The Hidden Origins and Evolution of Anime: From Magic Lanterns to Global Phenomenon

anime history a book by Jonathan Clements (image discovered @ https://res.cloudinary.com/bloomsbury-atlas/image/upload/w_360,c_scale,dpr_1.5/jackets/9781844578849.jpg)

Anime, characterized by its vivid colors, different animations, and dynamic storytelling, has captured the imagination of fans worldwide. This art form offers intense narratives, characters, and virtually limitless genres, appealing to a wide range of viewers. Surprisingly, the origins of anime can be traced back to a time when entertainment was as simple as shadows cast by flickering lanterns. This journey into the world of anime began long before the advent of streaming platforms and bustling conventions filled with colorful fans of characters like Pikachu. Let’s embark on a detailed exploration of anime’s rich history, uncovering the innovators who laid the groundwork for this beloved art form while enjoying the quirks and drama that come along with it. Spoiler alert: the narrative is bound to get dramatic—after all, what would anime be without its signature flair for emotion and conflict?

 Early Beginnings: Magic Lantern Shows

This was the entertainment of the era, akin to binge-watching an engaging series on a slow, dial-up internet connection—frustratingly slow yet oddly nostalgic and fulfilling. Magic lanterns were among the earliest means of projecting images, serving as a precursor to the animation we enjoy today. Within these shows, still images would magically come to life, casting moving shadows that danced across the walls, creating scenes that enthralled audiences.

This rudimentary technology was instrumental in shaping the visual storytelling that would later evolve into modern anime. In our discussion of early anime, it’s essential to mention Katsudō Shashin, regarded as the first animation from Japan. Created in 1907, this brief clip, lasting only a few seconds, depicts a young boy drawing a "moving picture" in kanji before tipping his hat. While it may pale in comparison to the action-packed spectacle of Dragon Ball Z, Katsudō Shashin stands as the forefather of contemporary anime battles, marking a significant leap into what animation was destined to become.

Question: Would you prefer watching shadows dance on a wall or binge-watching your favorite anime? - Watching shadows, for nostalgia’s sake. - Definitely, anime, please! (We’ve come a long way from lanterns). 

The Pioneers of Anime: The Founding Fathers

Fast forward to the early 20th century, and we are introduced to some of the foundational figures in the anime industry: Ōten Shimokawa, Jun’ichi Kōuchi, and Seitarō Kitayama. These talented innovators were delving into animation long before the terms CGI or color television were even conceived. With a painstaking dedication to hand-drawn frames and an unyielding level of patience, they established the groundwork for the anime industry, akin to the meticulous process of creating TikTok videos frame by frame—an arduous task but one that proved to be revolutionary and monumental. Yet, it’s Osamu Tezuka, often heralded as the “God of Manga,” who truly deserves the spotlight for transforming the landscape of animation. Tezuka didn’t merely revolutionize manga (Japanese comics); he nearly single-handedly crafted the distinctive anime aesthetic. His creation of Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atomu) during the 1960s forever changed the perception of animation from simplistic drawings to complex storytelling. Astro Boy can be seen as the quintessential anime superhero; without this character, the world might still be entertained by simple stick figures. Moreover, Tezuka introduced the iconic, emotive wide eyes that have become synonymous with anime’s stylistic identity, enhancing character expressions and allowing audiences to connect on a deeper level. So, the next time you find yourself moved by an anime character's powerful monologue or emotional journey, you’ll know whom to thank.

Question: If Astro Boy fought Goku from Dragon Ball Z, who would win? - Astro Boy: He’s the OG hero! - Goku: Super Saiyan, duh; victory is mine! 

What Even Is “Anime”? 

Let’s clarify what “anime” truly signifies. In Japan, the term “anime” encompasses all forms of animation across the globe, while outside Japan, it specifically refers to animated works originating from Japan. It’s akin to calling ramen simply “noodles”—while technically correct, it fails to encapsulate the full cultural and culinary richness of ramen. Anime embodies much more than just a visually appealing animated series with vibrant colors and exaggerated features. It is a unique art form that merges traditional hand-drawn techniques with modern digital animation, interweaving lively characters with intricate storylines. The genres encompass everything from giant robots battling it out in the cosmos to magical girls embarking on fantastical adventures, and even everyday high schoolers navigating life’s challenges. The versatility of anime allows it to blend multiple genres, creating stories that defy simple categorization—because, after all, why stick to one theme when you can explore many?

Poll: What’s your favorite anime genre? - Mecha (Because giant robots solve everything)! - Isekai (Transport me to another world, please!). - Slice of Life (I prefer my anime with a touch of realism). 

Cultural and Artistic Development

Finding Inspiration in the West

Anime did not develop in a vacuum; its roots are significantly influenced by Western animation. Early Japanese animators were notably inspired by the colorful and inventive creations of Disney, with Osamu Tezuka—a key figure in anime—particularly admiring Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Nevertheless, instead of merely copying Western techniques, Japanese creators incorporated these influences, infusing them with their own cultural identity and original concepts. This transformation resembled reinterpreting a familiar idea with fantastical elements like dragons or futuristic science fiction motifs.

As anime progressed, it started to showcase Japan's distinct culture and the social changes of the era. In the aftermath of World War II, animation emerged as a medium that represented Japan's creative resilience and adaptation during a time of recovery. By the 1970s, anime embraced genres such as mecha (concentrated on giant robots) and cyberpunk, reflecting the technological advancements and societal worries of the time. Iconic series like Mobile Suit Gundam played a vital role in popularizing these genres, mesmerizing viewers with scenes of towering robots dominating urban landscapes.

Quick Thought: If you had the chance to pilot a giant robot, what name would you give it? Something grand such as "Titanus Maximus" or something more laid-back like "Bob"?

Going Global: Anime's International Influence

For a significant portion of its early existence, anime was mostly a Japanese cultural phenomenon. However, during the 1980s and 1990s, it started to enthrall audiences around the world, entering global markets with remarkable success. Movies like Akira (1988) and Spirited Away (2001) marked significant milestones, introducing anime to mainstream viewers worldwide.

These cinematic works were not only visually impressive but also showcased anime's capacity to address profound themes and narrate deeply engaging stories. Spirited Away, in particular, achieved historic recognition when it won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, becoming the first—and still the only—anime film to achieve this esteemed honor.

Currently, the influence of anime reaches far beyond the realm of film, pervading global culture through fashion, video games, and music. Cherished characters like Sailor Moon inspire trendy streetwear, while anime-inspired avatars are prevalent on social media platforms. From entertainment to everyday aesthetics, anime has solidified its position as a fundamental aspect of modern cultural expression.

Final Thoughts 

Anime from its genesis as a magic lantern show to its modern change as a worldwide cultural event is truly an achievement of the century. Starting from the shadows behind a carpet for children and adult amusement to its modern lively and digital era today, anime has come out with a unique platform for storytelling that attracts everyone's attention whether you like stories that have giant robots, or thrilling adventures, or emotional high school dramas. So the next time you sit down to watch anime for the rest of your life, take a standing ovation for this outstanding work of art.