Written by Lachie Horrigan, Boris Budiono & Roman Chayka
(Originally published in Griffith University's publication 'Getamungstit' Magazine, in the 2015 "Culture" Edition #4)
For many of us, it's nostalgic to think of simpler times, when getting up early, was the most important part of the day – not so you don’t miss the school bus, but to watch the morning cartoons!
Many can reminisce the days of Pokemon, Dragon Ball Z, and Sailor Moon, but to some, the joy of Japanese animation or 'anime' lives on strong. There are numerous genres, aimed at children and adults alike, from well-crafted romance, to pure-crazy action and comedy. Here, members of Griffith Anime Society give you a crash-course into the subculture, history, and significance of select anime through the years.
(Originally published in Griffith University's publication 'Getamungstit' Magazine, in the 2015 "Culture" Edition #4)
For many of us, it's nostalgic to think of simpler times, when getting up early, was the most important part of the day – not so you don’t miss the school bus, but to watch the morning cartoons!
Many can reminisce the days of Pokemon, Dragon Ball Z, and Sailor Moon, but to some, the joy of Japanese animation or 'anime' lives on strong. There are numerous genres, aimed at children and adults alike, from well-crafted romance, to pure-crazy action and comedy. Here, members of Griffith Anime Society give you a crash-course into the subculture, history, and significance of select anime through the years.
The Castle of Cagliostro Rupan Sansei: Kariosutoro no Shiro (1979); Image Source: Studio Ghibli
Hayao Miyazaki's directorial debut, The Castle of Cagliostro, underpinned the genesis of a unique style and essence that was universal in appeal to young and old audiences worldwide. The story is a tale about a mischievous, yet gentlemanly thief who seeks answers when money he stole from a casino heist was found to be counterfeit, and his chance encounter with a fleeing princess during his search. The movie itself is a freewheeling action comedy that still holds up today, 35 years after its release. Both storyline and animation style were considered to be unconventional from the perspective of the west, and such stylistic contrasts and themes would continue to permeate future Miyazaki films, many featuring interplay of East vs. West ideology and aesthetic, early 20th century charm, use of strong yet feminine characters, and flawed protagonists.
Miyazaki went on to establish Studio Ghibli in 1985, releasing classics such as Spirited Away (2001) and Howl's Moving Castle (2004) before retiring shortly after his last film, The Wind Rises (2013). Lauded by many as the Walt Disney of Japan, his animations were appreciated by Hollywood figures such as Roger Ebert, John Lasseter of Pixar, and Steven Spielberg.
Hayao Miyazaki's directorial debut, The Castle of Cagliostro, underpinned the genesis of a unique style and essence that was universal in appeal to young and old audiences worldwide. The story is a tale about a mischievous, yet gentlemanly thief who seeks answers when money he stole from a casino heist was found to be counterfeit, and his chance encounter with a fleeing princess during his search. The movie itself is a freewheeling action comedy that still holds up today, 35 years after its release. Both storyline and animation style were considered to be unconventional from the perspective of the west, and such stylistic contrasts and themes would continue to permeate future Miyazaki films, many featuring interplay of East vs. West ideology and aesthetic, early 20th century charm, use of strong yet feminine characters, and flawed protagonists.
Miyazaki went on to establish Studio Ghibli in 1985, releasing classics such as Spirited Away (2001) and Howl's Moving Castle (2004) before retiring shortly after his last film, The Wind Rises (2013). Lauded by many as the Walt Disney of Japan, his animations were appreciated by Hollywood figures such as Roger Ebert, John Lasseter of Pixar, and Steven Spielberg.
Summer Wars Samā Wōzu (2009); Image Source: Madhouse/Madman Entertainment
Japanese anime throughout history is famous for its liberal use of complex and abstract ideas melded within a simple, almost fable-like, storyline. Another aspect involves contrasts, such as the past, present, and future, young and old, artificial intelligence/technology and nature. Mamoru Hosoda, who many have called 'the next Miyazaki', writes and directs Summer Wars, a story about a teenage mathematician and computer programmer, Kenji, who is invited to his friend's family summer home for a holiday job. True to Japanese style, the idyllic countryside and family atmosphere becomes a stark antithesis to a futuristic turn when Kenji has to fight off a malicious computer hacker affecting a virtual world program that he moderates in his spare time. Laughs, tears, online battles, family feuds, and a high-stake card game make this movie a unique contraposition of the traditional and modern, personal and anonymous, and also exploring the meaning of family and community. As with Studio Ghibli productions, the animation visuals are simply stunning. Hosoda initially rose to fame with his initial movie, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2005), and followed up with other classics such as Wolf Children (2012). He is releasing a new film later this year, titled The Boy and the Beast.
Anime has become a most popular cultural export of Japan, with influences in fashion, music, and art. Its popularity in the west has grown over time, as communities outside of Japan thrive and establish ‘Anime Clubs’, which provide an avenue where people can meet up, watch and discuss various media in the subculture. Due to the proliferation of streaming services, it is now possible to watch new releases almost as soon as it is released in Japan.
GAS BLURB
Griffith Anime Society, founded in 2001, is a social club dedicated to showcasing and discussing all things anime, manga and games. They host weekly events, movie nights, marathons, and excursions. Find them on Facebook or visit www.griffithanimesociety.weebly.com for more details.
Japanese anime throughout history is famous for its liberal use of complex and abstract ideas melded within a simple, almost fable-like, storyline. Another aspect involves contrasts, such as the past, present, and future, young and old, artificial intelligence/technology and nature. Mamoru Hosoda, who many have called 'the next Miyazaki', writes and directs Summer Wars, a story about a teenage mathematician and computer programmer, Kenji, who is invited to his friend's family summer home for a holiday job. True to Japanese style, the idyllic countryside and family atmosphere becomes a stark antithesis to a futuristic turn when Kenji has to fight off a malicious computer hacker affecting a virtual world program that he moderates in his spare time. Laughs, tears, online battles, family feuds, and a high-stake card game make this movie a unique contraposition of the traditional and modern, personal and anonymous, and also exploring the meaning of family and community. As with Studio Ghibli productions, the animation visuals are simply stunning. Hosoda initially rose to fame with his initial movie, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2005), and followed up with other classics such as Wolf Children (2012). He is releasing a new film later this year, titled The Boy and the Beast.
Anime has become a most popular cultural export of Japan, with influences in fashion, music, and art. Its popularity in the west has grown over time, as communities outside of Japan thrive and establish ‘Anime Clubs’, which provide an avenue where people can meet up, watch and discuss various media in the subculture. Due to the proliferation of streaming services, it is now possible to watch new releases almost as soon as it is released in Japan.
GAS BLURB
Griffith Anime Society, founded in 2001, is a social club dedicated to showcasing and discussing all things anime, manga and games. They host weekly events, movie nights, marathons, and excursions. Find them on Facebook or visit www.griffithanimesociety.weebly.com for more details.