Since the animated adaptation premiered, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End has become one of anime this season. It's no surprise that the anime has garnered so much attention, as it introduces a moving story that doesn't adhere to shounen clichés.
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8 reasons why Frieren surpasses other shounen anime
Those who follow shonen anime will remember that this genre carries several clichés, such as endless training, the power of friendship, and many others. As this trend grows in anime, many works become bogged down by overusing it. However, Frieren is one anime that shows a certain difference, overcoming these shounen clichés. So, check out this list of 8 reasons why Frieren has this luxury in its story.
1 – A protagonist who doesn’t scream or make a fuss
In shonen anime, loud characters are common, like Asta, Bakugo, and many others. However, Frieren doesn't fit this stereotype. As a millennia-old elf with a unique perspective on life, she acts introspective and distant toward humans. Because of this, she's an extremely calm person, unfazed by the challenges of her journey.
2 – A semi-immortal protagonist
While many shonen protagonists seek power and growth, Frieren is an elf mage who has lived for millennia and has already reached the peak of her magical powers. Her story isn't a quest for power, but rather a pursuit of silly magic as a hobby. Thus, she makes the story fun and engaging without the need for an over-the-top conflict or quest.
3 – A mentor instead of a student
In traditional shonen anime, protagonists often begin as students seeking knowledge and power under the guidance of experienced mentors. However, Frieren takes on the opposite role, becoming a mentor to Fern , a young apprentice. Furthermore, spending time with her apprentice also teaches the protagonist several important things, such as the importance of lifespan for humans.
4 – Your journey begins after the end
Shonen heroes usually embark on adventures without experience, but Frieren begins her story after the journey's end, when the heroes have already defeated the Demon King and are returning home. In other words, her adventure focuses on basic matters and the protagonist's perspective on human life. Instead of seeking to overcome a powerful enemy, she lives the daily routine of a new, simple life.
5 – Frieren doesn’t need rivals
One of the greatest shonen traditions is the inclusion of rivals for character development. But Frieren offers a journey without antagonists or external competition. She doesn't need a rival to spur her goals because the magician has no grand ambitions and is content with a casual adventure. What drives her is her inner search for understanding, unconstrained by time or adversaries.
6 – Time is the protagonist’s enemy without her realizing it
After the Demon King's death, Frieren no longer faces any threat that amounts to a "big bad." However, she faces a major dilemma regarding the short and limited span of human life. As she lives for thousands of years, Frieren discovers that lifespan is crucial to humans, as they live shorter lives. Her journey teaches her how precious time spent with her companions is, given their limited lifespan.
7 – Follow a calmer pace
While many shounen anime race at a frenetic pace of battles, Frieren prefers contemplation and exploration of the characters' emotions. Although there are battles along the way, the anime stands out for its quiet moments, such as conversations or simple missions. This way, the characters provide a unique and reflective experience about their lives.
8 – The anime stands out for its small moments
The anime features a protagonist with thousands of years of experience, but despite this, the series values small experiences. For example, watching the sunrise with her apprentice and observing a meteor shower with friends are simple things compared to what we see in other anime. However, these intimate moments carry emotional depth without the need for major battles.
Synopsis:
Shortly after the demon king's defeat, the group of victorious heroes returns home, ready to part ways. Frieren the mage, Himmel the hero, Heiter the priest, and Eisen the warrior reminisce about their decade-long journey as the time comes to say goodbye.
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is a manga written by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe. It has been serialized in Shogakukan's Weekly Shōnen Sunday since April 2020.
Do you also think Frieren has something different in the shounen world? Leave your comment below!
