Anime Vs. Cartoon

When our class began recent discussions on Anime, I found myself loosing interest and "zoning" out rather quickly. Although I didn't have much knowledge on the subject, my first impressions and take on Anime weren't the best. The two things that came to mind were: Dragon Ball Z and Anime pornography- two things I am not/will never be a fan of. What I did not understand, though, was the importance of Anime and the effect it has on the Japanese culture.

Anime is known as animation originated from Japan and is seen in television, films, video games, computer gaming, and commercials. The success of anime is often seen throughout Japan and many other parts of the world, but it's time more people understand anime so they're not stuck with naive thoughts, like I so recently was.

Most people would describe anime as Japanese cartoons and while that technically is correct, these are some differences people should know about.

1. Storyline

--Probably the biggest difference between anime and cartoons. In the western world, cartoons typically consist of simple storylines and plots. The cartoons have self-contained episodes, meaning the plot ends and a new story begins each show. However, In anime the storylines are very complex and resemble that of actual films. Anime has a more of a "point" and the stories can last the whole season or even for multiple seasons.

2. Target Audience

---Anime has a wide target audience and has shows to fit all different people's interests. Instead of having a show for children (Spongebob and Looney Toons) and a show for young adults (Family Guy, South Park, Simpsons) Anime has different types of shows for all age groups.

3.Art

---Most people think the design of Anime looks much different from cartoons, but that is not the case. Art and design in anime comes in all different forms just like cartoons. The particular form commonly seen in anime is that in which the characters have big eyes, small mouths, and crazy colorful hair- usually the first thing that comes to mind when discussing Anime.

Hopefully more than just Mrs. Woolbright will read this post and develop a greater respect for the world of Anime. I know I have!