I want to learn Japanese to understand anime dialogue, where should I start?

Every time I watch anime, I have to rely on subtitles, and I really want to be able to understand Japanese dialogue directly. I want to start learning Japanese but don't know where to begin.<br><br>Goals:<br>- Short-term: Understand simple daily conversations<br>- Mid-term: Roughly understand the plot without subtitles<br>- Long-term: Be able to read original Japanese light novels<br><br>Is it better to self-study or enroll in a class? Are there any recommended textbooks or apps? I've heard there are many pitfalls to learning Japanese through anime (too many unnatural expressions); is that really true?