What Future Boy Conan teaches us about hope and humanity

Future Boy Conan is a classic Japanese anime series known as the first animated work directed by Hayao Miyazaki and was broadcast on NHK in 1978. Set on a post-apocalyptic Earth devastated by the Final War, the story follows the grand adventure of a boy named Conan who lives in harmony with nature. Combining elements of science fiction action and adventure drama, this series continues to be beloved by many viewers to this day.

One of the major appeals of this work lies in Conan’s unwavering hope, even in a ruined world, and his steadfast belief in human connection and coexistence with nature. The story, woven with a brisk pace and a cast of unique characters, resonates deeply not only with children but also with adult audiences.

※The Future Boy Conan featured in this article is a Japanese television anime series. Although it is not a manga, its profound thematic depth and strong narrative continue to be widely supported by readers, which is why it is featured specially on this blog.

What Message Is Future Boy Conan Trying to Convey?

Before setting out on Conan’s journey through a post-apocalyptic world, you might enjoy another story of youth, survival, and hope:

The children who struggle to survive in the future after the collapse of civilization are not merely facing a battle for survival. Future Boy Conan is a work that carefully portrays important values such as friendship, courage, and coexistence with nature.

This article is a summary that organizes the themes and ideas conveyed through the characters’ actions and the storyline.

• Conan’s actions demonstrate “humanity” and “the power of belief”
• The bond with Lana teaches the importance of compassion and hope
• Monsley’s transformation reveals emotional growth and regeneration
• The depiction of Lepka’s dictatorship highlights the dangers of power and violence
• Coexistence with nature carries a message for the future

Without relying on spoilers, this article clearly presents the themes and messages of the story through the characters’ actions and the narrative flow.

Overview of Future Boy Conan

Future Boy Conan is a Japanese TV anime series directed and storyboarded by Hayao Miyazaki, based on the original novel by American science fiction author Alexander Key. Produced by Nippon Animation and broadcast on NHK, the series aired all 26 episodes in 1978. It was Miyazaki’s first directorial role for a TV series and is widely regarded as a masterpiece holding a significant place in the history of Japanese animation.

Classified under science fiction, adventure, and post-apocalyptic genres, the story is set on a future Earth where civilization has collapsed due to ultra-magnetic weapons. It follows the adventures and growth of a boy named Conan, who lives in harmony with nature amidst a ruined world. This section provides basic information and highlights the key characteristics seen throughout the series.

Main Characters and Their Roles in the Story

Here is a brief explanation of the major characters and their roles in the story.

• Conan: A boy raised in nature with extraordinary physical abilities and a strong sense of justice. The central protagonist of the story.
• Lana: A girl who meets Conan and possesses the ability to communicate with animals. She is the granddaughter of Dr. Lao and plays a pivotal role in the narrative.
• Jimsy: A boy who becomes Conan’s travel companion. Gluttonous and carefree, yet a dependable presence.
• Dyce: A former Industria officer and captain of the ship Barracuda. He later joins forces with Conan and his group.
• Monsley: A former executive of Industria. Influenced by Conan, she opens her heart and becomes an ally.
• Briac Lao: An expert in solar energy and Lana’s grandfather. A wise man who advocates for coexistence with nature.
• Grandpa: The elderly man who raised Conan. Though he dies early in the story, he leaves a lasting influence on Conan.
• Luke: A young man living underground. He rebels against Lepka and acts alongside Conan and the others.
• Lepka: The dictator of Industria and the main antagonist, aiming to dominate the world.
• Orlo: Leader of a gang of delinquent youths in High Harbor. He later repents and starts a new path.
• Tera: Orlo’s younger sister. Over the course of the story, she bonds with Jimsy.
• Tallit: A crew member of a salvage ship. Though cold-hearted in action, he meets a tragic end.
• Mons: The highest-ranking commissioner of Industria. His blind faith in Lepka leads to his downfall.
• Cheat: An orphan who lives independently in the southern wastelands. A rational and proactive young man.

Genre and Thematic Direction

Future Boy Conan is a post-apocalyptic science fiction adventure anime that emphasizes the critique of civilization and human development. The genre falls under post-apocalyptic fiction, presenting a story of growth and regeneration of a young boy in a devastated world.

Throughout the work, themes such as “coexistence with nature,” “human bonds,” and “resistance to power” are consistently explored. In particular, the journey of Conan, as he encounters and parts with various people while strengthening his convictions, leaves a powerful impression on viewers. The anime carefully portrays changes in human relationships, such as dialogue and transformation even with adversaries, giving the story a depth that transcends typical action narratives.

This tale of hope and regeneration set in a “postwar world” holds resonant messages for modern society and is one of the reasons it continues to be cherished across generations.

Future Boy Conan: 2 Best Quotes

Here are two particularly emotional quotes from the story. These lines stirred deep feelings and left a lasting impression, prompting a personal reflection on what the work conveyed.

“Don’t touch Lana!” (volume 17)

→ Shouted by Conan with all his might when Monsley’s troops attempted to take Lana away. His desperate effort to protect her, despite his youth, is unforgettable.

→ When encountering this line, the reader strongly feels Conan’s pure anger and his determination to protect her at all costs. It’s a moment where emotion overcomes words, stirring the heart deeply.

→ This scene encapsulates the overarching theme of “believing in and protecting your friends” and symbolizes Conan’s growth and the direction of the story.

“You idiot!” (volume 19)

→ A short line uttered spontaneously by Monsley. During the conflict surrounding Lana, she is moved by how Conan and his friends act without regard for their own safety.

→ Through this line, the reader sees Monsley’s human side and her wavering emotions. In a brief moment, her hidden kindness and changing perception of Conan and the others are revealed.

→ Monsley is one of the characters who most embodies the work’s message that “people can change.” This memorable line marks a key moment in her journey of opening her heart to Conan and transforming.

Top 5 Reader Reviews of Future Boy Conan

Here are some particularly memorable comments from readers of Future Boy Conan.

• “From the moment I started watching episode one, I kept thinking, ‘I don’t want this to end.’ The story drew me in completely. The emotional immersion was incredible.”
• “The pacing of the story is just so good—it’s a masterpiece you can enjoy over and over. The series even surpasses the original work in terms of overall quality.”
• “I was shocked to learn this show aired in the 1970s. I discovered so many social messages that I hadn’t noticed before. This is a work that still resonates today.”
• “There’s no other series that showcases running so thrillingly and refreshingly throughout the entire story.”
• “Even back then—and still now—Miyazaki’s works have cold-hearted scenes where a girl gets a gun pointed at her! It’s disappointing.”

Top 3 Manga Like Future Boy Conan

Before moving to other stories of action and principle, here’s a tale of redemption and peace in a conflicted world:

Here are three highly recommended Japanese manga titles for fans of Future Boy Conan.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

Genre: Sci-fi Fantasy / Environmental Adventure
An epic story depicting the coexistence between humans and nature. The protagonist, Nausicaä, lives in a land called the Sea of Decay and seeks peace by engaging with both creatures and humans, reflecting the same sincerity and proactive spirit as Conan.

Castle in the Sky

Genre: Adventure Action / Sci-fi Anime Adaptation
A tale of a boy and girl adventuring around a legendary floating castle. The themes of overwhelming technology and human resistance echo the world structure of Industria and Lepka.

Combat Mecha Xabungle

Genre: Robot Action / Post-apocalyptic
A work said to be created by Yoshiyuki Tomino with Future Boy Conan in mind. It depicts young people who, despite living in a harsh environment, never lose hope and bring about change.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways from This Article

Future Boy Conan is more than just a classic post-apocalyptic adventure anime. Through its themes of coexistence with nature, the bonds between people, and hope for the future, it prompts us to reflect on how we live our own lives.

Conan’s determination to believe in his friends and uphold kindness, even in a devastated world, continues to resonate with many viewers. The warmth and sense of encouragement felt after watching the series may very well be a message delivered through the work by director Miyazaki himself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What kind of work is Future Boy Conan?

It is Hayao Miyazaki’s first directorial work, broadcast in 1978. Set in a world after the Final War, it is a sci-fi action anime that follows the adventures of a boy named Conan.

What genre does the series belong to?

It is primarily a science fiction and action-adventure series, but also incorporates themes of friendship and environmental awareness in a multilayered story structure.

How is Conan’s growth portrayed?

By setting off from Remnant Island and meeting various people along the way, Conan continuously acts on his own will, gradually nurturing emotional strength and compassion.

What messages are conveyed in the series?

The series conveys timeless messages about the importance of coexistence with nature, friendship, courage, and the power to believe.

Can adults enjoy the series too?

Yes. While it holds great appeal as an adventure story for children, it also contains rich social themes and human drama that become more apparent and meaningful when viewed as an adult.