Was Bungou Stray Dogs Inspired by the Anime Black Cat?

When discussing popular anime series, fans often draw parallels between seemingly similar themes and characters. One such discussion revolves around the inspiration behind the critically acclaimed anime Bungou Stray Dogs and the Black Cat series. While the action-packed plots and complex character dynamics might lead to such comparisons, is there any actual connection between the two?

The Rise of Bungou Stray Dogs

Bungou Stray Dogs (ブンゴ×ストレイドッグス, Buncho × Sutoreidoogusu) is a shōnen dark novel series by Rikio Igashira, later adapted into anime. The story follows Shizukaya Kuzunoha, a graduate student at Fukuoka University and a fusuma cat, as he navigates the complex world of private detective agencies in Tokyo. Known for its intricate plot and dark humor, the anime gained a dedicated following worldwide.

The Intriguing Black Cat

Black Cat (ブラックキャット, Burakku Kyatto) is a Japanese ninja fantasy anime series. Set in the city of Iga, it follows a group of ninjas combating supernatural forces. The series, based on the manga by Himaruya Kana, focuses on the exploits of Kanae Togashi, a girl transformed into a ninja by cats, and her band of allies.

Comparing the Dynamics and Plots

While Bungou Stray Dogs and Black Cat do share some thematic similarities, such as non-traditional protagonists and unconventional dynamics, any direct inspiration is a matter of speculation. Here are some points that fans might find interesting:

Action-Packed Plots

Both animes boast action-driven plots filled with suspense and intrigue. Bungou Stray Dogs features intense detective work and supernatural elements, while Black Cat delves into ninja stealth and strategic combat scenarios. However, the specific inspirations for these elements remain subjective and open to interpretation.

Character Dynamics

The complex relationships and interactions among the main characters are a hallmark of both series. Bungou Stray Dogs presents a mix of human and non-human characters, each with unique backgrounds and motivations, leading to a rich tapestry of dynamics. Black Cat similarly creates a world where humans and feline ninjas coexist, their interactions providing much of the storyline’s tension and humor.

Compared Themes and Parallels

One possible connection is the unconventional protagonist. In Bungou Stray Dogs, Kuzunoha stands out as a non-conventional private investigator, while in Black Cat, Kanae Togashi’s transformation offers a break from traditional ninja protagonists. These unique perspectives could inspire writers and creators looking to subvert expectations.

The Verdict: Inspiration vs. Coincidence

While there are noticeable commonalities in the overall feel and structure of both series, it is difficult to conclusively state that one directly inspired the other. The creators of each series were likely influenced by different sources and inspirations. A more accurate assessment would be that both series benefit from the Japanese anime tradition of combining action, comedy, and complex storytelling.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving landscape of anime, it is not uncommon for series to share thematic elements and structural similarities. However, to claim direct inspiration, more concrete evidence is needed. For now, Bungou Stray Dogs and Black Cat will continue to stand as separate yet equally engaging works in the realm of Japanese animation. Whether or not there is a direct connection, the rich stories and intricate worlds of both series offer a delightful exploration for fans and newcomers alike.

Keywords:

Bungou Stray Dogs Black Cat Anime Influence Character Dynamics Action-Driven Plots