A Beginner's Guide to Anime - How to Get Started in the World of Japanese Animation

Anime is a popular form of entertainment that has captivated audiences all over the world. Originating in Japan, anime refers to animated TV shows and movies that cover a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to romance and comedy. For beginners who are just getting into anime, the sheer variety of options available can be overwhelming. In this beginner's guide to anime, we'll provide an introduction to the world of anime and offer some tips for getting started.

• What is Anime?

Anime is a style of animation that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. It has since become a global phenomenon, with fans all over the world tuning in to watch their favorite shows and movies. One of the defining characteristics of anime is its unique visual style, which often features exaggerated facial expressions and large, expressive eyes.

Anime covers a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to romance, comedy, and more. Some anime are adaptations of popular manga (Japanese comics), while others are original stories created specifically for the screen.

• Getting Started with Anime

If you're new to anime, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Research Different Genres: Anime covers a wide range of genres, so it's important to find one that appeals to your interests. Are you a fan of action and adventure? Check out shows like Attack on Titan or Naruto. Do you prefer romance? Try watching Your Lie in April or Toradora. By researching different genres, you'll be able to find anime that aligns with your interests.

Choose a Streaming Service: There are many different streaming services that offer anime content, such as Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix. Each service has its own library of anime, so it's worth comparing options to find one that offers the shows you're interested in.

Start with Popular Shows: There are certain anime that have become classics and are a great place to start for beginners. Shows like Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon, and Naruto are popular choices that have stood the test of time.

Watch with Subtitles: Most anime is originally produced in Japanese, so it's important to watch with subtitles to ensure that you don't miss any important plot points. English dubs are available for some shows, but these can sometimes alter the original meaning of the dialogue.

Be Open-Minded: Anime can cover a wide range of topics and can be very different from Western-style cartoons. It's important to approach anime with an open mind and be willing to try something new.

• Top Beginner-Friendly Anime Shows

If you're looking for some beginner-friendly anime shows to start with, here are a few popular options:

1. Attack on Titan: This action-packed show takes place in a world where humanity is forced to live behind walls to protect themselves from giant humanoid creatures known as Titans.

2. Naruto: This long-running series follows the story of a young ninja named Naruto as he trains to become the strongest ninja in his village.

3. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: This epic adventure follows two brothers as they search for the Philosopher's Stone in order to restore their bodies after a failed attempt at alchemy.

4. Your Lie in April: This emotional drama follows a young musician as he learns to overcome his past and pursue his passion for music.

5. Death Note: This psychological thriller follows a high school student who gains the ability to kill anyone whose name he writes in a mysterious notebook.

In conclusion, anime is a vibrant and exciting form of entertainment that has captured the hearts of fans all over the world. With a wide variety of genres to choose from and countless options available through streaming services, there has never been a better time to dive into the world of anime. By following the tips provided in this beginner's guide and exploring popular shows like Attack on Titan, Naruto, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Your Lie in April, and Death Note, newcomers can easily discover the thrill and excitement of anime for themselves.