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As the year 2024 is coming to an end, looking back, we have received and enjoyed several groundbreaking and unique anime regardless of the genre. However, if we talk about their themes and public appeal, it’s not a very wholesome year for Shonen since Shojo and Slice of Life have taken the upper hand. Similarly, this year at IGN’sBest Anime Awards, the anime that has emerged victorious as Anime of the Year isFrieren: Beyond Journey’s End.
Although surprising, it’s a well-deserved achievement for a series that has captivated audiences through its unique storytelling and thematic brilliance. In an era where most Shonen series emphasize adrenaline-pumping battles, over-the-top power-ups, and flashy visuals,Frieren:Beyond Journey’s Enddares to take a different route; one of quiet introspection, emotional depth, and understated fantasy world-building.
Divided but passionate reactions from fans
In a year dominated by strong contenders likeDelicious in Dungeon,Oshi no Ko Season 2, andThe Apothecary Diaries,Frierenstood out for offering something refreshingly different: a quiet, contemplative journey that shuns the traditional tropes of high-action shonen anime; leading it to top onIGN’s chartclaiming Anime of the Year title.
The anime community’s reaction toFrieren: Beyond Journey’s Endhas been mostly positive. Many fans have praised the series for its unique approach, calling the win a well-deserved achievement and looking forward to the next season. Viewers who resonate with its themes of loss and time often find it deeply moving and emotionally rewarding.
Well deserved! Absolute cinema
10/10 anime
Much deserved. Amazing anime and the manga awesome as well. Cant wait for next season.
Deserves it easily the best of the year, felt every kind of emotion in this anime
Makes you see time and life very differently after watching it
However, this ranking may not resonate with everyone in the anime community asFrieren‘s slower pace and subtle themes don’t appeal to many. Yet, despite the polarizing opinions,Frieren: Beyond Journey’s Endremains a standout work that redefines what Shonen storytelling can achieve.
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It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s still undeniable that it manages to outshine many popular Shonen works. From its female-centric narrative and slow-paced execution to its mellow yet profound themes,Frierenproves that anime can be subtle and still hold immense emotional weight.
The subtle world-building ofFrieren: Beyond Journey’s End
One ofFrieren: Beyond Journey’s End‘s biggest strengths is its protagonist, Frieren; an elven mage who takes center stage in a genre traditionally dominated by male heroes. Female protagonists in anime, especially within the Shonen framework, often fall prey to sexualization or end up reduced to one-dimensional roles. Frieren, however,is refreshingly different. Her portrayal is grounded, dignified, and free from objectification.
While some may argue that Frieren’s stoic personality feels distant or unrelatable,she is actually depictedas a character who represents emotional maturity and realism. Unlike characters who wear their struggles on their sleeves, Frieren’s reserved nature forces the audience to pay closer attention to her subtleties.
The slow pacing ofFrierenhas been one of its most debated aspects. For viewers used to fast-moving plots and high-stakes battles,Frierenmay initially feel unengaging and boring. However, its deliberate pacing serves a greater purpose as it conveys the essence of the story itself. Time is a recurring theme inFrieren: Beyond Journey’s Endand the narrative’s slow and steady nature invites viewers to immerse themselves in the small, seemingly mundane moments of life.
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Moreover, while fantasy anime often leans heavily on spectacle such as elaborate battles, mythical creatures, and dazzling magic systems,Frieren: Beyond Journey’s Endtakes a more subtle approach to its fantasy setting. The series focuses on the emotional weight of its world rather than its glamour, creating a backdrop that feels lived-in and authentic.
In a high-paced anime world,Frierendares to slow down and offer something different: a story about time, loss, and the beauty of human connections. Its win at IGN’sBest Anime Awardsis a well-deserved celebration of its unique qualities, even if it remains a divisive choice among fans.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s Endis currently available to watch on Crunchyroll.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :931
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
