Anime That Defy Physics: A Science-Backdropped Showcase

Which Anime Defies Physics the Most: A Scientific Backdrop Showcase

While many anime and manga are known for defying physics, often for the sake of comedic effect or heightened action, there are also examples that use a scientific backdrop but still push the boundaries of reality. One such notable representative is Osamu Tezuka's works, including Astro Boy, Black Jack, and Dororo. These series not only challenge the limits of physical laws but also serve to create rich and imaginative narrative landscapes.

.Authored by a Pioneer: Osamu Tezuka

Osamu Tezuka, often referred to as the 'God of Manga,' is known for his profound influence on the medium. His works often explore the interplay between humanity, science, and technology. In this essay, we will delve into how Astro Boy, Black Jack, and Dororo defy physics while still maintaining a scientific or pseudo-scientific atmosphere.

Astro Boy: A Nuclear-Powered Marvel of Technology

Astro Boy, one of Tezuka's most famous works, is set in a world where technology and science have advanced to extraordinary levels. The titular character, born as Hanako #05 (Astro Boy), is a boy robot powered by nuclear energy. He is a peace-loving character but becomes an absolute powerhouse in battle. The cliche of the 'tiny but deadly robot,' a staple in media today, can be traced back to Astro Boy's design and capabilities.

Key Physics Defiances in Astro Boy

Enhanced Strength and Durability: Astro Boy's nuclear power allows him to have superhuman strength and durability, defying the usual physical limits of a humanoid robot. Nuclear Durability: He is able to withstand massive amounts of damage, often appearing invincible in battle, which is a stretch of the laws of physics. Advanced Technology: Despite being a robot from a nuclear-powered world, his movements and abilities defy the usual limits of mechanical design and energy distribution.

Black Jack: The Genius Surgeon who Defies Physics

Black Jack is a series that focuses on the adventures of the controversial surgeon Black Jack. At the core, Black Jack operates on the brink of what is physically and medically possible. One of the most notable instances of this defiance is when he performs a surgery involving a woman, who has been living inside her sister's body, and successfully transplanting her organs into a makeshift body. This operation, while rooted in the medical field, stretches the limits of surgical procedure and human anatomy.

Key Physics Defiances in Black Jack

Transplant Surgery: The complexity and success of the surgery where a woman's organs are transplanted into a new body, especially given her unique physiological condition, defy conventional medical understanding. Operational Success: Despite the delicate nature of the situation, Black Jack's success challenges the physical and biological limits of human physiology. Psychic Abilities: The woman in the story, with her psychic abilities, further adds an element of supernatural prowess that stretches the boundaries of what is possible.

Dororo: The Peculiar Tale of a Boy

Dororo tells the story of a boy who, while not as flush with defying physics as the other two titles, still offers a unique blend of fantasy and science. The series explores the life of Dororo, a boy cursed with 72 different jikokuten dolls. These artifacts, which come from the belly of a seven-headed dragon, grant Dororo incredible powers that often defy conventional physics.

Key Physics Defiances in Dororo

Superhuman Strength and Agility: The jikokuten dolls enhance Dororo's physical abilities to incredible levels, defying the laws of human anatomy and strength. Multifunctional Artifacts: The dolls themselves are multifunctional and can be used in various ways, often performing actions that are impossible without advanced technology or magic. Russia-like Science Fiction Setting: The series is also set in a world that hints at elements of science fiction, adding another layer of defyable physical laws.

In conclusion, while Osamu Tezuka's works do not follow a strictly fictional path, they still manage to defy the physical and scientific norms for the sake of creating engaging and imaginative narratives. They serve as a testament to the power of storytelling and how, even in a world of science, the liberties taken with physics can lead to some of the most captivating and thought-provoking stories.