Anime is the general term for animated television programs and movies produced in Far Eastern countries, primarily in Japan. Such animated shows produced in the West, mainly in the United States, are commonly called cartoons. While the official difference other than what they are called, there are noticeable differences in the subject matter between the two forms.
Storylines
Anime shows are known for long, complex plots that involve drama and massive character development, often taking several episodes to complete. Cartoons typically involve short, basic plotlines that focus on humor more than anything else.
Demographics
For many years, cartoons have been believed to be primarily for young audiences (some dating back to World War II were made for older viewers and have since been edited). Anime is often made for a much wider demographic, usually catering to adults.
Structure
Cartoons usually follow a straight "good versus evil" storyline. Anime shows blur the line between good and evil and make the story more ambiguous as to what side the viewer might be puling for.
Characters
While cartoons usually feature a likable hero (often alongside a damsel) with a detestable villain (who might eventually become liked just for comic relief), anime will often feature villains that are as sympathetic as the hero and protagonists that might surprisingly become the antagonist.
Book Forms
In both cases, the written equivalent of these animated shows have different names as well. Stories told on paper through pictures are called comics in the Americas and called manga in Japan.
Tags: animated shows, Anime shows
