A must-see for those born in the 1980s! | A nostalgic anime special

Revolutionary Girl Utena

Masami Okui “Rondo - revolution” | Revolutionary Girl Utena | Opening

Revolutionary Girl Utena, which aired in 1997, is a work that depicts the struggles of a girl named Utena Tenjou, who admires princes and wishes to become one herself.

Beyond its experimental direction and avant-garde visual expression, it drew attention for exploring universal and profound themes such as adolescent turmoil, sexuality, and questioning established values.

Perhaps the greatest appeal of the series lies in the human drama woven by its distinctive characters, including the protagonist Utena and Anthy.

Even those who found it hard to understand at the time may discover new insights when they revisit it as adults.

D·N·A² ~That Someone’s Something I Lost Somewhere~

Trivia about DNA²: Aitsu no Aitsu I Lost Somewhere

The anime “D·N·A²: Dokoka de Nakushita Aitsu no Aitsu” is based on Masakazu Katsura’s manga and aired in 1994.

It has a strong sci-fi storyline in which Karin Aoi, a DNA operator, travels from the future to modify the DNA of the protagonist, Junta Momonari.

Despite its sci-fi elements, it also unfolds as a romantic comedy, and that contrast drew attention.

It’s also remembered for detailed tidbits, such as having theme songs performed by L’Arc~en~Ciel and Sharan Q just before their big break.

Chibi Maruko-chan

Chibi Maruko-chan The Movie: The Boy from Italy | Chibi Maruko-chan: The Boy from Italy (2015) | Chibi Maruko-chan: A Boy from Italy

Based on the manga by Momoko Sakura, this work has continued to be loved by people of all ages since it began airing in 1990, to the point that it can be called a national anime.

Through the perspective of the protagonist, Maruko, nostalgic Showa-era scenery and the small happenings common in childhood are depicted with humor.

A key point is that the main character reflects the author, Momoko Sakura, and together with her distinctive friends, the everyday lives of children at the time are conveyed with a comedic yet realistic touch.

It’s a series that reminds us of the important things in daily life—family bonds, friendships, and the small joys of everyday moments.

Dragon Ball GT

[Official] Dragon Ball GT Episode 1: "Mysterious DB Appears!! Goku Turns Into a Child!?"

Dragon Ball GT, which began airing in 1996, is the sequel to the anime Dragon Ball Z that had been broadcast up to that point.

Since the original manga’s story ends with Dragon Ball Z, people were also interested in what new developments would unfold from there.

The series follows Son Goku, who has been turned back into a child, as he embarks on a space-traveling adventure with his granddaughter Pan and Trunks.

This adventure-centric storyline evokes the early days of the original series.

With encounters with unique characters on various planets, the show offers appeal beyond just the battles.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

Premiering in 1995, the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion tells the story of boys and girls who pilot giant humanoid weapons called Evangelions to fight mysterious enemies known as Angels.

Far from being just a sci-fi robot anime, it delves deeply into psychological portrayals and philosophical themes, sparking a social phenomenon that extended beyond anime fans of the time.

Its stylish visuals, shocking storyline, and distinctive characters have combined to earn it enduring popularity.

In addition to the TV series, its extensive media expansion—including theatrical films and a manga adaptation—is also part of its appeal.

Yu-Gi-Oh!

[Yu-Gi-Oh!] The results of opening 50 discontinued packs and sending them for grading are insane. [Early Premium Pack 1 / ARS Grading]

The 1998 anime often considered the origin of the series, Yu-Gi-Oh!, is a work whose appeal lies in its horror-tinged atmosphere from the early manga and its thrilling developments.

After the protagonist, Yugi Mutou, solves the ancient Egyptian Millennium Puzzle, a second persona emerges, who judges evil through Shadow Games and resolves incidents.

Not only Yugi’s friends but also the villains are strikingly unique, and their relationships further heighten the drama.

The in-story card game, Magic and Wizards, became the basis for Duel Monsters, which then expanded and led to everything that followed—making this a work that can truly be called the beginning of a legend.

China's Number One!

[Episodes 1–3] True Cooking Master Boy Limited-Time Streaming [Official Anime]

Cooking Master Boy depicts Mao, a young chef and the protagonist, as he travels across China, growing through a series of culinary duels with his rivals.

As a cooking anime focused specifically on Chinese cuisine, it offered viewers the joy of discovering new dishes.

Its appeal lies not only in its inventive culinary ideas but also in its distinctive cast of characters—like martial artist–type figures who create delicate dishes, a contrast that adds excitement to the story.

The blend of passion for cooking and action-like cooking scenes draws you deeply into its unique world.