Episode #5 of Ranma 1/2 The remake introduced new fans of the franchise to Akane’s iconic hairstyle with a dramatic new character design. Despite how attached she used to be to her long hair in the past, this latest entry in the franchise portrayed her journey of mourning and accepting what she lost. It is without a doubt one of the most emotional moments in the series, which defines who Akane is as a person.
This iconic event was celebrated by talented artist @Fortist_166 in incredible fanart that depicts the blossoming couple of Ranma and Akane saying goodbye to the latter’s old style. The piece perfectly encapsulates the theme of letting go of what has been lost, like the lesson given to fans of the series in episode 5.
Akane accepts letting go in this incredible illustration
The fanart perfectly encapsulates the message of the episode
The incredible fanart uploaded to social media by Fortist_166 shows a version of Akane, still with her long hair, walking alone while holding her head with a shocked expression. In front of her, another version of Soun’s daughter, this one with her iconic hairstyle, walks side by side with Ranma as they both say goodbye to their former selves. Above them, a plane can be seen flying through the sky, with a trail behind it.
The piece gives a sense of finality, as Akane lets down the hair she has loved for so many years and prepares to begin a new chapter. The use of color increases the feeling of nostalgia, with the image containing light tones for the characters’ current look and darker tones for the version they are leaving behind. The artistic style doesn’t try to imitate the manga, giving it a different look, but maintaining what makes the characters so unique. Overall, the illustration created by Fortist_166 is an incredible tribute to one of the Ranma 1/2best moments.
Akane cutting her hair is one of the most memorable moments in the series
His character arc began during this tragedy
As a child, Akane developed a huge crush on the local doctor, Tofu, as she saw him as a mature and kind man. Unlike the boys at school, who often tried to force her to go out with them, Ono always took the time to listen to her and support her dreams. Regrettably, the kind doctor was not interested in Akane, preferring her older sister, Kasumi. Ranma’s fiancee believed that her tomboyish tendencies were to blame for Tofu not seeing her as a woman, so she kept her hair long.
Ryoga’s haircut accident seen in episode 5 of the remake is a painful occurrence, but a necessary one for his character’s advancement. Akane finally lets go of her childhood crush, leaving behind the girl she forced herself to become and accepting who she truly is. This is also the moment when she admits to herself her growing feelings for Ranma, who will fill the place Tofu left in her heart. Fortist_166 perfectly sums up this huge development, portraying Akane with a big smile and her fiancé accompanying her on her journey.
Ranma 1/2 is a series with a plethora of character-defining moments for each of the cast members. Events like Akane’s wrong haircut are essential for them to grow and become the best versions of themselves. Artists like Fortis_166 and their inspiring work will continue to surprise fans as they celebrate these incredible moments.
In this comic series, martial artist Ranma Saotome faces a unique situation: he transforms into a girl when doused in cold water. His involvement with Akane Tendo adds even more complexity, as they encounter numerous challenges in family dynamics and martial arts.
- Cast
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Kappei Yamaguchi, Megumi Hayashibara, Noriko Hidaka, Minami Takayama, Kikuko Inoue, Akio Otsuka, Chō, Shou Okumura, Soshiro Hori, Kouichi Souma, Koichi Yamadera
- Character(s)
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Ranma Saotome, Ranma, Akane Tendo, Nabiki Tendo, Kasumi Tendo, Soun Tendo, Genma Saotome, Passerby, Postman, Jusenkyo Guide
- Release date
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October 6, 2024