The ‘Slice of Life’ genre has made quite a name for itself. While not as popular as something like Shounen, it is still up there. It has seen an increase in popularity in recent years, and it is easy to see why. Here are a few common themes that these show follow:
“Wow! That is relatable!”
Relatability is a powerful tool if used correctly; it works because people can well—relate to a situation shown. It might be something that we have all done as children; it might be a cultural reference; it might even be an inside joke that a large portion of the audience will get. This alone can make the viewer chuckle and think, “Hey I’ve done this before!” and “Oh yeah, that does happen huh?” and so on. It is the reason why many series revolve around school life; people fondly look back on their school experience.
“So, what is so special when it is done in anime?” One may ask. The fun begins when a series takes that relatable memory and turns it on its head. This is usually achieved by doing a complete 180 and subverting the viewer’s expectations. Another method that they might use is an exaggeration:
Grounded, but also Over the top
There might be a drastic change in the art style and color palette—the voices may become comically high-pitched or incredibly deep. They might reference another series whether or not it is from the same studio, copying the poses and/ or dialogue, the genre might even shift entirely to become a fast-paced action scene.
While it may not be as intense as a dedicated action or comedy series, it can get quite heated at times. Petty arguments turn into fights to the death, and minor inconveniences become major setbacks. Small mistakes can traumatize the character for life. Anything can become a life-changing event for one of the characters. However, it remains grounded because, for the most part, the genre is realistic. There is typically now no longer a variety of awareness on magic, myth worlds, etc. This way, the series can keep its relatability.
A precise instance of such collection is Nichijou, which, despite its cutesy-looking artwork style, can adapt a one-of-a-kind genre at any moment. Characters are melodramatic at times, and they tend to overreact. Their simple squabbles can go from a zero to a hundred in the blink of an eye. It is normally portrayed by a sudden change in animation, tone, sound design.
One notable scene shows the characters attempting to break open a pumpkin. The animation and music make it feel like what they are doing is such a grandiose task, and to the characters it probably is. They do an excellent job of providing one of the most important parts of entertainment, atmosphere. The viewer can feel what the characters are feeling at that moment—they know what is currently going through their minds. They are dead-set on breaking that pumpkin.
Overall, slice of life gives that feeling of familiarity but with a twist. It feels at home, but it is fresh too. It may not be for everyone, but it is certainly worth a shot.
Author – Mark Kim
Fatima Antipolo Otaku Society 