Nana was released in 2006, but even two decades later it is considered a cult classic.
Even those far removed from the world of anime and manga have probably seen images of Nana Osaki at least once: a short haircut, high boots, a leather jacket, and an inescapable guitar. Her style was so popular with fashionistas around the world that it started the whole nana core trend.
Nana Is One of the Most Important Titles in the Josei Genre
Nana is one of the most distinctive projects in the josei genre. A story about finding yourself and your place in the world, about the sacrifices you can make for friendship and love – and what we are willing to sacrifice for them.
The anime was not officially finished; the creator of the manga of the same name, Ai Yazawa, stopped working in 2009 due to illness. But even though the title is not officially finished, the creators of Nana are building a full-fledged social drama for viewers over 47 episodes.
What Is Nana About?
This is a story about two girls with the same name – Nana. They meet on a train to Tokyo. Nana Komatsu wants to see her lover as soon as possible, and Nana Osaki dreams of a musical career in the capital.
The trip is delayed by bad weather, and during the five-hour journey, the two easily find a common language. Although they communicate warmly, their paths diverge upon arrival. But not for long: a few days later, the Nanas cross paths again while viewing an apartment in Tokyo.
Having decided that it would be more profitable, the girls move in together, splitting the rent in half. And so begins the story of their friendship.
Nana Is One of the Most Honest Works on the Subject of Friendship
We are used to the fact that when movies and TV series tell us about a breakup, it is usually a story of unhappy love. The creators of Nana show that losing a friend can also break a heart.
And even though the two girls get to know themselves better and learn to build relationships with men in the process, their friendship remains the topic theme of the anime.
This story could have been an ordinary anime about life and how it changes. However, the path that the two Nanas go through is both fascinating and destructive.
The creators are not afraid to twist the characters' experiences to the maximum in order to show their shortcomings or the consequences of their choices. Often, the characters' mindset can cause outrage among viewers, but that is why Nana has become a cult anime.
Where to Watch Nana?
Nana is available to stream on Crunchyroll.