The 1990s were a landmark decade for anime, introducing Western audiences to influential series like Cowboy Bebop, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Dragon Ball Z. Among these, Sailor Moon stood out as a major series for young girls. Originally airing in Japan in 1992 and later in North America in 1995, Sailor Moon remains a pioneering story about female superheroes and a significant influence on creators across various genres.
The complete series is now available to stream for free on Pluto TV.
In the Name of the Moon
Created by manga artist Naoko Takeuchi and adapted for television with contributions from directors like Kunihiko Ikuhara, Sailor Moon follows Usagi Tsukino, a 14-year-old who discovers she is the magical warrior Sailor Moon. Empowered by a magical brooch, Usagi can transform into a princess with extraordinary abilities to protect Earth. Despite her powers, she also navigates typical teenage challenges, including school, friendships, and crushes.
The second season, Sailor Moon R, was a critical juncture, introducing characters and plotlines that would define the rest of the series. This season saw the arrival of Chibiusa, Usagi's future daughter from a corrupted future, and marked the beginning of Ikuhara's significant directorial contributions, setting the stage for Sailor Moon S, often considered the series' most celebrated installment.
While not the originator of the Magical Girl genre, Sailor Moon expanded its scope by focusing on a team of heroes rather than a single protagonist. This ensemble approach allowed viewers to connect deeply with characters like the fiery Sailor Mars and the intellectually sharp Sailor Neptune.
Ahead of Its Time, Decades Later
Sailor Moon distinguished itself with its progressive depictions of queer relationships, complex antagonists, and fluid gender expressions. Over its 200 episodes, the series featured prominent LGBTQ+ characters, including the romantic pairing of Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune, the devoted villain couple Zoisite and Kunzite, and the Sailor Starlights, a boy band that transforms into female warriors. The show's visual style is noted for its cinematic quality and surreal moments, juxtaposing its whimsical tone with genuine horror elements.
Director Kunihiko Ikuhara commented on the magical girl genre's potential, stating, "What’s so great about the magical girl genre is that in it, girls can use otherworldly powers and take the spotlight in a similar vein to Superman." He noted the genre's role in envisioning diverse life paths for young women.
Decades after its initial run, Sailor Moon continues to resonate, influencing narratives about female protagonists and their relationships, much like Buffy the Vampire Slayer. While the franchise has seen reboots such as Sailor Moon Crystal, the original cel-animated series offers a unique charm. With its free availability on Pluto TV, now is an opportune time to revisit this seminal '90s anime.