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Tite Kubo’sBleachis unlike any other Shonen anime. This is clear in its storytelling aspects, be it characters or plot. This also ties in well with its unique power system and worldbuilding that adds an edge to the Shinigami world.
From assassination to research, Kubo’s Soul Reapers are a class apart in many aspects. And while they’re cool and stylish, there is a caveat to that as well. They aren’t exempt from the perils of the Spirit Realm except for one division.
Like most shonen series, Kubo’s manga outlined hierarchies and divisions. While some partake in research, others are actively involved in stealth and fighting. The mangaka’s pick for his favorite Divison is rather exempt from the dangers as he revealed.
Interestingly, it fits perfectly with the themes of gore, blood, and violence in the series. And while it seems to tone it down with the disturbing elements, it cannot negate the aspects that make it a shonen masterpiece.
Tite Kubo opens up about his favorite Shinigami Division
Contrary to stereotypical portrayals,Tite Kubogave the Shinigami a bit of edge here and there. The Soul Reapers are as badass as they get in terms of their strength, style, and power. They are rather suave yet menacing in their demeanor.
From swords to combat, the mangaka left no stone unturned in rendering them classy. Be it Urahara or Shunsui, the characters are captivating in their unique sense of appeal. This also ties well with the idea of divisions in the series.
While the 12th Division oversees the research and development, the 11th Division specializes in swordsmanship and combat. Similarly, the divisions perform a diverse range of specialized duties as a part ofthe Gotei 13.
Among all of these though, there is a division that is Kubo’s personal favorite. Surprisingly, it has nothing to do with combat, melee, or swordfighting in any case. Rather, it is the safest one in Seireitei as the mangaka points out.
“She’s just another person in Ichigo’s life”: Tite Kubo Didn’t Commit Any Sin With Tatsuki’s Arc Despite Hate From Bleach Fans
When asked about his favorite division in aninterview, Kubo said:
The fourth [medical], because you don’t get hurt there!
From healing to relief, the Fourth Division often doesn’t get enough credit for its part in the process. And while it partakes in medical assistance and engagement, it is often looked down upon.
Interestingly, Kubo’s comment on safety is a subtle yet impactful reference to the ever-present violence. The series deals with death and loss while underlining the horrifying aspects of gore and blood.
Violence and gorefest inBleach
Bleachisn’t a bog-standard manga, especially with its portrayal of the concept of death. The series encompasses various aspects and elements of the spirit world along with darker undertones. Be it insanity or inner conflict, it all comes together with its impeccable worldbuilding.
Most importantly, the series has been noted for its unsettling aspects. Compared to the Thousand-Year Blood War, the original serieswas much more disturbing. From Aizen’s death to Shinji’s hollowfication, the series was disturbing in more ways than one.
The gore was notched up in theThousand-Year Blood Waranime with the death scenes. But like most shonen series, Bleach was no exception to censorship. Regardless of that, it made its rightful impact on viewers and readers.
To this day, most fans are of the view that theseries is borderline seinen. From its encompassing of mature themes to its portrayal of emotions and society, it is safe to say that it is a masterpiece nonetheless.
“Ichigo’s Zanpakuto is big but there’s nothing in it”: Tite Kubo’s Only Explanation For Ichigo’s Most Confusing Power That Bothers Bleach Fans
By and by,Bleachhas rightfully earned its place as a top-tier shonen series after its long hiatus. With its sequel, it’s gaining momentum and it won’t be long before it tops the charts.
Bleachis available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The manga is available for reading on Shueisha’s Manga Plus app.
Himanshi Jeswani
Anime Writer
Articles Published :993
Himanshi Jeswani is an anime writer at Fandomwire, with her work spanning over 900 articles. Her articles cover shojo, shonen, seinen, and all things beyond. Her interests, however, aren’t limited to simply anime. She has a penchant for exploring different genres of manga, be it horror, yanki, music, and food. She brings out her specialization and expertise in the performing arts through her articles. As a writer, she strives to bridge the gap between the viewers and the medium itself. To her, anime is a revolutionary medium that is capable of creating communities and stories after all.
