The history of anime began at the start of the 20th century, when Japanese filmmakers

experimented with the animation techniques that were being explored in the West.
Typical shows from this period include Lupin III and Mazinger Z. During this period
several filmmakers became famous, especially Hayao Miyazaki and Mamoru Oshii.

In the 1980s, anime was accepted in the mainstream in Japan, and experienced a boom
in production. The rise of Gundam, Macross, Real Robot and Space Opera set a boom as
well. The film Akira set records in 1988 for the production costs of an anime film and
went on to become a success worldwide. Later, in 2004, the same creators produced
Steamboy, and later took over as the most expensive anime film.

In the 1990s and 2000s, anime series such as Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, Pokémon, also
shows like Ghost in a Shell became worldwide successes, while other anime series such
as Gundam, Macross, Neon Genesis Evangelion and Cowboy Bebop were popular in
Japan. A number of animations have been produced in the West, and the growth of the
internet also led to the rise of fansub anime.

Osamu Tezuka was a Japanese cartoonist, manga artist, animator, producer and
medical doctor, although he never practiced medicine. Born in Osaka Prefecture, he is
best known as the creator of Astro Boy, Kimba the White Lion and Black Jack. He is
often credited as the "Godfather of Anime", and is often considered the Japanese
equivalent to Walt Disney who served as a major inspiration during his formative years.
His prolific output, pioneering techniques, and innovative redefinitions of genres earned
him such titles as "the father of manga", "the god of comics” and “kamisama of
manga.” The distinctive "large eyes" style of Japanese animation was invented by
Tezuka, drawing inspirations on cartoons of the time such as Betty Boop and Walt
Disney’s Bambi and Mickey Mouse.

Popular anime shows that are here today are Bleach, Cowboy Bebop, Full Metal
Alchemist, Ghost in a Shell, Naruto, Sailor Moon, Tokyo Mew Mew, and Fruits Basket.
Popular shows that are in Japan are Pani Poni Dash, Prince of Tennis, Overman King
Gainer, Shana, Inuyasha and One Piece. Shows created by Osamu Tezuka are the Fritz
Cat, Kimba the White Lion, Astro Boy, Princess Knight, and Twin Knight.