Top ’90s Anime Recommendations for Sailor Moon Fans: Don’t Miss This Must-Watch Series!

The Sailor Moon franchise, created by Naoko Takeuchi, is often regarded by anime enthusiasts as one of the most influential series in the medium’s history. It is frequently recommended to newcomers for its engaging storyline and groundbreaking themes, which were largely unexplored by other shows of its time. The adventures of Serena, who embarks on a mission to shield the universe from dark forces, not only captivated audiences but also reshaped industry norms, paving the way for numerous iconic series that followed.

Among these is the esteemed yet sometimes overlooked Revolutionary Girl Utena. This series, lauded for its intricate narrative and progressive themes, resonates deeply with fans of Sailor Moon. For those who have yet to explore Utena, its thought-provoking storylines and emotional depth make it a worthwhile addition to any anime enthusiast’s watchlist.

Revolutionary Girl Utena: A Thoughtful Follow-Up by Sailor Moon’s Director

A Spiritual Successor to Usagi’s Journey

Utena rushing forward surrounded by rose petals

Official art from Revolutionary Girl Utena

Collage of Utena and Anthy illustrations

Revolutionary Girl Utena centers around a young girl named Utena who, after a memorable encounter with a prince in her childhood, aspires to embody the ideals of nobility and courage. Upon entering Ohtori Academy, she immediately finds herself thrust into a competition where the victor earns the right to claim Anthy Himemiya, the mysterious Rose Bride, as their fiancée. Utena soon becomes captivated not only by the prize but also by the overarching themes of justice and protection as she seeks to safeguard Anthy from those who wish to exploit her.

This unfolding tale captures the essence of courage, friendship, and accountability through a series of gripping encounters that keeps viewers engaged and invested in Utena’s heroic journey.

Adapted from the manga by Chiho Saito, Utena’s animated series was directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara, who also led the development of the initial four seasons of Sailor Moon. Their collaborative vision strives to shatter conventional shojo anime tropes, and Utena certainly succeeds in this mission.

Expanding on Sailor Moon’s Rich Themes

A Narrative Rich in Women’s Empowerment and LGBTQ+ Diversity

Utena and Anthy dancing as classmates observe

The longevity of Sailor Moon can be attributed to its exploration of unconventional themes. Usagi’s battle against evil prioritizes personal growth and empowerment over romantic pursuits, showcasing strong representation of diverse communities. Following this inspiration, Utena delves even deeper into these themes, adopting a more radical stance.

Utena chooses to present herself not merely as a young woman but as a prince, demonstrating both confidence and defiance without any desire to conform to traditional gender roles. Her intricate relationship with Anthy—while never distinctly labeled as romantic—exudes profound affection and complex dynamics that challenge conventional depictions of female friendship. Moreover, Anthy’s character, implied to belong to a minority based on her design, signifies an important inclusion for the time.

The series depicts non-white protagonists, a rarity during its initial release, and addresses mature themes suited to its older audience demographic. Utena encounters various characters impacted by abuse, discrimination, and coercive systems, capturing the gray morality of the antagonists who may not be purely malevolent.

Utena’s Profound Deconstruction of Shojo Norms

Subverting Conventional Expectations

Over the years, Revolutionary Girl Utena has earned acclaim for its daring reinterpretation of the typical shojo genre. While it may initially present as a conventional magical girl anime, it swiftly unveils deeper complexities. Utena defies the typical girlish hero archetype, presenting a more assertive and warrior-like persona. Unlike other magical girl narratives, her battles are about protecting Anthy, not winning love or glory.

Anthy herself contradicts standard portrayals of female characters, where she embodies manipulation and ambiguity, complicating the narrative depth. Utena critiques social hierarchies tackled within the confines of Ohtori Academy, critically examining the class struggles and power dynamics that dictate the lives of its characters, regardless of gender.

With numerous challenges and threats stemming from individuals who pursue selfish goals, Utena’s journey critiques the patriarchal forces that reduce women to mere objects of male desire, particularly evident in Anthy’s role. Nevertheless, all female characters display a range of flaws, presenting a diverse cast that reflects the complexity of human nature.

For viewers seeking an anime that encourages reflection on societal structures while delivering an engaging narrative, Revolutionary Girl Utena offers a compelling experience. Its surreal storyline and nuanced characterization promise to resonate deeply with those willing to engage with its rich themes.

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