Gyaru Movies & Anime: Watchlist + Where To Stream!
Can a seemingly ordinary story of a high school girl, immersed in the vibrant subculture of Japanese street fashion, truly resonate with a global audience? The answer, as evidenced by the enduring appeal of films like "Flying Colors," is a resounding yes.
The world of "gyaru," a subculture originating in Shibuya, Tokyo, during the 1990s, offers a fascinating lens through which to view themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and the pursuit of dreams. This cultural phenomenon, characterized by its distinctive fashion, bold makeup, and unapologetic attitude, has found its way into cinema, anime, and the hearts of viewers worldwide. Consider films like "Bounce Ko Gals" (1997), "I Was a Secret Bitch" (2019), and "Ganguro Gals Riot" (2016), each offering a unique glimpse into the lives and experiences of "gyaru" girls.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Term | Gyaru (\u30ae\u30e3\u30eb) |
| Origin | Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan |
| Era | 1990s |
| Definition | A Japanese subculture of women, characterized by distinctive fashion and a rebellious spirit, also known as Gyaru girls. |
| Key Characteristics | Bleached or dyed hair, tanned skin, dramatic makeup, highly decorated nails, and a bold approach to fashion. |
| Notable Films Featuring Gyaru | "Flying Colors" (2015), "Bounce Ko Gals" (1997), "I Was a Secret Bitch" (2019), "Ganguro Gals Riot" (2016) |
| Notable Anime Featuring Gyaru | "Citrus," "Gal & Dino" |
| Relevance | Represents a rebellion against traditional beauty standards and societal norms, emphasizing self-expression and individuality. |
| Influence | Has had a significant impact on fashion, pop culture, and media, influencing trends both in Japan and internationally. |
| Media | Appears in movies, anime, tv shows and manga. |
| Subculture | Gyaru is a part of subculture in Japan. |
| Reference Website | Wikipedia |
The 2015 Japanese youth comedy-drama "Flying Colors" (\u30d3\u30ea\u30ae\u30e3\u30eb, Biri Gyaru, Biri Gal), directed by Nobuhiro Doi, encapsulates this spirit. Based on the bestselling book "Gakunen Biri no Gyaru ga 1 Nen de Hensachi o 40 Agete Keio Daigaku ni Geneki Gokaku Shita Hanashi" (\u5b66\u5e74\u30d3\u30ea\u306e\u30ae\u30e3\u30eb\u304c1\u5e74\u3067\u504f\u5dee\u5024\u309240\u4e0a\u3052\u3066\u6176\u61c9\u5927\u5b66\u306b\u73fe\u5f79\u5408\u683c\u3057\u305f\u8a71) by Nobutaka Tsubota, the film tells the heartwarming story of Sayaka, a high school girl with a gyaru lifestyle. Despite facing academic challenges, Sayaka embarks on a journey of self-improvement, fueled by her dream of attending a prestigious university. The film's success in Japanese theaters in 2015 highlights the widespread appeal of such narratives.
The "gyaru" subculture, a transliteration of the English word "gal," emerged in Shibuya, Tokyo, in the 1990s. This cultural movement was a direct response to the societal norms of the time, which often placed rigid expectations on Japanese women. The standard that had been imposed on Japanese women back then: be demure, show little skin, and maintain a pale complexion. The gyaru movement, with its embrace of tanned skin, bold makeup, and a diverse array of fashion styles, was a declaration of independence, a challenge to these conventions. The Gyaru embraced an "anything goes" attitude towards makeup and hair, and a wide range of western trends.
In the realm of anime, series like "Citrus" and "Gal & Dino" provide further examples of how the gyaru aesthetic and lifestyle are translated into different media. These anime series offer unique perspectives on the subculture, delving into the dramas and comedies of gyaru characters. The depiction of gyaru in such media offers a diverse and dynamic representation of the subculture, further expanding its reach and appeal. The fashion choices and overall vibe of these characters, which are far from the established social conventions, also contribute to the appeal of these productions.
The appeal of gyaru extends beyond mere aesthetics. It's about the embodiment of confidence and self-expression. The film "Flying Colors" exemplifies this perfectly, showcasing a character who, despite academic struggles, perseveres to achieve her goals. This theme resonates strongly, as it shows a character's determination to challenge the expectations placed upon her, and to forge her own path. The movies story and characters demonstrate how the Gyaru attitude can change and influence a person to reach their dreams. The film's portrayal of the Japanese education system and family dynamics also adds depth to its narrative.
The presence of gyaru characters in works like "Pokmon the Movie: The Power of Us," specifically the character of Risa, further emphasizes this cultural influence. The film's choice to include such a character, along with Jynx, a Pokmon with ganguro features, reflects the growing acceptance and integration of the gyaru aesthetic into mainstream media. Gyaru is not just about fashion; it's a lifestyle that represents strength, independence, and a refusal to conform to societal norms.
Furthermore, the various media that feature gyaru characters or elements of the gyaru lifestyle often contain content warnings. Readers and viewers are advised to research these warnings before engaging with such media, highlighting the complexities and diverse aspects of the content. These pieces of media that are often shared on social media platforms, such as "gyaru of the day" on Twitter, emphasize and promote the different forms of gyaru style.
The impact of the gyaru subculture extends beyond the entertainment industry. It's a movement that has influenced fashion trends, beauty standards, and the broader cultural landscape. The aesthetic of the gyaru is characterized by its boldness and a departure from traditional beauty standards, particularly in the context of Japanese society, challenging societal norms in a visual and expressive way. The emphasis is on confidence and the embrace of individuality, which explains why Gyaru has so much to offer as a subculture. This self-expression is a crucial part of the movement.
The enduring relevance of gyaru in popular culture is a testament to its message of empowerment and self-acceptance. These films and anime provide an accessible way to explore this fascinating subculture and its impact on modern society. The fact that "Flying Colors" was one of the biggest hits in Japanese theaters in 2015 suggests that the core values of gyaru self-expression, confidence, and breaking societal norms continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.
The story of Sayaka, a high school girl, and the story of many gyaru girls is a story of defiance, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. For those interested in wholesome narratives, stories about girls who have dreams and follow them, and a love for Japanese gyaru fashion, "Flying Colors" is a recommendation. The film is filled with vibrant characters and touching relationships that keep the audience engaged. The excellent acting and subtle direction add to the film's quality. From a teacher's perspective, the movie shows how the protagonists feelings and experiences can be greatly empathized with. These elements combine to create a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The journey of Haruka Ichinose, a young woman with gyaru fashion and lifestyle, is another story reflecting gyaru experience. Abandoned by her family and betrayed by her boyfriend, she arrives in Tokyo with her pet turtle. She struggles to find a job and, facing homelessness, becomes a net cafe refugee. This story shows the harsh realities, but it also embodies the resilience and the pursuit of survival.
In conclusion, the gyaru subculture offers a rich tapestry of stories that explore themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and the power of pursuing one's dreams. From "Flying Colors" to the world of anime and beyond, the spirit of gyaru continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
