Hentai, a genre of Japanese anime and manga featuring explicit sexual content, has gained significant attention and controversy in the United States. It is considered a big deal due to its cultural impact, legal challenges, and the evolving perceptions of anime and manga in American society.

The cultural significance of Hentai lies in its role as a reflection of Japanese sexual culture and its influence on the global anime and manga industry. Hentai's portrayal of sexual themes often pushes boundaries, leading to discussions about freedom of expression, censorship, and the depiction of adult content. According to a report by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the anime and manga industry in Japan was valued at approximately $17.5 billion in 2019, with Hentai contributing a substantial portion of that revenue. This economic impact underscores the genre's importance within the broader context of the anime and manga market.

Legal challenges have also contributed to Hentai's status as a big deal. In the United States, Hentai is subject to the same obscenity laws as other adult content. The Supreme Court's decision in Miller v. California (1973) established the Miller test for determining obscenity, which requires that the material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value. This test has been applied to Hentai, leading to debates over whether the genre can be considered art or simply pornography. The legal battles surrounding Hentai have sparked conversations about the boundaries of free speech and the role of government in regulating adult content.

Furthermore, Hentai's cultural impact is evident in its influence on American perceptions of anime and manga. Initially, Hentai was seen as a niche genre, but its popularity has grown, leading to a broader acceptance of anime and manga in the United States. This shift can be attributed to the increasing diversity of anime and manga content, which now includes a wide range of genres and themes beyond Hentai. According to a survey by the Association of American Publishers, the graphic novel market in the United States grew by 12% in 2019, with manga representing a significant portion of that growth. Hentai's role in this expansion highlights its impact on the American anime and manga scene.

In conclusion, Hentai is considered a big deal in the United States due to its cultural impact, legal challenges, and influence on American perceptions of anime and manga. Its economic contribution, legal battles, and evolving role within the anime and manga industry underscore its significance in the broader context of American culture.