What Is The First Anime Ever Created

Dive into Anime History!

Ever wondered where anime came from? It's not as recent as you might think! Let's travel back in time to discover the very first animated creation from Japan.

Meet the Pioneer: Imokawa Mukuzo Genkanban no Maki

Get ready for a tongue twister! The generally accepted "first" anime is Imokawa Mukuzo Genkanban no Maki. That translates to "Mukuzo Imokawa the Doorman." Quite a mouthful, right?

This little film was released in 1917. Yes, you read that correctly! It predates talking movies.

It's a short film. Like, really short. We're talking only a few minutes long.

What's it About?

The film focuses on the daily life of a doorman, Mukuzo Imokawa. He is working hard. He is dealing with customers and getting into small bits of silly trouble.

Think of it as a super early, super simple workplace comedy. Don't expect elaborate plots or complex characters!

Why is it Special?

So, why all the fuss over a tiny, old film? Well, it's the starting point! It’s a milestone!

It was a pioneering effort in animation. Back then, it was difficult to create. It shows early techniques of animation used in Japanese animation.

Plus, it’s just cool to see the roots of something so huge. Anime is a global phenomenon, and it all started somewhere!

What Makes it Entertaining?

Okay, let's be real. It's not going to have the same thrills as your favorite shonen anime. Imokawa Mukuzo Genkanban no Maki is more of a historical curiosity.

There's a simple charm to it. Its crude drawings and simple stories is nostalgic. It is a glimpse into a different era.

Think of it like watching a silent movie. You're appreciating the artistry and the historical context. It's fun imagining the people who created this and their reaction to anime today!

Where Can I Watch It?

Finding the complete original might be tricky. It's very old, after all!

However, clips and information are readily available online. A quick search for "first anime" or "Imokawa Mukuzo" should do the trick.

Seeing even a few seconds of it is pretty amazing! It's like touching a piece of history.

More Early Anime to Explore!

Imokawa Mukuzo Genkanban no Maki isn't the only contender for "first anime." Other early works exist!

Jun'ichi Kouchi's Namakura Gatana (1917) is another example. As well as Seitaro Kitayama's Saru Kani gassen (1917).

These films show the diversity of early animation styles. It's fun to explore these early animations.

Give it a Try!

So, next time you settle in for a binge-watching session, remember Imokawa Mukuzo! It started it all.

It may not be action-packed, but it's a piece of anime history. It's pretty neat to appreciate the animation’s history.

Who knows? Maybe it'll inspire you to create your own animated masterpiece someday!

"The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness." - Dalai Lama (Relating to appreciating the history of anime!)