Anime is animation from Japan that can cover any genre, from drama to action to fantasy. It began in the early 1900s as animators experimented with techniques from the US and provided an alternative to live-action films which had limitations in Japan. Some misconceptions are that anime is only for kids or about violence, but it has a long history and diverse genres. Character design is also distinctive with large expressive eyes and fluid movement. Many popular anime shows are based on manga comics and Japanese animation has also influenced Western cartoons.