Anime is Japanese animation that has it’s own unique style that distinguishes it from traditional American animation. Defining characteristics of anime are all in the details: correct proportions, high shines, attention to characters are common attributes of anime.
Most anime is born from Japanese comics called “manga.” Mangas and anime come to life through many genres. The themes, stories, plots differ greatly from American animation in the fact that anime deals with adult situations, complex plots.
And incorporates traditional Japanese culture. The advisor of the anime club is Professor Denise Kaisler. In 1998 while attending grad school at UCLA, a colleague introduced her to anime.
Aaron Delangel is the president of the club. Delangel was first introduced to anime through HBO while other friends were watching anime. Some of his first experiences were at the age of 12 when he watched “Akira” and “Fatal Fury 2.”
Sometimes anime can seem too wacky or off-color for some people. The club tries to integrate open-mindedness and acceptance of another culture. “It’s mainly people who have the same interest as me. It’s just nice to meet new people,” Delangel said.
ICC Representative Brian Olivares understands that anime can get harsh reviews from people who don’t understand it. Anime can get a bad reputation as being violent, too adult, and derogatory towards women. “It can be mature, open to one’s self interpretation,” Olivares said. He also counters while anime deals with a wide range of adult themes, “American cartoons tend to stick to comedy, slapstick, and a satirical themes.”
Anime is brought to the club by members and approved for viewing. Any member can bring anime to the club meetings. The club is open to all different genres of anime. The club is also open to anybody to participate and join. Some of the anime club members hail from other clubs.
The president of the gaming club is an active member of the anime club as well. New anime is sent free to the club through media companies like “Funimation” and “Rightstuff” in exchange for reviews and surveys on how to improve the quality of their products. The anime club meets every Thursday at 1 p.m. in the Handy Campus Center board room.