What is NANA?#
NANA is a compelling series that follows the lives of two young women who happen to share the same name. One Nana comes from a punk background, while the other possesses a more naive, upper-middle-class mindset. Their paths cross in Tokyo, where both are striving to navigate the complexities of love and their professional careers. As they transition into adulthood, their lives become intertwined in a story filled with drama, growth, and the pursuit of dreams.
If you are looking to dive into this story, you can watch the anime on Prime Video to experience their journey.
Is the anime really finished?#
When asking “Is the anime finished?”, it is important to look at the relationship between the animated series and its source material. The NANA anime originally broadcast from April 2006 to March 2007. However, it is an adaptation of the NANA manga, which began publication much earlier in May 2000.
Because the anime is an adaptation of a long-running manga, viewers who watch only the anime may find themselves wanting more of the story. To get the full experience and a complete understanding of the characters’ arcs, continuing with the source material is highly recommended. You can buy the NANA manga to see where the story begins and how it develops beyond the televised adaptation.
Who is NANA for?#
NANA is best suited for audiences who enjoy character-driven stories and emotional depth. Blending elements of drama, romance, comedy, and slice of life, it captures the raw experience of entering adulthood.
The appeal of NANA lies in:
- Music Themes: The story heavily features music, making it a must-watch for those who love the intersection of art and life.
- Relatable Struggle: The contrast between the two protagonists’ backgrounds provides a rich exploration of social class and personal identity.
- Emotional Resonance: It is ideal for viewers who appreciate narratives focusing on complex relationships and the drama of urban living.
While you’re getting settled into the series, you might also want to pick up some NANA merchandise to celebrate your favorite characters.
Recommended Watch and Read Order#
Depending on your goals, there are a few different ways to approach this series. You can refer to the relationship tree below the article for a visual guide to these releases.
Release Order#
For those who want to experience the series as the general public did, start with the anime (2006-2007) and then move to the manga if you wish to explore the source material.
Completionist Order#
If you want every detail and the full context of the world, the best path is to start with the manga (2000) and then watch the anime adaptation. This allows you to appreciate the nuances the anime captures and see exactly where the adaptation differs from the original text.
For Those Open to Source Material#
If you don’t mind jumping between mediums, watching the anime first is a great way to get hooked on the characters and atmosphere before diving into the extensive pages of the manga for the full conclusion.
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NANA • manga • 2000-05-15
└─(adaptation)→ NANA • anime • 2006-04-05 to 2007-03-28 (Original Japanese broadcast)
