UlasanAnime.com – The author aligns with Elon Musk’s subtle critique regarding the comparison between SpaceX’s achievements and Blue Origin’s rocket landing announcement. The core difference highlighted is the immense disparity in speed and complexity between landing a large object in freefall at near-zero velocity versus landing one traveling at Mach 7, or approximately 16,000 kilometers per hour, considering its lateral velocity alone.
This distinction, the author feels, mirrors the gap between THE iDOLM@STER (IM@S) and Love Live!. Both are media-mixed intellectual properties centered around fictional idols, featuring similar associated content. However, using the rocket analogy, IM@S is depicted as being in a much more advanced stage of its journey, far beyond its Max Q point, akin to completing its second stage burn and approaching the third. In contrast, Love Live! is still firmly on its main burner.
The author suspects that these two idol franchises are not only on different trajectories but are also heading towards entirely different destinations, suggesting a divergence in their ultimate goals or market positioning.
Despite these differences, the author expresses a desire for both franchises to succeed. This sentiment extends beyond IM@S and Love Live! to include other idol series like Wake Up Girls!, Aikatsu!, Pripara, and Show By Rock!!, suggesting that the growth of the idol genre as a whole benefits everyone, especially outside of Japan. The author notes that the Western audience often struggles to grasp the idol concept, frequently associating it solely with the infamous AKB48 and its associated drama.
While the 48 Group significantly revolutionized the idol concept in practice, they are not representative of the entire idol industry nor are they a perfect reflection of it outside of the most mainstream circles. Furthermore, mainstream Japanese entertainment has historically had limited relevance in the West, when viewed in broad aggregate terms.
The author posits that increased engagement with Love Live!, whether through deep immersion or casual interest, ultimately benefits all other similar franchises. East Asia, particularly Korea, is cited as an example of a region that understands and successfully adapts the idol formula, often improving upon it while retaining elements that resonate with their audience. This approach differs from the less glamorous, more homely, and otaku-friendly versions sometimes seen elsewhere.
Writing from the perspective of someone in the USA, this evolution and broader understanding of idol culture is a welcome change. With Love Live!’s Tokyo Dome event approaching and its movie shattering late-night anime records, the author hopes this signifies the beginning of a more expansive and positive era for all fans, not just those exclusively dedicated to Love Live!.
The author acknowledges that attending events like Love Live!’s 6th Anniversary concert might induce nervousness, but reassures potential attendees that if it mirrors the grandeur of IM@S 10th, it will be a remarkable experience, and securing tickets might not be as challenging as anticipated.
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The author concludes by mentioning upcoming posts they need to write but are constrained by time. They indicate that the “Year in Review” posts will be published after Christmas.
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