The world of Attack on Titan is massive, with many details that unravel with each rewatch of the series. Looking back at the story, which spans over a decade, the ending seems to be the only time Hajime Isayama failed. However, when you think of Isayama’s biggest inspiration behind Attack on Titanthe controversial fiasco is ultimately more understandable.

In an interview with Hiromu Arakawa, the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist, Isayama revealed that the setting of Attack on Titan was influenced by Joaquin Phoenix in the lead role ‘The village’. Grossing over $256 million, the film divided fans over its controversial ending. Doesn’t that remind you of a certain manga series? Even beyond their controversial endings, these two works of fiction have many interesting similarities.

The setting of Attack on Titan Was strongly influenced by The village

(Spoiler warning for The village)

The villageThe film is set in a village isolated from the rest of the world. In the forest surrounding the village lurk mysterious and sinister creatures that prevent the residents from exploring the outside world. Later, we learn that the village is a facade created by some elders to protect themselves from the sorrow of the world. The creatures are humans in disguise who pose a threat to anyone who dares to leave. In the end, this farce continues without anyone finding out the truth.

When you hear the plot of the film, it becomes clear what Hajime Isayama was doing when creating the world of Attack on Titan. It is overwhelming to recognize everything he has managed to do in a seemingly simple and similar setting. He has added several elements to the story from the beginning, such as misleading the audience by making them believe that Attack on Titan is a story of humans versus titans.

Building on this simple idea, he introduced the first twist with the Titan shifters. And then he added the bottom twist, the creation of the Titans, and finally led us to the most devastating war of all time. In addition to the variety of themes, he introduced different ideologies and motivations that forced every reader to question the state of affairs. But to go back again: It all started with a village.

The village Was not the only inspiration behind AAttack on Titan

In the same interview, Isayama Arakawa says that “Clouds over the hill” by Ryotaro Shiba was another influence Attack on Titan. The historical novel is about the Russo-Japanese War and explores its various aspects. Isayama took a similar approach by preparing us for the war and showing us the effects it had on those involved and the innocents.

When you read about all the different inspirations behind such a highly acclaimed anime manga series, it becomes clear that inspiration is only the first step. What makes Attack on Titan so iconic are the things that Isayama was able to create with the inspiration he received.

Attack on Titan is available to stream on Crunchyroll.