A Crash Course in Anime

Anime, so what is it? Why is it called called anime? And what’s the big fuss about it? Most of you reading this probably already have a wealth of knowledge on the subject but for those new to the scene, let’s go over the basics.


Anime, or Japaninmation as it was once known, refers to any and all animation that originates from Japan. Dating back as early as 1917, anime has continued to grow and evolve over the years with early influences from The Walt Disney Company’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, as well as Mickey Mouse, and even Betty Boop.

It wouldn’t be until 1963, that anime would gain popularity when Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy aired. Over the next ten years, anime would begin to separate itself from its Western “Disney” roots with unique genres such as the giant robot or “mecha” genre. Shows such as Lupin III, Mobile Suit Gundam, and The Super Dimension Fortress Macross continued to boost acceptance of anime while renowned filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki began making a name for himself with Nausicaa and My Neighbor Totoro. Miyazaki would later go on to make such popular films as Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, and the recently released Ponyo.

By the 1990’s and 2000’s, anime had seen an increased acceptance here overseas with such hits as Akira, Ghost in the Shell, Ninja Scroll, and others. Today, the influence of anime can be seen everywhere, from morning cartoons to film, and to video games.

Needless to say, anime’s been around for quite some time. And while Japanese animation has seen great success, there are many who dismiss it as either being “too cartoony” or “childish”. This is a common misconception with anime, stemming from its trademark visual style of exaggerated human features such as large eyes, big hair, and elongated limbs. Over the years though, anime characters have developed realistic features seen in such titles as Jin-Roh and Perfect Blue, with mature story-lines and subject matter commonplace today.

Today, anime genres range from everything to fantasy, to comedy, to science fiction, to even horror. A far cry from its early beginnings, anime has become a world-wide phenomenon inspiring fan-fiction, cosplay, and more.

So, whether you’re in the mood for something funny, something touching, or just some good old fashion action, anime has something for everyone. In the weeks ahead, you can look forward to a wealth of articles devoted to this flourishing medium ranging from shows you should watch, whether you should watch anime subbed or dubbed, and much more. Be sure to check them out, give them a read, and let us know what you think.