Have you ever wondered why characters in manga and anime often have big eyes, brightly colored hair, or unusual features? Why don’t anime characters resemble the typical appearance of Japanese people? This question often leaves many anime viewers perplexed. Even when anime is set in Japan, characters frequently have lighter skin tones, large eyes, and vibrant hair colors.
First, it’s essential to understand that anime has evolved globally, encompassing various styles and cultures. Anime characters are not limited to Japanese culture. However, many works focus on Japan, with writers, artists, and directors drawing inspiration from the cherry blossom culture that dominates this field.
Here are some reasons for these stylistic choices:
Diversity of Artistic Styles
In the early 20th century, animation emerged as a new medium and art form. Artists looked to the past for inspiration, experimenting with new techniques and creating unique works. Additionally, the variety of hair colors and large eyes brought a distinctive style to anime, helping to differentiate it from other forms of animation.
Western Animation Influences
Before manga and anime gained popularity, Disney had already created characters with large eyes like Mickey Mouse and Betty Boop. Artists like Osamu Tezuka—known as the “father of manga”—were significantly influenced by Western animation styles, particularly Disney. Betty Boop was one of Osamu Tezuka’s favorite characters.
Drawing inspiration from this character, Osamu Tezuka introduced the famous comic series “Astro Boy” in 1952, laying a new foundation for the Japanese anime/manga industry. Subsequent comic artists were inspired by Osamu and created characters with large eyes, a trend that continues to this day.
Distinct Character Differentiation
Distinct features like large eyes can be visually appealing when on paper, even if they differ from real-life appearances. Variations in hair and eye colors help characters stand out, allowing viewers to recognize them instantly.
The Concept of Kawaii
“Kawaii” means cute and is a significant cultural phenomenon in Japan. Characters designed in the Kawaii style are often seen as more lovable, with large, open eyes and childlike features. This trend is sustained as large eyes remain an alluring trait in Japanese culture.
Moreover, anime characters do not necessarily have to conform to Japanese standards of beauty, as they may embody more exaggerated styles that appeal to a broader audience. For many, anime and manga serve as an “escape” from reality, providing a fantastical experience that allows for imaginative exploration.
