About when and how anime made

 

The Origins and Global Rise of Anime: A Cultural Phenomenon

Anime, a unique style of animated storytelling originating in Japan, has become one of the most beloved and influential forms of entertainment worldwide. But where did it all begin, and how did it evolve into the cultural powerhouse it is today? Understanding anime's journey requires delving into its origins, its development through the 20th century, and its eventual rise to global prominence.

When Anime Began: The Early 1900s

Anime’s roots can be traced back to the early 20th century, during Japan’s exploration of animated filmmaking inspired by Western pioneers like Walt Disney and Émile Cohl. The first known Japanese animation is believed to be "Namakura Gatana" (1917), a short film created by Jun’ichi Kōuchi. It featured a humorous story about a clumsy samurai and marked one of the earliest instances of Japanese artists experimenting with moving pictures.

During this period, animation was a fledgling industry in Japan. Early animators, including Ōten Shimokawa and Seitaro Kitayama, drew heavily on Japan’s rich artistic traditions, such as ukiyo-e woodblock prints, and incorporated elements of folklore and mythology. These animations were simplistic, often just a few minutes long, and were made using labor-intensive, hand-drawn techniques.

Anime’s Evolution: The Wartime Era (1930s - 1940s)

The 1930s and 1940s marked a significant shift in anime's purpose and style. With the rise of militarization in Japan, the government recognized the potential of animation as a tool for propaganda. Animators were tasked with creating films that promoted national pride and supported the war effort.

One notable example is "Momotaro: Umi no Shinpei" (Momotaro: Sacred Sailors, 1945), Japan's first feature-length animated film. Directed by Mitsuyo Seo and funded by the Japanese Navy, the movie portrayed the folk hero Momotaro and his animal companions as symbols of Japan's strength and unity. While primarily political, these films demonstrated advancements in animation techniques that would influence post-war productions.

Post-War Recovery and the Birth of Modern Anime (1950s - 1960s)

After World War II, Japan faced massive reconstruction, and its entertainment industry sought to provide hope and escapism. This era saw the rise of Osamu Tezuka, a visionary often referred to as the "God of Manga." Tezuka’s work laid the foundation for modern anime, blending compelling narratives with a distinct visual style.

In 1963, Tezuka’s studio released "Astro Boy" (Tetsuwan Atom), the first serialized anime television show. It was groundbreaking for several reasons:

• It introduced episodic storytelling, allowing for character development over time.
• It popularized the use of large, expressive eyes—a stylistic choice inspired by Western animations like Betty Boop.
• It set the standard for production methods that kept costs low, a necessity in Japan’s recovering economy.

The success of Astro Boy marked a turning point, solidifying anime as a medium distinct from Western animation.

The Expansion of Genres and Popularity (1970s - 1980s)

The 1970s and 1980s were transformative decades for anime. Studios began exploring diverse genres, catering to audiences beyond children.

• Mecha and Science Fiction: Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) revolutionized the mecha genre by introducing morally complex characters and realistic political themes.
• Fantasy Adventures: Space Battleship Yamato (1974) and Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) showcased anime's ability to create vast, imaginative worlds.
• Slice of Life and Romance: Shows like Maison Ikkoku and My Neighbor Totoro brought relatable, heartfelt stories to the forefront.

During this time, anime also began reaching international audiences. Shows like Speed Racer (Mach GoGoGo) and Battle of the Planets (Science Ninja Team Gatchaman) were localized for Western viewers, laying the groundwork for anime’s global appeal.

The Global Boom of Anime (1990s - Present)

The 1990s marked anime’s explosion onto the world stage. Iconic series like Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon, and Pokémon became global phenomena, introducing millions of viewers to the medium.

• Streaming and Accessibility: The rise of the internet and platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix have made anime accessible to audiences worldwide, allowing fans to watch both classic and contemporary series.
• Studio Ghibli’s Impact: Films like Spirited Away (2001), which won an Academy Award, demonstrated anime’s ability to tell profound, universally resonant stories.
• Modern Hits: Recent series such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and Attack on Titan continue to push the boundaries of animation quality and storytelling, captivating both longtime fans and newcomers.

Why Anime Resonates

Anime’s appeal lies in its ability to tell stories that are both fantastical and deeply human. It explores universal themes—love, loss, perseverance, and identity—through imaginative settings and characters. The medium’s artistic versatility and emotional depth ensure that it remains relevant and cherished across generations.

Conclusion

Anime, which began as humble experiments in animation over a century ago, has grown into a globally celebrated art form. Its evolution from short films in the early 1900s to the diverse and impactful medium it is today reflects Japan’s creativity, resilience, and cultural influence. As anime continues to reach new heights, it remains a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire and connect people around the world.