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Getting Contacts and Resources
by Charles Tan
Before I make my final disappearance from the current anime scene, let me bequeath a legacy to fans: my knowledge about anime. Some people have been impressed at who I know and what I know about the local anime industry (anonymous person: you're so arrogant!!!). While there is no way I can reveal to you all the information I know and who to get in contact with in one article, I can (attempt to) teach you how to acquire them (and this is applicable to other hobbies as well). After all, no one person knows everything about a particular subject but he is a knowledgeable person if he knows where to get it
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Whether you're looking for a particular anime title or the latest news, do the simplest thing and explore your surroundings. If you are a student, get to know your fellow schoolmates and discover who share similar interests with you. If you are an employee, get to know your coworkers and the other people whom you are sharing the building (at least the lane or floor) with (very much applicable if you are working in a mall). Chances are, you will find someone who can part with you the necessary information you are looking for, loan you the video (or item, in case it's a different hobby), offer assistance, or point you in the right direction by referring you to another person or source.
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Failing #1, or if your resources are still insufficient, a handy thing is to do some research work through the various forms of media. There's always the Internet and it is full of information. Be wary though when using the Internet: The Internet is inflated with information and finding a specific answer to a question is like looking for a needle in a haystack and be warned that not all data on the net is reliable. Also, be sure to check out the local news now and then since you never know when they might do a feature on your hobby. Lastly, most hobbies, especially anime, is supported by a magazine or two. I suggest you get a subscription or borrow from anyone who has. Not only do you get reliable information but it adds to your pool of knowledge. It also helps if the magazine is a domestic version since they will usually feature news that is relevant to your setting. A book or two regarding the subject of anime can be handy but they are difficult to find and may come at a steep price.
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Hang out at the local shop where you get your particular anime-merchandise. This is where you will meet other fans and increase your contacts. If it's an anime-related hobby, it gets even better. For example, if you are into model kits, you might meet a person who can give you tips on how to improve painting your model or where to find an alternative source (cheaper) for model kits. Not only do you make a new friend but you get to open your horizons as well to other people. It is very advisable (if not a must!) to be friendly to everyone you meet. You never know what their stature may be (perhaps that guy you bumped into is an animator for a huge animation company) or who they might know (her uncle is the owner of a comic publishing company). If you are willing to persevere, you might want to gather enough courage and ask the owner if you could work part time in the shop. While this may shatter any illusions you might have, it will enable you to meet more people than usual compared to just idly waiting for the right person to come by.
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Participating and joining events is a must. For example, there is an anime showing held at least twice every month here in the Philippines (or at least in the Metro Manila area). There are also some occasional happenings such as a comic book signing, anime convention, concert, etc… The important thing is in order to show your fandom and increase your spectrum, swallow your shyness and attend these events. If there's anything I've told you in all these reasons, it's to increase the people you know and to make more friends. The opportune event may lead you to who knows where. For example, the Anime Explosion 2000 was filled with booths by local animation companies. If you're an aspiring animator or just want to get into the animation industry, visiting these studios will help your career (be sure to get their contact info!) or just plainly increase your awareness. Also, if it's the anime showings, you get to watch a lot of anime for a meager price rather than having to rent (or buy) the videos yourself.
continued...
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