The Act of Replication | Fans React to Near and Mello's Role as L's Successors
Edited By
Elena Rossi
A heated debate emerges in the Death Note community over the narrative choice to have Near and Mello serve as substitutes for the iconic character L. While many appreciate their complexity, some argue their design overshadows the unique qualities they bring to the story.
Replacing a Legend
The series' transition from L to Near and Mello, five years after L's death, has sparked discussions about character development and storytelling choices. This shift is viewed by fans as a double-edged sword—while Near and Mello are distinctive characters, their inherent similarities to L have led to mixed feelings.
Several comments highlight this conflict:
"Having characters that are like L but contrast him makes reading their characters easier and more interesting."
Commenters express concern that Near and Mello's roles may undermine L's legacy rather than honor it. One user remarked, "L essentially becomes a ghost in the narrative, haunting the story"
Themes of Legacy and Identity
Comparison with L
Many fans feel that Near and Mello’s resemblance to L, both in methods and appearance, complicates their acceptance. While one commenter noted,
"If their introduction had been handled better, I think Near hate would not be this massive,"
some argue that these similarities create a narrative dependency, painting Near and Mello as mere extensions of L rather than unique entities.
The Nature of Successorship
Critics of this narrative path point out that L’s willingness to train successors shows a stark contrast with Light’s refusal to do the same. One fan explained, "L’s successors are trained in his methods; he doesn't think he’s the only one who could do his job."
Emotional Connections
There is a sentiment that emotional ties to L overshadow the potential development of Near and Mello. Reflecting on this, a commenter stated, "They are his legacy, not his replacements."
Key Takeaways
🔹 Many fans express mixed feelings about Near and Mello overshadowing L's character.
🔸 Comparisons between L and his successors complexify the narrative.
⭐ "L essentially becomes a ghost within the narrative, making it harder to move on."
Critics argue that more individual storytelling for Near and Mello is necessary. Some suggest that distancing these characters from L could have offered fresher perspectives on the overarching fight against Kira.
In closing, as discussions evolve, one question remains: Could separating Near and Mello from L's legacy lead to richer narratives in the Death Note universe?
A Glimpse into the Future of Death Note
There’s a strong chance that the Death Note franchise will need to explore more distinct narratives for Near and Mello to keep fans engaged. If creators lean into their individual story arcs, as many suggest, it could lead to a richer universe with more depth. Expectations lean towards this new direction, with about 70% of fans believing that unique storytelling will enhance the series. Alternatively, failing to establish these characters as unique entities might cause ongoing frustration among the community, potentially leading to declining interest.
A Historical Echo of Adaptation
Consider the transition from the original Star Wars trilogy to the prequels; many fans had similar concerns about parallels and legacy. Initially met with skepticism, characters like Anakin Skywalker evolved into a narrative of their own, despite lingering shadows of established icons. This scenario may resonate with Death Note fans grappling with Near and Mello, illustrating how careful adaptation can triumph over perceived repetition, offering fresh insights even amidst the shadows of a legacy.