Struggle Isn't Easy

• Failure or, at the very least, strong threat of failure, is commonplace
• These characters don't shy away from hard work; they can't afford to
• Essential message: "Never give up!"

The Need to Conquer Self or Find True Self

• The archetypical "Hero" who must win the inner struggle
• The inner struggle is against lack of confidence, selfishness, callousness
• ...or it is against societal/familial pressure to conform to certain expectations or standards.

Interdependence and Love

• It's not just the stereotyped "emphasis on teamwork"
• It's all about how love makes us stronger than our problems

Enemies and Redemption

• Many "enemies" are "converted" to the "good side"
• Even many diehard enemies are depicted with sympathy