UlasanAnime.com – Star Driver can be likened to a fable, where characters act out events symbolizing higher concepts and themes. This is conveyed through larger-than-life characters and a dazzling narrative. However, it becomes irksome when the identity of the entity employing these characters remains undisclosed. Much like a fable, one desires to reach its conclusion and understand its moral, akin to spinning the wheel of morality.
For the most part, I have been content with Star Driver’s narrative approach. Yet, the recent episodes focusing on the Vanishing Age have particularly piqued my interest. Considering the names of the Kiraboshi Juujidan factions, it’s unlikely that Yoji Enokido is merely toying with us, unlike Urobuchi.
- Filament – This faction is characterized by brightness, but also by its ephemeral nature. It forms the core of the Kiraboshi Brigade, or at least the “Kiraboshi” aspect. The episode touching upon the “glittering of youth” might symbolize this literal glittering. Furthermore, a man-made creation like a filament serves as a stark contrast to the naturally adaptable Galactic Pretty Boy. Fusion’s brilliance is indeed hard to surpass.
- Adult Bank – This name initially seemed self-explanatory. However, the presence of “Adult” in its name is perplexing, given the apparent absence of adults within the faction. While the specific composition of Bouganville remains unclear, both Vanishing Age and the Science Guild appear to include adults. One could also cite the relationship between Leon Watanabe and his teenage bride, but that might be too obvious. A less apparent interpretation suggests an allusion to the wealth possessed by these young individuals, wealth that is not entirely their own. Kanako, for instance, undeniably lives in her husband’s shadow.
- Science Guild – This faction’s name seems even more straightforward. It also presents the most exaggerated aspect among them. Could Rinko serve as my First Stage?
- Bouganville – Beyond its geographical significance as the largest of the Solomon Islands (now an independent nation) and its historical occupation by Japan during WWII, the name “Bouganville” simply means “an island in the south.” This lends a sense of locality and tradition to the members of this subsection, reflecting the long history of human civilization in the Solomon Islands. Currently, this subsection comprises only two members. The events of WWII might offer a potential clue.
- Vanishing Age – This is where I will deviate from bullet points and elaborate on the point I aim to convey.
My contemplation of these puzzles was influenced by a New York Times article. The generation gap is a significant issue in American society, but Japan is particularly affected, to the extent that a more technical and comprehensive term, “Generational Inequality,” is employed. Beyond the socio-economic and political dimensions, the Times piece offers a perspective that may resonate with Japanese college students and recent graduates struggling to find fulfillment in their careers and foresee their near future. This future, much like Head’s sunset, grows increasingly bleak with each passing moment.
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The era of exclusive clubs, high-class lounges, and back-room deals conducted amidst cigarette smoke and fine Suntory whisky is a relic of the past. This represents your Vanishing Age – the modern vice that propelled Japan to its global economic prominence, perhaps at the expense of its firstborn sons and daughters. From this viewpoint, the Kiraboshi section titles can be interpreted as:
- Individuals who strive, even if their efforts appear disingenuous.
- Those unable to escape the privileges of their upbringing, regardless of their achievements.
- Otaku.
- Individuals clinging to outdated customs.
- People navigating hierarchical structures.
However, this is merely one interpretation, and superior analyses may exist. We also observe that the Vanishing Age clearly signifies a group of people who are truly elite, born with a distinct “mark” that they leverage to maintain their elevated status. Introducing real-world issues into this contemporary fable adds a layer of complexity that is perhaps more profound than initially perceived.
All of this is an endeavor to capture that elusive spark. Will it be the solution to Japan’s problems? DUN DUN DUN.
