research review

Japanese Anime Animates American Culture

By Shane Morales

Anime is big business in the United States. Ten years ago, there were only a handful of anime TV shows available. Today, every cartoon channel is saturated with anime. Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball, and Pokemon are a few examples. Anime’s attraction stems from its aesthetic appeal with the fans. The storylines, artwork, and characters of anime makes American-based cartoons look dire.

A major catalyst in anime’s growth stems from the media’s ability to market this trend. In an article titled Anime in America, author Debbi Gardiner states that “anime is the fastest growing segment in the video and DVD rental market.” Anime’s presence is also apparent in other products including books, video games, and toys.

The advent of the internet has also strengthened anime’s appeal. Online forums allow fans to talk and share detailed scripts. Tape swapping of shows and fan club sites have become popular. Anime viewers are no longer restricted by location or language as access and translations to many shows are available online. The marketplace for anime goods is fueled by online stores and auction sites, enabling fans to purchase from anywhere in the world.

In the book, Astro Boy and Anime Come to the Americas, author Fred Ladd mentions that Japanese anime has influenced America’s social landscape. Clubs and conventions are built around anime. Interest in learning the Japanese language has increased, while travel and tourism to Japan has spiked.

Anime provides for Americans a way to discover and delve into another culture. This process as Ladd states “makes it fun, interesting, and profitable.” With the advent of new media technology such as the internet, anime will continue to grow and make its impression on American culture.