Anime, also known as Japanimation, encompasses hand-drawn and computer-generated animations originating from Japan. The term “anime” is derived from the English word “animation” and, within Japan, it broadly refers to all forms of animated media. Outside Japan, however, “anime” specifically denotes animation produced in Japan or a style popularized by Japanese animation, typically featuring vibrant graphics, dynamic characters, and fantastical themes. This somewhat abstract interpretation allows for the possibility of anime created in other countries adopting similar stylistic elements.
The roots of Japanese animation trace back to as early as 1917 with the first known commercial Japanese animation. The distinctive art style, characterized by exaggerated facial expressions and large eyes, emerged prominently in the 1960s through the works of Osamu Tezuka and gained widespread popularity during the latter half of the 20th century, cultivating a large domestic and global fanbase.
Anime is accessible through various distribution channels, including theatrical screenings, television broadcasts, home media, and online streaming platforms. It often features adaptations of manga (Japanese comics), light novels, or video games, though many anime are original works. Over time, production techniques have evolved in response to technological advancements, blending graphic artistry, character development, cinematography, and innovative creative methods.
While anime typically emphasizes detailed backgrounds and atmospheric effects over fluid motion, it employs diverse art styles and varying character proportions—ranging from exaggerated to realistic—often distinguished by large, expressive eyes. The genre classification is broad, catering to both mainstream and niche audiences through numerous genres.
In addition, a cultural slang term has emerged in the United States: “wapanese,” initially used to describe White individuals aspiring to be Japanese, and later evolving into “weeaboo,” a term referring to fans who display a strong obsession with Japanese anime and culture.
