Anime and Japanimation are terms for Japanese animation movies. Anime movies are majorly influenced by Japanese comics known as Manga. Bright colors, stylized images and variations in settings and plots are characteristic of anime, which commands a vast and diverse audience the world over. The word anime is derived from the English word animation.

Therefore anime refers to Japanese cartoons, which are extremely different from the average American Saturday-morning sex cartoons. Depth in characterization and plot are two of the distinguishing features of anime from American cartoons. In most cases animation quality in anime is much more superior to American cartoons.

An extensive range of genres comprises anime with science fiction, romancer, live action, fantasy, erotica, adventure and even social commentary. The three main formats are films, television series and original video animation. Films for theatrical release are the best in video quality thanks to the highest budgets. Akira and Spirited Away are examples of popular anime films. Television series are syndicated for TV broadcast while original animated video can b e compared to a made for TV movie.

Manga, the term for comics in Japan is related to anime. The word originated from the artist Hokusai in 1815 with a loose translation of irresponsible pictures.

Though well conceived, adult animation is rather rare in America. Examples of anime abound in TV shows, movies and direct to video also known as original video animations or OVAs in Japan. There’s high quality animation, real vocal acting with voice actors enjoying mega stardom in Japan with concerts, magazines and data books, omni-present music, dramatic scenes of death and romance at times even simultaneously and the odd English phrase defying logic.

During the past 30 years, anime titles have often traveled to the US. Lately a massive increase of popularity occurred in the US anime market as many commercial companies ventured into release of English-speaking anime for both theatres and homes in videocassettes and laserdiscs.

A popular misconception exists of all anime pics being adult-oriented. However the content of many shows is appropriate for children. The sex and violence in regular anime are completely absent in shows for younger children.

Therefore anime is entertainment for all ages.

Steve