Anime: an approach to erotica and violence in animation for adults

Abstract

This article explores how anime approaches aesthetics and storytelling and why adult audiences (especially in the Western hemisphere) considers this animation segment more attractive for adult viewers. In other words, why has the label anime become a go-to search term for viewers seeking mature content? The paper mainly focuses on the depiction of eroticism and violence in Japanese animation and how it differs from Western mainstream animation. By answering these questions, the author intends to provide insights into key anime trends and characteristics and how it became popular among Western adult viewers. In doing so, the findings can contribute towards a better understanding of the challenges and possibilities for greatly expanding Western adult animation segment.