Best Anime Studios That Have Been Around For More Than 50 Years

Key Takeaways

Toei Animation is a historical studio known for magical girl and mecha anime genres.
Madhouse is a visually stunning studio collaborating with iconic manga artists.
TMS Entertainment created enduring classics like Anpanman and Detective Conan.

As a lifelong enthusiast of anime and its rich history, I find it absolutely mesmerizing to delve into the stories and contributions of these legendary studios that have shaped the world of animation as we know it today. These Japanese powerhouses, each with their unique origins and distinctive styles, have captivated audiences for generations, leaving an indelible mark on the global landscape of animation.

Across the world, Japan’s animation industry holds a prestigious reputation, with many renowned western cartoons being produced within its borders as well. Although not every anime studio is financially stable, some of the oldest studios have endured long enough to become historical landmarks and continue their operations to the present day.

Over the decades, there’s been a noticeable shift in the presentation of these cherished cartoons, with even the change between the ’90s and now being quite striking. However, the commitment and enthusiasm poured into their creation remain as strong and enduring as ever.

6 Toei Animation

The Beginnings of Shoujo

Debut title: Wolf Boy Ken
Famous for: Sailor moon, Dragon Ball, One Piece
Founded: January 23, 1948; 76 years ago

Established originally as Japan Animated Films, Toei Animation is a pivotal studio in the annals of anime. Based in Nakano, Tokyo, it boasts a workforce of over 800 individuals. This renowned studio has significantly shaped the magical girl and mecha genres, leaving an indelible mark on the world of anime. Among its many achievements, Toei is recognized for creating Sally the Witch, often cited as the first magical girl anime, and potentially the earliest shojo anime production.

Over time, Toei has gained widespread recognition for its renditions of Dragon Ball and One Piece, establishing itself as a dominant force within the anime world. Remarkably, this studio provided a platform for creative giants like Hayao Miyazaki during the initial stages of their careers.

5 Madhouse

Collaboration With The Greats

Debut Title: Aim for the Ace!
Famous For: Hunter x Hunter, Death Note, One Punch Man, Paprika, Cardcaptor Sakura
Founded: October 17, 1972; 52 years ago

Madhouse, founded by ex-animators from Mushi Production, swiftly became a pioneer in the anime industry due to their combined expertise. Renowned for its visually captivating productions, Madhouse frequently receives acclaim for working with renowned manga artists like CLAMP and producing timeless series such as “Death Note” and “Cardcaptor Sakura”.

Apart from anime productions, Madhouse has also handled animations for shows like The Jetsons and The Boondocks, demonstrating their adaptability in catering not just to Eastern but Western audiences as well. With ties to Disney, Studio Ghibli, and renowned directors such as Satoshi Kon, the studio remains a significant player in shaping global animation trends. One of its founders, Masao Maruyama, later established MAPPA, another notable name in the animation industry.

4 TMS Entertainment

Oldest and Most Renowned

Debut Title: Big X
Famous For: Anpanman, Detective Conan, Sonic X
Founded: October 22, 1946; 78 years ago

Originally known as Asahi Gloves, the company later transformed into TMS Entertainment, a studio with a rich history of transformation. Previously named Tokyo Movie Shinsha, now simply TMS, its name reflects an early emphasis on animating tales. Currently under the ownership of Sega, TMS is responsible for creating some of Japan’s timeless masterpieces such as the adored children’s character Anpanman and the globally acclaimed detective series Detective Conan.

Boasting more than seven decades of expertise, TMS Entertainment stands as a prominent figure in the world of anime and has lent its skills to notable Western productions such as Animaniacs and Ducktales. The studio remains a significant pillar of the anime industry, seamlessly blending nostalgic elements with contemporary methods.

3 Bandai Namco Filmworks

Better Known As Sunrise

Debut Title: Hazedon
Famous For: Gundam, Cowboy Bebop, Inuyasha, Gintama
Founded: September 1972; 52 years ago (as Sunrise)

Initially established as Sunrise Animation, Bandai Namco Filmworks has experienced multiple changes and finally combined with Bandai Namco in 2022. The studio is recognized for prioritizing producers over individual creators, which enabled it to establish a unique position in mecha anime. Notable productions like Gundam have made an impact, as the studio primarily focuses on producing robot-themed shows to differentiate itself in a market saturated with mainstream anime and toy sales.

As a loyal fan, I can’t help but be in awe of the studio’s headquarters, affectionately named “White Base.” This name is a testament to their unwavering dedication to crafting compelling mecha stories that resonate with me and fellow fans. The way Sunrise handles fluid animation and choreographs dynamic action sequences has earned them a unique moniker – “Sunrise Smooth.” This term, coined by fans like myself, reflects their relentless pursuit of quality in every frame they animate.

2 Tezuka Productions

The God Of Manga

Debut Title: Once Upon a Time
Famous For: Astro Boy
Founded: January 23, 1968; 56 years ago

Tezuka Productions was established by Osamu Tezuka, often referred to as the “Manga God,” who is famously known for creating Astro Boy. This studio was birthed from Tezuka’s ambition to keep pushing creative limits following the establishment of Mushi Productions in 1961. Despite Mushi Productions, another studio founded by Tezuka, experiencing financial difficulties and eventually closing down, Tezuka Productions continued his vision, creating works that showcase his innovative storytelling.

1977 saw Mushi Pro being reestablished under fresh management; today, it predominantly handles contract work and no longer operates under its original team. Conversely, Tezuka Productions, in collaboration with Makoto Tezuka, still serves as a creative powerhouse, preserving the artistic legacy of Osamu Tezuka to captivate future generations.

1 Tatsunoko Production

Seahorse And Clowns

Debut Title: Space Ace
Famous For: Speed Racer, Gatchaman, The Adventures of Hutch the Honeybee, Evangelion
Founded: October 19, 1962; 62 years ago

As a devoted admirer, let me share some insights about Tatsunoko Production – a Japanese animation powerhouse, born from the visionary minds of the Yoshida brothers. Their studio’s name carries a dual significance: “Tatsu’s child” and “seahorse,” symbolized by their distinctive logo. This unique moniker reflects the one-of-a-kind style that Tatsunoko has become renowned for, characterized by dynamic, action-packed animation.

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2024-11-23 20:35