New York Anime At Last!

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By STEPHANIE ZHANG

For the first time in its history, Anime Fest appeared with New York Comic Con at the Javits Center and Pier 94 this past fall. Considered art, anime is a Japanese form of animation that is computer generated or drawn by hand.  While there are many events for comics such as New York Comic Con, San Diego Comic Con, and London Comic Con, not as many exist for anime fans. Many New Yorkers have been very excited to host Anime Fest, since 60% of the world’s animation is anime.

Anime fans enjoyed numerous “stuffie” booths selling a variety of stuffed animals.

Jericho students who attended Anime Fest gave it good reviews. Freshman Olivia H. said, “ I think that it was fun for people that like anime, but it was also a good chance for the people in the booth to advertise their skills, whether it be drawing or crafting.”  Freshman William Y. added,” I thought it was a pretty fun convention to hang out with your friends and just have some fun, while it was also a good chance for Anime Fest to advertise themselves because New York Comic Con is pretty big.”

There are many grown-up fans of anime as well. Jericho parent and attendee Maggie M. said, “ I feel that anime gives many chances to bring people together, and I think that Anime Fest was one of them. Anime Fest was also a chance to learn something new and just have fun. I had a good experience there.”

Festival attendees examine cartoon and anime posters for sale.

While many fans enjoyed the event, some did not enjoy the price of admission. Freshman Sophia W. said, “Anime Fest was pretty fun, but I felt that the tickets were overpriced.” The tickets were $20 each, and attendees needed additional money for transportation and to buy merchandise. Another student who attended, freshman Jessica L. said that she felt that the tickets were, overpriced but “worth it.” 

Anime Fest will make another appearance with New York Comic Con next fall. 

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