What is the difference?

Archetypes and Cliches

These two words are a clear indication of words that have very similar but different meanings.

Let me start from the beginning.

Tonight I was watching my usual weekly shows when this formula of storytelling dawned on me.

In this particular anime, the elements of a very important female character, a mysterious yet strong male character, a group of ugly bandits (all bandits, unless good guys in disguise, are ugly), and an important but deadly "thing" that must be protected all made their appearance.

Here is the catch.

I was interested.

No matter how many times I have seen this story start (Star Wars; Final Fantasy 7; Rurouni Kenshin; and more), I get interested every time.

So I ask, what is the line between archetypes and cliches?

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On another note, this particular anime presented the mysterious male character as being able to use bubbles.

As a weapon.

Even depicting scenes of him killing someone with them.

Bubbles.

Just let that sink in for a moment.

Nevertheless, I was still interested and watched for the entire 25 mins.