What is Anime? Anime Explained in the Simplest Way Possible for a Friend!

What is Anime? Anime Explained in the Simplest Way Possible for a Friend!

Anime is a form of Japanese animation that has become a global phenomenon. The term "anime" is short for the word "animation" in Japanese and encompasses a wide range of styles and genres, from action and adventure to romance and comedy. Anime is different from American cartoons in a number of ways. One of the most notable differences is the visual style, as anime is known for its large eyes, detailed facial expressions, and vibrant colors. Another difference is the storytelling, as anime often deals with more mature themes and has a wider range of genres than American cartoons. Additionally, anime often has a more detailed and complex plot than American cartoons, which can appeal to a more mature audience. The medium has been around for over a century and has grown to become a major part of Japanese culture.

 Anime started to gain popularity in the United States in the 1960s, when shows like "Astro Boy" and "Speed Racer" were dubbed and broadcast on American television. However, it wasn't until the late 1990s and early 2000s that anime started to gain mainstream popularity in America. Additionally, the popularity of Japanese video games and the cosplay scene also helped to fuel interest in anime.

Some of the most popular anime of all time include "Dragon Ball Z," "Naruto," "One Piece," "Pokemon," and "Attack on Titan." These shows have all been incredibly successful, both in Japan and abroad, and have generated billions of dollars in revenue through merchandise sales and DVD/Blu-ray releases. "Dragon Ball Z" alone has sold over 40 million DVD and Blu-ray units worldwide and generated over $5 billion in merchandise sales.

The quality of an anime can be determined by a number of factors, including the animation quality, storytelling, the character development and the overall production value. A well-written and thoughtfully crafted anime will often have well-developed characters and a compelling plot that keeps audiences engaged. The animation quality is also important, as it can greatly enhance the overall viewing experience. Additionally, the use of music, sound effects and voice acting are some of the aspects that can determine the quality of an anime.

Mangaka is a term used to refer to the creators of manga, which are Japanese comics. Some of the most influential mangaka in the anime industry include Osamu Tezuka, who is considered the "godfather of anime" and created classics like "Astro Boy" and "Black Jack", Eiichiro Oda, the creator of "One Piece" and the most successful manga artist of all time, and Hayao Miyazaki, who has directed and written some of the most critically acclaimed anime films of all time.

Some anime that are considered good for beginners include "Naruto," "Dragon Ball Z," "One Piece," and "Pokemon." These anime have simple stories that are easy to follow, but still have a lot of action and adventure. Additionally, they have a large fan base and are good for beginners who want to see what anime is all about.

Anime is a unique and captivating medium that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of action, drama, comedy, or romance, there is an anime out there that will capture your interest. Anime also offers a wide range of styles and genres, from traditional 2D animation to cutting-edge 3D animation, so there is something for every taste. One of the most compelling reasons to watch anime is the depth and complexity of the stories and characters. Many anime series explore complex themes and emotions, and the characters are often well-developed and relatable. Additionally, anime is a medium that is not afraid to push boundaries and tackle mature themes, making it an ideal choice for viewers looking for something that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. With its visually stunning animation, compelling stories, and relatable characters, anime is a medium that is truly worth watching.

-J

Owner, Eternity Collectibles

Back to blog

Featured collection