How Escapism Becomes Dangerous According To Paprika

On The Boundaries Of Perception and Reality

Nino Padilla
Anime Thoughts

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Paprika Movie Promotional (Studio Madhouse)

Warning: This article contains spoilers.

INTRODUCTION

Paprika was a confusing watch. But if we strip it to its primary elements, it becomes more understandable.

Simply put, Paprika is about a villain who uses technology to take over peoples’ minds but is later defeated.

Its core message is about how we must not fixate on fantasy.

A break from our lives is alright, but when it borders on obsession with escapism, we must draw the boundaries between reality and fiction.

While situations in real life are not always ideal, running from them will not do anything to fix our situation.

PLOT

Atsuko Chiba and Kosaku Tokita develop the DC Mini, a device that allows them to dive into the dreams of others to explore their patients’ minds and treat their psychological disorders.

However, having access to another person’s mind comes with tremendous responsibility. In the wrong hands, the DC Mini

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Nino Padilla
Anime Thoughts

I grapple with life's most important questions to learn how to live.