Anime: Some Basic Information

At some point, most people have seen highly stylized Japanese animation, referred to as anime. The style of anime refers to the way in which characters are drawn. In anime, humans are depicted with sharp and glossy hair, large eyes, and small mouths. There is also a certain amount of androgyny used.

 Anime truly began with a man named Osamu Tezuka. Shortly after World War Two, Osamu asked his mother for some advice. He wanted to know if he should continue to study in order to become a doctor, or if he should devote himself to the creation of Japanese comic books. His mother told him to do whatever made him happy. In time, Osamu became known as the father of anime and manga. His comics such as Astro Boy and Black Jack were eventually made into anime. Osamu first used the large eyes and thick hair on his characters that are predominating in anime today.

 Since then anime has continued to grow in popularity. One of the reasons for this is the wide variety of genres. In the West, cartoons are often associated with children. However, anime is intended for children, teens, and adults.

 Anime for kids has caught on in the West with the notable Pokemon series. This series appealed to both boys and girls. It also prompted the playing card game, as well as thousands of other toys and products. Similar anime followed, with Hamtaro and Beyblade.

 Teen and adult anime can be divided into many different categories. These categories are separated by plot, style, and they are intended for a specific target groups. Of course, one does not need to follow these guidelines. They simply make it easier to tell what the general theme of the anime will be.

 Anime marketed for young men is called shounen. Usually in shounen the main characters are male. The plot often contains competitive themes. Violence is by no means explicit, but many shounen plots contain some fighting. Examples of this are Bleach and Yu Yu Hakusho. There is usually an emphasis on friendship, good versus evil, and on growing up.  

 Shojo is anime that is intended for young women. The main characters are almost always female. Shojo plots place emphasis on relationships and emotions. The characters in Shojo usually have to overcome some form of adversity, anything from dealing with rivals at school to defeating vampires. Examples of popular Shojo are Fushigi Yugi and Sailor Moon.

 There are many different categories and target groups for adult anime. Complexity, violence, and nudity separate it from anime intended for younger audiences. The plots are more complex and complicated. One may need to re-watch a series or movie in order to better understand it. Nudity and violence might be a part of the plot. Akira is an example of such an anime.  

 The world of anime is complex, interesting, and beautiful. With the wide range in themes and plots, most everyone can find an anime they love. For a taste of Japanese culture and some amazingly detailed art, check out some Japanese animation today!