Can a non Japanese person make anime?

Yes, non-Japanese people can and do create anime! While traditionally, anime has been made by Japanese studios and creators, the growth of global anime fandom, the rise of digital animation tools, and the increasing influence of international artists have made it possible for non-Japanese individuals and teams to create anime. Here's how:

1. Collaborations and Globalization of Anime

In recent years, the anime industry has become more international, with collaborations between Japanese production studios and international companies or artists. For example:

• Netflix's Original Anime: Netflix has been producing original anime in collaboration with Japanese studios, but with significant input from non-Japanese creators. Shows like Castlevania (produced by Powerhouse Animation Studios) and The Great Pretender (produced by Wit Studio with input from international writers) are examples of international involvement.
• International Studios: Some studios outside Japan, like Studio Trigger (USA-based) or Powerhouse Animation (USA-based), have contributed to or fully produced anime-style shows, even if they’re not technically classified as "anime" in Japan. These studios adopt anime's artistic style and storytelling techniques, making them part of the global anime culture.

2. The Role of Digital Animation and Global Tools

With the rise of digital animation tools, the ability to create anime-style animation has become accessible to animators worldwide, regardless of their location. Tools like Toon Boom, Adobe Animate, and Clip Studio Paint are widely used by both Japanese and non-Japanese animators. Through online platforms and collaborations, non-Japanese creators can develop anime-style works and produce high-quality content.

• Crowd-funded Projects: Platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon have allowed non-Japanese creators to fund their own anime-inspired projects. Shows like Yasuke (produced by LeSean Thomas) and Kengan Ashura were crowdfunded, with creators from outside Japan spearheading production.

3. Anime-Inspired Works by Non-Japanese Creators

While not technically "anime," there are several examples of non-Japanese creators who have embraced the anime aesthetic and storytelling methods:

• Avatar: The Last Airbender (USA): This animated series by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko is heavily inspired by anime. It gained global recognition and is beloved by anime fans, though it was created by American animators.
• The Boondocks (USA): Created by Aaron McGruder, this series features an anime-inspired art style and has earned a significant following.
• RWBY (USA): Created by Monty Oum and produced by Rooster Teeth, RWBY adopts anime’s visual style and storytelling techniques, even though it was produced in the United States.

4. Non-Japanese Creators in Japanese Studios

There are instances of non-Japanese animators and directors working within the Japanese anime industry, especially as the industry becomes more international. For example:

• Eunyoung Choi (South Korean): A director at Studio Trigger, she has been involved in the production of several well-known anime, such as Kill la Kill and Little Witch Academia.
• Michael Arias (USA): An American producer who worked on Tekkonkinkreet, which is considered a standout anime film produced by Studio 4°C.

5. Anime-Inspired Web Series and Independent Projects

Many independent animators and small studios outside Japan produce anime-style content or web series that are heavily influenced by anime. These series, often shared on YouTube or streaming platforms like Vimeo, are gaining traction among anime fans worldwide.

• Examples:
  • Bee and PuppyCat (USA): Created by Natasha Allegri, this show blends Western animation with anime-inspired aesthetics and storytelling.
  • Cannon Busters (USA): Created by LeSean Thomas, this series is deeply influenced by anime, particularly in terms of character design and action sequences. It was produced by Netflix and Studio 4°C.

Challenges for Non-Japanese Creators

While it is certainly possible for non-Japanese creators to make anime, there are some challenges they may face:

• Cultural Context: Anime is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, traditions, and social dynamics. Non-Japanese creators may need to be mindful of cultural nuances and the expectations of the original anime fandom. For example, Japanese anime often includes themes and references that may not always translate perfectly for global audiences.

• Production Resources: Producing anime requires significant financial and technical resources. Japanese studios have established relationships, networks, and funding mechanisms that can be hard to replicate. Non-Japanese creators may have to rely on international financing, partnerships, and the availability of talent across borders.

• Authenticity: Some fans may question whether a non-Japanese anime can capture the "essence" of traditional anime. While the aesthetic can be imitated, certain emotional and narrative elements that are deeply rooted in Japanese culture may be harder to replicate.

The Future of Global Anime Production

With the continued rise of streaming services, collaboration between international creators and Japanese studios, and the growing role of digital platforms, the line between Japanese and non-Japanese anime creators is becoming increasingly blurred. Non-Japanese creators are more likely to play an important role in shaping the future of the anime industry, contributing to a more diverse, global anime culture.

Conclusion

In short, yes, non-Japanese people can and do create anime. The global anime community is now more interconnected than ever, with international creators contributing to and influencing the medium in significant ways. Whether through collaborations with Japanese studios, producing anime-inspired content, or creating entirely new anime works, non-Japanese animators and directors have found their place in the world of anime.

As anime continues to evolve, the possibility of seeing even more non-Japanese creators make their mark on the anime industry is certainly exciting!