Three Empowering Anime to Watch

By Caitlin Jordan

Anime titles to check out during Women’s History Month

Princess Mononoke (1997)

Photo credit: Studio Ghibli

Produced by Studio Ghibli in 1997, Princess Mononoke has received critical acclaim and is a classic anime film. The protagonist, San, isn’t merely a foil for the male lead, but a character in her own right. The women in Princess Mononoke have depth to their personalities and although the villain, Eboshi, is ruthless, she still she cares for people in need.

Pop culture YouTuber, Raheb Jamali says:

“A strong female character isn’t about making them perfect. They can be flawed. A strong character is an understandable character. No one in Princess Mononoke is a hero or a villain. Such things don't exist in the real world either. Everyone has their own motives and reasons for doing what they do, and the movie is perfect in portraying that.”

Yona of the Dawn (2015)

Number of episodes: 24

Photo Credit: Studio Pierrot

Yona of the Dawn exemplifies the archetypal charm of the warrior princess.

The fantasy series begins with Princess Yona living a sheltered life of luxury. Turmoil thrusts Yona into a political dispute and she quickly learns that the world is rampant with poverty and corruption.

The story follows Yona on a coming-of-age adventure to reclaim the throne, facing countless challenges. Alongside her growing capability, her humanity makes her the ideal monarch.

A Place Further Than the Universe (2018)

Number of episodes: 12

Photo credit: Madhouse

The anime follows four girls as they journey to Antarctica, in search of a mother lost during an expedition.

Character relationships is the heart of the anime, as they help one another achieve their seemingly unreachable goals.

It’s refreshing that the girls aren’t sexualised to sell the series. The series highlights how to create a successful, entertaining and educational anime that empowers women.