Movies / Animé and Toons

Hetalia: Axis Powers the Complete First Season

By Chris Zimmerman
October 7, 2010 - 10:13

Few recent series have made as big of a splash as Hetalia. Recently it seems that the popularity for this little unassuming series has taken on a twilightesque feeling with people turning out in droves in conventions sporting costumes of their favorite character. In fact, if the show’s popularity is challenged, things can get ugly fast. So that said, it should come as no surprise that I wasn’t at all sure of what to expect when the series showed up on my doorstep.

Based on the manga of the same name, Hetalia: Axis Powers takes an alternative, albeit over-the-top, look at history. Following the exploits of a group of individuals, each one named after the country from which they originate. The primary characters are naturally those who made up the axis powers in Germany, Japan, and Italy. The series shows the trio coming together to form their little clique while generally having a good time reenacting major historical moments. Yes, this is as bizarre as it sounds and is exactly the type of premise fit for only anime.

It should be obvious at this point that Hetalia: Axis Powers doesn’t take itself seriously in the least. When you have Italy portrayed as everyone’s punching bag Germany as a war mongering brute, it’s difficult not to laugh at the outlandishness on display. Every country sports some form of stereotype from France being a wimp to England being a pompous jerk. Viewers who are particularly patriotic might also want to brace themselves for America who comes off as a hamburger loving fool.

The story is told in mini episodes of around five minutes in length each. With such a short time frame, the series can flies. It also allows for viewers to watch an episode without having to worry about previous continuity, though this isn’t necessarily a show built around a strong plot.

The animation isn’t anything to write home about but that’s to be expected given the series’ strong suit is its writing. Those hoping for detailed art will likely be turned off by Hetalia from the get go.

Unusual for an anime release, Hetalia comes bundled with a bonus disk made up of extras that range from the typical clean openings to factual references that crop up within the show. The meat of the extras comes in the form of the “Show Comments by Director Bob” that features the aforementioned Bob talking for over 30 minutes about the nuances of the series. The last of the features has Bob returning again to discuss the ending sequence.

Hetalia: Axis Powers is hardly for everyone. While the show is lighthearted and fun, there are inevitably those who will take offense to it for its uncomfortable premise. The show is definitely one of the stranger shows to make its way stateside in recent years, it’s important to remember that Hetalia is a gag show and as such isn’t meant to be taken seriously. Those looking for absurdist comedy will find it in abundance in Hetalia.

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Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12