Series & First Appearance
Midori Asakusa is a central character in the anime and manga series Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! (Japanese: Eizouken ni wa Te wo Dasu na!), which debuted in January 2020. The series was created by Sumito Ōwara and produced by Science SARU, featuring character designs that celebrate the vibrant world of anime and animation.
Profile at a Glance
Midori Asakusa is a 15-year-old freshman at Shibahama High School and serves as one of the protagonists of the series. She is a member of the Eizouken (Film Club), where her passion for animation and world-building shines. While Asakusa does not possess superhuman abilities in a conventional sense, her creativity and skills in drawing and storytelling establish her as a formidable creator, allowing her to visualize intricate settings and narratives.
Personality & Motivations
Asakusa is characterized by her immense curiosity and vivid imagination, which drive her interest in anime and animation. Though not particularly sociable, she thrives in creative environments where she can express her ideas. Her guiding philosophy, "Anime is all about its setting," reflects her desire to create immersive worlds in her animations. She is often found sketching unique settings inspired by her daily experiences, which become integral components in her projects. Despite her introverted nature, Asakusa’s friendships, especially with Sayaka Kanamori and Tsubame Mizusaki, help her navigate social interactions more effectively.
Abilities / Powers
Asakusa’s standout skills lie in her artistic abilities, particularly in designing detailed backgrounds and settings for animations. She exhibits impressive creativity in conceptualizing diverse worlds that enhance the storytelling experience. While she does not engage in physical combat, her mental acuity and artistic capabilities are her greatest assets within the realm of animation. As the series progresses, her skills evolve as she learns to collaborate with her teammates, pushing her creative boundaries and overcoming self-doubt.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Asakusa’s journey begins as she navigates high school alongside her friends. When she and Kanamori visit the Anime Club, they meet Tsubame Mizusaki, sparking the foundation of the Eizouken. Throughout the series, Asakusa faces various challenges, including her insecurities about teamwork and creativity. Key episodes showcase her development, such as when the team works together to realize their ambitious animation projects. By confronting her fears and embracing collaboration, Asakusa learns valuable lessons about leadership and self-expression, transforming her from a shy artist into a confident creator.
Notable Relationships
Midori Asakusa shares a deep bond with her classmates, particularly Sayaka Kanamori, who serves as a supportive ally and practical thinker, balancing Asakusa’s whimsical creativity. Tsubame Mizusaki, the talented animator and voice of reason, also plays a crucial role in Asakusa’s development, encouraging her to embrace her artistic vision. The dynamics within the Eizouken are pivotal in shaping Asakusa’s character, as they navigate the ups and downs of creating animations together.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable moments for Asakusa occurs in Episode 3 when she passionately explains her philosophy on animation, declaring, "The setting is the world I want to dive into." This moment resonates with fans, emphasizing her dream to create her "Incredible World." Another notable scene appears when Asakusa sketches her ideas, igniting the imagination of her friends and showcasing the power of collaboration in animation creation, reinforcing her role as a creative catalyst.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Midori Asakusa’s character has garnered significant popularity, ranking among the top favorites with over 786 fan votes, reflecting her impact within the anime community. Her voice is portrayed by Karin Takahashi in the Japanese version, while in the English dubbed version, she is voiced by Cassandra Lee Morris, both bringing life to her imaginative and quirky personality. Asakusa’s character design incorporates elements inspired by real-life animators and artists, embodying a homage to the creative spirit within the animation industry. Furthermore, the series itself has been praised for its authentic representation of the animation process, resonating with aspiring artists and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
Midori Asakusa stands out as a beloved character whose creativity and imagination drive the heart of Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! Through her artistic journey, audiences witness the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing one’s passion, making her a relatable figure in the world of anime. Asakusa’s development serves as an inspiration for budding creators, illustrating that with collaboration and imagination, incredible worlds can be brought to life.
