Looking at our generation nowadays we can say that we have too many external effectors on the minds of this Generation including social media(including all its genres and types), cartoons, music...etc but the topic we are talking about today is a very sensitive one cause it's not accepted by everyone BUT it's accepted and even loved by most of the generations not only the new generation but also the old ones as well, that topic is "ANIME", what's anime? when did it start? How is it done? To answer all of that we need to get back to the origins of anime and how it originated.
1) The origins of anime:
Anime is a style of animation that originated in Japan and has become widely popular globally. The term "anime" is derived from the English word "animation" but is used in Japan to refer specifically to animated works, regardless of origin. However, outside Japan, "anime" refers specifically to animation that originates from Japan or is influenced by Japanese animation styles. Anime also dates back to the early 20th century which will be shown in the next overview.
1-Early 20th century(pre-anime):
Japan had a tradition that the people always loved visual storytelling through scrolls, prints, and even puppets! Which was the groundwork and the first step taken to the creation of anime and was even influencing the West specifically America and Europe.
2-The beginning of the Japanese animations(1917-1930s):
The first Japanese animated films, such as "Namakura Gatana" (1917) by Jun'ichi Kōuchi, often imitated the Western techniques famous at the time in Europe, one of the works that deeply inspired the Japanese animators was the work of Walt Disney "Steamboat Willie"(1928) that introduced new techniques to the Japanese animators.
3-World War II and its effects(1930s-1950s):
During World War II animations in Japan were used for propaganda purposes, promoting nationalism and morals for Japan, after the war, Japanese animation studios began producing works influenced by both Western and Japanese artistic traditions.
4-Golden Age and Modernization(1960s-1980s):
The "God of Manga" Osamu Tezuka revolutionized anime with works like "Astro Boy" (1963) which introduced distinctive Japanese elements and storytelling techniques. There was a diversification of anime genres between the 1970s and 1980s from a giant robot series (mecha) like "Mobile Suit Gundam"(1979) to a magical girl series like the famous anime "Sailor Moon"(1992).
5- Globalization and Modern Anime (1990s-present):
Anime gained popularity worldwide especially after the coming out of the most famous anime known till now "Dragon Ball Z"(1989-1996). The internet and streaming platforms made it easy for anime to come out to the world and make it accessible to nearly everyone in the world.
2) The most influencing animes in history:
Identifying the most influential animes in history can vary depending on perspectives and criteria. However, based on their impact on the anime industry, and global pop culture, here are five anime that are widely regarded as highly influential.
1-Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atom) - Created by Osamu Tezuka, first aired in 1963:
Astro Boy is often considered the first modern anime series. It introduced themes of robotics, artificial intelligence, and ethical dilemmas to a young audience. The main character Astro Boy became an icon in the whole world influencing later robot-themed animes and popularizing the genre of science fiction in anime.
2-Mobile Suit Gundam (Kidou Senshi Gundam) - First aired in 1979:
Mobile Suit Gundam revolutionized the mecha genre by introducing realistic robot designs, complex characters, and a more mature narrative, unlike other animes. It moved away from the traditional super robot formula to explore themes of war, politics, and even human conflicts, which was very mesmerizing for an anime at the time. Gundam's success led to a long-running franchise with numerous sequels, spin-offs, and merchandise, Inspiring future mecha animes.
3-Akira - Released as a film in 1988:
Akira is renowned for its groundbreaking animation, dystopian cyberpunk setting, and mature themes. It demonstrated that anime could tackle adult themes with sophistication and cinematic quality, influencing Western perceptions of anime as a serious art form. Akira's visual style and narrative complexity set new standards in animation and storytelling, inspiring filmmakers globally and contributing to the rise of cyberpunk aesthetics in popular culture.
3) The new era of anime:
The new era of anime typically Begins from the 1990s till now and it is characterized by some significant changes and developments to the anime industry and its impact on global audiences.
1- Technological advancements:
Anime has developed from being hand-drawn to digital techniques that revolutionized anime production, where this shift allowed animes to be smoother, with more intricate visuals and the integration of CGI.
2- Globalization and accessibility:
The internet and digital streaming platforms have allowed anime to be accessible to the world even shortly after its Japanese broadcast.
3- Diversification of themes and genres:
Anime began to explore more mature and complex themes beyond traditional genres. The series delved into psychological drama, social commentary, and philosophical exploration.
In conclusion, anime is not only animated entertainment but also an ever-changing cultural phenomenon that has gone beyond borders and generations. Anime is still interesting to audiences all around the world because of its various genres, good stories, and unique style of drawing. If we consider the difficult conditions set by the digital age, anime proves that creativity and imagination are still alive and working in the realm of visual art which remains as one of our collective consciousness. Whether it is the exploration of possible dystopias or stories about friendship that warms hearts, anime beckons us into unfamiliar worlds, challenges us to embrace different cultures, and blurs borders between us beyond language barriers. Thus, future generations will continue to be thrilled by this influence anime has left on us.
