Anime, derived from the Japanese word for animation, has become a beloved and globally recognized medium of storytelling. It’s a unique style of animation that sets it apart from other forms of animation. But, have you ever wondered what makes something “anime” and what doesn’t? This topic delves into the nuances of the anime world and explores the factors that define it. Get ready to discover the secrets behind this captivating and vibrant art form, and find out what makes anime, well, anime!

What is Anime?

Definition of Anime

Anime, short for “animation,” refers to a specific style of Japanese animation that has gained global popularity. While the term is often used interchangeably with “Japanese animation,” it specifically refers to a unique visual style that is characterized by distinct features such as vibrant colors, dynamic camera angles, and exaggerated expressions.

In terms of its technical aspects, anime is typically produced using a combination of hand-drawn and computer-generated techniques. The characters and backgrounds are often designed to be highly stylized, with exaggerated features such as large eyes, dramatic poses, and intricate costumes.

However, what truly sets anime apart from other forms of animation is its storytelling. Anime covers a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to romance and comedy, and often delves into complex themes and character development. The narratives are often serialized, with each episode building on the previous one to create a larger story arc.

While anime originated in Japan, it has gained a global following and is now produced and consumed in many countries around the world. Its popularity has led to the creation of numerous conventions, festivals, and events dedicated to the art form.

History of Anime

Anime is a style of Japanese animation that has become increasingly popular worldwide. It encompasses a wide range of genres, from children’s cartoons to complex, mature storytelling. But what makes something “anime”?

One of the defining characteristics of anime is its origination in Japan. While some animated works may be produced in other countries, anime is distinct in its use of Japanese cultural elements, such as manga (Japanese comics) and traditional art styles.

Another key factor is the use of a specific animation style. Anime is characterized by its dynamic, fluid movement and expressive character designs. This style is often achieved through the use of digital animation software, although traditional hand-drawn animation is still used in some cases.

The history of anime dates back to the early 20th century, with the creation of the first Japanese animated film in 1917. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that anime truly took off as a popular medium, with the airing of classic shows like “Astro Boy” and “Godzilla.”

Over the years, anime has evolved to encompass a wide range of genres, from science fiction and fantasy to romance and comedy. Many anime series are based on manga or light novels, while others are original creations.

In recent years, anime has gained a global following, with many series being licensed and dubbed into other languages. This has led to a surge in popularity for anime in the West, with fans eagerly anticipating the release of new series and movies.

Despite its global appeal, anime remains deeply rooted in Japanese culture, with many of its themes and references specific to the country. This unique blend of cultural influences is what makes anime so compelling to fans around the world.

What is Not Anime?

Cartoons

While many people use the terms “anime” and “cartoon” interchangeably, there is a distinction between the two. A cartoon is a type of animated film or television show that is typically produced in the United States or other Western countries. They are often produced for children and are characterized by their simple, exaggerated animation style and humorous storytelling.

Unlike anime, which is produced primarily in Japan and is characterized by its distinctive style, characters, and themes, cartoons are typically aimed at a broader audience and are not as focused on character development or complex storylines. Cartoons also tend to be shorter in length, with most episodes running between 10-15 minutes, while anime episodes can range from 20-30 minutes or more.

In addition, cartoons are typically produced using traditional animation techniques, such as hand-drawn cel animation, while anime is often produced using digital animation software. This results in a different visual style and aesthetic, with anime being known for its vibrant colors, dynamic action sequences, and detailed character designs.

Overall, while both anime and cartoons are forms of animation, they have distinct differences in terms of their production, style, and target audience. Understanding these differences can help viewers appreciate the unique qualities of each medium and enjoy them for their own merits.

Western Animated Shows

While the term “anime” is often associated with Japanese animation, it is important to understand what does not fall under this category. One such example is Western animated shows.

Unlike anime, Western animated shows are primarily produced in the United States and Europe. These shows are often targeted towards children and are designed to be more commercially appealing. Some examples of popular Western animated shows include SpongeBob SquarePants, The Simpsons, and Cartoon Network’s Adventure Time.

One of the main differences between anime and Western animated shows is the target audience. While anime can be enjoyed by people of all ages, Western animated shows are often geared towards children or young adults. Additionally, the art style and animation techniques used in Western animated shows are generally different from those used in anime.

Another key difference is the cultural context. Anime is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and often reflects the country’s values and traditions. Western animated shows, on the other hand, are created with a more global audience in mind and may not reflect specific cultural references or values.

Overall, while Western animated shows may share some similarities with anime, they are distinct in their target audience, art style, and cultural context.

Live-Action Shows

While it may seem like a straightforward question, the answer to what makes something “anime” is not as simple as it seems. Many people mistakenly assume that any animated show or movie produced in Japan is automatically considered anime. However, this is not necessarily the case.

One example of what is not considered anime is live-action shows. While live-action shows can be produced in Japan, they are not typically considered anime. Instead, they are referred to as “drama” or “tokusatsu” (special effects). Live-action shows often feature real actors and actresses, as opposed to animated characters, and are not typically produced by the same studios that produce anime.

Despite this, some live-action shows in Japan do feature elements of anime, such as sci-fi or fantasy themes, and may be marketed to anime fans. However, they are still not considered anime in the traditional sense.

In summary, while live-action shows can be produced in Japan, they are not typically considered anime. Instead, they are referred to as “drama” or “tokusatsu” and are not produced by the same studios that produce anime. However, some live-action shows may feature elements of anime and be marketed to anime fans.

Other Animated Formats

Animation in Japan

In Japan, animation has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Early animators in Japan were heavily influenced by American animation, and the country’s first animated film, “Shimbuta!”, was released in 1917. Since then, Japanese animation has developed its own unique style and techniques, and has become a major export industry.

Japanese animation is characterized by its attention to detail, particularly in terms of character design and background art. This is evident in many of the country’s most famous anime productions, such as “Godzilla” and “Astro Boy”. In addition, Japanese animation often features a strong narrative focus, with complex storylines and well-developed characters.

Japanese animation has also been influential in other parts of the world. Many Western animation studios have been inspired by Japanese animation, and the style has become a popular influence in the West. Additionally, Japanese animation has been a major force in the global animation industry, with many successful productions being exported to other countries.

In conclusion, Japanese animation has a unique style and approach that sets it apart from other forms of animation. Its attention to detail, narrative focus, and influence on other animation studios around the world make it a significant part of the animation industry.

Other Countries’ Animated Formats

When discussing animated formats that are not considered “anime,” it is important to consider the various other countries that produce their own unique styles of animation.

• Europe:
  • France: Cartoon Network Studios Europe (also known as CNC) has produced popular animated series such as “The Adventures of Tintin” and “Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness.”
  • Italy: Italy is known for its anime-inspired animation, such as the popular children’s series “Gary the Mouse” and “Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir.”
• United States:
  • American animation is characterized by its use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) and a more stylized, exaggerated approach to character design. Examples include “The Simpsons,” “Family Guy,” and “Rick and Morty.”
• South Korea:
  • South Korea has a thriving animation industry, producing a mix of traditional 2D animation and 3D CGI animation. Examples include “Boyfriend,” “My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU,” and “The Legend of Chun Hyang.”
• China:
  • China has a rich history of animation, dating back to the 1920s. The country’s animation is often characterized by its use of traditional Chinese art styles and cultural references. Examples include “Journey to the West,” “Demon King Daimao,” and “Chaika – The Coffin Princess.”

While these animated formats may differ in style and approach from “anime,” they still have their own unique charms and storytelling techniques that make them enjoyable to watch.

Genres of Anime

Action/Adventure

Overview

Action/Adventure is a genre of anime that focuses on physical action and adventure, often involving combat or battles. This genre typically features characters engaging in physical combat or embarking on adventures that involve exploration, battles, and challenges. The storylines often involve themes of courage, determination, and perseverance.

Characteristics

Some of the key characteristics of Action/Adventure anime include:

• Physical action and adventure: Action/Adventure anime often involve physical combat or battles, with characters using weapons or martial arts to defeat their opponents.
• Themes of courage, determination, and perseverance: These themes are often central to the storylines of Action/Adventure anime, with characters facing challenges and overcoming obstacles through strength and determination.
• Adventure and exploration: Action/Adventure anime often involve adventures and exploration, with characters traveling to new places and encountering new challenges along the way.
• High-stakes battles: Action/Adventure anime often feature high-stakes battles, with characters fighting for their lives or the fate of the world.

Examples

Some examples of Action/Adventure anime include:

• One Piece: This anime follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy, a young boy with rubber powers who dreams of becoming the Pirate King. Luffy and his crew embark on a series of adventures and battles as they search for the legendary One Piece treasure.
• Naruto: This anime follows the adventures of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who dreams of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. Naruto and his friends engage in physical combat and battles as they work to become stronger ninja and protect their village.
• Attack on Titan: This anime takes place in a world where humanity lives inside cities surrounded by enormous walls; a defense against Titans, humanoids that eat humans without reason. The story centers around Eren Yeager, his adoptive sister Mikasa Ackerman, and their friend Armin Arlert, whose lives are changed forever after the destruction of their home town and the death of Eren’s mother at the hands of a Titan. As the three friends join the Scout Regiment, an elite group of soldiers who fight Titans, they begin to uncover the mysteries of their civilization and the Titans themselves, leading to a battle for survival against their monstrous foes.

Science Fiction/Fantasy

Science Fiction/Fantasy is a genre of anime that has gained immense popularity in recent years. This genre is characterized by its focus on futuristic settings, advanced technology, and supernatural elements.

Some of the most popular science fiction/fantasy anime include:

• “Neon Genesis Evangelion” – a classic anime that explores the struggle of humanity against mysterious, giant humanoid creatures known as Angels.
• “Death Note” – a psychological thriller that follows a high school student who gains the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in a mysterious notebook.
• “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” – a tale of two brothers who embark on a journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a powerful object that can change the course of alchemy forever.
• “Attack on Titan” – a dark and gritty anime that explores a world where humanity lives inside cities surrounded by enormous walls; a defense against Titans, gigantic humanoids that eat humans seemingly without reason.

These anime have captivated audiences with their unique world-building, complex characters, and suspenseful storytelling. The science fiction/fantasy genre in anime offers a wide range of possibilities for storytelling, from epic battles to deep philosophical questions about the nature of existence.

Romance

Anime has a wide range of genres, one of which is romance. Romance anime is a subgenre that focuses on the development of romantic relationships between characters. These anime stories can range from lighthearted and comedic to intense and dramatic.

Subgenres of Romance Anime

1. High School Romance: This subgenre is focused on the romantic relationships between high school students. These stories often explore the emotional ups and downs of first love and the struggles of growing up.
2. Shoujo Romance: Shoujo romance is targeted towards a female audience and often features a female protagonist. These stories usually focus on the emotional and romantic relationships between women and men.
3. Shounen Romance: Shounen romance is targeted towards a male audience and often features a male protagonist. These stories usually focus on the emotional and romantic relationships between men and women.
4. Fantasy Romance: This subgenre combines elements of fantasy with romance. These stories often feature magical or supernatural elements and can include elements of adventure, action, and drama.
5. Historical Romance: Historical romance anime is set in a historical time period and often features a romantic storyline. These stories can range from lighthearted and comedic to intense and dramatic.

Characteristics of Romance Anime

1. Emotional Intensity: Romance anime is known for its emotional intensity. These stories often explore the deep emotions and feelings that come with falling in love.
2. Relationship Development: Romance anime focuses on the development of romantic relationships between characters. These stories often explore the ups and downs of relationships and the challenges that come with falling in love.
3. Character Chemistry: The chemistry between characters is a key element in romance anime. These stories often focus on the interactions between characters and the development of their relationships.
4. Dramatic Conflict: Romance anime often includes dramatic conflict to drive the story forward. These conflicts can range from external factors such as family or societal pressure to internal struggles such as self-doubt or fear.

Overall, romance anime is a subgenre of anime that focuses on the development of romantic relationships between characters. These stories can range from lighthearted and comedic to intense and dramatic and can include a variety of subgenres such as high school romance, shoujo romance, shounen romance, fantasy romance, and historical romance. The characteristics of romance anime include emotional intensity, relationship development, character chemistry, and dramatic conflict.

Comedy

• Characteristics of Anime Comedy
  • Incorporation of humor in storylines
  • Exaggerated facial expressions and body language
  • Slapstick humor
  • Wordplay and puns
  • Satire and parody
  • Play on Japanese culture and traditions
• Examples of Popular Anime Comedies
  • Gintama: A sci-fi comedy set in Edo-period Japan, featuring a samurai who becomes a bounty hunter.
  • Naruto: A series about a young ninja with a dream to become the Hokage of his village.
  • Silver Spoon: A coming-of-age story set in an agricultural school, highlighting the challenges and joys of rural life.
  • The Tatami Galaxy: A mind-bending series that explores multiple universes and the choices that shape our lives.
  • Barakamon: A comedy about a calligrapher who moves to a remote island and learns the importance of living life to the fullest.
• Comparing Anime Comedy to Western Comedy
  • Anime comedy often relies on cultural references and humor specific to Japan, while Western comedy tends to be more universal.
  • Anime comedy may feature exaggerated characters and settings, while Western comedy often relies on relatable characters and situations.
  • Both genres share common elements such as wit, timing, and clever writing.
• The Appeal of Anime Comedy
  • Anime comedy offers a unique perspective on Japanese culture and society.
  • The exaggerated characters and settings can provide a cathartic release for viewers.
  • The genre often explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and personal growth.
  • Anime comedy can also serve as a bridge between different cultures, fostering a shared appreciation for humor and storytelling.

The Anime Experience

The Art of Anime

Anime is characterized by its distinct visual style, which sets it apart from other forms of animation. The art of anime encompasses a wide range of techniques and styles, from traditional hand-drawn animation to computer-generated imagery.

Character Design

One of the most recognizable aspects of anime is its distinctive character design. Anime characters are often exaggerated and stylized, with exaggerated expressions, dramatic poses, and distinctive clothing and accessories. The character design in anime often reflects the personality and character traits of the characters, with each character having a unique appearance that sets them apart from the others.

Background and Environmental Design

Anime is also known for its detailed and imaginative background and environmental design. The backgrounds in anime are often highly detailed and full of small details that add to the overall atmosphere of the scene. From bustling cityscapes to ancient temples, anime backgrounds are designed to transport the viewer into the world of the story.

Color and Lighting

Color and lighting play a significant role in the art of anime. Anime is known for its vibrant and bold use of color, with many anime series featuring bright and colorful palettes. The use of lighting in anime is also used to create a sense of mood and atmosphere, with dramatic shadows and highlights used to create a sense of depth and dimension.

Dynamic Action and Movement

Anime is also known for its dynamic and energetic action sequences. The use of motion and movement in anime is used to convey a sense of excitement and energy, with characters moving fluidly and dynamically through the scene. The use of special effects, such as explosions and particle effects, are also used to enhance the overall visual impact of the action sequences.

In conclusion, the art of anime is a unique and distinctive style of animation that is characterized by its distinctive character design, detailed background and environmental design, bold use of color and lighting, and dynamic action and movement. These elements combine to create a unique and immersive visual experience that is unmistakably anime.

The Soundtrack of Anime

The soundtrack of anime plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall viewing experience. It is a combination of various musical elements that are specifically designed to complement the visuals and narrative of an anime series or film.

The music used in anime is diverse and can range from classical to electronic, and from Japanese to Western styles. One of the most recognizable features of anime music is its use of catchy and upbeat melodies, often featuring fast-paced rhythms and energetic instrumentation. This type of music is commonly referred to as “J-Pop” or “J-Rock” and is often associated with the popular culture of Japan.

Another important aspect of anime music is its use of opening and ending themes. These themes are usually performed by popular Japanese artists and are played during the opening and closing credits of each episode. They serve as a way to set the tone for the series and are often used to showcase the musical style and genre of the anime.

In addition to the opening and ending themes, anime also features a variety of background music that is used to enhance the mood and atmosphere of each scene. This music is often composed specifically for each series and is designed to evoke emotions and create a sense of immersion for the viewer.

Overall, the soundtrack of anime plays a vital role in creating a unique and immersive viewing experience. It is a reflection of the cultural identity of Japan and serves as a testament to the creativity and innovation of the anime industry.

The Culture of Anime

The culture of anime is a fascinating aspect of the medium that contributes to its widespread popularity. It is not just limited to the animation itself, but encompasses a range of related elements that have become synonymous with the term “anime.” These elements include:

• Art style: Anime is known for its distinct art style, which often features exaggerated expressions, dynamic action poses, and vibrant colors.
• Storytelling: Anime tells a wide variety of stories, from fantasy and science fiction to romance and slice-of-life. They often explore complex themes and deal with issues that are relatable to audiences of all ages.
• Fandom: Anime has a dedicated fan base that spans across the globe. Fans are passionate about their favorite shows and are known for their love of cosplay, fan art, and other forms of creative expression.
• Industry: The anime industry in Japan is massive, with hundreds of studios producing new shows every year. Many of these shows are adaptations of popular manga (Japanese comics) or original concepts.
• Accessibility: Anime is accessible to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. It is often dubbed into other languages and subtitled, making it easy for people around the world to enjoy.

Overall, the culture of anime is a unique and dynamic one that continues to grow and evolve with each passing year. Its influence can be seen in everything from fashion and music to video games and film.

Recap of Key Points

• The term “anime” refers to a specific style of Japanese animation, typically characterized by vibrant visuals, distinct character designs, and a focus on storytelling.
• Anime covers a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to romance and drama, making it appealing to diverse audiences.
• Cultural elements such as Japanese history, traditions, and pop culture influences are often incorporated into anime storylines, further contributing to its unique appeal.
• Anime productions may originate from manga (Japanese comics) or original concepts, and their production quality and artistic techniques can vary greatly.
• The anime industry has gained international recognition and a dedicated fanbase, leading to the global popularity of anime and its influence on other forms of media.
• To be considered “anime,” a production must possess these distinct characteristics and elements, setting it apart from other forms of animation or media.

Final Thoughts on the Topic

• In conclusion, the definition of “anime” is a complex and subjective matter that is open to interpretation.
• While some argue that the Japanese origin and style of animation are essential factors, others emphasize the storytelling, character development, and emotional impact as the defining elements.
• It is important to acknowledge and respect the diversity of opinions and experiences when discussing the concept of “anime.”
• Ultimately, the true essence of “anime” lies in the individual connections and personal experiences that fans have with the art form.

FAQs

1. What is anime?

Anime is a type of Japanese animation that is typically aimed at adults as well as children. It is known for its distinctive style, which often features vibrant colors, dramatic storytelling, and a wide range of characters with unique personalities. Anime has become popular all over the world and has inspired countless other forms of media, including video games, live-action adaptations, and even fashion trends.

2. What makes something “anime”?

There are a few key elements that are commonly associated with anime. First and foremost, anime is animation that is produced in Japan. Additionally, anime typically features a unique art style that is easily recognizable, with exaggerated expressions, bold colors, and dynamic action scenes. Anime also tends to have a strong emphasis on storytelling, with complex plots and characters that are often deeply flawed and human. Finally, anime is usually aimed at a wider audience, including both children and adults, and is often marketed towards fans who are passionate about the medium.

3. What doesn’t qualify as anime?

While there are many different types of animation produced in Japan, not all of them qualify as anime. For example, animated series that are produced by non-Japanese studios, or that are aimed primarily at children, would not typically be considered anime. Similarly, Japanese live-action television shows or films would not be considered anime, even if they feature animation or other visual effects. In general, to be considered anime, a work must be produced in Japan and feature the distinctive style and storytelling elements that are associated with the medium.

4. Are there different types of anime?

Yes, there are many different types of anime that can be categorized based on a variety of factors, including target audience, genre, and style. Some of the most popular types of anime include shonen (aimed at teenage boys), shojo (aimed at teenage girls), seinen (aimed at young adult men), and josei (aimed at young adult women). Within these categories, there are many subgenres, such as action, comedy, romance, horror, and more.

5. How can I tell if something is anime?

If you’re unsure whether a particular work qualifies as anime, there are a few key things to look for. First, check to see if the work was produced in Japan. If it was, that’s a good sign that it might be anime. Next, look at the art style. Anime is known for its distinctive, vibrant visuals, so if the animation looks particularly colorful or exaggerated, that could be a clue that it’s anime. Finally, pay attention to the storytelling. Anime often features complex plots and characters with deep flaws, so if the story seems particularly dramatic or character-driven, that could be a sign that it’s anime.

Overrated or Underrated: Anime