Ranma 1/2 Was So Ahead of Its Time That the Anime is Still Fresh Almost 40 Years Later (2024)

The main couple of the Ranma 1/2 anime series is known for their constant disagreements and fights. Despite their obvious feelings for one another, their pride prohibits them from acting on them, preferring to act in rude and violent ways when interacting. Yet, while their personalities influence Ranma and Akane’s relationship, the series also hints at another issue plaguing their lives.

The morals, ideals, and teachings of their parental figures can be described as neglectful at best and harmful at worst. The protagonists’ lives were filled with toxic gender stereotypes that prevented them from accepting themselves. Nonetheless, by helping each other, they can slowly but surely break their chains, as proven by their growth at the end of the series.

Ranma and Akane Deal With Toxic Gender Roles Almost Daily

These Harmful Stereotypes Rule Their Lives

As soon as Ranma entered the Tendo household, it became clear to Akane and her family that the Saotome heir did not have a regular childhood. He spent most of his life traveling the world searching for powerful techniques to master while dealing with the fallout of his father’s scams and bad decisions. The protagonist also had to constantly endure Genma’s speeches about what it means to be a real man and how feelings are a weakness for martial artists.

Akane, on the other hand, grew up with everyone in Nerima talking about how her older sister, Kasumi, was the perfect model of femininity. The youngest Tendo spent most of her childhood trying to imitate her sibling, believing that this was what society expected of her. Her crush on Doctor Tofu did not help, as she became even more desperate to become like Kasumi to get the man’s attention. While she did not stop practicing martial arts, as it was her passion, she was often told that she was not acting ladylike and that boys would not find her attractive.

Despite their constant fights, mostly caused by Ranma’s refusal to admit his feelings and attraction for Akane, the duo knows that many do not understand their struggles. This is one of the reasons why they always have each other’s backs and know how to comfort their partner. Akane understands that Ranma enjoys non-traditionally masculine activities, like eating cute desserts, and accompanies while in his female form. The Saotome heir always supports his fiancée’s martial arts training, being one of the only people who respects her strength.

Genma and Kasumi Are Not the Best Role Models

Their Old-Fashioned Ideas Left Deep Scars in the Protagonists’ Psyche

One of the ideas that most Ranma 1/2 fans can agree on is that Genma Saotome is anything but an ideal father. Ranma’s entire childhood was spent away from home, without knowing the comfort of his mother and suffering from his progenitor’s constant abuse. Although he did not have any ill will and believed that his actions would help his son in the future, they did cause major trauma in Ranma. Kasumi, while not nearly as bad as Genma, would often discourage her sister from pursuing martial arts, hoping that she would become a proper lady one day.

These rigid gender stereotypes and high expectations prevented Ranma and Akane from truly enjoying their childhoods. The series made it clear throughout the first few chapters that the teachings of their respective paternal figures have caused them anguish. Ranma might be one of the most powerful fighters in the world, but he hides his interests for fear of not being masculine enough. Akane loves martial arts and does not want to be a simple housewife like Kasumi, but thinks that her peers will mock her for her tomboyish attitude.

Akane and Ranma’s Journey Is One of Self-Acceptance

Being Together Helps Them Come To Terms With Who They Are

Even though their first encounter was not the best, Ranma 1/2 has never shied away from the fact that the protagonists are perfect for each other. While this is most regularly interpreted as a romantic match, their chemistry goes far beyond their blossoming relationship. A perfect example of this occurred during episode #5 of the anime remake. It is during this moving entry that Akane’s hair is cut by Ryoga’s stray attack. For the youngest Tendo, her hair was a symbol of her femininity, as she copied it from Kasumi to attract Dr. Tofu.

At first, Ryoga’s mistake caused her a great amount of pain, as she had to come to terms with the fact that she would never be like Kasumi. Yet, with time and thanks to Ranma’s kind words, Akane understood that her new iconic hairstyle was the beginning of a new era for her. Later in the series, the protagonist will suffer similar tragedies, like being stuck in the cursed female form he acquired on Jusenkyo. It will then be time for Akane to show her support, letting Ranma know that she accepts him no matter what.

Ranma and Akane Also Learn From Others

Several Other Characters Have Gone Through Similar Experiences

Ranma 1/2 has been considered one of the most ahead-of-its-time manga and anime series in history. The franchise is a beacon of light for many underrepresented communities who found a home with the characters of this amazing series. As the story progresses, many characters who have struggled with topics like what Akane and Ranma dealt with will be introduced. Konatsu, a manga-only kunoichi born in the body of a male, will demonstrate to the Saotome heir that appearances do not define a person.

Another beloved character that will soon be introduced in the remake, Ukyo, will show Akane and the audience at large that a woman should not be defined by her hobbies, clothes, or hairstyle. These characters are one of the main reasons why the series has remained as popular for so many decades, as it constantly challenges roles and ideas that can be harmful to younger generations. Each of them will help Ranma and Akane on their journey of self-discovery, guiding them to a future in which they can be happy with being themselves.

Ranma 1/2 is an incredible series that will remain relevant for many years to come. Its lessons on self-acceptance, tolerance, and diversity will never cease to be important for anime fans all around the world to learn. Fans who are new to the franchise are sure to love the wholesome and eye-opening journey that they are about to experience.

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9.7/10

Ranma 1/2

TV-MA

Animation

Action

Adventure

Fantasy

In this comedic series, martial artist Ranma Saotome navigates life with a unique predicament: he transforms into a girl when splashed with cold water. His engagement to Akane Tendo adds further complexity, as they encounter numerous challenges within familial and martial arts dynamics.

Cast

Kappei Yamaguchi , Megumi Hayashibara , Noriko Hidaka , Minami Takayama , Kikuko Inoue , Akio Otsuka , Chō , Shou Okumura , Soshiro Hori , Kouichi Souma , Koichi Yamadera

Character(s)

Ranma Saotome , Ranma , Akane Tendo , Nabiki Tendo , Kasumi Tendo , Soun Tendo , Genma Saotome , Passerby , Postman , Jusenkyo Guide

Release Date

October 6, 2024

Main Genre

Animation