There are a number of interesting elements of this documentary that really helped to highlight the importance of manga in Japanese culture. It was interesting in that it did not only focus on the phenomenon of manga, but on the parts of the sub-culture that are associated with it, including sex, eroticism, and otaku culture. Some of the scenes were quite shocking, in that they gave real insight into the association between sex, manga, and anime in Japan, but it is also important to know the impact that manga has had on Japanese culture as a whole, rather than seeing it just as a piece of art. Highlighting the effect that these manga idols have on Japanese culture was also an interesting part of understanding the role that it plays in the culture, and how these idols, such as Junko Mizuno, are seen by the Japanese population.
I thought it was really interesting to compare the phenomenon of manga to religion. Japan does not have a major religion as seen in most Western countries, and the documentary hypothesizes that for some Japanese manga has the effect of replacing it. For me, the idea was important not because it suggests Japanese people worship manga heroes (although some do), but it takes the place of religion in that it permeates general culture. It would be hard to imagine driving through the United States without seeing a church, and the same can be said of Japan and manga. For me, I would like to have a little more insight into this element of the cultural impact of manga on the country to be able to understand these links a little better, but overall I felt the documentary was powerful and informative. It was also interesting for me as I have been interested in Japanese culture for a long time.