Samurai from Outer Space: Understanding Japanese Animation

Samurai from Outer Space: Understanding Japanese Animation by Antonia Levi, published by Open Court on December 30, 1998, offers a comprehensive exploration of the genre of Japanese animation, commonly known as anime. This 169-page book delves into the rising popularity of anime, which has transitioned from a niche interest to a significant cultural phenomenon attracting fans worldwide. Levi examines the psychological appeal of these animated works and provides insights into their connections with Japanese art, theater, and religion.
Readers will find a detailed analysis that compares anime to American cartoon animation while also addressing the cultural and historical contexts that enrich the understanding of this art form. The book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in animated films from Japan, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts. Through its exploration of themes and cultural significance, this edition presents a thorough introduction to the world of anime.
Official synopsis Publisher
Samurai from Outer Space is the first book-length discussion of the suddenly popular genre of Japanese animation. Japanese animation, also known as anime (pronounced AH-nee-may), is gaining devoted fans of all ages and nationalities. A few years ago anime was something of an oddity. Now it is poised to become the biggest cultural import since PBS discovered the BBC. There are anime fan clubs on college campuses across the country, as well as anime fan magazines and anime sections in video stores.
“Besides examining the psychological reasons for the cartoons’ appeal, (Levi) compares anime to American cartoon animation, traces its connections to Japanese art and theater, and demonstrates that many anime plots are based in Japanese religion. A valuable addition to film, popular-culture, and Asian studies”. — Booklist
“In this fascinating and illuminating volume, Antonia Levi provides all the cultural and historical background necessary for anyone to appreciate the allusion-rich art form of anime. A wonderful guide for beginners and otaku alike”. — Vaughan Simmons Founder & Publisher of Mangajin
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