Anime, also known as Japanimation, refers to hand-drawn and computer-generated animation originating from Japan. The term "anime" is derived from the English word "animation" and, within Japan, encompasses all forms of animated media. However, outside Japan, "anime" specifically denotes animation from Japan or styles heavily influenced by Japanese aesthetics, characterized by vibrant graphics, expressive characters, and fantastical themes. This broader interpretation has led to the possibility of anime produced outside Japan, often inspired by Japanese conventions. The history of Japanese animation dates back to 1917 with the earliest commercial works. A distinctive art style began to emerge in the 1960s through the influence of Osamu Tezuka, and it gained widespread popularity both domestically and internationally in the latter half of the 20th century. Anime is distributed across various channels, including theatrical releases, television broadcasts, home media, and online streaming. It often originates from original stories or adaptations of manga (Japanese comics), light novels, or video games. Over time, production techniques for anime have evolved in response to technological advancements. As a multimedia art form, anime combines graphic artistry, character development, cinematography, and other creative techniques. Unlike traditional animation that emphasizes smooth motion, anime often prioritizes detailed and realistic settings, with creative camera effects such as panning, zooming, and unique shot angles. Diverse artistic styles are employed in anime, with character designs ranging from exaggerated, large eyes to more realistic proportions, often emphasizing expressive features. The genre encompasses a wide range of themes and caters to both broad and niche audiences. In the context of fandom, particularly in the United States, terms like "wapanese" have emerged, originally referring to White individuals aspiring to be Japanese, later evolving into "weeaboo," describing fans who have a strong fascination with Japanese anime and culture.
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