What was the first anime made? This question has intrigued anime enthusiasts and historians alike for decades. The answer, however, may not be as straightforward as one might expect. While the term “anime” is often associated with Japanese animation, the origins of this popular art form date back much further than the modern anime we know today.
The first known animated film was created in the United States in 1906, and it was called “Fantasmagorie.” However, this film is not considered anime, as it was a black-and-white silhouette animation. The first true anime, as we understand it today, emerged in Japan in the early 20th century.
In 1917, a Japanese animator named Osamu Tezuka created “Tetsuwan Atomu,” which is often credited as the first anime. This short black-and-white film, also known as “Astro Boy,” featured a robot named Atomu, who was designed to look like a human child. The character was created by Tezuka as a way to explore the themes of human emotions and the nature of existence.
While “Tetsuwan Atomu” is widely recognized as the first anime, it is important to note that there were other early animations in Japan that could be considered precursors to anime. One such example is “Katsudō Shashin: Kuchibue no Hanako-san,” a 1917 silent film directed by Seitaro Kitayama. This film, which features a young girl who is deaf and mute, is considered one of the earliest examples of animation in Japan.
Another significant early anime work is “Mujikomori,” a 1923 silent film directed by Shigeru Miyamoto. This short film tells the story of a young girl who dreams of becoming a professional dancer. While “Mujikomori” is not as well-known as “Tetsuwan Atomu,” it is often regarded as one of the first anime works to incorporate a narrative structure and character development.
The development of anime as a distinct genre in Japan can be attributed to several factors, including the influence of Western animation, the rise of the film industry in Japan, and the cultural shift towards a more visual and narrative-driven form of entertainment. As the decades passed, anime evolved from simple black-and-white animations to the vibrant, complex, and diverse world of modern anime we know today.
In conclusion, while “Tetsuwan Atomu” is often hailed as the first anime, it is essential to recognize the contributions of other early Japanese animations that paved the way for this beloved art form. The evolution of anime from its humble beginnings to its current status as a global phenomenon is a testament to the creativity and innovation of Japanese animators and the enduring appeal of this unique form of storytelling.
