Imagine this: the characters from Attack on Titan, but they're forced to watch their own show. All the horrifying, dramatic, and occasionally hilarious moments, played out before their very eyes.
That's the premise behind a popular type of fanfiction that's taken the Attack on Titan fandom by storm. It's called "Reacting to the Show" or "Watching the Show," and it's exactly what it sounds like.
The Setup: A Room, A Screen, and A Lot of Trauma
Usually, these stories begin with a mysterious entity, like Eren's Attack Titan or a mischievous god, whisking the Survey Corps, the Warriors, and maybe even a few Marleyan officers into a room.
A giant screen flickers to life, ready to play the entirety of Attack on Titan. The characters are then forced to confront their pasts, their mistakes, and the devastating consequences of their actions.
Think of it as the ultimate therapy session, only with explosions, giant naked people, and lots of screaming.
What Makes It So Fun?
One of the biggest draws is the comedic potential. Imagine Levi's reaction to seeing himself obsessed with cleaning, or Sasha freaking out over every food scene.
It's pure gold! The awkward silences, the uncomfortable truths, and the sheer disbelief on their faces make for incredibly entertaining reading.
Beyond the humor, there's a deeper level of engagement. These stories allow authors to explore characters' inner thoughts and motivations in ways the original series couldn't.
Emotional Rollercoasters and Character Development
Watching their own deaths and the deaths of their comrades is understandably traumatic. But it also offers an opportunity for growth and understanding.
For example, Eren might start to question his path after seeing the destruction he causes. Reiner might finally confront his fractured psyche.
Seeing the perspectives of their enemies can also lead to surprising moments of empathy. The Marleyan characters, in particular, often experience a rude awakening when they witness the brutality inflicted upon the Eldians.
Shipping Galore!
And of course, no fanfiction is complete without a bit of shipping. Watching certain scenes together can bring buried feelings to the surface. Think about the potential tension and longing when key scenes between Eren and Mikasa play out.
The possibilities are endless, and the reactions can range from denial to outright confessions.
Beyond the Canon: Exploring "What Ifs"
These stories often diverge from the original canon. Authors might introduce new perspectives, alter character arcs, or even rewrite entire scenes based on the characters' reactions.
It's a fascinating exercise in exploring "what if" scenarios. What if Eren had known the full consequences of his actions earlier? What if Reiner had found someone to truly confide in?
Ultimately, "Watching the Show" fanfiction provides a fresh and engaging way to revisit the world of Attack on Titan. It's a chance to laugh, cry, and delve deeper into the minds of characters we've come to know and love (or hate). So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare for a wild ride. You might just see the series in a whole new light.
