There are several synonyms that can be used to describe "portraying anime," each with their own nuances and connotations. One such synonym is "animating," which emphasizes the use of motion and movement to bring anime characters to life. Another option is "depicting," which suggests a more faithful and accurate representation of the source material. "Rendering" is also an apt synonym, implying a highly detailed and precise approach to portraying anime characters. Finally, "illustrating" can be used to suggest a more artistic or expressive rendering of anime, emphasizing the use of color, texture, and composition to capture the essence of the original work.