I have set my stall out a few times in various pieces of writing that I believe in the “less is more” philosophy of creation. From books, to films, to video games, to music, no matter what the medium – less is often more. You want to leave your audience thinking “that was awesome, I wish there was more.” rather than “that was good, but I wish it hadn’t dragged on.”. It isn’t a hard and fast rule, there are none when it comes to creativity, but it’s often an effective strategy. One that My Hero Academia Season One embodies to its fullest.
Over the course of 13 short episodes, the first season of My Hero Academia sets out its stall for the future beautifully. It shows us what a world where ~85% of the population have some kind of ability – or quirk. It’s a world of heroes and villains, where one man has risen to become the undisputed number one. All Might is the symbol of peace and justice. He sets the standard by which all other heroes are measured and his mere existence has a profound effect on society at large.
Image taken from Netflix
Izuku Midoriya, a quirkless boy who dreams of being a hero one day, admires All Might more than anyone and tries to emulate him however he can. However, can he really become a hero without a quirk? Without a power of his own? His childhood friend turned bully, Bakugo, certainly doesn’t think so. Midoriya’s own mother doesn’t seem to believe he can do it. When a chance encounter gives Midoriya the chance to ask All Might, the number one hero, that all important question… What will his answer be?
If you haven’t watched the series yet, you should. Season One is now on Netflix in the UK. Watch the first 4 episodes, they serve as the introductory arc. After those 4 episodes you’ll see what the series is all about. You’ll see that power, though important, isn’t everything. You’ll see what it means to be a real hero in this world. You’ll see just how broad and unusual quirks can be. It is fantastic and worth sticking with. Or, if it’s not your bag, you’ll know by then too. If you do enjoy it, the good news is that there are four more seasons and two films available to watch right now on Funimation. The two films, Two Heroes & Heroes: Rising, are also on Netflix with a third film releasing in cinemas for a limited run this week in the UK!
Are you a fan of the series? Which quirk is your favourite? You can let me know @APTSnack in all the usual places.
