As a fan of Japanese anime myself, I am excited to share with you some of the best anime series and movies that you need to watch right now. Japanese anime has been a popular form of entertainment for many years, and it has gained a huge following worldwide. From action-packed shonen series to heartwarming slice-of-life dramas, there’s an anime for everyone.
In this article, I will provide you with a brief history of Japanese anime, the benefits of watching anime, popular genres, our top picks for must-watch anime series, anime movies to add to your watchlist, where to watch anime online, Japanese anime merchandise and collectibles, and the impact of Japanese anime on global pop culture.
Introduction to Japanese Anime
Japanese anime, also known as anime, is a style of animation that originated in Japan. It is characterized by colorful graphics, vibrant characters, and unique storylines. Japanese anime is not just for children, as many series and movies are targeted towards adults.
In fact, many anime series deal with complex themes such as love, loss, and morality. Japanese anime has gained a massive following worldwide, and it is one of the biggest exports of Japan’s entertainment industry.
History of Japanese Anime
Japanese anime has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. The first anime film, “Katsudo Shashin,” was released in 1907. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that anime gained popularity in Japan.
One of the most influential anime series of this time was “Astro Boy,” which aired in 1963. “Astro Boy” was a science fiction series that featured a robot boy with superhuman abilities. The success of “Astro Boy” paved the way for many other anime series that followed.
In the 1980s and 1990s, anime gained a massive following worldwide. This was due in part to the popularity of series such as “Dragon Ball,” “Sailor Moon,” and “Pokemon.” These series were dubbed in English and aired on television in many countries.
The internet also played a significant role in the spread of anime, as fans could easily access and share anime content online.
Benefits of Watching Japanese Anime
Watching Japanese anime has many benefits, both for entertainment and for personal growth. One of the biggest benefits is the ability to escape reality and immerse yourself in a different world.
Anime series and movies often have unique and fantastical settings, which can be a refreshing change from everyday life. Additionally, anime can help you develop empathy and emotional intelligence, as many series deal with complex human emotions.
Another benefit of watching anime is the exposure to Japanese culture. Many anime series and movies showcase Japanese customs, traditions, and way of life. This can be a great way to learn about a different culture and gain a new perspective.
Popular Genres in Japanese Anime
Japanese anime has a wide variety of genres, from action to romance to comedy. Here are some of the most popular genres:
- Shonen: This genre is targeted towards teenage boys and features action-packed series with themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-improvement. Examples include “Naruto” and “One Piece.”
- Shojo: This genre is targeted towards teenage girls and features romantic and emotional series with themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Examples include “Fruits Basket” and “Ouran High School Host Club.”
- Seinen: This genre is targeted towards adult men and features mature and complex themes such as politics, violence, and sexuality. Examples include “Attack on Titan” and “Death Note.”
- Josei: This genre is targeted towards adult women and features realistic and relatable series with themes of love, career, and family. Examples include “Nana” and “Chihayafuru.”
- Slice-of-life: This genre features series that depict the everyday lives of characters in a realistic and relatable way. Examples include “Barakamon” and “K-On!”
Our Top Picks for Must-Watch Japanese Anime Series
Now, let’s get to the fun part – our top picks for must-watch anime series. These series are highly rated and have gained a massive following worldwide.
“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood”
“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is a shonen series that follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, as they search for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies. The series features complex themes such as sacrifice, morality, and the consequences of playing God. The animation is stunning, and the characters are well-developed and relatable.
“Your Lie in April”
“Your Lie in April” is a shojo series that follows a piano prodigy, Kosei Arima, as he struggles to overcome his trauma and regain his passion for music. The series deals with themes of grief, loss, and the healing power of music. The animation is beautiful, and the soundtrack is breathtaking.
“Attack on Titan”
“Attack on Titan” is a seinen series that takes place in a world where humanity lives in fear of giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The series follows Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the military and fight to protect humanity. The series features intense action scenes, complex characters, and themes of survival and morality.
“Clannad”
“Clannad” is a slice-of-life series that follows high school student Tomoya Okazaki as he forms relationships with his classmates and deals with family issues. The series deals with themes of family, friendship, and the importance of cherishing the present moment. The animation is beautiful, and the characters are lovable and relatable.
“Haikyuu!!”
“Haikyuu!!” is a shonen series that follows a high school volleyball team as they work towards their goal of becoming national champions. The series features intense volleyball matches, lovable characters, and themes of teamwork, determination, and self-improvement.
If you’re in the mood for a movie, here are some must-watch Japanese anime movies:
“Your Name”
“Your Name” is a romantic fantasy movie that follows two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously swap bodies. The movie deals with themes of love, fate, and the power of human connection. The animation is breathtaking, and the soundtrack is beautiful.
“Spirited Away”
“Spirited Away” is a fantasy movie that follows a young girl, Chihiro, as she enters a magical world and works in a bathhouse to save her parents. The movie deals with themes of growing up, identity, and the importance of kindness. The animation is stunning, and the world-building is intricate and imaginative.
“Grave of the Fireflies”
“Grave of the Fireflies” is a war movie that follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they struggle to survive during the bombing of Japan in World War II. The movie deals with themes of war, loss, and the devastating effects of violence. The animation is haunting, and the story is heart-wrenching.
Where to Watch Japanese Anime Online
There are many websites and streaming services that offer Japanese anime series and movies. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Crunchyroll
- Funimation
- Netflix
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- AnimeLab
Japanese Anime Merchandise and Collectibles
If you’re a fan of Japanese anime, you might want to get your hands on some merchandise and collectibles. There are many online stores that offer anime-themed clothing, accessories, and figurines. Some popular stores include:
- Tokyo Otaku Mode
- Crunchyroll Store
- Right Stuf Anime
- AmiAmi
- HobbyLink Japan
The Impact of Japanese Anime on Global Pop Culture
Japanese anime has had a massive impact on global pop culture. Many anime series and movies have gained a cult following, and some have even become mainstream hits. Anime has influenced other forms of entertainment, such as video games and comics.
Additionally, anime has helped to spread Japanese culture and has introduced viewers to new ideas and perspectives.
Final Thoughts on Japanese Anime
Japanese anime is a unique and fascinating form of entertainment that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed shonen series or heartwarming slice-of-life dramas, there’s an anime out there for you. So, what are you waiting for? Start watching Japanese anime today and discover the amazing world of animation from Japan.
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