How anime took over America

How anime took over America

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The New York Times Magazine

September 7, 2025

1996, Roger Ebert had called anime “the fastest-growing underground cult in the movie world.” Now the form has morphed from a niche Japanese export to become the defining visual language of cartoon animation. How did anime conquer the world? Joshua Hunt walks us through its ascendancy, breaking down key scenes from shows and movies as well as highlighting its influence on American culture.

How Anime Took Over America

“Demon Slayer” is just the latest confirmation of how Japan’s once-distinctive animation style has become a global visual language.

By Joshua Hunt

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