Anime, also known as Japanimation, encompasses hand-drawn and computer-generated animation originating from Japan. The term “anime” is derived from the English word “animation,” but in Japan, it broadly refers to all forms of animated media. Outside Japan, however, “anime” specifically denotes animation produced in Japan or a distinctive Japanese style characterized by vibrant graphics, lively characters, and fantastical themes. This broader interpretation allows for the possibility that anime could be produced in countries beyond Japan.
The history of Japanese animation dates back to 1917 with its earliest commercial productions. A defining art style emerged in the 1960s through the works of Osamu Tezuka and gained popularity internationally in the latter half of the 20th century, amassing a large domestic and global audience. Anime is distributed through various channels, including theatrical screenings, television broadcasts, direct-to-home media, and online streaming platforms. Many anime works are original but a significant number are adaptations of Japanese manga (comics), light novels, or video games.
Over time, anime production techniques have evolved with advancing technology, integrating diverse artistic and cinematic methods. As a multimedia art form, anime blends graphic art, character design, cinematography, and other creative elements. Unlike traditional animation that emphasizes movement, anime often prioritizes realistic settings and employs various camera effects such as panning, zooming, and dynamic angles to enhance storytelling. Artistic styles are diverse, with character proportions and features ranging from exaggerated, large expressive eyes to more realistic depictions.
Anime spans numerous genres, catering to both broad audiences and niche communities. In the United States, terms like “wapanese” have emerged to describe white fans aspiring to Japanese culture, sometimes evolving into “weeaboo,” which refers to individuals with a strong fascination with Japanese anime and otaku culture.
