Who invented anime?

Who Invented Anime?

Anime is a popular form of animation that originated in Japan. It has since become a global phenomenon, with fans all over the world. But who invented anime?

The Fathers of Anime

The history of anime can be traced back to the start of the 20th century, with the earliest verifiable films dating from 1917. The first generation of animators in the late 1910s included Ōten Shimokawa, Jun’ichi Kōuchi and Seitaro Kitayama, commonly referred to as the “fathers” of anime.

Ōten Shimokawa

Ōten Shimokawa was a Japanese animator who is credited with creating the first Japanese animated film, “Namakura Gatana” in 1917. He is considered the first true animator in Japan and the father of anime.

Jun’ichi Kōuchi

Jun’ichi Kōuchi was a Japanese animator who worked with Shimokawa on the 1917 film “Namakura Gatana”. He is credited with creating the first cel-animated film in Japan, “Mokugekisha” in 1918.

Seitaro Kitayama

Seitaro Kitayama was a Japanese animator who worked with Shimokawa and Kōuchi on the 1917 film “Namakura Gatana”. He is credited with creating the first anime-style film in Japan, “Katsudō Shashin” in 1918.

The Legacy of the Fathers of Anime

The fathers of anime have left a lasting legacy on the art form. Their films are still considered some of the most influential in the history of anime, and their influence can be seen in modern anime. They are credited with creating the foundations of the anime style, and their work is still celebrated by fans all over the world.