What Are Chinese Anime Called?

Chinese anime, commonly referred to as "donghua," has rapidly gained popularity worldwide, captivating audiences with its unique storytelling, diverse art styles, and often high-quality production. As the animation industry in China continues to grow, more viewers are discovering the depth and creativity that these animated series offer. In this article, we will explore what donghua are, their evolution, popular genres, and why they have become a significant part of global pop culture.

What Are Donghua?

Donghua refers to animated works originating from China. Unlike traditional Japanese anime, which has a distinct historical and cultural lineage, donghua encompasses a broader array of styles and themes that reflect contemporary Chinese culture. Made for various age groups and audiences, donghua can include anything from children's animation to targeted adult viewing.

The History of Donghua

The history of Chinese animation dates back to the early 20th century, but it wasn't until the 1980s and 1990s that donghua began to form a recognizable identity. Major milestones in the development of Chinese anime include:

• Early Works: In the 1920s, China produced its first animations, with the first notable film being "Uproar in the Studio" (1926).
• Government Support: The late 20th century saw government initiatives to support the animation industry, resulting in classic donghua films like "Big Fish & Begonia."
• The Internet Era: With the rise of the internet in the 21st century, online platforms facilitated the distribution of donghua, leading to increased accessibility for global audiences.

Popular Genres of Donghua

Donghua features a rich variety of genres appealing to different tastes. The most prevalent genres include:

Action and Adventure

Many donghua focus on action-packed narratives featuring epic battles and hero journeys. Series like "Mo Dao Zu Shi" (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) capture the imagination with their intricate world-building and character development.

Examples of Popular Action Donghua

• Mo Dao Zu Shi: A tale of magic, power struggles, and redemption.
• Tian Guan Ci Fu: A fantasy adventure blending comedy and drama.

Fantasy and Supernatural

Fantasy is a defining element in many donghua, incorporating mythical creatures, magical realms, and supernatural powers. "The King's Avatar" exemplifies this genre, showcasing competitive gaming in a fantastical setting.

Notable Fantasy Donghua

• The King's Avatar: Follows a professional gamer navigating challenges in a virtual MMORPG.
• Fog Hill of the Five Elements: Features elemental beings with stunning visuals and an engaging plot.

Why Donghua Are Gaining Popularity

Several factors contribute to the rising popularity of donghua on the global stage:

Quality Production

In recent years, the quality of animation, storytelling, and voice acting in donghua has significantly improved. This evolution has attracted not only local viewers but also fans from around the world, who appreciate high-caliber productions.

Cultural Diversity

Donghua offers insights into Chinese culture, folklore, and traditions, creating a bridge between Eastern and Western audiences. Many viewers find the stories relatable yet refreshingly different from Western animation trends.

How to Get Started with Donghua

If you're new to the world of Chinese anime, here are steps to begin your journey:

Find Streaming Platforms

Sourcing donghua can be straightforward, as numerous platforms dedicate themselves to providing access to these animated series. Popular sites include:

• Bilibili: A leading Chinese video sharing platform with a vast collection of donghua.
• Crunchyroll: Offers select donghua titles alongside its extensive anime library.

Explore Various Genres

Dive into different genres to discover what captivates you most. Start with highly-rated series or popular recommendations from friends or online communities.

Conclusion

As the animation landscape continues to evolve, donghua represents an exciting frontier in storytelling and artistic expression. With its rich diversity in genres, compelling narratives, and enhanced production quality, it's no wonder that these works have begun to flourish globally. Whether you are a seasoned anime fan or a newcomer, exploring Chinese anime will undoubtedly enrich your viewing experience.