Love the anime... but not the fans?

[kevinNima]

Have you ever wanted to distance yourself away from the anime fanbase, but still call yourself a fan? Maybe it's out of annoyance from having seen how other fans interact with another, or just not having "socialize with other anime fans" as a critical checklist requirement for being an anime fan.

I know this might seem a tad strange to ask this question here, since this IS a forum for fans who want to discuss anime. But I'm sort of curious to know your thoughts on the subject and if it might apply to any of you in any way.



------
My own thoughts: In general, I've grown fairly tired of all of the elitism and fanboyism that is seemingly prominent among the anime fanbase over the years. I love anime, but I honestly cannot stand being among the bulk of fans that make up the fandom: From purists who will bash anyone who watches a single dub, to the rabid fanboys/fangirls who only want to scream their otaku-ness over the roof (even while 'normal' people don't want to hear about it).

I know other hobbies might carry this same kind of headache among its followers, but in my experience, anime fans seem far more hostile when confronted with heavily divided topics like fansubbing, dubs vs. subs, or disagreements over a particular show. It's good and important to have discussion over these topics and all. But then again, having spent five years lurking various anime boards and seeing anime fans flame each other to the point that the debate has to get personal, well... let's say I've seen enough of that.

So yeah, I try not to associate myself too much with the anime fanbase too much anymore. Maybe outside of the Internet, I'll still meet a down-to-Earth fan and have some chit-chat about shows that we like. But to sign up for a local anime club? Go to a convention? Probably not.

I'm actually more comfortable being an anime fan among people who aren't all that crazy about anime. :sweat:

[something]

Welcome to the AOD casual movement.

Anime should be about liking... anime! It should be about watching and enjoying shows, and discussing said shows with other people. Because, after all, "anime is too important to be an asshole about it" *

Anime shouldn't be about virulently and ignorantly bashing other fans or the sort of anime they like. Sadly, some people fail at self control and respect for others. There's a perfect example of this going on in R1 right now. Alas.

I find it far more interesting to talk to someone about why I like Clannad or Code Geass or Aria or Soul Eater than to waste time spewing hate about other shows or genres or fans. People who rage against "moe" or "mecha" or "shounen jump" instead of talking about why they like what they like are... a bit pathetic, honestly. They've forgotten that anime is a form of entertainment, and hate is not entertaining, except to trolls.

So yeah, I've felt disgusted with anime fandom more than a few times. But that's why I'm glad we have a really good core group of posters here in General Anime who are able to discuss a variety of shows with interesting, amusing, maybe insightful comments. It's definitely the best "niche" on AOD, though I won't name names for fear of leaving people out... you all know who you are though!

Find people who like anime, and respect each other, and you've found the fandom you need, the fandom that works for you. The ones more interested in hating than having fun? More interested in being a worse enemy to anime fandom than any external force? Psh, fuck em. They aren't "fans" if you ask me.


* Shamelessly stolen from The Great Bear.

[Lego]

I've gone through this phase multiple times. While I'm no prize fandom wise, I do find myself distancing myself from people who make it a point to sit down in the manga isle and read a book only to put it back. Something mentally sets up warning signs with cosplayers not at specific events or conventions(ie. Naruto headband in public).

But thats where my "elitism" ends really. I've been around too many people where they make it a point to use something like Onegai Teacher and will actually scold you if you say Please Teacher(you get the picture). I usually brush off the whole "this show sucks", "this show is shit" comments from places since most of the time the person hasn't seen the show and is just spewing mindless garbage as something eluded to.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

Well for me there are times that anime fans embarrasses me. A prime example is the guy that used his high school graduation speech and compared his fellow grads to Pokemon. You can probably find the video of it on Youtube. However anime fans are not that different from Star Wars . Harry Potter , Star Trek etc.. However I do get upset when people loop all of us together as liking the same shows. Like "oh you watch stuff like Pokemon or Dragon Ball" etc...
So yeah some anime fans do get under my skin and thats why my Otakuness only goes as far as collecting DVDs and manga. I could go to a convention but I would NEVER cosplay unless paid a ton in advance. I'm talking six figures. I have a co-worker and we both love anime but have normal coherent discussions and debates at times but unless you look at my DVD collection or my bookshelf you'd never guess I'm an anime fan. So yeah a lot of anime fan boys/girls are obsessed with it and only it and thats what bugs me about those fans. But me I can talk just as passionately about the NFL.

[dragonrider_cody]

I think most of us have been in this position before. It seems to most prominent for me after I attend an anime movie screening or a con. I often come away thinking "What's wrong with people?" (At the recent Bleach and Death Note movies, I just came away completely embarrassed for myself and anime fans in general...)

I often see people on here and other forums bashing a show, a particular genre, or one of the anime companies. It really gets on my nerves at times, because you don't like something, doesn't mean you have to bash those that do. I often get embarrased by the people out there that you see walking around in WalMart in cosplay, or wearing a Naruto head bad to school, but I'm not going to insult them for it. There's enough negativity and hatred in the world without projecting it towards something trivial like a DVD or TV show, or the people who like them. And there are several people out there who need to realize that there is like outside anime.

And stuff like this is pretty common in other realms of fandom too. I"m a big Star Trek fan as well, and have been caught in the middle of some really stupid arguments. And the whole time all I can think is "It's just a show, get over it."

[Lego]

I think most of us have been in this position before. It seems to most prominent for me after I attend an anime movie screening or a con. I often come away thinking "What's wrong with people?" (At the recent Bleach and Death Note movies, I just came away completely embarrassed for myself and anime fans in general...)

I often see people on here and other forums bashing a show, a particular genre, or one of the anime companies. It really gets on my nerves at times, because you don't like something, doesn't mean you have to bash those that do. I often get embarrased by the people out there that you see walking around in WalMart in cosplay, or wearing a Naruto head bad to school, but I'm not going to insult them for it. There's enough negativity and hatred in the world without projecting it towards something trivial like a DVD or TV show, or the people who like them. And there are several people out there who need to realize that there is like outside anime.

And stuff like this is pretty common in other realms of fandom too. I"m a big Star Trek fan as well, and have been caught in the middle of some really stupid arguments. And the whole time all I can think is "It's just a show, get over it."

While I agree that blind bashing things gets old quickly, if there is an issue with say a specific R1 release or if a company has something that a large majority agree should be fixed, bringing it to attention is fine with me.

[Suwako Moriya]

There will always be frustrating elements in fandom. People who enjoy hating stuff. People who show they have no idea what they're talking about based on posts make. People who attack others for daring to have free will. So on and so forth. Such people don't deserve to be called fans if you ask me. Better to interact with reasonable fans instead.

Note reasonable does not mean the person has to have the same opinion as you or I. It can be different. Reasonable refers to how they present their views. I've learned even if I agree in the sense that "I also like the show" or "I also dislike it", I can still find the person's view inane.

[The Great Bear]

I think my sig says all I need to say ;)
[And somebody brought out the hidden message:P]

I definitely know where you're coming from. I like watching anime. I like discussing it with reasonable people who have different perspectives.

But I have gotten thoroughly sick and tired of the "fandom." It's come to the point where I really have no time for it, and for certain types of fans. The purists. The sub/dub warriors. The "all anime that I don't like is crap" brigade.

I really have no time for them anymore.

So, I'm just going to be casual.

[Serial Experiments Nobue]

But I have gotten thoroughly sick and tired of the "fandom." It's come to the point where I really have no time for it, and for certain types of fans. The purists. The sub/dub warriors. The "all anime that I don't like is crap" brigade.

I really have no time for them anymore.

So, I'm just going to be casual.

That's about how it goes for me too. Enjoy the anime, without having to worry about any overhead of some irrational need to be accepted into any faction of so-called "fandom". Casual is the way to go.

[dragonrider_cody]

I think most of us have been in this position before. It seems to most prominent for me after I attend an anime movie screening or a con. I often come away thinking "What's wrong with people?" (At the recent Bleach and Death Note movies, I just came away completely embarrassed for myself and anime fans in general...)

I often see people on here and other forums bashing a show, a particular genre, or one of the anime companies. It really gets on my nerves at times, because you don't like something, doesn't mean you have to bash those that do. I often get embarrased by the people out there that you see walking around in WalMart in cosplay, or wearing a Naruto head bad to school, but I'm not going to insult them for it. There's enough negativity and hatred in the world without projecting it towards something trivial like a DVD or TV show, or the people who like them. And there are several people out there who need to realize that there is like outside anime.

And stuff like this is pretty common in other realms of fandom too. I"m a big Star Trek fan as well, and have been caught in the middle of some really stupid arguments. And the whole time all I can think is "It's just a show, get over it."

While I agree that blind bashing things gets old quickly, if there is an issue with say a specific R1 release or if a company has something that a large majority agree should be fixed, bringing it to attention is fine with me.

I do agree with that. If you believe ADV made a mistake with a release or the way they packaged something, it's fine to say so. But I hate when people start going way over board, calling people names and swaring, or saying they want them to go out of business. I think you can express displeasure without making an ass of yourself...

[Chuplayer]

I posted my story about trying to find the first Cardcaptor Sakura DVD "book" set a few years ago, but what I saw that day really embarrassed me. It was embarrassing enough to buy something so blatantly for girls in real life, but when I saw these few anime weirdos taking pictures of themselves in front of the anime section while wearing these weird hat things probably themed after some anime I've never heard of, I veered away from the entire section until they left. I really, really did not want to deal with anything they possibly could have asked me if they tried being *ahem* friendly. If I had to say "I'm looking for Cardcaptor Sakura," I would've died.

And then a couple months later my cousin who I hadn't seen in 15 years and who just happens to be more into anime than me came to visit, and when she gravitated toward my anime shelf, I silently said "oh shit, she's going to out me." Turns out, she was really cool about it, and we got along really well. I like her, though I haven't talked to her since that day. My inability to maintain long distance relationships of any type is to blame. (I literally took 1.5 years to send her an email. It bounced, and I haven't tried communicating with her since.)

I was a lot more private about my anime fandom back then, but I've only progressed as far as not being ashamed about watching or reading stuff for girls or the unique stuff from Japan that's for guys but in America would be misconstrued as being for girls. I'm not outgoing about it, but if the issue is raised, I don't hide the fact that I like romance stuff or stuff with yuri as well as action shows like Gundam and DBZ. I guess I have my cousin to thank for that. I've really felt more comfortable about the hobby since then.

[dragoon]

I don't know about glorifying the term casual. (Yes I saw the recent discussion that started this. LOL).

I think most of us have been in this position before. It seems to most prominent for me after I attend an anime movie screening or a con. I often come away thinking "What's wrong with people?" (At the recent Bleach and Death Note movies, I just came away completely embarrassed for myself and anime fans in general...)

I often see people on here and other forums bashing a show, a particular genre, or one of the anime companies. It really gets on my nerves at times, because you don't like something, doesn't mean you have to bash those that do. I often get embarrased by the people out there that you see walking around in WalMart in cosplay, or wearing a Naruto head bad to school, but I'm not going to insult them for it. There's enough negativity and hatred in the world without projecting it towards something trivial like a DVD or TV show, or the people who like them. And there are several people out there who need to realize that there is like outside anime.

And stuff like this is pretty common in other realms of fandom too. I"m a big Star Trek fan as well, and have been caught in the middle of some really stupid arguments. And the whole time all I can think is "It's just a show, get over it."

While I agree that blind bashing things gets old quickly, if there is an issue with say a specific R1 release or if a company has something that a large majority agree should be fixed, bringing it to attention is fine with me.

I do agree with that. If you believe ADV made a mistake with a release or the way they packaged something, it's fine to say so. But I hate when people start going way over board, calling people names and swaring, or saying they want them to go out of business. I think you can express displeasure without making an ass of yourself...

Speaking of that, the funny (in an annoying way) thing about it is I've noticed a lot of fans get all upset for years when a R1 company does a little thing they don't like and they never forgive them for it. Some people, especially hardcore just like to hate on something all day and night I guess.

[Critic Chris]

Yeah, I'm definitely in the "casual" camp. For one thing, while it can be a lot of fun to rip a horrible anime into shreds, it's equally fun to have intelligent discussions on shows that don't suck. And don't get me started on the elitism and hate-for-hate's-sake; it's gotten to the point where I just find it tiresome. Thankfully, I've now found two sites (this place and an awesome site called ToonZone) with plenty of intelligent, broad-minded members to discuss all things anime with.

[Sorrow's Companion]

I feel the same most times. Especially when I'm talking about an anime and I call it Robotech instead of Macross. What I grew up with was Robotech, Starblazers, and G-Force. Even though I'm now more educated about there origins and the proper names, I still refer to them by the names I remember from my childhood. Yet snobs will always try and correct me like I don't know what I'm talking about. I can understand being passionate about anime, I'm that way myself. But anime fans have become very arrogant and elitist. I can just look at two of my favorite shows, Code Geass and Naruto, to see how sickening the fans can get. I love the shows, but for the most part, I hate the fans.

[JackC]

Have you ever wanted to distance yourself away from the anime fanbase, but still call yourself a fan? Maybe it's out of annoyance from having seen how other fans interact with another, or just not having "socialize with other anime fans" as a critical checklist requirement for being an anime fan.

I know this might seem a tad strange to ask this question here, since this IS a forum for fans who want to discuss anime. But I'm sort of curious to know your thoughts on the subject and if it might apply to any of you in any way.



------
My own thoughts: In general, I've grown fairly tired of all of the elitism and fanboyism that is seemingly prominent among the anime fanbase over the years. I love anime, but I honestly cannot stand being among the bulk of fans that make up the fandom: From purists who will bash anyone who watches a single dub, to the rabid fanboys/fangirls who only want to scream their otaku-ness over the roof (even while 'normal' people don't want to hear about it).

I know other hobbies might carry this same kind of headache among its followers, but in my experience, anime fans seem far more hostile when confronted with heavily divided topics like fansubbing, dubs vs. subs, or disagreements over a particular show. It's good and important to have discussion over these topics and all. But then again, having spent five years lurking various anime boards and seeing anime fans flame each other to the point that the debate has to get personal, well... let's say I've seen enough of that.

So yeah, I try not to associate myself too much with the anime fanbase too much anymore. Maybe outside of the Internet, I'll still meet a down-to-Earth fan and have some chit-chat about shows that we like. But to sign up for a local anime club? Go to a convention? Probably not.

I'm actually more comfortable being an anime fan among people who aren't all that crazy about anime. :sweat:

I would call myself some what of a casual fan, I do go to conventions and cosplay but I don't really like what I call the "People who take things way too seriously" Yes I'm talking about you Random Yaoi Fangirl #584. Seriously, stop bastardizing male characters from my shows and reducing them to hunks of meat.

You want to know how bad I feel for Vic Mignogna and Quinton Flynn. I mean Vic has made it clear that Ed likes girls many many many times. But the crap that goes on in Quinton Flynn's panels is unbelievable, Almost 85% of the questions deal with some idiotic questions about Roxas/Axel getting it on or suggesting something to that effect. I'm sorry for getting preachy here but I'd like to ask interesting questions to him (I do generally) like how did you like working on Metal Gear Solid 4, what's your opinion of Raiden as a character.

So yes I kind of object to this kind of crap.

[relentlessflame]

I find it far more interesting to talk to someone about why I like Clannad or Code Geass or Aria or Soul Eater than to waste time spewing hate about other shows or genres or fans. People who rage against "moe" or "mecha" or "shounen jump" instead of talking about why they like what they like are... a bit pathetic, honestly. They've forgotten that anime is a form of entertainment, and hate is not entertaining, except to trolls.I've had people argue with me, quite vehemently I might add, when I've tried to suggest that "hate posts" (posts that advertise/draw attention to negative opinions in the hope of stirring up a debate or argument) are really no different than trolling. The basis of their empassioned disagreement (and I've had otherwise reasonable people get into real fits with me about this) basically comes down to criticism being some form of "protected speech" and that people should be allowed to say whatever they want without being ostracized, so long as it isn't a personal attack. That "these aren't anime appreciation forums".

Okay, fine.

But do I really care that you (the fictional "you") hated said show/genre for whatever reasons you consider "objective" and just had to let me know that, apparently, my tastes in anime suck? Especially since "you" probably won't listen to reason anyway when I try to explain that the "flaws" you talk about are actually probably justified for a number of logical in-story, in-character reasons, or really aren't "objective" at all. Clearly, some people think that they're so damn important that everyone should eagerly await their pronouncements on which anime are "good" and which are "bad", so that we can all be blessed by the presentation of their seasoned, experienced, well-considered point of view. Or that it is just so important that their negative opinion is voiced in order to preserve the great cosmic balance of opinion. Lest someone mistakenly believe for a second that a show or genre could be an unmitigated, unquestioned success because -- oh no! -- we might get even more of it, causing more people (other than one's self) to be happy... and what a tragedy that would be! I'm unhappy and The World Must Know And Accept This Truth. And presumably do something about it too. Or Else!

Or we could just finally realize that entertainment is an inherently personal, subjective experience, and is as subject to nature and nurture as anything else in life. There is no objective truth about fictional reality. And that rather than wallowing in self-pity when things aren't the way we like it, we should be genuinely happy for those who enjoy it, respect that their personal perspective is in every way as legitimate as our own, and focus on the things we do enjoy. After all, this isn't about us, it's about anime. Anime is meant to be enjoyed.

Also, I don't think it really has anything to do with "casual" vs. "hardcore" either, though I do understand where that distinction comes from. This is about simply enjoying anime. Some people don't actually enjoy anime anymore; they enjoy the memory of the feeling they had when anime was new, exciting, and fresh to them. That feeling is since gone, and they spend their "fandom" in search of ways to recreating that initial experience. Anime's changed, they've changed, and it may be time to move on. Truly enjoying anime means that that same sense of wonder, curiosity, and excitement is there, at least in some way, with every single show you watch. That every show you watch, in some way, ignites your passion and creativity -- that it's a joy to watch. That isn't to say that you'll necessarily watch every show and enjoy them all, but every show you do watch is a joy in some way. And when you do truly enjoy something, you can't help but talk about it, because you have to let it out! In that sort of mindset, it's not about pride, arrogance, or "being right", it's simply about the love of anime. Now, that's the sort of anime fan "community" I'd like to be a part of.

I always find it ironic that a group who is stereotypically considered at best counterculture, and at worst ostracized outcasts, is so quick to turn against its own, divide into camps, and cause disagreements. I guess everyone wants to be King of the Playground for a time, and only the venue has changed. Perhaps it's simply human nature to shun those who are different, and not recognize all the ways in which you're similar. But in any case, I have to agree with you, the OP, and most of the others in this thread who've pointed out that, more often than not, the most annoying thing about being an anime fan is the other anime fans. At least I don't think it's hampered my personal enjoyment of anime all that much because, after all, it's not about them, it's about the anime. And the anime, I have to say, remains quite good. :)

(And yes </rant> -- sorry... :sd: )

[Natsume_Maya]

I know this might seem a tad strange to ask this question here, since this IS a forum for fans who want to discuss anime.

I understand where you're coming from, but yeah, I think it's kinda strange posting to a fan discussion board about how you don't like to interact with fans - unless you're a troll :P

My own thoughts: In general, I've grown fairly tired of all of the elitism and fanboyism that is seemingly prominent among the anime fanbase over the years.

I don't have a problem with elitism/fanboy(girl)ism in the sense of a hardcore that leads discussion. (As opposed to elitism that feels that it's better than the rest, and looks down on fans who are different). I think the former type of elitism has a part to play in the industry, for example in demanding a certain level of quality of product (eg no flaky adaptions, no censorship). Sometimes it may seem that fans get picky about minor things which the non-hardcore wouldn't care about, but it can still be to the benefit of all.

I love anime, but I honestly cannot stand being among the bulk of fans that make up the fandom: From purists who will bash anyone who watches a single dub, to the rabid fanboys/fangirls who only want to scream their otaku-ness over the roof (even while 'normal' people don't want to hear about it).

Personally, I don't really socialise much with anime/manga fans in real life. It's just not my nature. And there are those who can be scary in their fandom. I don't hate them, but I'm not interested in getting to know them better :P

Even on the internet, you don't often see me taking part in discussions about anime (and when you do, it's more about factual stuff, rather than my thoughts and feelings), and almost never about stuff like "which male/female character would you like marry?" etc.

In a sense, I don't get involved with fans enough to hate any of them. And ultimately, my anime/manga fandom is a hobby. I spend some of my free time on it. I can't be bothered spending my free time to get upset. If I did, I'd just leave.

I know other hobbies might carry this same kind of headache among its followers, but in my experience, anime fans seem far more hostile when confronted with heavily divided topics like fansubbing, dubs vs. subs, or disagreements over a particular show.

I think that's because few other hobbies have such controversial topics as fansubbing (issues of legality and support of an non-mainstream industry trying to grow) or dub vs sub (a hobby imported from another culture - Star Trek is already in English). I don't know about disagreements over a particular show - as I mentioned, I don't normally get involved in discussions about shows :P

But to sign up for a local anime club? Go to a convention? Probably not.

I'm a member of a local club. But I don't really socialise with anyone there. I just go to support to club. I also go to the local convention. But even then, I try to do something different to support fandom - if I was just going to be a normal attendee, it wouldn't be interesting enough to me to go.

I'm actually more comfortable being an anime fan among people who aren't all that crazy about anime. :sweat:

I think that applies to a lot of life, but just anime/manga fandom, or just other hobbies. Whenever you're the less extreme among people with, say, extreme political views, or extreme religious views, you're always going to feel uncomfortable. It's always easier to get on with people who are no more extreme/fan-nish than you.

[Steve_the_Talking_Pie]

No offense to some, however I would consider many people on this board more than causal fans. After all how many times on this site do you hear "I already own this set, but I like the new box....I might double dip", or "This series does not contain <insert extra/translation/slight edit/whatever> therefore I won't buy it", or still "I saw <insert ebay sellers name here> selling boots, I promptly wrote a letter to ADV with links etc.". I kid, however these tend to steer some here including myself into the more than causal fan. I for one am guilty of having an extensive anime DVD collection (currently 900+ strong as of this writing), including many DVDs in my "backlog". Remember, I kid because I love.

That being said, I know what people are getting at. I for one, have trouble relating myself to many anime fans, simply because they are awkward. No offense to those that are, but openly being extrmely foward about your fandom simply to be different is not cool. It actually just gets rather annoying. For those that do thats fine for them, but it puts a damper on the hobby for the rest of us. After all, I usually like people to know me a while before telling them I like anime for this very reason.

As some might have noticed in other forums, I am a huge Boston Celtics fan. I have been for 15 years now (a little longer than I have been an anime fan) and will continue to be one. That being said, I refrain from hitting the general public over the head with my fandom even though I live in Boston (championship celebration was an extreme exception). I prefer to let me be myself, and not have my hobby dictate my personality/how I conduct myself.

Am I personally ashamed to be an anime fan? No, in fact just the opposite. I stand by it. I have happily sat with people and showed some of my DVD collection to them (roomates - cowboy beboy, girlfriend -maison ikkoku) when they express interest to see it. People in my classes know, my roommates know, people in my fraternity know, and people on the rugby team do as well.

In the end, I don't enjoy being associated and judged based on others personalities. I would rather have people get to know me before making such decisions.

[kevinNima]

I feel the same most times. Especially when I'm talking about an anime and I call it Robotech instead of Macross. What I grew up with was Robotech, Starblazers, and G-Force. Even though I'm now more educated about there origins and the proper names, I still refer to them by the names I remember from my childhood. Yet snobs will always try and correct me like I don't know what I'm talking about. I can understand being passionate about anime, I'm that way myself. But anime fans have become very arrogant and elitist. I can just look at two of my favorite shows, Code Geass and Naruto, to see how sickening the fans can get. I love the shows, but for the most part, I hate the fans.
I think there is a big difference between being passionate about something and just taking things way too seriously. It makes me feel a little sorry for some of the newbies who join such communities and, without understanding how most of these anime snobs think, find themselves easy targets for ridicule. Maybe it's because of anime's inherent nicheness that it has to harbor so many people being rude or holding themselves "higher" to other fans, and it's frustrating sometimes when I read into an anime-related discussion or a blog, only to find people ranting about certain things that might puzzle or upset more casual fans.

I understand where you're coming from, but yeah, I think it's kinda strange posting to a fan discussion board about how you don't like to interact with fans - unless you're a troll
Nope, it's a serious question that needed some kind of disclaimer put in for the opener. :)

I think that applies to a lot of life, but just anime/manga fandom, or just other hobbies. Whenever you're the less extreme among people with, say, extreme political views, or extreme religious views, you're always going to feel uncomfortable. It's always easier to get on with people who are no more extreme/fan-nish than you.
I suppose so. When I first started lurking through the anime communities on the net, I was a little shocked to find people who had so much more dedication to anime than I thought was possible. Perhaps my reaction is merely in response of trying to not reaching that level of anime geek-ness that shocked me when I first encountered it?

Of course it's hard to find people off the Internet who are on the same level of "fan" that I am, unless you can count people who only watch anime whenever it's on TV.

Or we could just finally realize that entertainment is an inherently personal, subjective experience, and is as subject to nature and nurture as anything else in life. There is no objective truth about fictional reality. And that rather than wallowing in self-pity when things aren't the way we like it, we should be genuinely happy for those who enjoy it, respect that their personal perspective is in every way as legitimate as our own, and focus on the things we do enjoy. After all, this isn't about us, it's about anime. Anime is meant to be enjoyed.
Good point. I guess one reason why someone (myself included) would like to dis-associate themselves from the fanbase is that some of the bickering robs a person from that subjective experience. When people have to think about some of the mud-slinging that goes around in some communities, one would need to get away from it in order to make the anime-watching much more pleasant and personal.

[Rolancehack]

I posted my story about trying to find the first Cardcaptor Sakura DVD "book" set a few years ago, but what I saw that day really embarrassed me. It was embarrassing enough to buy something so blatantly for girls in real life, but when I saw these few anime weirdos taking pictures of themselves in front of the anime section while wearing these weird hat things probably themed after some anime I've never heard of, I veered away from the entire section until they left. I really, really did not want to deal with anything they possibly could have asked me if they tried being *ahem* friendly. If I had to say "I'm looking for Cardcaptor Sakura," I would've died.

I'm glad that I'm sane enough to retain the desires I have towards the fans that act like that (or at least the ones that sit down in the isle and read the books I'm PAYING for, dear god move you lazy bastard a customer wants through), otherwise Borders would have had to clean the blood off of the manga/Graphic Novels section a few times.

I have to say that the fandom has turned me off of a few series I enjoy. Not so much that they influence my opinion of the work (as I still like things like Star Wars 4-6), but just the revulsion I get from realizing what I'll be associated with things like that.

A large part of a hobby nowadays are the people with it, and having a fandom like the Star Wars geeks, Trekkies, and (I'll say it) cosplayers, that does nothing but urinate on the public opinion of what you like, makes it hard to like what you like.

[BonifaceVIII]

It's only natural to be a bit embarrassed to know you like to watch shows that are either made for 12-year-old Japanese girls, or bored college students who need something to watch between bong hits.

Being an anime fan should not have any effect on your personality. It's just the kind of stuff you like to watch, as opposed to wacky Russian art films or German pornography.

[RayeKinezono]

I've been around too many people where they make it a point to use something like Onegai Teacher and will actually scold you if you say Please Teacher(you get the picture).

I've always wondered about those types of people. I don't get it. If they want to have you use the "official Japanese name," wouldn't they be telling you to call it Onegai Sensei or something like that?

Their logic eludes me, and getting into a debate with one of them always gives me a headache, so I try, at best, to avoid people like that if I can.

And conventions? No thanks, I'd rather just buy my anime/manga/figures/whatnot from an online or physical B&M store than go to a convention where I'm bound to run into people like that.

And as I'm a casual Star Trek fan, I've avoided those too, because while I like the show, I don't want to spend three days on the "complex" subject of the process of mixing matter and antimatter. I get it. They react violently and the controlled reactions allow the ship to travel through space. I don't want to spend hours crunching numbers to see how efficiently it can do it, or how it does it above warp 10, thank you.

Truly enjoying anime means that that same sense of wonder, curiosity, and excitement is there, at least in some way, with every single show you watch.

And in some of the better cases, even every time you rewatch a given show. This is how I approach any given series that I'm interested (any series that watch, actually).

I may show my appreciation for the entertainment that is anime by wearing some anime related shirt (the Lucky Star uniform shirt is a recent example), just as I show my appreciation for Star Trek by wearing the "communicator" emblem on my hat. A wordless, but effective way of telling thw world of what I am, without being overly zealous or obsessive and obnoxious about it.

So yeah, I think I'm rather tired of the people (albeit few, but just enough) I've run across like that.

[Natsume_Maya]

I've been around too many people where they make it a point to use something like Onegai Teacher and will actually scold you if you say Please Teacher(you get the picture).

I've always wondered about those types of people. I don't get it. If they want to have you use the "official Japanese name," wouldn't they be telling you to call it Onegai Sensei or something like that?

Oh My Goddess, you don't know?! The official Japanese name is Onegai Teacher, not Onegai Sensei. Clearly you can't be a True Anime Fan then.

But do I really care that you (the fictional "you") hated said show/genre for whatever reasons you consider "objective" and just had to let me know that, apparently, my tastes in anime suck?

I don't really understand this. Why do you care that someone else says your taste in anime sucks? You know it's not true. Is that person's opinion important to you? If not, why does is it matter? Maybe I've just got a thick skin. Maybe I just don't care enough about other people :)
(Edit: I know you're saying that you don't care, but then again, it seems to affect you enough to rant about it.)

One thing I find a bit strange on this thread is that some people are saying they're casual fans, then saying they don't like this or that type of fan. Does it really matter how other people express their interest for anime/manga? I just think live and let live. If people want to be extreme, embarrassing, etc that's up to them. I may not want to mix with them, 'cos that's not my interest, but I don't hate them. (I can understand Jack's example if they take up all question time at a panel etc).

Then again I've never met the type of people mentioned on this thread who'd scold you on terminology :P

[GundamWingMan]

I could care less about the fanbase of shows I watch. In my mind, to each their own. Nothing more, nothing less.

[something]

No offense to some, however I would consider many people on this board more than causal fans.
Different meaning of "casual". It started as an in-joke after a particularly amusing and ridiculous troll started using the word. Some of us coopted it and turned it around to where "casual" simply means sitting back and enjoying as much anime as possible, as opposed to being an asshole about it and spending all your time bitching about what other people like.

[Jim Leverton]

It's only natural to be a bit embarrassed to know you like to watch shows that are either made for 12-year-old Japanese girls, or bored college students who need something to watch between bong hits.

Being an anime fan should not have any effect on your personality. It's just the kind of stuff you like to watch, as opposed to wacky Russian art films or German pornography.

I read this and spit my coffee all over the computer screen!!! I could NOT stop laughing.
AMEN amigo!! (or should I say "your Eminence")

I own my own business (electrical contracting) and I"m old enough to decide for myself what's good for me.

I've got a Carhart jacket with "LastExile" silkscreend on the back. I don't give a Horses rear what others like....I'm the one that pays for what I want to watch.

[Speedy Boris]

I've grown increasingly tired with not only the anime "fans" but animation fans in general. Everyone's separated into these little cliques which are set up to attack shows and/or fans of shows which they hate instead of trying to find similarities and celebrate that we all have a similar hobby. I'd like to think of myself as fairly thick-skinned, but the amount of times I've seen some of my favorites rudely bashed is just draining.

[mike.motaku]

Fans of anything usually give me a rash, for any of a number of reasons. Some, only a sad shake of the head as I mourn for the future of the human race. It's enough for me that I like something. I don't need the validation of others to know what I like. Who's with me?

[something]

I don't really understand this. Why do you care that someone else says your taste in anime sucks? You know it's not true. Is that person's opinion important to you? If not, why does is it matter? Maybe I've just got a thick skin. Maybe I just don't care enough about other people :)
Mmm, it's a bit different than that, I think, or at least not so simple. When you're trying to have a conversation and someone is raging on and spewing bile, it's going to be somewhat distracting. Even if you ignore the posts, someone else may respond, and the conversation goes off in that direction. Posts get made on that issue instead, and the conversation can unravel. Thankfully this rarely happens in the GA series discussion threads, which is why they're the best threads on AOD.

The only way would be for every single person on the forums to ignore the person simultaneously, which just isn't going to happen. If you can get the poster in question to realize that their attitude is helping no one, then that's a great service - unfortunately it's rare that occurs, though I have seen it happen.

So it does have a tangible negative effect. I don't really care if someone hates and thinks I'm a pedophile for liking Kanon, or hates someone else and thinks they're a retarded 12 year old for liking One Piece, but I do take exception with the sort of disrespectful "fandom civil war" attitude that breeds such ignorance. It's not just about whether they think my taste sucks, but whether they're disrespecting fans in general. I am no more accepting of people being dicks about something I dislike than about something I like. (Granted, I like almost everything.)

It's just not acceptable behavior, and too many people have yet to learn that. They're incapable of having a different opinion without either 1) keeping it to themselves if it's not relevant or 2) expressing it in a civil and intelligent way. Such trolls are all over the internet, and AOD is sadly no exception.

[Lego]

No offense to some, however I would consider many people on this board more than causal fans.
Different meaning of "casual". It started as an in-joke after a particularly amusing and ridiculous troll started using the word. Some of us coopted it and turned it around to where "casual" simply means sitting back and enjoying as much anime as possible, as opposed to being an asshole about it and spending all your time bitching about what other people like.

Well if I had to compare myself and some of the better known users on AOD to "Joe Adult Swim" I'd consider us more then "average". Still it falls into the same BS you get when you talk about "hardcore gamers" and "casual gamers". There are so many subtle little things that it isn't worth arguing about. Anymore with airing shows they dissolve into fan service talk and memes.

[something]

Anymore with airing shows they dissolve into fan service talk and memes.
Who are 'they' in that sentence? And anyway, I don't see much wrong with that, so long as serious conversation can be held as well. I much prefer people be silly but actually have fun rather than be stick in the mud overserious and bitter and trash everything. Nothing wrong with fangasming as long as you don't try to shout down anyone who wants to talk about other things.

[Citizen Klaus]

I've been involved with enough fandoms to know that "elitism and fanboyism" are hardly unique to the anime world.

What's really embarrassing to watch is when you see 50-year-olds at Digital Photography Review waging the eternal Canon v. Nikon war with a zeal that would do GameFAQs proud.

[Steve_the_Talking_Pie]

No offense to some, however I would consider many people on this board more than causal fans.
Different meaning of "casual". It started as an in-joke after a particularly amusing and ridiculous troll started using the word. Some of us coopted it and turned it around to where "casual" simply means sitting back and enjoying as much anime as possible, as opposed to being an asshole about it and spending all your time bitching about what other people like.

Well if I had to compare myself and some of the better known users on AOD to "Joe Adult Swim" I'd consider us more then "average". Still it falls into the same BS you get when you talk about "hardcore gamers" and "casual gamers". There are so many subtle little things that it isn't worth arguing about. Anymore with airing shows they dissolve into fan service talk and memes.

Good to know its origins. I don't want to argue. More of just a funny thing noticed. Agreed, sitting back and enjoying anime is so much easier than caring.

[Lego]

Anymore with airing shows they dissolve into fan service talk and memes.
Who are 'they' in that sentence? And anyway, I don't see much wrong with that, so long as serious conversation can be held as well. I much prefer people be silly but actually have fun rather than be stick in the mud overserious and bitter and trash everything. Nothing wrong with fangasming as long as you don't try to shout down anyone who wants to talk about other things.

I meant "they" as in shows themselves(which is one of the reasons why I'm thankful for AOD), not "they" as in people. Perhaps a little unclear but I thought that they right behind shows gave off that impression.

[something]

I meant "they" as in shows themselves(which is one of the reasons why I'm thankful for AOD), not "they" as in people. Perhaps a little unclear but I thought that they right behind shows gave off that impression.
Ah, now that you say it I see it clearly. I thought you meant the people discussing airing shows devolved into [etc]. My bad.

[Suwako Moriya]

What's really embarrassing to watch is when you see 50-year-olds at Digital Photography Review waging the eternal Canon v. Nikon war with a zeal that would do GameFAQs proud.

...... Okay that proves it. It's not the product that people are fans of. It's "arguing with others" that they actually enjoy.

[Njr Scrawl]

Animes like Ranma, Dragonball & Bleach I like, but not the fans (I've met) of those shows. I'm my own 1-person exclusive secret fan club, with my own secret rituals, practices etc. :bowsmiley: :devil: :catgirl: :beatingheart:

[kevinNima]

What's really embarrassing to watch is when you see 50-year-olds at Digital Photography Review waging the eternal Canon v. Nikon war with a zeal that would do GameFAQs proud.

...... Okay that proves it. It's not the product that people are fans of. It's "arguing with others" that they actually enjoy.
Hmm. I wonder if age of a fan has a lot to do with what we're talking about here?

This place (Aod) seems like a much more polite anime community than most boards, unlike some online boards that have members that are in their teens. And then I noticed that there more people here who are over the age of twenty.

Granted that adult fans can be jerks as well, but perhaps more of the bad apples that we are talking are from the teenage fanbase?

[JINROH]

The division between anime fans is to me nothing special.I have seen the same thing over the years,with Intel versus AMD fans,or ATI versus Nvidia.The many car sites,and a long list of other hobbie related topics,etc.

I post on Head-Fi and AudioGon,a lot,and the elitism and back stabbing,the arguments and sniping and yelling and screaming,and trolling is the same everywhere.PS3 or Xbrick fans,its all the same.Try Rage3D or HardOCP or Toms,or any gaming site,or AVSForums....

Different topic,different URL,different hobby,exact same fanaticism is shown.

[Jim Leverton]

The division between anime fans is to me nothing special.I have seen the same thing over the years,with Intel versus AMD fans,or ATI versus Nvidia.The many car sites,and a long list of other hobbie related topics,etc.

I post on Head-Fi and AudioGon,a lot,and the elitism and back stabbing,the arguments and sniping and yelling and screaming,and trolling is the same everywhere.PS3 or Xbrick fans,its all the same.Try Rage3D or HardOCP or Toms,or any gaming site,or AVSForums....

Different topic,different URL,different hobby,exact same fanaticism is shown.

You are correct. Absolutley 100% correct.

[JINROH]

The division between anime fans is to me nothing special.I have seen the same thing over the years,with Intel versus AMD fans,or ATI versus Nvidia.The many car sites,and a long list of other hobbie related topics,etc.

I post on Head-Fi and AudioGon,a lot,and the elitism and back stabbing,the arguments and sniping and yelling and screaming,and trolling is the same everywhere.PS3 or Xbrick fans,its all the same.Try Rage3D or HardOCP or Toms,or any gaming site,or AVSForums....

Different topic,different URL,different hobby,exact same fanaticism is shown.

You are correct. Absolutley 100% correct.


I wish I was not.I am embarrassed to admit I took part in such behavior many years back. :blush: When I was much younger.Now I just live and let live as much as possible. :)

[Jim Leverton]

What's really embarrassing to watch is when you see 50-year-olds at Digital Photography Review waging the eternal Canon v. Nikon war with a zeal that would do GameFAQs proud.

...... Okay that proves it. It's not the product that people are fans of. It's "arguing with others" that they actually enjoy.

Granted that adult fans can be jerks as well, but perhaps more of the bad apples that we are talking are from the teenage fanbase?

Well....being over 50...I know for a fact that all "over 50's" are "Less Flexible" to those under 50.

It's because we spent the first 20 years of our life wondering what everybody else thought about us, then the next 20 not caring what everybody else thought about us, now we know that nobody was thinkin' about us to begin with. I don't know why I like anime...But I do know i can't just walk out my front door and converse about Eureka 7 with my neighbor. He'll just nod politley and turn slowly and walk away.

[omo]

Different meaning of "casual". It started as an in-joke after a particularly amusing and ridiculous troll started using the word. Some of us coopted it and turned it around to where "casual" simply means sitting back and enjoying as much anime as possible, as opposed to being an asshole about it and spending all your time bitching about what other people like.

That adds a new meaning to the term casual sex.

I think it might be easier to just say that a-holes and jerks and trolls are not enjoyable.

[kevinNima]

What's really embarrassing to watch is when you see 50-year-olds at Digital Photography Review waging the eternal Canon v. Nikon war with a zeal that would do GameFAQs proud.

...... Okay that proves it. It's not the product that people are fans of. It's "arguing with others" that they actually enjoy.

Granted that adult fans can be jerks as well, but perhaps more of the bad apples that we are talking are from the teenage fanbase?

Well....being over 50...I know for a fact that all "over 50's" are "Less Flexible" to those under 50.

Actually I was thinking more of the teens/tweens who have this "Anime is Teh Roxors" kind of mentality. I couldn't imagine anybody even in the "over 20's" not having the patience to deal with some of the more bratty members of the fandom. ;)

[Jim Leverton]

For the most part, I've never had any problem with anybody that was a fan of anime. If someone dosn't like what I like....more power to them! I have to drop the baggage of looking over my shoulder to wonder what others might say about what I enjoy.

But no matter what anybody else says....I luv ya man....(air hug!!!)

[kevinNima]

For the most part, I've never had any problem with anybody that was a fan of anime. If someone dosn't like what I like....more power to them! I have to drop the baggage of looking over my shoulder to wonder what others might say about what I enjoy.

But no matter what anybody else says....I luv ya man....(air hug!!!)
Lol, well put. :bigsmile:

It's nice to meet a fan who thinks that way, especially one who happens to be in the "over 50's" group. You have my respect, good sir. ;)

[Daniel_Perales]

The division between anime fans is to me nothing special.I have seen the same thing over the years,with Intel versus AMD fans,or ATI versus Nvidia.The many car sites,and a long list of other hobbie related topics,etc.

I post on Head-Fi and AudioGon,a lot,and the elitism and back stabbing,the arguments and sniping and yelling and screaming,and trolling is the same everywhere.PS3 or Xbrick fans,its all the same.Try Rage3D or HardOCP or Toms,or any gaming site,or AVSForums....

Different topic,different URL,different hobby,exact same fanaticism is shown.

Reminds me of my old Amiga computer days.;)


Danny

[Jim Leverton]

For the most part, I've never had any problem with anybody that was a fan of anime. If someone dosn't like what I like....more power to them! I have to drop the baggage of looking over my shoulder to wonder what others might say about what I enjoy.

But no matter what anybody else says....I luv ya man....(air hug!!!)
Lol, well put. :bigsmile:

It's nice to meet a fan who thinks that way, especially one who happens to be in the "over 50's" group. You have my respect, good sir. ;)

Muchas Gracias mi amigo!!

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

Yeah I got to admit as anime fans go all of you here at AoD so far have been relay inelegant class acts. Now if you want an example of embarrassing immature anime fans go look at some of the people over at Adultswim.com.

[dragoon]

Yeah that's why I can't stand that forum, lol. Not to mention a lot of the posts there seem to be spammy one liner posts that don't really mean much.

[meganly_chan]

I've been an anime fan for 11 years now, so you can imagine all the drama I've witnessed both online and offline. I'm so incredibly tired of the "are fansubs legal?" "sub vs. dub," etc. wars. I've been told to "move away" from shows that others deem childish, and lectured (though not directly) that I always have to use a character's true, Japanese name (if the show has been dubbed and altered) or I'm not a "true" fan. Among other things. It gets old fast.

Let a person watch what they want, even if you think it's crap. If a person likes a dub, let them. If they want to say "Jessie" instead of "Musashi," that's their choice. Who cares?

But I've seen a lot of this stuff outside from anime, so it's nothing new to me. For instance, I also collect Dollfies (yes, go ahead and laugh) and it can get really ugly in one forum I go to. If you buy the cheaper dolls, you're not a true fan because you're not willing to invest more money. If you buy a certain brand, you're not a true fan. If you buy a doll to model it after a favorite character (like Jack Sparrow or Jareth the Goblin King), you're "wasting" the doll and are being lazy/unoriginal. And so on and so forth.

[BonifaceVIII]

and lectured (though not directly) that I ALWAYS have to use a character's true, Japanese name (if the show has been dubbed and altered) or I'm not a "true" fan.
Not directly? Permit me to rectify that.

AHIRU!

That is all.

(for those of you wondering, this post was indeed not serious)

[jojo_home]

Ah, fan bashing. My other favourite past-time. You know what they say--we hate that which is most like us.

Sailor Moon fans. I have no idea what they are like now, but I had bad experiences with them back in the day (which is, 1998). Imagine dealing with the hyperbole of Usagi and amplifying the whining 10x and you have this show's fans. Come to think of it, there are many nutty shoujo fans, so I might as well throw them in here too.

[fishsticks]

Ah, fan bashing. My other favourite past-time. You know what they say--we hate that which is most like us.

although I loath to admit it, It would not surprise me at all if my discomfort in dealings with other fans was really just projection.
Which i suppose isn't a particularly pleasant revelation.
But it may just be me.

[Jim Leverton]

Actually I was thinking more of the teens/tweens who have this "Anime is Teh Roxors" kind of mentality. I couldn't imagine anybody even in the "over 20's" not having the patience to deal with some of the more bratty members of the fandom. ;)

50 something fans are rare. Often when I reveal my age on most boards, traffic drops off quite a bit. Ive worked as a commercial electrician for 27 years and through all that I never lost my zeal for Sci Fi and good animation. (Heavy Metal was pretty good.) Most of the guys I worked with didn't care much about "animation" or Sci Fi or anything like that. I met with a certain jibe throughout the years but nothing to cause pain.

When going to purchase anime, I would see others browsing the titles, but I never started a conversation. No one ever started a conversation with me. No big deal. I never even knew there was a stigma until I read that fact on some boards and noticed that there was a "certain isolation" hanging over the anime section. Then a buddy went to the last Ohayocon here in Columbus and said he'd never go again. He said it was just too wierd for him. I would give an account of that conversation, but hear-say would be inaccurate.

And as far as patience is concerned, I don't have any choice but to be patient. My heart won't take the stress of over-reacting. But the fan or devote' of anime is what he or she is.

Your thoughts?

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

I guess another pet peeve I have with some anime fans is the one that get SOOO bent out of shape if you say you don't like a particular series that they are a fan of. What the F ever happened to having an opinion? This is what I run into more often these days..
Person: ____ is the best anime ever what did you think?
Me : Eh it was alright but I didn't care for it all that much.
Person: ARE YOU HIGH?! ITS THE BEST TV SHOW OF ALL TIME!
and so on..

I am willing to have a normal debate about any show I have some knowledge of but I prefer to stay away these days from people who just rip or flame others for liking a particular program its childish and real stupid. So basically if you like ______ that I don't thats fine with me just don't whine when I say I like another series better.

[kevinNima]

And as far as patience is concerned, I don't have any choice but to be patient. My heart won't take the stress of over-reacting. But the fan or devote' of anime is what he or she is.

Your thoughts?
Entering into a hobby such as anime is most definitely a personal thing. People will kick things off at different time in their life, and therefore will come out with a unique perspective on the fandom. Unfortunately it seems like some of the more passionate members in the fandom might take issue with another fan's perspective, which might lead them to go beyond a reasonable exchange and simply pick on a person for having such a different view (it could also very well be that "personal-ness" that drives them to do so).

Having that kind of attitude among anime fans is a little pointless, especially given how anime isn't quite a mainstream hobby. Sure the tastes will vary, as well as the people who hold on to those tastes. But there is no denying that there aren't a lot of us when it comes to the grand list of hobbies out there, and harming or flaming others for not sharing a common focal point within the fandom isn't going to help keep it afloat.

I think the idea of "being your own fan" and not being swayed by some people in the fanbase is something that I'm tempted to do myself.

[christianlf]

You caught me. I like anime. I hate all of you.

[Mateo_home]

I don't hate any fans. Except maybe the ones that go a little extreme with their hobby. Pretty much the ones that bash you if you don't agree with.
I'm not a very sociable person, but if I had an interest with no one to talk to about it, it can be quite lonely. Just got to know who to talk to about it.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

Yeah they get on my nerves BIG TIME. But you got those kind in all forms of media.

[Suwako Moriya]

Just got to know who to talk to about it.

That more or less sums it up. We must remember that fans are individuals. Best not to dwell too much on the problem people. Rather focus more on the reasonable people.

[Mateo_home]

We must remember that fans are individuals. Best not to dwell too much on the problem people. Rather focus more on the reasonable people.

True. While even here there are times I can disagree with some of what the well-known users state in threads, I just ignore it and move on. I guess it's my way of respecting their opinion. It's okay for them to like/dislike the opposite of my opinion. Unless I was to give constructive criticism.

Unfortunately, there are people out there who take constructive criticism as a troll response or personal insult.

[Ryos]

I really wish I could run into an anime fan I could have an interesting conversation about with respect to anime, but short of these forums I've yet to run into one. Alas.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

Amen, Example I run into people who didn't like InuYasha all the time. I love the series and but someone rips it I could care less. They have the right to hate and thats fine with me. People just take stuff soo seriously these days. Being in the broadcasting business myself I can tell you the saying is true "You don't like it don't watch" Granted there are shows I absolutely hate but I won't rip anyone that likes them. If they love it thats cool with me.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

I really wish I could run into an anime fan I could have an interesting conversation about with respect to anime, but short of these forums I've yet to run into one. Alas.

Any time you want an intelligent normal conversation /debate I'll be happy to abide. LOL.
:)

[RayeKinezono]

I've been around too many people where they make it a point to use something like Onegai Teacher and will actually scold you if you say Please Teacher(you get the picture).

I've always wondered about those types of people. I don't get it. If they want to have you use the "official Japanese name," wouldn't they be telling you to call it Onegai Sensei or something like that?

Oh My Goddess, you don't know?! The official Japanese name is Onegai Teacher, not Onegai Sensei. Clearly you can't be a True Anime Fan then.


Heh. I never knew that. I'd just assumed that the original name was Onegai Sensei, or something like that. Learn something new every day, huh?

In that case, I guess I'm just not ever going to be a True Anime Fan then, huh? :sdsmiley: Guess I'll just go with The Great Bear and be casual fan, then. :catgirl:

[Suwako Moriya]

Heh. I never knew that. I'd just assumed that the original name was Onegai Sensei, or something like that. Learn something new every day, huh?

Honestly I think it would have been Hilarious if Onegai Teacher had become Please Sensei. However that could just be me. Still one thing I find interesting about name changes is sometimes the "alternate" name being using in the U.S. version was already in existence before the series got announced. Plus we can only guess and speculate as to how both parties decide what name should be used in the U.S. release.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

I've been around too many people where they make it a point to use something like Onegai Teacher and will actually scold you if you say Please Teacher(you get the picture).

I've always wondered about those types of people. I don't get it. If they want to have you use the "official Japanese name," wouldn't they be telling you to call it Onegai Sensei or something like that?

Oh My Goddess, you don't know?! The official Japanese name is Onegai Teacher, not Onegai Sensei. Clearly you can't be a True Anime Fan then.


Heh. I never knew that. I'd just assumed that the original name was Onegai Sensei, or something like that. Learn something new every day, huh?

In that case, I guess I'm just not ever going to be a True Anime Fan then, huh? :sdsmiley: Guess I'll just go with The Great Bear and be casual fan, then. :catgirl:


There is another thing casual fans say one thing out place and the die hards want to jump all over you.

[kevinNima]

Anime shouldn't be about virulently and ignorantly bashing other fans or the sort of anime they like. Sadly, some people fail at self control and respect for others. There's a perfect example of this going on in R1 right now. Alas.
Wow, you are totally right about this. I took a glance at a couple of the larger threads over on that board, and I just couldn't believe the incredible snobbishness of some of the posters there...


And with that, I will officially announce my resignation from the otaku fanbase. :P

[Shirachi]

I love a good story; that's the reason I began watching anime in the first place, to discover the thrill of finding another Princess Tutu or Le Chevalier d'Eon. Something with a earnest, exciting story and fascinating characters, to be drawn into that world again and again. That's, honestly, the only reason I've hung around for this long.

The fandom disgusts me more often then not. From the purists and their bashing to the obsessive yaoi fangirl - I honestly can't stand it. I'm embarrassed to admit I'm part of the base in public, and it doesn't help my family teases me about still liking cartoons. I stick around forums for information, to discuss a series and to get recommended to the gems I adore (although I admit that I'm only still "remotely" active on ANN and AoD).

I tired in the beginning, but I can't stay I was regretful when I withdrew bit by bit.

[Jim Leverton]

I love a good story; that's the reason I began watching anime in the first place, to discover the thrill of finding another Princess Tutu or Le Chevalier d'Eon. Something with a earnest, exciting story and fascinating characters, to be drawn into that world again and again. That's, honestly, the only reason I've hung around for this long.

The fandom disgusts me more often then not. From the purists and their bashing to the obsessive yaoi fangirl - I honestly can't stand it. I'm embarrassed to admit I'm part of the base in public, and it doesn't help my family teases me about still liking cartoons. I stick around forums for information, to discuss a series and to get recommended to the gems I adore (although I admit that I'm only still "remotely" active on ANN and AoD).

I tired in the beginning, but I can't stay I was regretful when I withdrew bit by bit.

This might not be any comfort, but I graduated high school in '74 with a guy that went on to have a career in the air force. He flew F-15's in the gulf war, and now flies for Nortwest airlines. He had a lay-over here in Columbus one weekend and he stayed at my house. We watched the whole Last Exile series. He loved it. ( I know because he kept wanting to see the next disc) He didn't know that stuff was out there. Now I don't see him going to cons or picking up a copy of strawberry eggs or anything like that, but good entertainment is just that. It just so happens that our tastes are bit more..."Eclectic" than the other guy's. Our taste in music is often much wider than most.

The point?....don't lose any sleep over it, and don't let anybody tease ya for your taste in vids.

I have "pontificated!"

[Suwako Moriya]

And with that, I will officially announce my resignation from the otaku fanbase. :P

Who said you could just leave? It's off to the lava pits with you! In all seriousness I find the greatest group to be part of is the none-group. If that makes any sense.

[JINROH]

Amen, Example I run into people who didn't like InuYasha all the time. I love the series and but someone rips it I could care less. They have the right to hate and thats fine with me. People just take stuff soo seriously these days. Being in the broadcasting business myself I can tell you the saying is true "You don't like it don't watch" Granted there are shows I absolutely hate but I won't rip anyone that likes them. If they love it thats cool with me.


So basically,live and let live.When I hit ~25 that became my motto on a lot of different things life,this past time being one of them.

[Garasharp K7]

And with that, I will officially announce my resignation from the otaku fanbase. :P

Who said you could just leave? It's off to the lava pits with you! In all seriousness I find the greatest group to be part of is the none-group. If that makes any sense.

Y'know, despite the amount of dvds I've bought over the years, the manga backlog, artbooks, games and whatnot, regardless of the amount of money I've poured into the hobby, (and I regret none of it! :) ) I don't consider myself an otaku. Hardcore, casual, whatever - I'm just a fan, that's all.
No allegiances, no groups, none of that 'true fan' nonsense. I just like anime, and that's it.

I will say I'm often bemused, bewildered and sometimes bothered by some fans' attitudes. A certain thread in the R1 forum reminded me of times when I'd see longtime fans get so caught up in the negative aspects of the fandom, they'd eventually turn away from the hobby altogether. When that happens it's usually best to ignore the fandom/community side of things and concentrate on what drew you to the whole anime thing in the first place - watching anime. Dig out a favourite show or movie and watch it. Why let all the silly bickering, elitism and general snobbery affect your enjoyment of the hobby? Why does any of it even matter?
I mean, the community aspect is great, but if it turns sour and pushes you away from something you enjoy, then it's best to take a break from it.
Anyway, I thought I had something else to say - something about respecting/tolerating other peoples' viewing tastes and such - but for the life of me I can't remember what it was. :)
Ah well, soon as I get home I'll dig out that Steel Angel Kurumi set I picked up recently and watch that. Might watch a couple of Pani Poni Dash eps too.

[Glamrgrl104]

I do not bash anyone about what they like I quite enjoy having the billingual releases though that way everyone is happy and can watch what they want. I am not overly crazy about anime to the point where I cosplay or anything no offence to those who do although mainly because I do not have any friends that like anime so that is why. well thats all I will say for now.

[Zalis]

I do not bash anyone about what they like I quite enjoy having the billingual releases though that way everyone is happy and can watch what they want. You would think that bilingual releases would make everyone happy. But now that the days of VHS are long-forgotten, people find new reasons/excuses to fight the sub/dub war. These days you get people saying, "I hope Title X that was just announced doesn't get a dub, that way I don't have to pay $5 more or wait three more months to see something I saw in fansubs 2 years ago or have to change menu options." Not to mention the "English dubs contaminate anime merely by existing even though I'm not forced to watch them" crowd.

[something]

These days you get people saying, "I hope Title X that was just announced doesn't get a dub, that way I don't have to pay $5 more or wait three more months to see something I saw in fansubs 2 years ago or have to change menu options." Not to mention the "English dubs contaminate anime merely by existing even though I'm not forced to watch them" crowd.
These two are on completely different levels. The first is entirely legitimate, the second is just someone being an ignorant ass.

The first is someone saying "So, I can get everything I want out of a release for less money? Awesome, sign me up," and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that, particularly if funds are tight. For that person, they're being given the same (if not more) for less - what's not to like? You seem to be conflating someone's happiness at the personal benefit such releases give them with happiness at the detriment it holds for you, and that's making quite the insulting assumption, because it's just not true most of the time.

I'm really loving the Gurren Lagann release, or for that matter MB's cheap singles, or Nozomi's sets. They give me everything I require from a release at less cost than a traditional release. But that doesn't mean I'm sitting here giggling in glee at the idea that you aren't getting a dub (or have to wait for one with TTGL).

A release with sub-only benefits (price, speed etc) that also includes a dub would be the ideal, but that might not always be possible. I'm glad when it is, but I'm not going to boycott releases that otherwise give me what I ask for.

[Lego]

These days you get people saying, "I hope Title X that was just announced doesn't get a dub, that way I don't have to pay $5 more or wait three more months to see something I saw in fansubs 2 years ago or have to change menu options." Not to mention the "English dubs contaminate anime merely by existing even though I'm not forced to watch them" crowd.
These two are on completely different levels. The first is entirely legitimate, the second is just someone being an ignorant ass.

The first is someone saying "So, I can get everything I want out of a release for less money? Awesome, sign me up," and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that, particularly if funds are tight. For that person, they're being given the same (if not more) for less - what's not to like? You seem to be conflating someone's happiness at the personal benefit such releases give them with happiness at the detriment it holds for you, and that's making quite the insulting assumption, because it's just not true most of the time.

I'm really loving the Gurren Lagann release, or for that matter MB's cheap singles, or Nozomi's sets. They give me everything I require from a release at less cost than a traditional release. But that doesn't mean I'm sitting here giggling in glee at the idea that you aren't getting a dub (or have to wait for one with TTGL).

A release with sub-only benefits (price, speed etc) that also includes a dub would be the ideal, but that might not always be possible. I'm glad when it is, but I'm not going to boycott releases that otherwise give me what I ask for.

It does present you at an interesting crossroads though if you're a fan of whatever show we can use as an example. Are you anymore of a fan for spending the ten extra dollars for a campy artbox or figure instead of buying the "normal" release? Sadly enough I've heard that argument in many other mediums, not just anime.

[something]

It does present you at an interesting crossroads though if you're a fan of whatever show we can use as an example. Are you anymore of a fan for spending the ten extra dollars for a campy artbox or figure instead of buying the "normal" release?
If I'm understanding the question right (not sure I am), I think the answer is simple. Which version you buy has no inherent bearing on whether or not you're a fan. RE, LE, sub-only, wait for bilingual, it's not relevant. Waiting for the bilingual release doesn't make one more of a fan, nor less of a fan.

[Lego]

It does present you at an interesting crossroads though if you're a fan of whatever show we can use as an example. Are you anymore of a fan for spending the ten extra dollars for a campy artbox or figure instead of buying the "normal" release?
If I'm understanding the question right (not sure I am), I think the answer is simple. Which version you buy has no inherent bearing on whether or not you're a fan. RE, LE, sub-only, wait for bilingual, it's not relevant. Waiting for the bilingual release doesn't make one more of a fan, nor less of a fan.

Yep, thats the question ;). You usually hear that a lot in the fansub crowd, or the "I only watch anime the authentic way" while they go to download a speed sub of something. The only time I go for LE's is if I really like a show, like a Kamichu or GITS SAC. With the whole sub vs dub debate and R1 vs fansub it kind of gets lost with some trying to put the argument out that they're the "real fans".

[Suwako Moriya]

Are you anymore of a fan for spending the ten extra dollars for a campy artbox or figure instead of buying the "normal" release?

Truth be told I think it's kind of complicated for two reasons. First the cost difference between the normal release and fancy release can vary. A person willing to spend $10 extra may not be willing to spend $20 extra. And when you start factoring in variant discounts.... Second there's the problem of what the special release includes. A person willing to spend $10 extra for one item related to the show may not have any desire to spend even $5 extra for another item.

So really buying an LE release likely means the following. First your love for the series is strong enough to spend a bit more. Second the special release has stuff you desire. Third while costing more it's still at a price you're willing to accept for whatever reason. Fourth you're probably insane. Which mean in many cases I am too. Also whether it qualifies a person as more of a fan is debatable. However it can't be denied that there has to be something motivating the person to spend that extra $5-$15.

I guess part of it may be less a case of being a fan of the show and how much a fan some are of merchandise. It seems like you have some who would rather everything came in paper sleeves if it meant the release was cheap as possible. While you have others who must have every side item possible that's related to the series in question. Okay both examples are exaggerations, but regardless the general idea is something to think about.

[Lego]

Truth be told I think it's kind of complicated for two reasons. First the cost difference between the normal release and fancy release can vary. A person willing to spend $10 extra may not be willing to spend $20 extra. And when you start factoring in variant discounts.... Second there's the problem of what the special release includes. A person willing to spend $10 extra for one item related to the show may not have any desire to spend even $5 extra for another item.

So really buying an LE release likely means the following. First your love for the series is strong enough to spend a bit more. Second the special release has stuff you desire. Third while costing more it's still at a price you're willing to accept for whatever reason. Fourth you're probably insane. Which mean in many cases I am too. Also whether it qualifies a person as more of a fan is debatable. However it can't be denied that there has to be something motivating the person to spend that extra $5-$15.

I guess part of it may be less a case of being a fan of the show and how much a fan some are of merchandise. It seems like you have some who would rather everything came in paper sleeves if it meant the release was cheap as possible. While you have others who must have every side item possible that's related to the series in question. Okay both examples are exaggerations, but regardless the general idea is something to think about.

You bring up good points in cost, what LE items come with it, and the fact that you can get it cheap. Many see anime as a disposable medium, tying into the "paper sleeves" point you made while others, like most of us here will go for an LE or an artbox if it's a series we like. It's one thing to want everything such as an OVA or something integral to the story(Elfen Lied anyone?) but I find it hard to quip or make an excuse about a release(not aimed at you, talking in general) if a pencil board wasn't brought over or something of that nature. The general idea of it is what got me to post about it, since idling in a fansub channel most of the time you hear some of the wildest excuses you can imagine, almost like R1 companies spread the bubonic plauge that killed most of Europe.

It just seems like fanboy postureing really, the whole "I'm a bigger fan because I bought this, own this, saw this, or watched this with no subs and a party hat on!".

[Suwako Moriya]

You bring up good points in cost, what LE items come with it, and the fact that you can get it cheap.

Speaking of the term LE, sometimes I hate the term SE. Because depending on the scenario it either ends up standing for Standard Edition in one case and Special Edition in another.

[DazzleKitty]

I feel this way a lot, especially lately. I've even stopped going to my regular anime forums since I'm rather ashamed of the way a lot of the fans act online. I hate when fandoms go after each other for pointless reasons and bicker and fight relentlessly.

In real life, I'm even more ashamed at times. I took a course in Japanese in my first year of college. Some of my classmates were, of course, anime fans. One wore cat ears all the time, and the other came in skirts and socks that were blantantly trying to mimick those of anime schoolgirls.

And seeing people cosplay in random public places makes me totally ashamed to admit I'm an anime fan. Yeah, I know they're just passionate, but sometimes passion can lead to irrelevance and stupidity.

[Lego]

I feel this way a lot, especially lately. I've even stopped going to my regular anime forums since I'm rather ashamed of the way a lot of the fans act online. I hate when fandoms go after each other for pointless reasons and bicker and fight relentlessly.

In real life, I'm even more ashamed at times. I took a course in Japanese in my first year of college. Some of my classmates were, of course, anime fans. One wore cat ears all the time, and the other came in skirts and socks that were blantantly trying to mimick those of anime schoolgirls.

And seeing people cosplay in random public places makes me totally ashamed to admit I'm an anime fan. Yeah, I know they're just passionate, but sometimes passion can lead to irrelevance and stupidity.

Oh yeah, that'll do it to ya. I've always had a strong interest in Japan, but not so much because it's "anime heaven" and more just because I find things neat. Would I love to go to England? Sure, count me in. It's the dilema of being a "public" anime fan. I'm a closely guarded anime fan(I can hear Eddie Izzard now) since it really isn't the smartest thing most of the time to broadcast "HEY WORLD, I LIKE LUCKY STAR!" ;)

[BonifaceVIII]

I nearly sold all my anime and hung up my fandom for good after being my uni's anime club president for a year.

It was terrifying.

[Draneor]

It's the dilema of being a "public" anime fan. I'm a closely guarded anime fan(I can hear Eddie Izzard now) since it really isn't the smartest thing most of the time to broadcast "HEY WORLD, I LIKE LUCKY STAR!" ;)

Eh. I'm an open anime fan--I came out of the closet a couple years back. I live my life normally rather than as if I were ashamed of a large part of my identity. Personally, I found no one really cares. In fact, most people have no idea what any of this is (people keep asking me if I drew the shitajiki I have around my office ^^U). Only one of my current co-workers was familiar with anime and that's because her son liked it. Other than that, I don't proselytize my hobbies and my experience has been they don't condemn it. In otherwords, just as I respect their right to play golf, have kids, travel, etc, they respect my right to do what I please in my free time.

I mean, I'm not saying there isn't any social stigmatism. Certainly, I've experienced it from my family. But you'll find that is the case in any minority position--especially if it is polar opposite from those close to you (politics, religion, & sexuality). I guess I'm just a firm believer in tolerance for others living their lives the way they wish, so long as it does not negatively affect others. So regardless of what others think, I'm going to be who I am, in all areas, and respect the right of others to do likewise.

Really, it's no different than the fact that I drink tea as opposed to coffee. While there are a couple other tea drinkers, most of the office drinks coffee. Personally, I'd rather die than do so since coffee makes me sick (literally). I drink my tea, and they drink their coffee. Our choice of morning beverage has no effect on our work relationship.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

I nearly sold all my anime and hung up my fandom for good after being my uni's anime club president for a year.

It was terrifying.

That would make me loose some of my fandom too. Thats why I have take a break every now and then and watch a live talk about live action shows and read non-manga books.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

It's the dilema of being a "public" anime fan. I'm a closely guarded anime fan(I can hear Eddie Izzard now) since it really isn't the smartest thing most of the time to broadcast "HEY WORLD, I LIKE LUCKY STAR!" ;)

Eh. I'm an open anime fan--I came out of the closet a couple years back. I live my life normally rather than as if I were ashamed of a large part of my identity. Personally, I found no one really cares. In fact, most people have no idea what any of this is (people keep asking me if I drew the shitajiki I have around my office ^^U). Only one of my current co-workers was familiar with anime and that's because her son liked it. Other than that, I don't proselytize my hobbies and my experience has been they don't condemn it. In otherwords, just as I respect their right to play golf, have kids, travel, etc, they respect my right to do what I please in my free time.

I mean, I'm not saying there isn't any social stigmatism. Certainly, I've experienced it from my family. But you'll find that is the case in any minority position--especially if it is polar opposite from those close to you (politics, religion, & sexuality). I guess I'm just a firm believer in tolerance for others living their lives the way they wish, so long as it does not negatively affect others. So regardless of what others think, I'm going to be who I am, in all areas, and respect the right of others to do likewise.

Really, it's no different than the fact that I drink tea as opposed to coffee. While there are a couple other tea drinkers, most of the office drinks coffee. Personally, I'd rather die than do so since coffee makes me sick (literally). I drink my tea, and they drink their coffee. Our choice of morning beverage has no effect on our work relationship.

WOW! Very well put.

[Jim Leverton]

It's the dilema of being a "public" anime fan. I'm a closely guarded anime fan(I can hear Eddie Izzard now) since it really isn't the smartest thing most of the time to broadcast "HEY WORLD, I LIKE LUCKY STAR!" ;)

Eh. I'm an open anime fan--I came out of the closet a couple years back. I live my life normally rather than as if I were ashamed of a large part of my identity. Personally, I found no one really cares. In fact, most people have no idea what any of this is (people keep asking me if I drew the shitajiki I have around my office ^^U). Only one of my current co-workers was familiar with anime and that's because her son liked it. Other than that, I don't proselytize my hobbies and my experience has been they don't condemn it. In otherwords, just as I respect their right to play golf, have kids, travel, etc, they respect my right to do what I please in my free time.

I mean, I'm not saying there isn't any social stigmatism. Certainly, I've experienced it from my family. But you'll find that is the case in any minority position--especially if it is polar opposite from those close to you (politics, religion, & sexuality). I guess I'm just a firm believer in tolerance for others living their lives the way they wish, so long as it does not negatively affect others. So regardless of what others think, I'm going to be who I am, in all areas, and respect the right of others to do likewise.

Really, it's no different than the fact that I drink tea as opposed to coffee. While there are a couple other tea drinkers, most of the office drinks coffee. Personally, I'd rather die than do so since coffee makes me sick (literally). I drink my tea, and they drink their coffee. Our choice of morning beverage has no effect on our work relationship.

If THIS were the only post I read, I'd be convinced....Good summary...(Eddie Izzard is as old as I am....wait, not quite... he's late forty's)

[Lego]

It's the dilema of being a "public" anime fan. I'm a closely guarded anime fan(I can hear Eddie Izzard now) since it really isn't the smartest thing most of the time to broadcast "HEY WORLD, I LIKE LUCKY STAR!" ;)

Eh. I'm an open anime fan--I came out of the closet a couple years back. I live my life normally rather than as if I were ashamed of a large part of my identity. Personally, I found no one really cares. In fact, most people have no idea what any of this is (people keep asking me if I drew the shitajiki I have around my office ^^U). Only one of my current co-workers was familiar with anime and that's because her son liked it. Other than that, I don't proselytize my hobbies and my experience has been they don't condemn it. In otherwords, just as I respect their right to play golf, have kids, travel, etc, they respect my right to do what I please in my free time.

I mean, I'm not saying there isn't any social stigmatism. Certainly, I've experienced it from my family. But you'll find that is the case in any minority position--especially if it is polar opposite from those close to you (politics, religion, & sexuality). I guess I'm just a firm believer in tolerance for others living their lives the way they wish, so long as it does not negatively affect others. So regardless of what others think, I'm going to be who I am, in all areas, and respect the right of others to do likewise.

Really, it's no different than the fact that I drink tea as opposed to coffee. While there are a couple other tea drinkers, most of the office drinks coffee. Personally, I'd rather die than do so since coffee makes me sick (literally). I drink my tea, and they drink their coffee. Our choice of morning beverage has no effect on our work relationship.

I'm not ashamed of my identify as an anime fan, I'm just not one of those people who'll go up to random people and tell them that I'm or someone who'll wear cat ears or a naruto headband in public. I think we're talking about two different things "public" wise. If you walked into my room, it's a room of an anime fan. DVD's, posters, magazines, and odds and ends. I don't press a secret button whenever someone wants to come in that hides these things and makes them something trendy. I can care less about that. Just from past experiences I find myself guarded as a public fan. It isn't going to stop me from browsing the anime DVD isle at Best Buy or checking out manga at Borders/Barnes and Noble.

If only all people could be as understanding as yourself Dran.

[Garasharp K7]

Most people who know me know what I'm into. My pc at work has a GunBuster wallpaper on it, and much of my own drawings and doodles dotted about my desk are anime-influenced. They might not know what my favourite shows are, but they know I like my Japanese cartoons.
I s'pose I don't wear my fandom on my sleeve, but I do wear it on a t-shirt every now and then. Very rarely, mind - the weather isn't right for t-shirts these days. :)

[Orihara_Kaoru]

I'm just not one of those people who'll go up to random people and tell them that I'm or someone who'll wear cat ears or a naruto headband in public.

Do people really...do that? That's not being an open anime fan. That's just crazy.

[Lego]

I'm just not one of those people who'll go up to random people and tell them that I'm or someone who'll wear cat ears or a naruto headband in public.

Do people really...do that? That's not being an open anime fan. That's just crazy.

Someone else remarked either in this thread or in another similar thread about it, I think it was in their Japanese class. It's what I based that a point off of.

[Draneor]

I'm just not one of those people who'll go up to random people and tell them that I'm or someone who'll wear cat ears or a naruto headband in public.

Do people really...do that? That's not being an open anime fan. That's just crazy.

Someone else remarked either in this thread or in another similar thread about it, I think it was in their Japanese class. It's what I based that a point off of.

I knew a guy in college who would tell anyone he met how many kilos he lifted that day, regardless if they cared or not. Bottom line is no matter what the hobby, some people just don't get that others may not be interested in it. Anyway, it's not unique to anime fans.

[zerok]

I'm just not one of those people who'll go up to random people and tell them that I'm or someone who'll wear cat ears or a naruto headband in public.

Do people really...do that? That's not being an open anime fan. That's just crazy.

It's true. I saw a girl walking around the mall with a Naruto headband on. And as if that wasn't enough, her hair was dyed bright pink...

[Lego]

I'm just not one of those people who'll go up to random people and tell them that I'm or someone who'll wear cat ears or a naruto headband in public.

Do people really...do that? That's not being an open anime fan. That's just crazy.

Someone else remarked either in this thread or in another similar thread about it, I think it was in their Japanese class. It's what I based that a point off of.

I knew a guy in college who would tell anyone he met how many kilos he lifted that day, regardless if they cared or not. Bottom line is no matter what the hobby, some people just don't get that others may not be interested in it. Anyway, it's not unique to anime fans.

I'm not trying to single out anime fans Draneor, it's just the type of fan I'm compared to the type of fan you're. At the end of the day we're all anime fans :sweat:

[Soufriere]

Hi. Late to the party, I know, but I figured I'd add my 2¢. It's rare that I venture into GA, but this is a good topic.

Now I'm younger than most others who've posted in this thread, but I feel pretty much the same way as y'all. To look at me, most people who meet me have no idea I'm an anime fan. The only paraphernalia I carry is a keychain that was an LE extra. I don't advertise my fandom - I own no anime-themed clothing - but I don't pretend to be something I'm not. If someone asks if I like Japanese cartoons, I say Yes. But of course I have many other hobbies too.

And yes other fans do get on my nerves. I'm no saint, I'm sure I've pissed off a few on these boards. My biggest beef is and has always been with the Purists, whom I feel ruin anime for everyone else. But they're entitled to their beliefs just as much as I am. In real life, I get tired of the HS and college kids who give themselves Japanese nicknames. Or the teenagers who sit in the manga aisles at BN and Borders and read a dozen books, never buying any of 'em. Or the people who say that fansubs are a priori always better than what the professionals do. Or that dubs are, by the mere fact of their existence, always horrible (that one really chaps me). I came here and stayed because the people here actually have brains in their heads. Most folks, anyway. ;)

Though I do wish there were more people near me (offline world) I could share my hobby with. But since I keep to myself and recently moved to a new town, it's not easy.

Even though I'm pretty new here, I consider myself part of the casual movement, if they'll take me. I have my shows and I enjoy them. I support the companies when they release what I like and that's all there is to it.

[The Great Bear]

Even though I'm pretty new here, I consider myself part of the casual movement, if they'll take me. I have my shows and I enjoy them. I support the companies when they release what I like and that's all there is to it.

The only requirements for being casual are a respect for others' preferences (does not mean you have to like their taste, just respect that it's theirs :P), and a knowledge that we're all anime fans here. Egomaniacs who think that they are the be-all and end-all to anime fandom need not apply.

What you said right there, having your shows and enjoying them, is all that it takes ;)

[Zalis]

These days you get people saying, "I hope Title X that was just announced doesn't get a dub, that way I don't have to pay $5 more or wait three more months to see something I saw in fansubs 2 years ago or have to change menu options." Not to mention the "English dubs contaminate anime merely by existing even though I'm not forced to watch them" crowd.
These two are on completely different levels. The first is entirely legitimate, the second is just someone being an ignorant ass.

The first is someone saying "So, I can get everything I want out of a release for less money? Awesome, sign me up," and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that, particularly if funds are tight. For that person, they're being given the same (if not more) for less - what's not to like? You seem to be conflating someone's happiness at the personal benefit such releases give them with happiness at the detriment it holds for you, and that's making quite the insulting assumption, because it's just not true most of the time.I don't mean to insult people who are happy and content with sub-only releases, or who have legitimate reasons for liking sub-only releases. It's just that I do see the "YES it's sub-only ahahaha burn in hell dubs and dub fans" attitude from time to time. Usually on other sites, though.

[Suwako Moriya]

It's just that I do see the "YES it's sub-only ahahaha burn in hell dubs and dub fans" attitude from time to time. Usually on other sites, though.

I think I've seen examples of what you mean in the past. Even if I hadn't, I'd still believe it. I've experienced enough idiocy in general to realize such things come in so many forms.

[Jim Leverton]

This whole thing got me looking at my own anime habit, and so I started some outside research. I stumbled on this article [azusa.leamonde.net/animerant.html ]by some guy and to be honest, he has some good points, however annoying. But standing back from his essay, I'd have to say I hope as a collective, I'm not [we're not] viewed in this way. Personally, I think this dude went a little over the edge.

[Lego]

This whole thing got me looking at my own anime habit, and so I started some outside research. I stumbled on this article [azusa.leamonde.net/animerant.html ]by some guy and to be honest, he has some good points, however annoying. But standing back from his essay, I'd have to say I hope as a collective, I'm not [we're not] viewed in this way. Personally, I think this dude went a little over the edge.

Anime fans to non anime fans are a strange bunch. I've seen tons of random shit thrown my way as an anime fan, even public things like AOTS having a "is anime viable entertainment?" way back when. Most people will give off the ignorant "lol, you watch those Japanese porn cartoons?!" vibe if you start getting into "well I like anime". The key anymore for me is to take that high road like Dran mentioned in his posts. To many times anime fans, much like gaming fans(the whole hardcore and casual thing) tend to shun outsiders or people genuienly interested in the medium itself. I don't think it's out of hatred, not so much that "well if anime gets that popular it won't be "anime" anymore", but more of a recoil.

While you're not going to give out phamplets on the side of the road, I find a lot of people being more receptive to a "well it's this and this" then just blabbering on about something like Naruto. But it doesn't escape the fact that sometimes as anime fans we can be our own worst enemy.

[cindchan]

I tend to ignore many fans. Yeah, I get annoyed at people who read the manga in the store, but don't buy them. Or the people who download videos, or copy rentals and then preach to me because I like some anime dubbed.

I'm mostly saddened by the fandom. People who carry the "glomp me" signs at conventions. Kids running around the hotel halls at 3am, when people are trying to sleep. And same kids who jump up and down in the elevators. Those that just have no respect for others and make the rest of us look bad. Okay, I nitpic, but you know...it's just sad.

Well, sad, but at the same time amusing. I still enjoy anime conventions despite the disrespectful kids, because I know it's not all bad. Some kids are pretty well behaved. And workers at the vending tables that I can have long manga discussions with. And then, there's the smarmy bastard in me, who simply likes to laugh at other people.

But I guess that's why me and my best friend view ourselves as the Statler and Waldorf of the anime conventions. ^_^ I think I just showed my age.

[Suwako Moriya]

Anime fans to non anime fans are a strange bunch.

Actually I get the feeling if you replace the word "anime" with something else your statement would likely still remain true in many cases. Still this thread makes me wonder if part of the problem is not just these annoying fans of varying types, but us as well. By that I mean we pay too much attention to the annoying elements. We sometimes allow them to dictate our lives. As well as perhaps getting annoyed at things that we really shouldn't get annoyed at it. I mean while there is such a thing as taking fandom too far, there is also such thing as being too uptight about things. Moderation goes both ways.

[Lego]

Anime fans to non anime fans are a strange bunch.

Actually I get the feeling if you replace the word "anime" with something else your statement would likely still remain true in many cases. Still this thread makes me wonder if part of the problem is not just these annoying fans of varying types, but us as well. By that I mean we pay too much attention to the annoying elements. We sometimes allow them to dictate our lives. As well as perhaps getting annoyed at things that we really shouldn't get annoyed at it. I mean while there is such a thing as taking fandom too far, there is also such thing as being too uptight about things. Moderation goes both ways.

Well the topic and the discussion is about "anime fans", but you could put in gaming fans, Magic fans, RPG fans, whatever you want. Theres nothing wrong with being aware of your surroundings, but just like people who "hate" on shows for no reason there is the other extreme.

[GanChan]

Being an anime fan should not have any effect on your personality. It's just the kind of stuff you like to watch, as opposed to wacky Russian art films or German pornography.

Three great tastes that taste great together....