What is anime?

Anime (Japanese: アニメ?, [anime] ( listen); English Listeni/ˈænɨmeɪ/) are Japanese animated productions usually featuring hand-drawn or computer animation. The word is the abbreviated pronunciation of "animation" in Japanese, where this term references all animation. In other languages, the term is defined as animation from Japan or as a Japanese-disseminated animation style often characterized by colorful graphics, vibrant characters and fantastic themes. Arguably, the stylization approach to the meaning may open up the possibility of anime produced in countries other than Japan. For simplicity, many Westerners strictly view anime as an animation product from Japan
The etymology of the word anime is disputed. The English term "animation" is written in Japanese katakana as アニメーション (animēshon, pronounced [animeːɕoɴ]), and is アニメ (anime) in its shortened form.

The etymology of the word anime is disputed. The English term "animation" is written in Japanese katakana as アニメーション (animēshon, pronounced [animeːɕoɴ]), and is アニメ (anime) in its shortened form. Some sources claim that anime derives from the French term for animation, dessin animé




Now we know the word and the definition. What is it in reality? Is it for kids only? IS this just for those very interested in Japanese culture (Otaku-nick name for those people) or can "normal" people see it? If I wanted to try it, where do I start?

These are a few questions I'm going to answer.

First of what is it in reality?

Well in the definition, it said, "Defined as animation from Japan" yes, it is animation, or you could call it a cartoon. As other cartoons we know, they're funny to watch. But in Anime it's not unusual for it to be a bit depressing or sad, those who make anime are really good to set the feelings in focus. Some of the series is almost like a normal soap opera, just animated. Which brings us the next question:

Is it for kids only?

No, It is most definitely not. Yes, there is anime made for kids, but most of the series I know is for teenagers and above. Why? Well some of the series can be filled with blood, gore, swearing, sexual references and nudity, just like any other series you've might have seen. Of course, this varies from series to series! Chose wisely to match your taste.

Is Anime just for an Otaku?

Most of those who watches anime are an Otaku to some degree, and for most it's natural to do some research when they learn about new things, therefore it's obvious that those have more knowledge about japan. But no, you don't have to be interested in japan in beforehand to watch anime, you watch the series like normal people do, it's not that much different.

If I wanted to try it, where do I start?

This is the most difficult question of them all. Everyone you ask will give you a different answer.

If someone asks you: "I want to start watching another series, what do you recommend?"
What would you answer? Breaking bad, One three hill, Gossip girl, Walking dead, Bones, How I met your mother, Big bang theory, Simpsons, Family guy, New girl, Dexter?
It's not easy to choose is it?

So what answer should I give you?

Naruto, Bleach, One piece, Dragon ball, Love Hina, Simoun, School days, Steins Gate, Death note, Attack on titan, code geass, ranma ½, Inuyasha, fullmetal alchemist, princess chuchu, school rumble, host club, haibane renmei, Toradora, kaleido star

There are endless with series, ask a friend who knows you and your taste ask those on Twitter or send me a mail, with you preferences and I'll suggest some to you. The most powerful tool of them all are Google it!