26093


At the beginning or end of episodes of anime I sometimes see a disclaimer
similar to this:

[code]

    This program is a work of fiction.
    Any resemblance to people, parties,
    or situations is purely coincidental.
    
[/code]

Is this a trope? Or is there some Japanese regulation that sometimes applies
to these shows?

The above quote was taken from the end of Durarara! ep 1x13 to be exact.


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2015-09-23T02:21:09.613
26081
2015-09-23T15:02:59.503
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question
tropes
What is the origin of the "this is a work of fiction" explanation? Is it a trope?


This is less of a trope and more of a copyright catch-all claim.

As a reference from the [All persons fictitious
disclaimer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_persons_fictitious_disclaimer),
the main reason that this is done is to prevent another person from suing for
[libel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defamation).

It isn't unrealistic to think that someone's family name could be
[Orihara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orihara), and would take grievance
with the way Izaya is portrayed. So, to prevent them from suing, the works are
made to be fiction and not based on any one person or any one real event.

This can also used to cover up for factual inaccuracies as well, per [Samurai
Champloo](http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Anime/SamuraiChamploo):

> This work of fiction is not an accurate historical portrayal.
>
> Like we care.
>
> Now shut up and enjoy the show!


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2015-09-23T15:02:59.503
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2015-09-23T15:02:59.503
2020-06-17T09:17:53.303
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