Anime, also known as Japanimation, comprises hand-drawn and computer-generated animations originating from Japan. The term “anime” is derived from the English word “animation” and, within Japan, encompasses all forms of animated media. However, outside of Japan, “anime” specifically refers to animation produced in Japan or a style popularized by Japanese creators, often characterized by vivid graphics, expressive characters, and fantastical themes. This broader cultural interpretation sometimes leads to the inclusion of animations created outside Japan that adopt similar stylistic elements.
The history of Japanese animation dates back to 1917 with its earliest commercial productions. A distinctive artistic style gained prominence in the 1960s through the works of Osamu Tezuka, and this style expanded globally during the latter half of the 20th century, cultivating a large domestic and international fanbase. Anime is distributed through various channels, including theatrical screenings, television broadcasts, home video releases, and online streaming platforms. Many anime works are original stories; however, a significant portion are adaptations of manga (Japanese comics), light novels, or video games.
Over time, anime production techniques have evolved in response to technological innovations. As a multimedia art form, anime integrates graphic art, character development, cinematography, and other creative methods to craft immersive worlds. Typically, the focus is less on fluid motion and more on detailed environmental realism and dynamic camera effects such as panning, zooming, and unique angles. The art styles within anime are diverse, with character proportions ranging from exaggerated features like large, emotive eyes to more realistic designs.
Anime spans numerous genres, aimed at a wide spectrum of audiences—from broad general viewers to niche groups. Additionally, within U.S. fandom, terms such as “wapanese” have emerged, initially referring to white individuals aspiring to Japanese culture, and later “weeaboo”—a slang term describing enthusiasts who have an intense interest in Japanese anime and otaku culture.
