additionally their gender id — the previous of which continues to be typically used for the sake of fan service and the latter of which is usually performed for comedic worth.

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A slice-of-life drama set in elementary and junior highschool (though the manga progresses throughout to school and younger maturity), Wandering Son facilities across the character of Nitori Shuuichi and her friendships and classmates. Shuuichi identifies as a lady and longs to dwell her life this fashion, however she is biologically male and rejects the thought of crossdressing till inspired to current as female by her associates. Amongst Shuichi’s friends is Takatsuki Yoshino, a transgender boy who doesn’t like drawing undue consideration to himself however normally resists sporting stereotypically female garments, albeit in opposition to his mom’s needs.

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One other facet of the collection that retains it from changing into too heavy and due to this fact doubtlessly an excessively sober watch is its paintings. The type is gentle and mild, nearly watercolor-like in really feel, serving to to lend Wandering Son a fairly harmless environment regardless of its typically weighty material. Nevertheless, it stays straightforward to turn into immersed within the present as a result of, whereas anime tends to be recognized for its characters’ monumental eyes, unbelievable hair colours and exaggerated facial expressions, Wandering Son adopts a extra real looking environment — maybe one thing of a mixture between Usagi Drop and Studio Ghibli.