What's the Difference Between Uncut and Edited Anime DVDs?

If you have checked out the anime section at your local media store, then you have probably noticed that many anime DVDs have age restrictions and are labeled either uncut or edited. You may be asking yourself what exactly is the difference, right? Well, don't worry because I am here to clarify.

Violence, swearing, nudity, and other original Japanese material that has been "left in" are some of the main reasons why many DVDs are labeled as uncut and are usually recommended for individuals 13 years or older. On the other hand, edited anime DVDs are more restricted on potentially offensive material and usually "cut out" or edit any content that may be found inappropriate for younger children. To add to the confusion, many anime titles, such as "Dragonball Z", offer both options, but with a slight price difference. So, how do you know if the DVD is truly worth paying a few extra dollars?

Violence and blood are excellent examples of content that have often been removed when particular anime titles are edited, especially when it comes to fighting oriented animes. Many times, edited anime titles that do involve quite a lot of blood have scenes cut or choose to "cover up" truly bloody scenes. Uncut DVDs, however, keep in all the blood and violence that was shown in the original Japanese version of the anime. The main difference here seems to be whether or not you would prefer watching fight scenes limited on the amount of blood, or whether to watch your anime in all its' blood and glory.

The issue of swearing is also another aspect to consider when buying an anime DVD uncut or edited. The majority of edited anime titles do not involve high levels of cursing. Once again, most edited animes titles cut out or replace swear words with more children appropriate language. However, uncut or unedited DVDs keep in all of the original language, whether it is offensive or not. If you do not mind swearing, then you probably will not mind viewing your favorite anime uncut.

The amount of nudity or sexual content in a particular anime title is also determined by the uncut or edited label. Mature situations or scenes, basically anything related to or suggests perversion or sexuality, are usually removed or altered in the edited DVD. The uncut DVD usually keeps in most or all of the mature content that was shown in the original Japanese anime. Even though uncut DVDs can display some mature situations, all scenes must still meet the age restrictions placed upon that particular DVD.

Another difference that may effect your decision is the fact that many anime titles that do offer both the edited or uncut option also vary in price. The majority of the time, uncut anime DVDs are usually a little more expensive, around $5 more, then edited anime DVDs, The reason is most likely due to the amount of material contained within uncut DVDs. Unlike uncut DVDs, edited DVDs can remove offensive material which can result in a shorter running time. Uncut DVDs, however, usually leave in the majority of the original Japanese material which can result in a longer running time. If pricing or overall running time does matter to you, then you will probably have a few elements to consider before making a purchase.

When considering purchasing an uncut or edited anime DVD, make sure to weigh the content of both options. The major aspects to consider, however, is whether you find the material appropriate and does viewing the original content really matter to you? Once you have made your choice, you can spend the rest of your time enjoying your favorite anime.