Ranma 1/2

About Ranma 1/2

Released in 1989, "Ranma 1/2" is a Japanese anime series based on the manga series of the same name by Rumiko Takahashi. The show combines elements of action, comedy, and romance while touching upon themes of gender and identity. The plot follows a young teenage boy named Ranma Saotome who, after falling into a cursed spring during a training journey in China, turns into a girl whenever he comes into contact with cold water. A hot splash will reverse the effect, but the implication of this curse results in hilarious and chaotic situations.

Making / Production

The series was produced by Kitty Films and animated by Studio Deen. It aired on Fuji TV for seven seasons from 1989 to 1992, with a total of 161 episodes, including two films and twelve OVA releases. The series was later licensed for an English-language release in North America by Viz Media, with the English dialogues adapted by Trish Ledoux.

Actors

• Kappei Yamaguchi as Ranma Saotome: Yamaguchi portrayed both male and female Ranma, expertly conveying the drastic change in character every time Ranma switched genders.
• Megumi Hayashibara as Female Ranma Saotome: Hayashibara excellently depicted the female counterpart's personality, with a unique blend of tomboyish attitude and femininity.
• Kenichi Ogata as Genma Saotome: Ogata played Ranma’s father, who suffers from a similar curse and turns into a panda. He captured the comedic and charming aspects of the character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Ranma 1/2 is considered Rumiko Takahashi's breakout hit, with its innovative storytelling and unique blend of martial arts, romance, and screwball comedy.
• The concept of gender changing was a groundbreaking one in anime during the 80s, and it paved the way for exploring themes of gender fluidity in future anime and manga.
• Ranma 1/2 became the first anime title to be released directly to home video in the US, instead of being edited for television.

Awards

No significant awards have been recorded for this series.

Quotes

• "I'm a guy. I am. But.. sometimes I'm a girl." - Ranma Saotome
• "Water is constantly changing from liquid to solid, from solid to gas, from gas to liquid. It takes many forms, just like you, Ranma." - Genma Saotome

Music, Soundtrack

• "Jaja Uma ni Sasenaide" by Etsuko Nishio - This is the first opening theme of the TV series.
• "Little☆Date" by Ribbon - Served as the ending theme for episodes 7 to 13.
• "Nihao My Concubine" by DoCo - This track is the main theme for the second movie of the series.