Anime For the Uninitiated

Do you watch anime?

Anime, short for animation, is a term usually referring to drawn or computer-animated shows and movies, usually originating from or inspired by Japanese popular culture.

There have been many popular anime shows and movies that have come out of Japan over the years. Back in the 80s and 90s, the rest of the world usually had to wait five to ten years before a local company would obtain the license to distribute new audio for these shows. (We call this "dubbing.")

Popular shows from the time included Dragonball, Sailor Moon, and Gundam, to name a few.

Curse of the Blood Rubies

Dragon Ball Z Kai

Sailor Moon R

Mobile Suit Gundam 00, the Movie

Since the 90s, anime has exploded in popularity, and Japanese animation has even inspired similar art styles elsewhere. Popular anime-inspired cartoons and movies include:

Avatar, the Last Airbender

The Legend of Korra

Big Hero 6

Wreck-It Ralph

Anime continues to be an expressive and popular part of our culture, and has much to offer for fans of all ages. Check out what we have available in our online catalog, opens a new window .

Also, check out our list of Studio Ghibli Films, opens a new window