ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

J-line

J-line is a term used in the world of animation, specifically in creating anime. When creating anime, the animators use a very specific technique of drawing multiple frames (pictures) to create the illusion of movement. J-line refers to a specific technique used when drawing the eyes of the anime characters.

To create an anime character's eyes, the animator first draws a small circle for the iris and a bigger circle around it for the eyeball. The eyeball is then separated into four quadrants by drawing two curved lines (like a letter C) from the top of the iris to the bottom of the eyeball. These two lines form the J-shape referred to as J-line.

The J-line technique is important in anime because it enhances the expressiveness of the character's eyes. By having the J-line, the animator can create different facial expressions by simply changing the position of the iris within the eye, which can convey different emotions like happiness, sadness, anger, and fear.

In summary, J-line is a technique used in anime for drawing the eyes of the characters. It involves drawing two curved lines that form a J-shape to separate the iris and create a more expressive eye.