Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Nana.
What is Nana?
Nana is a beloved manga series by Ai Yazawa that was adapted into an anime, focusing on two young women named Nana who meet in Tokyo. The story intertwines themes of love, friendship, and the music industry while exploring the complexities of adult life.
Who are the main characters?
The narrative centers on Nana Komatsu, a naive girl chasing her boyfriend to the city, and Nana Osaki, a tough rock band vocalist seeking independence. Their contrasting personalities create a deep bond as they navigate shared struggles and personal growth together.
Where should I start reading or watching?
Newcomers should begin with Chapter 1 of the manga or Episode 1 of the anime to experience the story's chronological beginning. The original source material offers the most complete narrative, including plotlines that were never animated.
Is the series finished?
The Nana manga is currently on an indefinite hiatus and has not been officially completed since 2009. While fans have waited years for new chapters, there are no confirmed plans for a return yet.
What is the name of Nana Osaki's band?
Nana Osaki serves as the lead vocalist for a fictional rock group called Black Stones. The band plays a crucial role in her storyline and represents the struggles of the Japanese music scene.
Why does the story take place in Tokyo?
Both protagonists move to Tokyo seeking new beginnings, symbolizing their desire to escape their pasts and forge independent identities. The city acts as a backdrop for their emotional journeys and the challenges of urban adulthood.
What are some key themes in Nana?
The series deeply explores the fragility of relationships, the pain of heartbreak, and the difficulty of balancing personal dreams with romantic obligations. It realistically portrays how life events can force people to grow apart even when they care for each other.
Who plays Nana Osaki in the live-action movies?
Japanese actress Aoi Miyazaki portrayed the rock star Nana Osaki in the two live-action film adaptations released between 2005 and 2006. Her performance is widely praised for capturing the character's fierce exterior and vulnerable interior.
Does the anime cover the whole story?
The anime adaptation only covers roughly the first half of the manga, ending before many major plot twists and character developments occur. Viewers who finish the show will find significant unresolved storylines that continue in the comics.
What is the most famous song from Nana?
Rokku (Rock) by Black Stones is a fictional anthem within the series, but real songs like 'Lily' by Asian Kung-Fu Generation are iconic to its soundtrack. These musical elements heavily influence the emotional tone of both the manga and anime.