What is "aniplex"

(formerly known as Sony Pictures Entertainment Music Publishing Inc., Sony Pictures Entertainment Visual Works Inc., and Sony Music Entertainment Visual Works Inc.) is a Japanese anime and music production and distribution enterprise owned by Sony Music Entertainment Japan and established in September 1995. Aniplex has been involved in the planning, production and distribution of several anime series, such as Fullmetal Alchemist, Blood: The Last Vampire, Persona 4: The Animation, Birdy the Mighty, Angel Beats!, Rurouni Kenshin and Charlotte. Additionally, Aniplex produces and distributes music and soundtrack records, including the original soundtracks for all of Sony Computer Entertainment's computer and video games.

Aniplex is also involved in retail merchandising, producing toys, games, stationery, food and other items featuring popular characters. In addition, Aniplex puts together events to promote their anime franchises. For example, in 2005 Aniplex held the Fullmetal Alchemist Festival which began with the Fullmetal Alchemist Tour at Universal Studios Japan.

Originally known as Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) Visual Works Inc., it was established on September 1995 as a joint-venture between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment Japan, and changed its name in January, 2001 to Sony Music Entertainment (SME) Visual Works Inc. after becoming a subsidiary completely owned by Sony Music Entertainment Japan. In April 2003, it changed its name to Aniplex Inc.

In 2004, Aniplex launched the Sugi Label, which releases the works of Koichi Sugiyama—the composer of the music for Dragon Quest, but since 2009 it was sold to King Records.

In March 2005, the company established its American affiliate company Aniplex of America, and later that same year in May 2005, it established its own animation studio called A-1 Pictures.