The term 'loveable' can be portrayed as a single character with sweet and endearing qualities. However, the question would change if we were to look at 'loveable dynamics' between characters. The relationships and interactions between various characters is the essence of anime itself, not only to keeps plots moving forward, but to see the emotional depts and growth from these characters. It's through these connections that we understand a character on a human level. We've seen many main leads find their tribe and in this process their own qualities, strengths and weaknesses are highlighted, all at once. These are common troupes for anime such as: Fairy Tail, One Piece, and most recently, Wind Breaker. Interesting characters alone, but exciting warriors that draw strength from their colleagues.
An example of this 'loveable dynamic' would be Tanjirou Kamado and Genya Shinazugawa's friendship during 'Kimetsu no Yaiba: Katanakaji no Sato-hen' (Demon Slayer: Sword-smith Village Arc).
- SPOILERS AHEAD - PLEASE READ AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION.
At first we see only Genya as an unapproachable and angry character, while Tanjirou is continuously polite, overly positive (at times socially dense) and selfless. The two could not be more different, and yet, through their hilarious conversations, we see Tanjirou work hard to ease pass Genya's exterior.
During the Demon's attack on the Swordsmith Village, Genya is frustrated and in a display of dominance, he takes Tanjirou by the throat and shouts his motivations in becoming a Hashira. Only for Tanjirou to wholeheartedly respond that both he and Nezuko would be there to support him. This leaves Genya dumbfounded, yet Tanjirou continues to focus on the demons before them and entrusts Genya to find the main body as Tanjirou and Nezuko protect him. Paying no mind to Genya's sudden 'Demon-like' appearance, his confidence in Genya never weavers. Even as Genya is about to be beheaded by the 'Anger-Demon', he all but accepts his death, but Tanjirou protects his friend and beckons him not to give up. This one act rekindles his resolve to fight (Episode 6).
Genya hadn't experienced such an encouraging presence since he was a child. After the traumatic events of loosing his Mother and five younger siblings, then being abandoned by his elder bother, Genya's only drive fell under gaining power and proving himself to Sanemi Shinazugawa. Ever longing for the brotherly bond they once had. Which was why Tanjirou's influence was so impactful, he was speechless towards Tanjirou's sudden and radical acceptance.
After this, the audience sees Tanjirou, Nezuko and Genya fighting side by side, as a proper unit. Acknowledging each other's strength, protecting and openly worrying for one another. Genya even takes it a step further on two accounts in risking his life to save Tanjirou's.
First, when Genya had been saved by Tanjirou, only for him to be left open to the 'Sad-Demon's' attack. Without hesitation, Genya leapt in the way and was punctured repeatedly, leaving gapping holes throughout his body. His ability allowed him to gain demonic regeneration (excluding the nape of his neck) and increased his muscular strength after eating their flesh. Genya was physically able to take the blow, and out of respect for Tanjirou, he acknowledged that he was the only one with the strength to take down the 'Main-Body Demon' (Epsidoe 6).
Second, when Tanjirou was being suffocated by the enlarged 'Main-Body Demon'. Genya tried desperately to remove the Demon's hands from Tajirou's throat and head, he even braced a close range sound attack, but never let go. He refused to leave his friend behind to die. Simultaneously, Nezuko set the demon ablaze and Genya was able to remove one of the Demon's arms. Now on fire, Genya still calls out to Tanjirou, who continued his assault on the 'Main-Body Demon' (Episode 11).
These heroic sentiments were unthinkable for the self-centred and hostile Genya Shinazugawa, that cared for no one. After such a short time with Tanjirou, his true nature came to light from his actions, not his words.
In the end, Genya was truly happy and smiling for his friends that had both survived. Genya was unable to protect his younger siblings in the same way, however, he held no resentment towards Tanjirou and Nezuko for still having family. This impressive character development only came about, because of the positive influence Tanjirou had on Genya, and from Genya overcoming his self-doubt and providing the crucial support Tanjirou needed.
This (to me anyways) is a 'loveable dynamic', where two different characters can bring out the best in one another. |