SME Visual Works Inc. began in 1997 as SPE Visual Works. Inc., a joint venture between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. In 2001, it changed its name to SME Visual Works Inc. upon becoming a subsidiary wholly owned by Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc.　

From April 2003, we will aim, with the central focus on producing quality animations, to encompass a broader range of business under the new name of Aniplex Inc. Based on the corporate philosophy of “Bringing ‘dreams’ and ‘inspiring experiences’ to all generations”, Aniplex has produced quality features aimed at a wide range of generations from its inception. Among them are highly successful anime series such as Rurouni Kenshin and Hare Tokidoki Buta, which have been aired not only on national television but also overseas, gaining worldwide recognition for their outstanding qualities.

In addition, Aniplex has actively sought to adopt new technologies and approaches. This effort led to the critically acclaimed “Blood: The Last Vampire”, the world’s first full digital theatrical animation in HD24P, which was released in November 2000. While producing outstanding animations with our superior technologies and production talents, we have successfully expanded business opportunities utilizing our wide array of contents. Japanese animation is now known and loved as “Japanimation” by people all around the globe and is deemed to be Japan’s major property in the international visual market. We will continue to be committed to aiming for higher quality and to providing “dreams” and “inspiring experiences” to people all over the world.