And I've got an answer! This page is for questions about anime in general - the stuff that new fans might want to know. If you don't see something that you want answered or you want more details, just drop me a line.
What is Toonami?
Toonami is a segment on Cartoon Network that sometimes shows anime. The schedule and lineup keeps changing, but it always shows on weekday afternoons. You can go to Toonami's official website for the current lineup. (Slow loading time, be patient)
What is the difference between dubbed and subbed, and which is better?
When they bring anime to America (or any other country, I'm American so I'll use America as an example) they need to translate it somehow. When they Dub it, they take out the Japanese dialouge and change it to English dialouge. When they Sub it, the Japanese dialouge is kept but translations appear at the bottom of the screen to show what the characters are saying.
As far as which one's better, that depends on your personal preferences. You're no less of an otaku if you prefer dubbed over subbed, despite what some say. Myself, I like both. If I'm watching a Sailor Moon movie, for example, I like it to be subtitled. However, when I'm watching Gundam Wing, I like it better dubbed. So it could depend on the anime, too.
Is there a difference between "English dubbed and edited" and "Uncut/Uncensored"?
Yes. An English Dubbed And Edited anime (which you'll find at your local video store) means the tape or DVD has been dubbed (see above) and that any "questionable" content, such as partial nudity or foul language, has been edited out. An "Uncut" anime, sometimes called "Uncensored", might contain some objectionable content. (But then, what one person considered objectionable could be just fine with another person) It may or may not be dubbed.
Is "Uncut" anime bad?
Well...it depends. I certainly wouldn't give a 5-year old an uncut Gundam Wing to watch, but I don't think it's fair to label all uncut anime as xxx or adults-only either. (Although some uncut anime is definatly R-rated) Some uncut anime contains an occasional swear word and nothing more, some uncut anime contains adult situations. Most uncut anime falls into the rating of PG (ex. Sailor Moon for occasional mild language) or PG-13 (ex. Gundam Wing for heavier language and blood) If you want to be absolutly safe, don't go uncut unless you're at least 13. But no matter what your age, if your parents say "No uncut anime!" don't even think about it.
Can I get manga here in America?
Yes. Manga is becoming more and more widely available in America and is being translated by many companies.
What is the Anime Web Turnpike?
It's a webpage containing all kinds of links to a lot of anime sites. The url is http://www.anipike.com Some call it "Anipike" or "The Turnpike".
What is a flame?
A message in either Email or a guestbook sent in anger. It also counts as a flame when you totally diss everything about a webdesigner's site. It's rude and childish. Don't do it.
Where do the official images of anime come from?
They're usually drawn by the creator. Some other images may come from scans of stickers or instruction booklets, or from screenshots taken during an episode.
What is a Fansub?
A fansub is produced by a group of anime fans. What they do is they take an anime series that is not yet licensed here in America, and add their own subtitles. They are available for download on the internet, but their legality is very questionable. Also, since they are not professionally done, some fansubs contain inaccurate translations. However, fansub producers usually encourage people who view the fansub to stop distributing the fansub once the series becomes licensed in their country, and they often encourage viewers to buy the licensed copies.
What is Cosplaying?
Cosplaying is when you make a costume to look like your favorite anime character. (For instance, you'll make a Sailor Scout uniform or dress in clothes to look like a Gundam Pilot) It's really popular at anime conventions.
What is an anime convention?
An anime convention is a large event where anime fans can come together, cosplay, and take part in various events. You might want to check the internet or Anime Web Turnpike for a convention close to your area.
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