Just when everything was going in the right direction for Tokyo Revengers, a new controversy has hit the internet. Well, this time, its producers are in some serious trouble. The debate follows a certain symbol that is being represented in the show. Many fans are concerned that the symbol might be offensive to a community. Thus, Crunchyroll has a different version of the show to stream.
This censorship is another angle to the story that is making fans angry. Since no other streaming service opts for censorship, Crunchyroll’s decision seems like a safe play. So, what is the Tokyo Revengers-Crunchyroll controversy about? What is the purpose of the symbol? Here is everything to know about.
Tokyo Revengers: The Manji Symbol
The entire controversy is a result of the symbol that the Tokyo Manji Gang uses for their identity. If you look closely at the sign on their uniforms, you’ll know that it uncannily resembles the Nazi Swastika from World War II. However, this is a common mistake that many viewers are making. The Manji Symbol does not depict the Nazis at all. In fact, it is in a different alignment than the Swastikas.
The makers have clarified time and again that Manji is a very prominent symbol in Buddhism. Moreover, Manji was historically used to show the footprints of Buddha himself. Besides, given that the Toman group closely follows the path of Buddhism, their symbol is the Manji. Thus, the entire controversy is a result of a misunderstanding.
Tokyo Revengers: Crunchyroll Censorship
Crunchyroll is a big name when it comes to streamers. So, when a company this big decides to alter an original piece, conflicts are all one can expect. Thus, the Crunchyroll version of Tokyo Revengers hides all the parts where the Manji Symbol shows up. Viewers did not receive this censorship well as they thought that changing the originality doesn’t do any good. However, Crunchyroll says that their team did not put censorship. They say that this was the version Japan gave them. Now, who is right here? That’s up to the fans to decide.
The Manji Symbol: Fans React
Naturally, many viewers mistook the symbol for the Nazi Swastika and started hitting Studio LIDEN FILMS for their irresponsible actions. Many viewers online are expressing their disdain for the depiction of a symbol like this. One fan writes that watching the logo makes him ‘uncomfortable.’ One commenter notes that the makers should have been more careful before hurting a community’s beliefs.
Moreover, fans were also upset about the flimsy editing to remove the signs by Crunchyroll. They say that their viewing experience was not the same because of the restrictions. So, what are your thoughts about this controversy? Do share your opinions in the comment box below. For more such latest news on anime and manga, keep coming back to The Anime Daily.