Anime, also known as Japanimation, refers to hand-drawn and computer-generated animations originating from Japan. The term “anime” is derived from the English word “animation,” and within Japan, it is used to describe all forms of animated media. However, outside Japan, “anime” specifically denotes animation produced in Japan or works influenced by Japanese animation styles, often characterized by vibrant graphics, expressive characters, and fantastical themes. This broader cultural interpretation leaves open the possibility of anime created in other countries but adhering to similar stylistic elements.
Japanese animation history dates back to 1917 with its first commercial productions. The distinctive art style widely recognized today began to develop in the 1960s, notably through the work of Osamu Tezuka, and gained popularity worldwide in the latter half of the 20th century, attracting large domestic and international audiences. Anime can be showcased through various channels, including theatrical screenings, television broadcasts, home media releases, and online platforms. Many anime are original works, while others are adaptations of manga (Japanese comics), light novels, or video games. Over time, production techniques and technologies have evolved, allowing for greater innovation.
As a multimedia art form, anime combines elements of graphic art, storytelling, cinematography, and other creative methods. It typically emphasizes detailed backgrounds and realistic settings over fluid motion, utilizing camera techniques such as panning, zooming, and dynamic angles to enhance storytelling. A wide variety of art styles are employed, with character designs ranging from exaggerated proportions and oversized emotive eyes to more realistic features. anime genres are diverse, catering to a broad spectrum of audiences from mainstream viewers to niche communities.
In addition, terms like “wapanese” have emerged in the United States to describe white individuals who strongly desire to be Japanese, and later “weeaboo,” which refers to fans who exhibit intense enthusiasm for Japanese anime and culture.
