Hello everyone, I’m Syuya.
This article introduces Japanese anime titles that entrepreneur Elon Musk recommended on X (formerly Twitter).
You know Elon Musk, right? Musk founded PayPal, a leading electronic payment company. He also established Tesla, the pioneer and largest electric vehicle manufacturer. SpaceX, his aerospace company, pushes space exploration boundaries. These achievements make him one of the world’s wealthiest individuals.
Recently, Musk acquired Twitter for $44 billion. This massive purchase captured global attention. Every move he makes sparks worldwide interest.
Musk shows deep knowledge of Japanese otaku culture. Many consider him a “weeboo” – a Western person who loves Japan.
One of Musk’s tweets went viral on X. A user asked him for anime recommendations. Musk replied with his favorite anime titles.
Death Note, Evangelion, Ghost in the Shell, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, Full Metal Alchemist, Your Name
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 14, 2021
This anime selection from a global business leader impressed Japanese anime fans. They praised his excellent choices.
As someone who has enjoyed anime for over 10 years, I find Musk’s picks outstanding. The quality and variety show real understanding of the medium.
This article covers all 7 anime series Musk recommended.
Watch these anime series to understand Elon Musk’s creative thinking. You might discover how his mind generates one innovative idea after another.
1.DEATH NOTE
Death Note: A Revolutionary Manga That Challenged Conventions
The Groundbreaking Series Overview
The first anime we’ll introduce is Death Note. This psychological thriller manga originally ran in Weekly Shonen Jump from December 2003 to May 2006. The creative team behind this masterpiece included Tsugumi Ohba as the story writer and Takeshi Obata as the illustrator.
This series completely shattered traditional Shonen Jump conventions. The protagonist was an elite mass murderer who possessed brilliant intelligence, striking good looks, and incredible popularity with women. No previous Jump manga had dared to feature such a morally complex main character.
The manga became a cultural phenomenon even during its serialization. The series achieved an astounding 21 million copies in total circulation, making it one of the most successful manga of all time.
From Page to Screen Success
Later, the story received a live-action film adaptation. Tatsuya Fujiwara portrayed the protagonist Light Yagami, while Kenichi Matsuyama brought the legendary detective L to life. These casting choices proved perfect for bringing the intense psychological battle to the big screen.
Elon Musk’s Personal Connection to Justice
Understanding Musk’s background helps explain his connection to this series. Elon Musk was born in 1971 in South Africa during the apartheid era. This racial segregation policy was officially enforced by the government at that time.
Musk, being a white male, was not on the oppressed side of this system. However, he spent his childhood in an environment where the country systematically practiced racial discrimination based on skin color.
Many people clearly recognized the wrongness of apartheid. Yet because the government officially supported these policies, no one could openly protest. Everyone remained silent about this obvious injustice.
The Appeal of Vigilante Justice
Perhaps this background explains Musk’s attraction to Death Note. The protagonist Light Yagami uses the supernatural “Death Note” to punish criminals whom the legal system cannot touch. Someone who witnessed systemic injustice during childhood might naturally empathize with a character who takes justice into his own hands.
This personal connection between Musk’s early experiences and the manga’s themes of justice versus law creates a fascinating parallel. The series explores what happens when someone decides the existing system has failed and takes matters into their own hands.
2.Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion: The Legendary Mecha Masterpiece
An Iconic Robot Anime That Defined a Generation
Next, we’ll introduce Neon Genesis Evangelion. This series stands as an undisputed masterpiece of robot anime that needs no introduction.
The original TV series aired from 1995 to 1996. Its complex storytelling sparked intense debates across the newly emerging internet. Fans passionately discussed different interpretations of the show’s deeper meanings and psychological themes.
Hideaki Anno directed this groundbreaking series. His vision created something that transcended typical mecha anime conventions.
Technical Excellence That Appeals to Engineers
Evangelion’s incredibly detailed mechanical designs would naturally appeal to someone like Elon Musk, CEO of electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla. The show features intricate technical specifications for the Eva units and complex scientific explanations that satisfy engineering minds.
A Troubled Student’s Journey to Success
Musk’s brilliant career might suggest he always had everything handed to him. However, his student years tell a different story entirely.
During school, Musk experienced bullying that pushed him toward introversion. He spent most of his time alone, reading books instead of socializing with peers. These difficult experiences shaped his personality during formative years.
Finding Connection Through Shared Struggles
Perhaps this background explains Musk’s connection to Evangelion’s protagonist, Shinji Ikari. Like Musk during his school days, Shinji struggles with social interaction and tends toward introspection. Both characters face internal battles while dealing with external pressures.
Musk might have found deep resonance with Shinji’s journey from isolation to eventual growth. The series explores themes of loneliness, self-doubt, and the courage needed to connect with others despite past trauma.
3.Ghost in the Shell
Ghost in the Shell: The Cyberpunk Masterpiece That Conquered the World
Hard-Boiled Science Fiction at Its Finest
Next, we’ll introduce Ghost in the Shell. The original manga comes from the brilliant mind of Masamune Shirow. This work stands as a prime example of “hard-boiled science fiction” set in a parallel world’s near future.
Among all the anime series featured in this article, Ghost in the Shell enjoys particularly strong popularity among international audiences. The series has maintained its global appeal for decades.
The Film That Changed Everything
The 1995 animated film Ghost in the Shell directed by Mamoru Oshii truly launched this franchise into worldwide recognition. This cinematic masterpiece captivated audiences with its stunning cyberpunk aesthetic and philosophical depth.
The film’s cyberpunk world view mesmerized viewers around the globe. As soon as it hit theaters, media outlets both in Japan and internationally gave it massive coverage. The impact was immediate and far-reaching.
International Recognition and Success
The film achieved remarkable commercial success overseas. Billboard magazine ranked it number one on the video sales chart in the United States. This achievement demonstrated the series’ strong appeal to American audiences and beyond.
Cultural Impact and Lasting Legacy
Ghost in the Shell, alongside Neon Genesis Evangelion, served as a catalyst for the global anime boom. These two series introduced countless international viewers to the artistic potential of Japanese animation. They opened doors for many anime works that followed.
The influence extends far beyond commercial success. The series inspired numerous creators both domestically and internationally. Even today, Ghost in the Shell maintains a dedicated fanbase worldwide that continues to grow.
Technology That Speaks to Innovators
The various advanced technologies featured throughout Ghost in the Shell would naturally appeal to someone like Elon Musk. The series presents cutting-edge concepts that push the boundaries of imagination.
I’m certainly not alone in believing that Musk could potentially turn these fictional technologies into reality in the near future. His track record of making impossible dreams come true suggests he might tackle some of these cyberpunk innovations next.
4.Spirited Away
Spirited Away: Miyazaki’s Masterpiece That Captivated the World
The Animation Master’s Greatest Achievement
Next, we’ll introduce Spirited Away. This film comes from the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, a director beloved not only in Japan but around the entire world. Miyazaki stands as one of animation’s true masters.
This masterpiece represents Miyazaki’s eighth directorial work. The film premiered in Japanese theaters on July 20, 2001, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.
A Cultural Phenomenon Born
The movie became an instant hit due to its exceptional quality. Audiences and critics alike recognized its brilliance immediately. The film quickly evolved from entertainment into a genuine cultural phenomenon.
The box office results speak volumes about its success. Spirited Away earned over 30 billion yen in domestic revenue. This achievement made it Japan’s highest-grossing film of all time until 2020.
Record-Breaking Success and Legacy
The record stood for nearly two decades. Only Demon Slayer: Mugen Train finally surpassed its box office numbers in 2020. This longevity demonstrates the film’s enduring appeal across generations.
Many consider Spirited Away to be Miyazaki’s greatest masterpiece. Among all his works, this film generated the highest box office revenue. The achievement solidifies its place in cinema history.
Masterful Blend of Horror and Wonder
Miyazaki demonstrates incredible skill throughout the entire film. He incorporates elements of Japanese horror while maintaining the story’s entertainment value. This delicate balance showcases his directorial genius.
The way he weaves scary moments with magical wonder creates a unique viewing experience. Few directors could achieve such a sophisticated balance between different emotional tones.
Universal Appeal Beyond Borders
Spirited Away has earned recognition from anime fans worldwide, not just from Elon Musk. The film represents one of Japan’s most internationally acclaimed animated works. Its themes and storytelling transcend cultural boundaries completely.
5.Princess Mononoke
Princess Mononoke: Environmental Vision Ahead of Its Time
Miyazaki’s Environmental Epic
Next, we’ll introduce another Hayao Miyazaki masterpiece: Princess Mononoke. This film represents the director’s seventh major work and premiered on July 12, 1997. The movie tackled environmental themes years before they became mainstream concerns.
A Tale of Civilization Versus Nature
The story presents a fundamental conflict between human progress and natural preservation. Humans destroy nature to fuel their own prosperity and expansion. In response, nature’s gods and spirits fight back against this destruction.
At the center stands San, a young woman caught between two worlds. Born human but raised by nature, she battles against her own species to protect the forest. Her character embodies the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Love Story Amid Conflict
Ashitaka enters this conflict as a mediating force. Unlike other humans who simply exploit nature, he seeks harmony between civilization and the natural world. His approach attracts San, who gradually develops feelings for him despite their opposing sides.
Their relationship mirrors classic stories like Romeo and Juliet. Two people from conflicting worlds find love despite seemingly impossible circumstances. This romantic subplot adds emotional depth to the larger environmental themes.
Sharp Environmental Commentary
However, the movie’s primary theme remains “civilization versus nature.” Miyazaki uses this animated medium to deliver sharp criticism of real-world environmental problems. The film presents these issues with remarkable depth and nuance.
Ahead of the SDGs Movement
The content seems to anticipate today’s SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) movement. The film’s environmental message predates current sustainability trends by decades. This foresight demonstrates Miyazaki’s remarkable awareness of emerging global issues.
Elon Musk’s appreciation for this film makes perfect sense. His dedication to the electric vehicle industry reflects his commitment to reducing CO2 emissions. Musk’s well-known enthusiasm for SDGs aligns perfectly with Princess Mononoke’s core environmental message.
6.Fullmetal Alchemist
Fullmetal Alchemist: A Tale of Genius and Curiosity
Two Anime Adaptations, One Compelling Story
Next, we’ll introduce Fullmetal Alchemist. The original manga comes from Hiromu Arakawa and ran in Monthly Shonen Gangan from 2001 to 2010. This beloved series spawned two distinct anime adaptations with different approaches.
The anime series exists in two versions. The first season aired from 2003 to 2004, while the second season ran from 2009 to 2010. Both share the same setting and characters but tell remarkably different stories.
Different Paths, Different Destinations
The two series diverge significantly in their storytelling approach. The first adaptation began while the manga was still ongoing. As a result, it shifted to original content partway through the series.
The protagonists face dark circumstances from the beginning. However, the original manga follows a classic shonen formula. The main characters overcome tremendous difficulties and ultimately reach a happy ending. This represents the traditional hero’s journey structure.
The Darker First Adaptation
The first anime maintains its dark fantasy atmosphere throughout the entire series. Since the original manga wasn’t complete, the anime creators developed their own conclusion. This version delivers a consistently somber tone that appeals to fans who prefer darker storytelling.
Many viewers actually prefer this darker approach. The first adaptation has cultivated a dedicated fanbase that appreciates its unique atmosphere. These fans value the series’ commitment to its initial dark fantasy elements.
The Conqueror of Shamballa served as the first adaptation’s conclusion. This theatrical film premiered in 2005, providing closure to the original anime storyline.
The Faithful Second Adaptation
The second anime follows the manga faithfully from beginning to end. This version delivers the happy ending that Arakawa originally envisioned for her characters. Fans of the source material generally prefer this more optimistic conclusion.
Brilliant Protagonists with Endless Curiosity
The Elric brothers are portrayed as curious geniuses throughout both versions. Their intellectual prowess and insatiable desire for knowledge drive the entire story forward. These traits make them compelling protagonists who resonate with viewers.
Elon Musk showed similar characteristics during his childhood. He displayed intense curiosity and read extensively, particularly science fiction novels and technical books. His intellectual abilities eventually led him to the University of Pennsylvania, one of America’s most prestigious institutions.
Perhaps Musk saw reflections of his younger self in the Elric brothers. Their shared traits of genius-level intellect and boundless curiosity might explain his connection to this series.
7.Your Name
Your Name: A Visual Masterpiece That Captivated the World
The Body-Swapping Phenomenon
Finally, we’ll introduce the film Your Name. This movie tells the story of a city boy and a country girl who mysteriously swap bodies. When it premiered in 2016, it immediately became a cultural phenomenon that swept across Japan and beyond.
Makoto Shinkai directed this groundbreaking animated film. His vision created something that resonated with audiences worldwide, establishing him as one of anime’s most important contemporary voices.
Stunning Visual Artistry
Your Name premiered in 2016 and quickly became a global sensation. The film showcased Shinkai’s incredible talent for creating breathtakingly beautiful animation that sets new standards for the medium.
Shinkai’s animated films consistently feature one defining characteristic: absolutely gorgeous visuals. His animation style achieves photorealistic detail while maintaining anime’s distinctive artistic beauty. This unique combination creates a visual experience unlike anything else in cinema.
Your Name perfectly exemplifies this approach. The film presents images so realistic they could pass for live-action footage. Yet it retains the fantastical beauty that only animation can achieve. These two elements blend seamlessly to create a harmonious visual masterpiece.
Viewers can feel moved simply by watching the stunning imagery unfold. The film functions as both entertainment and artistic expression. This dual nature elevates it beyond typical animated movies into something approaching fine art.
Deep Storytelling Rooted in Tradition
The movie’s other remarkable feature lies in its profound storytelling approach. Shinkai weaves Japanese folk traditions skillfully throughout the narrative. These cultural elements provide convincing explanations for the supernatural body-swapping phenomenon.
The director draws from ancient folklore to ground his fantastical premise in cultural authenticity. This approach gives weight and believability to otherwise impossible events. The result feels both magical and grounded in real tradition.
International Appeal and Pilgrimage Tourism
This film achieved tremendous popularity among international audiences. The movie’s global success led to an unexpected cultural phenomenon: anime pilgrimage tourism.
Many foreign visitors traveled to Japan specifically to visit Tokyo locations featured in the film. These “sacred site pilgrimages” became so common that tourism boards began promoting anime-related destinations. The film’s impact extended far beyond entertainment into real economic benefits.
Perhaps Elon Musk himself made a secret pilgrimage to these Tokyo locations. Given his appreciation for the film, such a visit wouldn’t be entirely surprising.
Conclusion
Conclusion: Unlocking Genius Through Anime
Learning from a Global Visionary
How was this journey through Elon Musk’s anime recommendations? Today, Musk stands as one of the world’s most influential leaders, driving innovation across multiple industries.
Perhaps his genius-level insights draw partial inspiration from Japanese anime. This remains speculation, of course. However, the connection between creative storytelling and innovative thinking shouldn’t be dismissed entirely.
Finding Your Own Creative Spark
If you watch all the anime series that Elon recommends, you might discover essential elements for developing genius-level thinking yourself. These stories offer rich perspectives on problem-solving, creativity, and human nature.
Each series presents unique approaches to overcoming challenges and thinking outside conventional boundaries. The characters’ journeys might inspire your own creative breakthroughs in unexpected ways.
A Window Into Innovative Thinking
This article introduces seven anime recommendations that American entrepreneur Elon Musk mentioned on Twitter. These carefully selected titles reveal fascinating insights into how one of the world’s most innovative minds approaches entertainment and inspiration.
Thank you for reading this exploration of Musk’s anime preferences. Perhaps these recommendations will spark your own journey toward creative genius.
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