With the big day looming, I can’t help but feel a bit sentimental. The landscape today is far different than it was when I began writing. Print was still en vogue, and anime magazines were plentiful. Anime releases hit shelves by the dozen, and singles were the format of the time. At the time, it really seemed as if the anime industry was infallible. Of course, hindsight is 20/20, and we can clearly see the mistakes that were made in retrospect.
No, no. This isn’t right.
Over the past ten years, we’ve seen companies come and go, and we’ve seen an industry evolve from a gluttonous, spendthrift industry to a leaner, more conservative operation. Powerful companies were been lost in the process, notably Central Park Media, Geneon, and ADV Films. At the same time, new organizations have been born from the ashes of these fallen heroes, like Section23 Films or Nozomi Entertainment, who have taken up the mantle of delivering anime to the masses.
Still not feeling it. This just isn’t coming together!
Even in the past few years, great changes have been made. The massive increase in practices like simulcasting, digital distribution, and streaming from FUNimation, Crunchyroll, and other outlets has been incredible. In just 2005, the thought that we could legally watch new episodes of the latest shows as they aired was just a pipe dream – something that would get somebody laughed out of a room. However, now, it’s commonplace. The niche has seen a rebirth, and we’re starting to see an incredible variety of titles that…that…
Oh, screw it. It’s best to just get this out there
In the ten years I’ve been writing, we’ve seen a lot of changes. We’ve seen great people join the industry, and others drop out. Icons have been born, and legends have passed away. From behind the glow of a computer screen, I’ve chronicled all of it. The experience hasn’t always been easy, nor has it always been fun. Even today, I still wince as I write certain pieces (obituaries have always gotten to me).
Still, I like to think that my career has been something of a small miracle. To think that I could spend ten years, writing about something I love, and getting to know incredible people. There are far too many to name, but you know who you are – and I want to say thank you. Thanks for the great memories, the fantastic conversations, and the incredible perspectives. And, thanks for being sources of inspiration over the decade.
With ten years past, it feels like there should be something a bit more extravagant, more celebratory. However, I’ve never been a huge “bonanza” person. I do want to do something, for sure. However… it may take a few extra days, as I make a final decision on how it should be handled.
Anyway, thank you, dear reader, for listening to my comments, and giving me a voice. I hope that you enjoy the next ten, as well.
