Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the concept of "Anime Brahmin," a term that has evolved within the Chinese online anime community, often carrying a negative connotation, and explores its implications on cultural identity and community dynamics [2][9][24]. Group 1: Definition and Characteristics of Anime Brahmin - "Anime Brahmin" refers to a group of anime enthusiasts who exhibit a sense of superiority based on their extensive knowledge and experience with older anime works, often criticizing contemporary anime and its fans [12][17]. - The term originates from the Indian caste system, representing the highest social class, and was adapted to describe a specific demographic within the anime community in China [10][11]. - Three main characteristics define the Anime Brahmin: 1. Accumulation of cultural capital and knowledge, often favoring older works from the 1980s and 1990s [12][14]. 2. Establishing group identity through exclusive language and references, creating a divide between themselves and newer fans [15][17]. 3. A critical stance towards contemporary anime, viewing it as overly commercialized and lacking depth compared to classic works [17][24]. Group 2: Cultural Capital and Community Dynamics - The concept of cultural capital, as defined by Pierre Bourdieu, helps explain the Anime Brahmin's authority within the community, encompassing embodied, objectified, and institutionalized forms of capital [29][30]. - The historical context of the Anime Brahmin's emergence is tied to the early exposure of certain users to Japanese anime during its introduction to China, which shaped their cultural identity and knowledge base [31][32]. - The article highlights the tension between older and newer anime fans, as the influx of new viewers with different tastes challenges the established norms and preferences of the Anime Brahmin [45][46]. Group 3: Social Perception and Vulnerability - The Anime Brahmin's elitism is often met with criticism, as their perceived superiority can lead to social alienation within the broader anime community [38][39]. - The article notes that the anime culture has historically been marginalized, which contributes to the vulnerability of the Anime Brahmin as they seek recognition and legitimacy [35][40]. - The negative stereotypes associated with "otaku" culture further complicate the Anime Brahmin's social standing, as they navigate the duality of seeking validation while facing societal stigma [41][44].

Core Viewpoint - The resurgence of the "Detective Conan" IP is attributed to a significant increase in brand collaborations and the success of the latest movie, "Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback," which has generated substantial box office revenue in Japan and China [1][3][11]. Brand Collaborations - Over 30 brands have collaborated with "Detective Conan" this year, significantly surpassing previous years [1][3]. - The increase in collaborations is seen as a strategic move by various stakeholders in the industry, including Japanese copyright holders and Chinese distributors, to maximize the IP's potential [3][7]. Box Office Performance - The latest film, "Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback," has grossed 143 billion yen in Japan, ranking it 17th in Japanese box office history [3]. - In China, the film earned 278 million yuan within ten days of release, with projections suggesting it could reach 400 million yuan [3][4]. Market Dynamics - The current landscape reflects a collective effort among Japanese and Chinese companies to revitalize the "Detective Conan" brand amid challenges faced by traditional IPs like Ultraman [11][17]. - The licensing and collaboration strategies are influenced by the complexities of Japanese copyright laws, which require careful navigation by Chinese companies [5][7]. Economic Context - The Japanese manga industry is experiencing financial difficulties, prompting companies like Shogakukan to aggressively license their IPs in China to recover losses [17][20]. - The trend of "谷子经济" (Guziko economy) is emerging, where merchandise and collaborations are seen as a way to boost revenue in a challenging market environment [20][23]. Future Outlook - The success of "Detective Conan" in the current market may set a precedent for other IPs, as companies look to leverage established brands to drive sales and engagement [20][22]. - However, the oversaturation of the market with similar products could lead to diminishing returns if not managed carefully [17][23].