To Be Heroine is a unique Chinese-Japanese animated series (donghua) that explores themes of identity, duality, and self-discovery. At the heart of this compelling story is Futaba, a teenage girl who finds herself transported into a bizarre alternate reality where her choices and courage become the cornerstone of an entire world. As the central protagonist, Futaba brings emotional depth, resilience, and relatability to an otherwise surreal narrative landscape.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of Futaba’s character, her development, and her symbolic significance within the series. Written in a clear and accessible style, this piece is suitable for both newcomers and long-time fans of the series.
The Origins of To Be Heroine
Produced by Studio LAN and co-directed by Haoliners Animation League , To Be Heroine serves as a spiritual sequel to To Be Hero, though it stands firmly on its own. The show aired in 2018 and quickly captivated audiences with its unorthodox narrative structure, blending slapstick humor with intense philosophical undertones.
The protagonist, Futaba Hanaya, is a junior high school student living an ordinary life—until she is abruptly transported into a dimension where children are clothed while adults are naked. This universe is not just surreal, it’s allegorical, designed to challenge viewers’ perceptions of morality, purity, and societal expectations.
Who is Futaba Hanaya?
Futaba is introduced as a quiet, introspective girl with a sharp mind and an empathetic heart. Her name, meaning “bud” or “twin leaves” in Japanese, symbolizes potential and duality—an apt reflection of her role in both the real world and the alternate realm.
What sets Futaba apart from many anime or donghua protagonists is her grounded nature. She does not possess supernatural powers or an exaggerated personality. Instead, her strength lies in her rationality, her moral compass, and her ability to adapt.
In an interview with Donghua Times, director Li Haoling stated, “Futaba represents the human consciousness caught between chaos and order. She is both the observer and the participant, and her decisions shape the moral architecture of the story.”
The Parallel Worlds and Symbolism
The narrative structure of To Be Heroine involves dual worlds: the real world where Futaba is an ordinary student, and the fantasy realm where she becomes a heroine. These worlds run parallel but are interconnected through emotional and thematic ties.
In the real world, Futaba grapples with social isolation and unspoken trauma. In the fantasy realm, she is literally responsible for clothing the children—symbolizing the act of protecting innocence and creating identity. This duality forms the core of her character arc.
The alternate world is populated by eccentric characters, most notably the Seven Clothes who act as warriors powered by garments. Futaba must summon and equip them through memory and emotion, a metaphor for nurturing growth and empowering others.
Character Development: From Observer to Leader
At the outset, Futaba is hesitant and confused. However, as the narrative progresses, she evolves into a decisive and compassionate leader. This transformation is neither instantaneous nor forced, it is a gradual unfolding of inner strength.
In episode four, for instance, Futaba defends a child character named Keigo, showing not only bravery but a willingness to challenge the system. Her empathy becomes her power. She learns that vulnerability is not weakness but a source of genuine connection.
Anime critic Ren Nakamura writes, “Futaba’s arc is refreshingly honest. She isn’t perfect. She stumbles, doubts herself, but continues to push forward. That’s the kind of heroine we need more of”.
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Voice Acting and Artistic Design
Futaba’s character is voiced by renowned seiyuu Moa Tsukino in the Japanese version. Her vocal portrayal adds emotional nuance, perfectly capturing Futaba’s transitions between fear, determination, and hope.
Visually, her design is intentionally simple—contrasting the flamboyant aesthetics of the fantasy world. This artistic choice highlights her role as the emotional anchor amidst the chaos.
Themes Explored Through Futaba
Futaba’s journey touches on several profound themes:
- Identity and Self-Expression: Her dual existence prompts the question—who are we when stripped of social roles and expectations?
- Responsibility and Choice: Unlike passive protagonists, Futaba actively shapes her destiny and the lives of others.
- The Nature of Heroism: The show redefines what it means to be a hero—not through violence, but through empathy and moral clarity.
Cultural and Psychological Context
Futaba’s inner conflict reflects the pressures faced by many adolescents in both Eastern and Western societies. Caught between childhood and adulthood, tradition and modernity, many teenagers resonate with her struggles.
According to psychologist Dr. Mei Liang, “Futaba represents the transitional self. Her movement between two worlds mirrors the cognitive dissonance experienced during identity formation.”
This psychological underpinning adds depth to her characterization, making her more than just a fictional figure—she becomes a symbol of youth navigating complexity.
Reception and Legacy
While To Be Heroine did not achieve mainstream popularity, it developed a strong cult following. Fans praise the series for its bold storytelling and symbolic richness, with Futaba often cited as the emotional heart of the show.
On popular anime forums like MyAnimeList, viewers frequently note how Futaba’s relatability and courage made the surreal world more accessible. “She’s the reason I stayed till the end”, one user remarked.
Conclusion: Why Futaba Matters
In a medium often dominated by exaggerated tropes and overpowered characters, Futaba offers a breath of fresh air. Her realism, emotional intelligence, and moral strength make her a standout protagonist in the world of donghua and anime alike.
Futaba teaches us that heroism lies not in might, but in understanding. She embodies the idea that sometimes, saving others means first facing our own fears. Through her journey, To Be Heroine invites viewers to look inward and find courage in compassion.
Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or new to the world of donghua, Futaba’s story is one worth exploring. Her character not only enriches the narrative but also leaves a lasting impact—reminding us that even in the strangest worlds, the human heart remains central.