Shonen anime has produced some of the most iconic and memorable moments in anime history. From epic battles and emotional scenes to shocking plot twists and unforgettable character introductions, these scenes have become beloved by fans around the world.
The 10 moments below have without a doubt set the bar for anime, and have even become cultural icons in some instances. Here, then, are the scenes that shonen anime fans are never going to forget, and future generations of creators will look back on for inspiration.
10 Attack on Titan: The Colossal Titan Attacks
In terms of spectacle, few moments can compare with the first appearance of the Colossal Titan in Attack on Titan. Seemingly out of nowhere, the outer wall of the city is breached, and the massive figure of the Colossal Titan appears towering over the terrified citizens, disappearing as quickly as it came. The sheer scale of the creature and the destruction it causes creates a sense of chaos and terror that is unparalleled in anime. The scene is made even more intense by the fact that the Colossal Titan's appearance comes as a complete shock to both the characters and the audience, as they were previously unaware of the existence of such a creature. Taking place in season 1, episode 1, the scene perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the series and establishes the threat that the Titans pose to humanity.
9 Demon Slayer: Tanjiro's Hinokami Kagura
Tanjiro's Hinokami Kagura in Demon Slayer sees Tanjiro taking on the powerful demon Rui, and his use of the Hinokami Kagura technique to finally gain the upper hand. The scene is set to an unforgettable score that perfectly captures the intensity and emotion of the moment. The choreography of the bladework is also a standout feature, showcasing the sheer skill that Tanjiro possesses after his months on end of training. The tension in the scene is truly palpable, and the viewer can't help but feel invested in the outcome of the battle. Seeing Tanjiro use the teachings of his father to defeat Rui is a powerful moment that highlights the importance of family bonds, a powerful theme within the narrative context of Demon Slayer, taking place in season 1, episode 19.
The scene of Edward's arm returning in Fullmetal Alchemist episode 62 is a tragic culmination of the story up to that point. During the series' final battle against a being named "Father," Edward is left in dire straits after being impaled by a metal rod. He is helpless to Father's onslaught until his brother, Alphonse, sacrifices his soul in order for Edward's arm to return. This gut-wrenching moment is only compounded by Edward's agony turned rage - now fully capable of beating Father back thanks to Alphonse's heartbreaking sacrifice. The scene exemplifies the series' themes of sacrifice and inescapable consequences, cementing Fullmetal Alchemist's place as a modern classic.
7 My Hero Academia: The United States of Smash
The scene where All Might uses the United States of Smash against All For One in My Hero Academia season 3, episode 11 is a memorable moment that focuses on the series' core theme of passing the torch from one generation to the next. The short flashback of All Might's mentor reinforces this idea and showcases the impact that the previous generation has on those who follow. All Might's unwavering honor and determination lead him to one final victory against All For One, cementing his legacy as the greatest hero of all time. It's a fitting end to his story, and a testament to the themes of heroism, sacrifice, and legacy that are present throughout My Hero Academia.
6 JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Jotaro Stops Time Against Dio
In JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, a series with countless show-stopping moments, Jotaro finally getting the upper hand on Dio thanks to Time-Stop still manages to be the greatest. After what seemed like one of the most arduous journeys of all time, Jotaro alone is able to stand before Dio's overwhelming power. With Kakyoin, Polnareff, Mohammed, Joseph, and Iggy all either dead or incapacitated, only Jotaro's stand Star Platinum can mount a defense against the nefarious vampire, and the two battle in stunning fashion. Though Dio nearly kills Jotaro quite a few times, the moment where Jotaro fully realizes the extent of his time-stopping power is a punch-the-air triumph. The moment takes place in episode 73 of the anime.
5 Naruto: Naruto Befriends Kurama
One of the most satisfying moments in Naruto is in episode 329, when Naruto finally befriends Kurama and unlocks the full power of the Nine Tails. Throughout the series, the question of whether Naruto could ever truly tame the power of the Nine Tails was a major theme. The scene where Naruto strikes a chord with the demon fox is therefore one fans weren't even sure was possible, and it shows how his determination and kindness can overcome even the most intense hatred. When the gates on Kurama's seal open, and Naruto's silhouette resembles his father's, fans know that the battle has taken a dramatic turn. The music and animation in this scene perfectly capture the emotion and significance of Naruto's accomplishment. It's a powerful moment that represents the best aspects of Naruto's character and serves as a major turning point in the series - a pitch-perfect case of a narrative turn actually feeling as big as it is.
4 Hunter x Hunter: The Manifestation of Gon's Rage
One of the most intense scenes in Hunter x Hunter is in episode 131, when Gon is consumed by anger and sorrow after Kite's death at the hands of Pitou. The full magnitude of his emotions unleashes a powerful surge of Nen that transforms him into a new, demonic form. This transformation allows him to completely overwhelm Kite's killer in a way that seemed impossible before. The way in which Gon's rage and grief give him a newfound strength is both fascinating and unsettling. The scene is emotionally charged and visually stunning, with the animation perfectly capturing the ferocity of Gon's attacks. It's a pivotal moment for the character, as it marks a significant shift in his personality and sets the stage for his future development in the series. No-one watching this scene could doubt that everything just changed.
3 Dragon Ball Z: Vegeta's Ultimate Sacrifice
Majin Vegeta's self-sacrifice to save the world from the wrath of Majin Buu is an all-time great Dragon Ball Z moment. With Trunks, Bulma, Goku, and all of mankind in danger, Vegeta makes the ultimate decision to unleash his full power in one decisive move - the Final Explosion. The resulting explosion is so intense that it nearly atomizes Buu, but the creature manages to regenerate from a few small chunks. This scene is legendary not only for its spectacular visuals and action, but for the character development it represents. Vegeta's transformation from villain to hero is fully realized in this moment, as he puts aside his pride and selfishness to do what is right. Everything great about shonen anime here, as a game-changing character moment is married to unparalleled visual spectacle. The scene can be found in episode 6 of the Majin Buu Saga - episode 237 in the larger series.
2 One Piece: The Straw Hats Walk To Arlong Park
The fact that a simple walk from one location to another could end up on this list is a testament to One Piece's phenomenal character writing. After Nami's desperate plea for help, Luffy hands over his beloved straw hat and rallies his crewmates, Zoro, Sanji, and Usopp, to stand by her side in season 1, episode 37. This powerful display of camaraderie and loyalty is a defining moment for the Straw Hat crew, showcasing the bond they share and the lengths they will go to protect one another - as well as the series' incredible sense of style. The scene is made all the more impactful by the stirring music and the symbolism of Luffy entrusting his signature hat to Nami, signifying his faith in her as a fellow pirate and friend. The lengths Luffy goes to protect his friends have no end, and this scene is a perfect example of how easy it is to root for the Straw Hats.
1 Dragon Ball Z: Goku Turns Super Saiyan
There is no doubt that Goku turning Super Saiyan is the most iconic moment in shonen history., occurring in Dragon Ball Z season 3, episode 21. This is the beginning of Goku as not just a character but a symbol - indeed, a cultural icon that transcends borders. After witnessing the death of his best friend Krillin at the hands of Frieza, Goku becomes overwhelmed with anger and sorrow. In a moment of pure emotion, he unleashes a power that was previously thought to be impossible, transforming into the legendary Super Saiyan. This transformation not only marked a significant turning point in the series, but also cemented Goku's status as a legendary hero in the eyes of fans around the world. The moment when Goku's golden hair and green eyes appear is etched into the minds of anime fans everywhere and is a testament to the impact that Dragon Ball Z had on the genre - all but creating it for modern fans.
From the swagger of Luffy's crew to the jaw-dropping transformation of Goku, shonen anime has delivered countless unforgettable moments throughout the years. These scenes have left a lasting impact on fans and continue to be referenced and revered to this day. Whether it's the heart-wrenching tragedy of Gon or the epic showdowns of Jojo and All Might, these scenes have proved that shonen anime can be so much more than just flashy battles and over-the-top powers. Indeed, if these amazing shonen anime moments have one thing in common, it's that they rely on marrying emotional and narrative importance to visual spectacle, without relying on either to do all of the work alone.
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