Anime Through the Ages:

Anime Series from the 70s: Development, Influence, and Global Impact

The 1970s were a pivotal decade for anime, characterized by the medium’s evolution in storytelling, technological advancements, and international reach. This period saw anime diversify into genres that became industry staples, and it gave birth to iconic franchises that would shape the future of Japanese animation. In this article, we’ll explore the development, influence, and cultural significance of anime during the 1970s, highlighting how this transformative era set the stage for the anime boom of the 1980s.

The Evolution of Storytelling and Character Development

Complex Narratives and Mature Themes

The 1970s marked a shift in anime from simpler narratives to more complex storytelling and character development. Unlike the straightforward tales of earlier decades, anime in the 70s began to explore deeper and more nuanced themes, such as personal freedom, identity, and the human condition. This shift was reflected in series like Lupin III (1971), which combined action and humor with intricate plots and morally ambiguous characters, signaling a new era of sophistication in anime storytelling.

The Rise of Iconic Franchises

This decade also witnessed the birth of numerous iconic franchises that continue to influence anime today. Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) redefined the mecha genre by introducing a more realistic and militaristic approach to giant robots, moving away from the simplistic good-versus-evil narratives of earlier mecha shows. The series’ complex political themes and character-driven stories set a new standard for anime, influencing countless future productions and establishing Gundam as a cornerstone of the anime industry.

Expansion of the Shounen and Shoujo Genres

The 1970s were instrumental in expanding both the shounen and shoujo genres. In shounen anime, series like Ashita no Joe (1970) and Mazinger Z (1972) captivated audiences with their intense action and emotional depth, while shoujo anime like Candy Candy (1976) introduced audiences to heartwarming, character-driven stories that emphasized relationships and personal growth. These developments laid the groundwork for the genre-specific tropes that would become synonymous with shounen and shoujo anime in the decades to come.

Technological Advancements in 1970s Anime

Improved Animation Techniques

The 1970s saw significant advancements in animation techniques, contributing to more dynamic and visually engaging anime. Studios began adopting more sophisticated methods, such as dynamic camera angles and smoother motion in action sequences, which allowed for more intense and immersive storytelling. These innovations enhanced the viewing experience and helped anime stand out from other forms of entertainment.

Multi-Plane Cameras and Depth in Animation

The introduction of multi-plane cameras allowed for more depth and layering in anime scenes. This technology enabled animators to create a greater sense of realism by layering different elements of a scene at varying depths, giving the illusion of three-dimensionality. This advancement was particularly impactful in action-heavy series like Gatchaman (1972), where the enhanced depth added to the excitement and intensity of the scenes.

Sophisticated Use of Color

Color usage in anime also became more sophisticated during the 1970s. Studios began experimenting with diverse color palettes to create unique atmospheres and moods that complemented the narrative tone. For example, UFO Robo Grendizer (1975) used a striking color palette to emphasize the futuristic and otherworldly nature of its story, helping to set it apart from other series of the time.

Global Expansion of Anime in the 1970s

International Success of Anime Series

The 1970s continued the trend of anime’s international expansion, with many series finding success outside of Japan. Shows like Mazinger Z and Candy Candy became cultural phenomena in Europe and Latin America, where they were dubbed and broadcast to wide acclaim. This growing international recognition laid the groundwork for the global anime fandom that would explode in the following decades.

Establishment of International Anime Fandom

The success of these anime series abroad also contributed to the establishment of a dedicated international fanbase. In countries like Italy, France, and Mexico, anime gained a strong following, with fans eagerly awaiting new series and episodes. This decade was crucial in introducing Japanese anime to new audiences, helping to build the international fan community that continues to thrive today.

Localization and Cultural Adaptation

The localization of anime for foreign markets in the 1970s often involved significant cultural adaptation to make the content more accessible to international audiences. This process included changing character names, modifying storylines, and sometimes altering entire episodes. While this sometimes led to discrepancies between the original and localized versions, it also played a key role in making anime relatable and enjoyable for a global audience.

Cultural Significance of 1970s Anime

Exploration of Socially Relevant Themes

Anime in the 1970s began to reflect the changing attitudes and issues of the time, exploring more mature and socially relevant themes. Environmentalism became a significant topic, with series like Future Boy Conan (1978) addressing the consequences of ecological disasters and humanity’s relationship with nature. This era also saw anime tackling issues such as war and personal freedom, reflecting the broader societal concerns of the decade.

The Rise of the Super Robot Genre

The 1970s were the golden age of the “super robot” genre, with series like Mazinger Z (1972) and Getter Robo (1974) capturing the imaginations of young audiences. These shows featured larger-than-life robots, piloted by heroic characters, battling evil forces. The super robot genre became a cultural phenomenon, influencing the design and storytelling of mecha anime for years to come.

Emergence of the Magical Girl Genre

The 1970s also saw the rise of the “magical girl” genre, which would become one of the most beloved genres in anime. Majokko Megu-chan (1974) was one of the early examples of this genre, featuring a young girl with magical powers who used them to navigate everyday life. This series set the stage for future magical girl hits like Sailor Moon in the 1990s, establishing key tropes and themes that continue to define the genre.

Legacy of 1970s Anime

The 1970s were a decade of maturation and diversification for anime. This period saw the medium evolve beyond its early roots, embracing more complex narratives, advanced animation techniques, and a broader range of genres. The technological innovations and thematic explorations of the 70s set the stage for the anime boom of the 1980s, which would see anime achieve unprecedented global popularity. The legacy of 1970s anime is still felt today, as modern anime continues to draw inspiration from the groundbreaking series and innovations of this transformative decade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What were some of the most popular anime series of the 1970s?

Some of the most popular anime series of the 1970s include Mazinger Z (1972), Candy Candy (1976), Mobile Suit Gundam (1979), and Lupin III (1971). These series were not only popular in Japan but also gained international recognition, contributing to the global spread of anime.

2. How did anime storytelling change in the 1970s?

Anime storytelling in the 1970s became more complex, with a focus on character development and mature themes. Series like Lupin III and Mobile Suit Gundam introduced morally ambiguous characters and intricate plots, moving away from the simpler narratives of earlier anime.

3. What technological advancements in animation occurred during the 1970s?

The 1970s saw several technological advancements in animation, including the use of multi-plane cameras to create depth and layering in scenes, more dynamic camera angles, and smoother motion in action sequences. These innovations enhanced the visual storytelling of anime and contributed to its growing appeal.

4. How did anime expand globally in the 1970s?

Anime continued its global expansion in the 1970s, with series like Mazinger Z and Candy Candy becoming cultural phenomena in Europe and Latin America. The localization of these series for foreign markets helped to establish a dedicated international fanbase and contributed to the growing global recognition of anime.

5. What were the major anime genres that emerged in the 1970s?

The 1970s saw the emergence of several major anime genres, including the “super robot” genre with shows like Mazinger Z, and the “magical girl” genre with series like Majokko Megu-chan. These genres became staples of the anime industry and continue to influence anime today.

6. How did the 1970s influence modern anime?

The 1970s influenced modern anime by introducing more complex storytelling, advancing animation techniques, and establishing key genres like mecha, shoujo, and magical girl. The innovations of this decade set the stage for the anime boom of the 1980s and continue to shape the industry today.

Anime Series from the 70’s

Andersen Monogatari (1971)

Lupin III (1971)

Ashita no Joe (1970)

Mazinger Z (1972)

Candy Candy (1976)

Heidi, Girl of the Alps (1974)

Devilman (1972)

Cutie Honey (1973)

Space Battleship Yamato (1974)

Getter Robo (1974)

Gatchaman (1972)

Dokonjō Gaeru (1972)

Science Ninja Team Gatchaman (1972)

The Adventures of Hutch the Honeybee (1970)

Triton of the Sea (1972)

Future Boy Conan (1978)

Majokko Megu-chan (1974)

UFO Robo Grendizer (1975)

Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)

Aim for the Ace! (1973)

The Rose of Versailles (1979)

Angie Girl (1977)

Ringing Bell (1978)

Star Blazers (1979)

Heidi (1974)

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1979)

The Dog of Flanders (1975)

Yatterman (1977)

Captain Harlock (1978)

Candy Candy (1976)

Great Mazinger (1974)

Cyborg 009 (1979)

Time Bokan (1975)

Monchhichi (1975)

Barbapapa (1973)

Space Pirate Captain Harlock (1978)

Doraemon (1979)

Tekkaman: The Space Knight (1975)

Umi no Triton (1972)

Attack on Tomorrow (1977)

Genshi Shonen Ryu (1971)

Groizer X (1976)