By Eric Fong

When we were all young, we all watched cartoons—unless, of course, you were one of the ones that were forced under the "strict Asian parents’ rule" of all study and no play. But hopefully, we’ve all seen a little T.V. and at least been exposed to those famous cartoons, like my personal favorite, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, or maybe even the infamous Smurfs. Those were the classics; but while most young ones are watching these cartoons, Asian children are being introduced to anime. Anime can be defined as a Japanese style of cartoons, or, according to Tiffany Tu, simply cartoons in which "all the characters have big eyes." Either way works for me. Such anime series as Dragonball Z for the young boys, Sailor Moon for the girls, or maybe even Ah! My Goddess are famous among children.

But what is it that makes anime so special? Is it the characters’ bulging muscles? Maybe it’s the beauty of a princess? Whatever it is, people are hooked, and anime has become more and more popular over the years. The audience for anime shows has spread beyond the Asian population and caught the attention of other groups of viewers as well. Personally, I believe there’s something very unique about anime. It’s the fact that anime characters are very unique. Heroes of anime series are not the typical mysterious macho crime-fighter, but characters with special powers such as the strength of ten men, or the ability to change into different animals or even the opposite gender (as in Ranma ½). Some anime series focus entirely on animals, such as the series about the chubby white rabbit, Mashimaro. Sometimes what makes a character unique is simply a special personality. I also believe that the people who are involved in the making of anime are very good at hitting home with their topics. For instance, some anime series appeals to older kids. One example is the series Initial D, with its rice rockets and fast cars, which is of interest to teenagers who have gotten their licenses and have just entered the world of driving. It’s not just the anime itself, but also the creators and their understanding of people’s passions behind it that have made it so successful, and I’d have to congratulate them on that. Thus, children outgrow movies and series as they grow older and their interests change, because there is always another show with a different theme or message that they will enjoy. Even over time, their love for anime doesn’t diminish.

"So what now? I should go out and watch some anime?" Well, let me respond with another question: "What do you think?" I’ll just say that if you’ve never ever seen any kind of anime, you should give it a try. It’s very easy to become intrigued with the plot and extremely attached to the characters, like a few friends of mine have experienced. Many of the characters are lovable and win your affection, or they are good role models, and earn your respect. And if you do watch anime already, then watch even more! Well, not really, but I would advise you to try out different kinds of anime, because there are a whole bunch of different types. For example, guys could watch a few episodes of Sailor Moon, and girls could give Dragonball-Z a try. I would advise everyone to go catch some anime on T.V. (Cartoon Network.) It is an experience that might become habitual!