The Power of Anime: Why Everyone Should Watch It

Chrissie
10 min readApr 16, 2023

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Anime has been around for decades, but it has only recently gained mainstream popularity. It is a form of animation that originated in Japan and is known for its unique style, vibrant colors, and compelling storylines. Anime has a dedicated fan base all over the world, and it’s not hard to see why. The stories told through anime can be deeply moving, thought-provoking, and inspiring, with themes that range from love and loss to the complexities of the human condition. Anime has the power to transport viewers to different worlds, introduce them to new and interesting characters, and offer a unique perspective on life. In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why everyone should watch anime, from its ability to broaden their horizons to its potential to introduce you to a new culture.

Why anime can be a valuable form of entertainment

Anime offers a unique form of entertainment that is not only visually stunning but also emotionally powerful. One of the key reasons why anime can be a valuable form of entertainment is its ability to tell stories in a way that traditional Western media cannot.

Anime often explores complex themes and concepts that are not typically addressed in Western media. These themes can include things like philosophy, spirituality, and cultural norms. The characters in anime often have complex backstories and motivations that make them more relatable and believable than characters in other forms of entertainment.

In addition, anime is renowned for its stunning visual style. The animation techniques used in anime are often highly detailed and creative, taking inspiration from a variety of sources including traditional Japanese art and modern pop culture. This means that anime can be a feast for the eyes, with beautiful landscapes, intricate character designs, and stunning action sequences.

Finally, many anime series are often long-running, which means that viewers can become invested in the story and characters over an extended period of time. This can lead to a deeper emotional connection with the content and a greater sense of satisfaction when the story reaches its conclusion.

Overall, anime offers a unique and valuable form of entertainment that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age or background.

Anime’s ability to convey complex emotions and themes

One of the unique features of anime is its ability to convey complex emotions and themes. Unlike conventional animation, anime can be thought-provoking and emotionally charged, exploring themes that range from love and loss to social justice and political commentary.

Through its use of beautiful artwork, intricate storylines, and diverse characters, anime can take viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, leaving lasting impressions that resonate long after the show has ended.

For example, the anime series “Your Lie in April” explores the themes of grief, loss, and self-discovery through the story of a young musician who must confront his past and overcome his fears to move forward in life. The show’s masterful storytelling and stunning animation make for a deeply moving experience that has left many viewers in tears.

Similarly, the anime film “Grave of the Fireflies” uses its powerful storytelling to explore the devastating effects of war on innocent civilians, telling the story of two siblings struggling to survive in the aftermath of a bombing raid during World War II. The film’s poignant message and heartbreaking scenes have made it a classic in the world of anime and cinema alike.

In short, anime’s ability to convey complex emotions and themes is a testament to its power as an art form. Whether you’re looking to be moved, inspired, or entertained, there’s an anime out there for everyone.

The diversity of anime and its ability to tell unique stories

Anime has the ability to tell unique stories that cannot be found in other forms of media. The beauty of the medium lies in its diversity, and anime has a range of stories that cater to all tastes and preferences. From action-packed shonen anime like Naruto and Attack on Titan, to heartwarming slice-of-life anime like K-On and Your Lie in April, anime has something for everyone.

Anime also has the ability to tackle serious and sensitive topics. For example, the anime series Grave of the Fireflies tells the story of two orphaned siblings struggling to survive during the aftermath of the bombing of Hiroshima, while the anime film A Silent Voice deals with themes of bullying and redemption.

What’s more, anime often explores complex themes and emotions in a nuanced and thought-provoking way. For example, the anime film Your Name tells a story about love, loss, and the ways in which our lives can intersect in unexpected ways.

In short, anime is a medium with a wealth of unique and diverse stories that are sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of viewers. With its ability to explore complex themes and emotions, anime has the power to move and inspire audiences in ways that few other forms of media can.

How anime can expand your worldview and cultural understanding

Anime is not just a form of entertainment but it can also serve as a tool for cultural understanding and expanding one’s worldview. Anime is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and it can teach you a lot about Japanese traditions, values, and way of life. Many anime shows showcase Japanese festivals, cuisine, music, and art which can give you a glimpse into the rich and diverse Japanese culture.

Moreover, anime can also introduce you to various cultural and historical references. For example, there are anime shows that are set in ancient Japan, feudal Japan, or the Meiji era, which can give you a better understanding of Japan’s history and how it has influenced its present. There are also anime shows that are based on Japanese literature, mythology, and folklore, which can help you appreciate Japanese storytelling, symbolism, and themes.

Watching anime can also expose you to different perspectives and worldviews. Anime shows often explore complex themes such as love, friendship, morality, and identity, which can challenge your own beliefs and values. You can see how characters from different backgrounds and cultures deal with these themes, and how their experiences can be different from your own. Anime can also explore social issues such as racism, discrimination, and poverty, which can give you a broader understanding of the world we live in.

Anime is not just a medium for entertainment, it can also be an educational and enlightening experience. By watching anime, you can learn more about Japanese culture, history, and traditions, and gain a better understanding of different perspectives and worldviews. It’s a great way to broaden your horizons and expand your cultural understanding.

The positive impact of Anime on Mental Health

Anime has a great impact on mental health, and it’s one of the reasons why more people should watch it. Many anime series feature characters dealing with real-life issues such as anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Watching these characters navigate through these challenges can be empowering and therapeutic for viewers who may be dealing with similar issues.

Moreover, anime has a unique way of telling stories that can be very emotional and thought-provoking. This can help viewers to explore their own emotions, and even help them to develop greater emotional intelligence. The stories can also offer a sense of relatability, helping viewers to feel less alone in their struggles.

Anime has also been known to promote mindfulness and relaxation. Many anime shows are set in beautiful, serene landscapes or feature calming music and themes that can help to reduce stress and anxiety. This can be a great way to unwind after a long day or week.

Overall, anime has the power to uplift, inspire, and improve mental well-being. It’s a great way to explore emotions, find relatability, and reduce stress. So, if you’re looking for a new way to boost your mental health, consider giving anime a try.

The ways in which anime can inspire creativity

Anime has a unique way of inspiring creativity in its viewers. From the intricately designed worlds to the detailed character designs, anime can spark the imagination of anyone who watches it. The vibrant colors, unique character styles, and fantastical settings can inspire artists of all kinds to create their own works of art.

Anime also has a tendency to explore complex themes and ideas that can challenge the viewer’s perspective and encourage critical thinking. This can ignite the creative spark in someone, inspiring them to think beyond the conventional and create something truly unique.

Another way anime can inspire creativity is by introducing viewers to new storytelling styles. The non-linear narratives, unconventional camera angles, and the use of flashbacks and flash-forwards can inspire storytellers to experiment with new techniques in their own work.

Anime can also inspire creativity in cosplay. Cosplay is the act of dressing up as a character from a movie, TV show, or in this case, an anime. It allows fans to showcase their love for a series and encourages them to create their own unique costumes and designs.

Overall, anime has the power to inspire creativity in many different ways, making it a great source of inspiration for anyone looking to explore their creative side.

Anime fandom and community building

Anime is a global phenomenon that has fostered a strong sense of community among its fans. Anime fandom is a tightly-knit group of people who share a passion for the medium and its many genres. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed shonen series or emotionally charged slice-of-life dramas, there’s a place for you in the anime community.

One of the biggest draws of the anime community is the sense of inclusivity and acceptance. Fans come from all walks of life and backgrounds, and they’re united by their love of anime. This creates a welcoming environment where people can connect with others who share their interests and form lasting friendships.

Anime conventions are a great way to experience the sense of community firsthand. These events bring together thousands of fans from around the world to celebrate their favorite anime series and characters. Attendees can participate in cosplay contests, attend panels with industry experts, and meet other fans who share their passion.

The anime community is also active online, with forums, social media groups, and websites dedicated to all things anime. Fans can discuss their favorite shows, share fan art and cosplay photos, and connect with others who share their interests.

Overall, the anime fandom is a welcoming and inclusive community that offers a sense of belonging for fans around the world. Whether you’re new to anime or a long-time fan, there’s a place for you in this vibrant and passionate community.

How to get started watching anime

If you’re new to anime, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. With so many different genres and series to choose from, it can be difficult to know which anime is right for you. But don’t worry, there are a few easy ways to get started watching anime.

Firstly, consider what kind of genres you usually enjoy when it comes to movies, TV shows, or books. Anime has a genre for just about everything, from action and adventure to romance and comedy. You can easily start by choosing an anime that falls into one of your preferred genres.

Secondly, ask for recommendations from friends or online communities. There are many anime forums and social media groups where you can ask for recommendations based on your preferences. You can also check out popular anime streaming sites like Crunchyroll or Funimation, which have a wide range of anime series available for streaming.

Thirdly, start with popular and highly-rated anime series. Some of the most popular anime series include Attack on Titan, Naruto, Fullmetal Alchemist, and Death Note. These series have become popular for good reason and are a great starting point for someone who is new to anime.

Lastly, consider starting with a shorter anime series that is easy to binge-watch. Many anime series have hundreds of episodes, which can be daunting for a beginner. By starting with a shorter series, you can get a taste of the world of anime without committing too much time.

By following these simple steps, you can easily get started watching anime and discover the many amazing series and stories that anime has to offer.

Recommendations for anime to watch

If you’re new to anime or just looking for something new to watch, here are some recommendations to get you started:

1. Attack on Titan: This popular anime is set in a world where humans live in cities surrounded by walls to protect themselves from Titans, giant humanoid creatures that eat humans. The story follows the main character Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the military to fight against the Titans and uncover the mysteries surrounding them.

2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: This anime follows the story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy to try and bring back their deceased mother. Their attempt goes wrong, and they pay a heavy price. The story follows their journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, which they believe will help them regain their bodies.

3. Death Note: This anime is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Light Yagami, a high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. As he starts using the notebook to rid the world of criminals, he draws the attention of a mysterious detective who is intent on catching him.

4. Naruto: This long-running anime follows the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who dreams of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. Along with his friends, he goes on various missions and battles against other ninjas as he works towards achieving his goal.

5. Your Lie in April: This anime is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of a young pianist named Kosei Arima. After the death of his abusive mother, Kosei stops playing the piano until he meets a talented violinist named Kaori Miyazono, who helps him rediscover his love for music.

These are just a few recommendations, but there are countless other anime out there to explore. Give anime a chance, and you may discover a new favorite show.

I hope you enjoyed our article on the power of anime and why everyone should watch it. Anime is a unique form of entertainment that has captivated audiences worldwide and for good reason. It has the ability to touch the hearts of people of all ages, and the themes presented in many anime series are both relatable and relevant. By watching anime, you can experience a range of emotions and learn valuable life lessons. So, whether you’re a long-time anime fan or you’ve never watched any before, I encourage you to give it a try and see the power of anime for yourself!

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Chrissie

Multidisciplinary Writer (Psychology, Business, Investments, Literary Criticism, Personality Analysis, History, & Science) | Founder of Hive Media