The Rose of Versailles
Riyoko Ikeda's "The Rose of Versailles" has often been speculated as an established source of inspiration for the visual style of "Utena." Scenes involving sliding mirrors and unsupported staircases appear during character introspections in "The Rose of Versailles," while in "Utena" very similar scenes are part of the surreal landscape. However, director Ikuhara has denied this on several occasions, including the director's commentary on the final DVD "Finale" of the American release.