The 2016 anime series Gate combines the trope of an irruption of a fantasy world into Japan with the real world of the Japanese Self Defense Force (JSDF) and Japanese internal politics and geopolitics. The series is a story about three underdogs: Japan, the JSDF, and otaku. Japan maybe a small country surrounded by more powerful nations none of whom are completely on Japan’s side. The JSDF maybe under funded, under appreciated at home, and viewed as a joke by other nations. Otaku culture may not be exemplary or even entirely adult. In Gate, however, all three are shown to be heroes.
Japan stands up to the world and claims control of the gate and the riches the “special regions” may contain. The JSDF is presented as supremely successful. No military force, magical beast, or political opponent can stand up to their capabilities. Their success extends beyond military capabilities, with demonstrations of moral responsibility, protection of the weak, and supporting positive social programs. Otaku men, represented by Itami, are dedicated to anime and manga but somewhere deep inside they are very capable warriors. Otaku culture is shown as quietly practiced by individuals at the highest level of government and as being capable of taking over the fashion and literary tastes of an entire society.
This presentation was made as part of the AX Anime and Manga Studies Symposium, at the 2016 Anime Expo Convention in Los Angles. The Anime and Manga Studies Symposium is a three day program of academic lectures and panels on topics related to anime, manga, and Japanese culture. Presented by scholars from around the world, the Anime and Manga Studies Symposium was introduced in 2011 and has featured over fifty different speakers from more than thirty universities and colleges.
Studying Anime 