86 | Manga Monday

Welcome to Manga Monday! This week we're diving into 86, Asato Asato and Shirabi's devastating military sci-fi masterpiece about the Republic of San Magnolia, a nation that claims it fights its war with "zero casualties" using unmanned mechs. The lie? Those mechs are piloted by the 86, people stripped of their humanity and sent to die in machines while the privileged sit safe behind walls. At the center is Shinei Nouzen, the "Undertaker" squadron leader who's seen too many comrades fall, and Vladilena Milizé, the Handler who refuses to see the 86 as disposable. It's about the cost of war, the weight of survival, and what it means to truly see someone as human. This one doesn't just hit, it devastates.

If you enjoy the show, please rate, review, like, and subscribe to Sakura Society | An Anime Appreciation Podcast — and any other podcasts you love. It takes seconds, costs nothing, and means everything to us creators. (The algorithm only accepts 5 stars, just so you know.)

1. Stay up to date with Brendan on Bluesky | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter
2. Join our Discord — a community full of anime and culture fans just like you
3. Follow our Spotify playlist

Our amazing sponsors:

1. Audio-Technica — the best in audio equipment
2. Iced Tea Aesthetics — anime streetwear done right (use code SAKURASOCIETY5 at checkout to save $5)
3. Japan Crate — Japanese snacks and treats delivered to your door (use code ATEBIT15 at checkout to save 15% + get free shipping)