Studio Ghibli’s work is a shining example of the incredible potential within the anime genre. However, anime encompasses a wide range of styles and themes that extend beyond any single studio or creator.
The world of anime includes various sub-genres such as sports anime, superhero anime, shonen anime, and more. There’s something for everyone, with titles targeting different age groups and various iconic franchises like Demon Slayer, Pokémon, and Dragon Ball.
This list ranks some of the best anime movies ever made, covering an exciting array of themes from basketball games to dystopian quests and even heartwarming romances.
50. The First Slam Dunk (2022)
Director: Takehiko Inoue
Cast: Shugo Nakamura, Jun Kasama, Shinichiro Kamio (Japanese) / Paul Castro Jr., Jonah Scott, Aleks Le (English)
What it’s about: Shohoku High School takes on Sannoh Kogyo High School in a pivotal match that determines the new regional champions, signifying the end of an era for both teams.
What we think: Although it marks the conclusion of Slam Dunk’s legacy, this film remains accessible, exploring the deep significance of sports. The exhilarating game sequences resonate with shonen fans, while the nostalgic undertones contribute to a compelling coming-of-age narrative.
RT score: 100%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
49. A Letter to Momo (2011)
Director: Hiroyuki Okiura
Cast: Karen Miyama, Yūka, Toshiyuki Nishida (Japanese) / Amanda Pace, Stephanie Sheh, Fred Tatasciore (English)
What it’s about: Momo, an 11-year-old girl, is taken to a remote island by her mother, where she forms a bond with a trio of goblins, helping her navigate her feelings about their new life.
What we think: This flick offers a charming and whimsical childhood adventure reminiscent of films with imaginary friends like Drop Dead Fred or Harvey. The protagonist is a nuanced character processing unexpected change, and her ghostly friends provide extra depth to this creative portrayal of growing pains.
RT score: 81%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
48. Inu-Oh (2021)
Director: Masaaki Yuasa
Cast: Avu-chan, Mirai Moriyama, Tasuku Emoto (Japanese) / Holden Thomas, Jonathan Leon, Cory Yee (English)
What it’s about: Set in 14th-century Japan, a blind musician forms a powerful bond with a boy through their mutual love for music, leading to a friendship that transcends mortal bounds.
What we think: This mythic rock opera showcases legends through increasingly grand performances, establishing Masaaki Yuasa as one of anime’s top filmmakers, with a remarkable flair for music.
RT score: 91%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
47. One Piece Film: Strong World
Director: Munehisa Sakai
Cast: Mayumi Tanaka, Akemi Okamura, Naoto Takenaka (Japanese) / Colleen Clinkenbeard, Luci Christian, Scott McNeil (English)
What it’s about: Luffy and the Straw Hats battle against the notorious Golden Lion Pirates to rescue Nami and protect East Blue.
What we think: Among the many swashbuckling films One Piece has offered over the years, Strong World stands out as a remarkable entry. With its high production quality and engaging plot, the film is easy to follow even for newcomers, though a little knowledge of the Devil Fruits will enhance understanding.
RT score: 89%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
46. Pokemon: The First Movie (1998)
Director: Kunihiko Yuyama
Cast: Rica Matsumoto, Mayumi Iizuka, Yūji Ueda (Japanese) / Veronica Taylor, Rachael Lillis, Eric Stuart (English)
What it’s about: Giovanni recruits Dr. Fuji to create Mewtwo, an experimental Pokémon. Upon discovering his clone origins, Mewtwo unleashes his fury on humanity.
What we think: While the TikTok generation might focus on that low Rotten Tomatoes score, Pokemon: The First Movie is nothing short of epic. It showcases Ash and Pikachu facing a significant threat, with stakes raised thanks to Mewtwo’s psychic capabilities. The film dives into themes of cloning ethics and includes thrilling battle sequences, making it a must-watch.
RT score: 16%
Words by Jakob Barnes
45. The Boy and the Heron (2023)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Soma Santoki, Masaki Suda, Aimyon (Japanese) / Luca Padovan, Robert Pattinson, Karen Fukuhara (English)
What’s it about: After losing his mother in a tragic fire, Mahito Maki’s life changes when his father weds Natsuko, his late mother’s sister. They relocate from Tokyo to the countryside, where Mahito encounters a mysterious gray heron.
What we think: While it may not rank as Hayao Miyazaki’s best film, The Boy and the Heron offers a magical experience filled with gorgeous visuals and profound themes surrounding war and trauma. The narrative unfolds with enchanting surprises, emphasizing the dreamlike allure of the experience.
RT Score: 97%
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
44. Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie (2012)
Director: Hayato Date
Cast: Junko Takeuchi, Chie Nakamura, Toshiyuki Morikawa (Japanese) / Maile Flanagan, Kate Higgins, Tony Oliver (English)
What it’s about: Naruto awakens in an alternate reality where his parents are alive and his dreams are realizable, sparking an investigation into this mysterious paradise.
What we think: Among the numerous Naruto films, Road To Ninja stands out. The inverted personas of the beloved characters bring laughter, creating a thrilling adventure for fans.
RT score: 80%
Words by Tom Percival
43. Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods (2013)
Director: Masahiro Hosoda
Cast: Masako Nozawa, Kōichi Yamadera, Ryō Horikawa (Japanese) / Sean Schemmel, Jason Douglas, Christopher R. Sabat (English)
What it’s about: After Goku prevails over Frieza, a divine being seeks him out, believing Goku to be a unique Super Saiyan.
What we think: Dragon Ball Z’s narrative accelerates with the introduction of the God of Destruction, Beerus. To serve as Goku’s equal, he must reach unexplored Super Saiyan levels. Battle of Gods not only dazzles with its visual grandeur but also revitalizes the overall universe for new generations.
RT score: 88%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
42. The Garden of Words (2013)
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Cast: Miyu Irino, Kana Hanazawa, Fumi Hirano (Japanese) / Patrick Poole, Maggie Flecknoe, Shelley Calene-Black (English)
What it’s about: Takao, an aspiring shoemaker, skips school to visit a beautiful garden where he meets a solitary woman. Their friendship blossoms amidst the peaceful rain.
What we think: Contrary to its title, The Garden of Words leans on silence rather than dialogue, creating an evocative connection between the two characters. The story navigates the challenges of age differences with grace, adding layers of depth to an otherwise understated narrative.
RT score: 84%
Words by Anamika Das
41. Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz (1998)
Director: Yasunao Aoki
Cast: Hikaru Midorikawa, Akiko Yajima, Toshihiko Seki (Japanese) / Mark Hildreth, Lisa Ann Beley, Scott McNeil (English)
What it’s about: The five Gundam pilots must take action again when insurgents threaten the fragile peace they established.
What we think: Like much of the Gundam series, Endless Waltz revolves around intricate political narratives, but it offers viewers an enjoyable mecha blockbuster experience filled with iconic mechs.
RT score: 89%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
40. Castle in the Sky (1986)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Mayumi Tanaka, Keiko Yokozawa, Kotoe Hatsui (Japanese) / James Van Der Beek, Anna Paquin, Cloris Leachman (English)
What’s it about: Sheeta, a girl with a mysterious amulet, escapes her captors and meets Pazu, a boy searching for the legendary floating castle Laputa. Together, they seek secrets hidden within her amulet.
What we think: Set in a surreal steampunk world, Castle in the Sky takes viewers on a beautifully animated journey through adventure, mystery, and the dynamics between Pazu and Sheeta. The intrigue surrounding Laputa keeps the momentum going, making it a timeless anime classic.
RT Score: 96%
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
39. Jujutsu Kaisen 0
Director: Sunghoo Park
Cast: Megumi Ogata, Kana Hanazawa, Yuichi Nakamura (Japanese) / Kayleigh McKee, Anairis Quiñones, Kaiji Tang (English)
What it’s about: Yuta Okkotsu attends Tokyo Jujutsu Technical High to control a cursed spirit that turns out to be his deceased childhood crush.
What we think: While revealing more about significant characters like Satoru Gojo, the real charm of Jujutsu Kaisen 0 lies in its emphasis on Yuta’s interactions with his classmates, offering an engaging entry point into the franchise.
RT score: 98%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
38. Only Yesterday (1991)
Director: Isao Takahata
Cast: Yōko Honna, Miki Imai, Toshirō Yanagiba (Japanese) / Alison Fernandez, Daisy Ridley, Dev Patel (English)
What it’s about: Based on the manga by Hotaru Okamoto, Only Yesterday tells the story of Tokyo office worker Taeko Okajima’s nostalgic return to her rural village, where she reflects on her earlier life.
What we think: Distinct from typical anime adventures, Only Yesterday captivates with its grounded narrative. The storyline effortlessly taps into universal longing and nostalgia, offering viewers a glimpse into the dreams that reflect an alternative life.
RT score: 100%
Words by Tom Percival
37. Metropolis (2001)
Director: Katsuhiro Otomo
Cast: Yuka Imoto, Kei Kobayashi, Hiroaki Okada (Japanese) / Rebecca Forstadt, Brianne Siddall, Michael Reisz (English)
What it’s about: In a dystopian setting, a ruler aims to substitute his daughter with an advanced robot essential for a new weapon, leading to subplots of intrigue and rebellion.
What we think: While drawing inspiration from Fritz Lang’s original Metropolis film, Katsuhiro Otomo crafts a visually stunning work that maintains relevant themes of capitalism’s impact on society.
RT score: 87%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
36. Demon Slayer: Mugen Train
Director: Haruo Sotozaki
Cast: Natsuki Hanae, Satoshi Hino, Daisuke Hirakawa (Japanese) / Zach Aguilar, Mark Whitten, Landon McDonald (English)
What it’s about: Tanjiro and his fellow demon slayers embark on a mission to stop a powerful demon terrorizing a train.
What we think: Offering thrilling action sequences, Mugen Train elevates the level of excitement in Demon Slayer. Enmu, one of Muzan’s subordinates, adds an eerie undertone to the already suspenseful journey.
RT score: 98%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
35. My Hero Academia: Two Heroes (2018)
Director: Kenji Nagasaki
Cast: Daiki Yamashita, Kenta Miyake, Mirai Shida (Japanese) / Justin Briner, Christopher Sabat, Erica Mendez (English)
What it’s about: Set between the Final Exams and Forest Training Camp arcs, Deku and All-Might visit the floating I-Island, home to inventors David Shield and his daughter Melissa, before being plunged into a confrontation with the villainous Wolfram.
What we think: My Hero Academia strikes a fantastic balance between high-stakes action and humor, and Two Heroes embraces this blend perfectly. The upbeat tone and climactic showdown elevate this film among the best.
RT score: 100%
Words by Tom Percival
34. Belladonna of Sadness (1973)
Director: Eiichi Yamamoto
Cast: Aiko Nagayama, Katsutaka Ito, Tatsuya Nakadai (Japanese)
What it’s about: After being sexually assaulted, a woman enters a Faustian pact with the Devil, leading to dire consequences.
What we think: Belladonna of Sadness merges eroticism and psychedelic artistry to explore deep societal issues, embodying the struggles women face, though the storytelling can at times feel elusive.
RT score: 90%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
33. Digimon: The Movie (2000)
Director: Mamoru Hosoda, Shigeyasu Yamauchi
Cast: Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Joshua Seth, Michael Reisz
What it’s about: An aggregate of various short films and storylines from the original Digimon series, showcasing origins, relationships, and the challenge of Diaboromon who threatens world systems.
What we think: Despite a somewhat chaotic structure, Digimon: The Movie holds a nostalgic charm for fans of the franchise, presenting exciting aspects of the Digimon universe alongside fun characters.
RT score: 24%
Words by Jakob Barnes
32. The Red Turtle (2016)
Director: Michaël Dudok de Wit
Cast: N/A
What it’s about: A shipwrecked man discovers hope and love with a giant red turtle on a deserted island.
What we think: The Red Turtle evokes deep emotion with minimal dialogue, offering a visually stunning, surreal experience and reflecting the essence of connection and cherishing our loved ones.
RT score: 92%
Words by Jakob Barnes
31. Tokyo Godfathers (2003)
Director: Satoshi Kon
Cast: Tooru Emori, Yoshiaki Umegaki, Aya Okamoto (Japanese) / Crispin Freeman, David Manis, Erica Schroeder (English)
What it’s about: On a cold Christmas Eve in Tokyo, three homeless individuals discover an abandoned baby and set out on a mission to return it to its family.
What we think: A heartfelt film that brilliantly delves into the theme of found family, Tokyo Godfathers will resonate with anyone who values the connections made in unexpected places. It’s a festive movie that is both touching and lively.
RT score: 92%
Words by Tom Percival
30. Weathering With You (2019)
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Cast: Kotaro Daigo, Nana Mori, Shun Oguri (Japanese) / Brandon Engman, Ashley Boettcher, Lee Pace (English)
What it’s about: A teenage boy escapes home and meets a girl with the power to control the weather, leading to a business venture that helps solve various problems.
What we think: Makoto Shinkai examines the challenges of youth amid environmental crises while exploring themes of love and responsibility. Weathering With You weaves powerful narratives that reflect the struggles of contemporary society.
RT score: 92%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
29. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Sumi Shiamoto, Gorō Naya, Yōji Matsuda (Japanese) / Alison Lohman, Patrick Stewart, Uma Thurman (English)
What it’s about: In a post-apocalyptic world, Princess Nausicaä defends her home from two warring nations and strives for peace.
What we think: Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a trailblazer in anime, blending captivating visuals with strong themes of environmentalism and humanitarianism, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
RT score: 90%
Words by Jasmine Valentine
28. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)
Director: Mamoru Hosoda
Cast: Riisa Naka, Takuya Ishida, Mitsutaka Itakura (Japanese) / Emily Hirst, Andrew Francis, Alex Zahara (English)
What it’s about: High schooler Makoto discovers her newfound ability to leap through time, leading to adventures and exploration of relationships as she grapples with decisions that affect her future.
What we think: The Girl Who Leapt Through Time cleverly explores themes of friendship, growth, and the challenges of adolescence, all framed within an engaging time travel narrative that highlights the beauty of everyday life.
RT score: 84%
Words by Anamika Das
27. The Castle of Cagliostro (1979)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Yasuo Yamada, Sumi Shimamoto, Tarō Ishida (Japanese) / Bob Bergen, Joan-Carol O’Connell, Michael McConnohie (English)
What it’s about: Arsène Lupin III rescues a princess from vagabonds and soon discovers she is linked to a treasure he seeks.
What we think: The film marks a brilliant introduction to Miyazaki’s signature style, combining whimsical storytelling with adventure long before the establishment of Studio Ghibli. Its eccentric characters and engaging chase sequences have made it a cherished classic.
RT score: 95%
Words by Jasmine Valentine
26. Wicked City (1987)
Director: Yoshiaki Kawajiri
Cast: Yūsaku Yara, Toshiko Fujita, Ichirō Nagai (Japanese) / Gregory Snegoff, Gaye Kruger, Mike Reynolds (English)
What it’s about: In a futuristic Tokyo, special agents manage peace between worlds, but tensions rise when a unique case threatens stability.
What we think: Yoshiaki Kawajiri’s Wicked City, while aged, merges fantasy with dystopian sci-fi in a captivating way, solidifying its status as a cult classic that stands out among anime of the era.
RT score: 66%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
25. Ponyo (2008)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Yuuri Nara, Hiroki Doi, Tomoko Yamaguchi (Japanese) / Noah Cyrus, Frankie Jonas, Tina Fey (English)
What it’s about: The young fish-like creature Brunhilde, dubbed Ponyo by a human boy named Sōsuke, longs to become a real girl after washing ashore.
What we think: Miyazaki crafts a unique tale exploring what it means to be human through the lens of childhood innocence, presenting a heartfelt story full of imagination and wonder, enjoyable for all ages.
RT score: 91%
Words by Jakob Barnes
24. Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ (2015)
Director: Tadayoshi Yamamuro
Cast: Masako Nozawa, Ryō Horikawa, Ryūsei Nakao (Japanese) / Sean Schemmel, Christopher R. Sabat, Christopher Ayres (English)
What it’s about: After being resurrected, Frieza trains to seek vengeance on Goku, but he’s not the only character who has unlocked new powers.
What we think: While this installment emphasizes action, featuring some of the franchise’s most intense moments, the balance between brutality and character development maintains its overall appeal.
RT score: 83%
Words by Tom Percival
23. Princess Mononoke (1997)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Yoji Matsuda, Yuriko Ishida, Yuko Tanaka (Japanese) / Billy Crudup, Claire Danes, Minnie Driver (English)
What it’s about: Ashitaka, cursed while saving his people, finds himself in a conflict between a forest protector and an industrialist seeking to cut down the forest.
What we think: Princess Mononoke presents a powerful message about the struggle between humanity and nature. It’s rich in folklore and visual beauty, solidifying its place as a timeless masterpiece in anime history.
RT score: 93%
Words by Anamika Das
22. Bubble (2022)
Director: Tetsurō Araki
Cast: Jun Shison, Riria, Alice Hirose (Japanese) / Zach Aguilar, Emi Lo, Erica Lindbeck (English)
A parkour expert, Hibiki, finds a woman named Uta connected to mysterious bubbles, leading them both on a surreal journey.
What we think: Bubble captivates with its stunning visuals, showcasing a vibrant Tokyo overrun with nature. This unique love story against a metropolitan backdrop enhances the viewing experience dramatically.
RT score: 50%Words by Anthony McGlynn
21. Whisper of the Heart (1995)
Director: Yoshifumi Kondō
Cast: Yōko Honna, Issei Takahashi, Shigeru Muroi (Japanese) / Brittany Snow, David Gallagher, Jean Smart (English)
What’s it about: Driven by her love for writing, Shizuku follows a mysterious boy named Seiji, leading her to an antique shop where their romance begins to blossom.
What we think: Whisper of the Heart beautifully explores themes of self-discovery and artistic ambition, weaving together nostalgia and childhood romance. Its charm resonates deeply, making it a memorable film for many viewers.
RT Score: 95%
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
20. When Marnie Was There (2014)
Director: Hiromasa Yonebayashi
Cast: Sara Takatsuki, Kasumi Arimuna, Hana Sugisaki (Japanese) / Hailee Steinfeld, Kieran Shipka, Catherine O’Hara (English)
What it’s about: While staying with relatives, Anna befriends Marnie, who has secrets that lead to impactful revelations as their summer unfolds.
What we think: Often regarded as the most underrated Studio Ghibli film, When Marnie Was There is a heartfelt tale that masterfully embodies the essence of nostalgia and friendship, showcasing the studio’s signature warmth and creativity.
RT score: 92%
Words by Jasmine Valentine
19. The End of Evangelion (1997)
Director: Kazuya Tsurumaki and Hideaki Anno
Cast: Megumi Ogata, Kotono Mitsuishi, Megumi Hayashibara (Japanese) / Casey Mongillo, Carrie Keranen, Ryan Bartley (English)
What it’s about: Asuka and Shinji battle to avert the Third Impact in a surreal confrontation that challenges preconceived notions of reality.
What we think: The End of Evangelion embraces chaos and emotion in animation, blending psychological depth with a gripping storyline that resonates with its audience, solidifying its significance in anime history.
RT score: 92%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
18. Porco Rosso (1992)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Shūichirō Moriyama, Tokiko Kato, Akemi Okamura (Japanese) / Michael Keaton, Cary Elwes, Kimberly Williams-Paisley (English)
What it’s about: In 1929, an Italian pilot, cursed to have a pig’s head, navigates adventures involving aerial combat, romantic pursuits, and a fascist government.
What we think: On the surface, Porco Rosso is a delightful adventure, but it also subtly critiques broader societal issues, showcasing Miyazaki’s ability to incorporate depth into an entertaining story.
RT score: 96%
Words by Jakob Barnes
17. Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Director: Manley Oshii
Cast: Atsuko Tanaka, Akio Otsuka, Iemasa Kayumi (Japanese) / Mimi Woods, Richard Epcar, Tom Wyner (English)
What it’s about: In a cyberpunk dystopia, a cyborg policewoman and her partner pursue a mastermind responsible for a surge in crime.
What we think: Ghost in the Shell is regarded as a paradigm for cyberpunk anime, moving slowly to create tension while delving into themes of identity and reality, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on the genre.
RT score: 95%
Words by Jasmine Valentine
16. The Wind Rises (2013)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Hideaki Anno, Miori Takimoto, Hidetoshi Nishijima (Japanese) / Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Emily Blunt, John Krasinski (English)
What’s it about: The Wind Rises tells the fictionalized story of Jiro Horikoshi, an aircraft designer whose innovations occur amid the turmoil of World War II.
What we think: Stepping away from fantasy, Miyazaki narrates a deeply personal journey of ambition and dreams, encapsulating both inspiration and moral complexity in a realistic setting.
RT Score: 88%
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
15. 5 Centimeters per Second (2007)
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Cast: Kenji Mizuhashi, Ayaka Onoue, Satomi Hanamura (Japanese) / Johnny Yong Bosch, Tara Platt, Kira Buckland (English)
What it’s about: Takaki and Akari, childhood friends, navigate the complexities of estrangement as they maintain a long-distance relationship filled with hope and yearning.
What we think: The film’s poignant exploration of love and distance evokes relatable emotions, capturing the bittersweet essence of growing apart while retaining a connection amid life’s unfolding challenges.
RT score: 88%
Words by Anamika Das
14. Perfect Blue (1997)
Director: Satoshi Kon
Cast: Junko Iwao, Rica Matsumoto, Shinpachi Tsuji (Japanese) / Ruby Marlowe, Wendee Lee, Bob Marx (English)
What it’s about: Mima, a former girl band member, transitions to acting but finds herself stalked by an obsessive fan who blurs the line between reality and fantasy.
What we think: Perfect Blue is a gripping psychological thriller that skillfully handles themes of identity and the media’s impact on individuality, showcasing Kon’s mastery of suspense and tension.
RT score: 83%
Words by Jasmine Valentine
13. Belle (2021)
Director: Mamoru Hosoda
Cast: Kaho Nakamura, Takeru Satoh, HANA (Japanese) / Kylie McNeill, Manny Jacinto, Hunter Schafer (English)
What it’s about: In a virtual world, high schooler Suzu becomes a celebrated singer while also searching for the identity of a mysterious beast sought by vigilantes.
What we think: Belle showcases stunning animation and a captivating soundtrack while exploring the themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the power of connection in an increasingly virtual world.
RT score: 95%
Words by Jasmine Valentine
12. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Noriko Hidaka, Chika Sakamoto, Hitoshi Takagi (Japanese) / Dakota Fanning, Elle Fanning, Frank Welker (English)
What it’s about: Young sisters Satsuki and Mei discover the forest spirit Totoro while adjusting to their new rural home amid their mother’s illness.
What we think: With its blend of whimsical charm and profound emotion, My Neighbor Totoro exemplifies Miyazaki’s ability to create enchanting worlds that capture the essence of childhood wonder.
RT score: 93%
Words by Anamika Das
11. The Fire of Mori (2011)
Director: Takahiro Omori
Cast: Kôki Uchiyama, Ayane Sakura, Izumi Sawada (Japanese)
What’s it about: The story follows a young girl who stumbles into a spirit-inhabited forest and forms a heartfelt bond with a masked boy named Gin during her summer visit.
What we think: With a delicate storyline, Hotarubi no Mori e explores themes of friendship and love within a magical setting, beautifully depicted through stunning animation and a touching score.
IMDb score: 7.8
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
10. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)
Director: Isao Takahata
Cast: Aki Asakura, Takeo Chii, Nobuko Miyamoto (Japanese) / Chloe Grace Moretz, James Caan, Mary Steenburgen (English)
What it’s about: A bamboo cutter discovers a mysterious girl growing inside a shoot, bringing fortune that complicates as she matures into a beautiful princess.
What we think: This stunning adaptation of a classic folktale showcases Takahata’s artistic brilliance, illustrating the themes of fleeting beauty and the bittersweet nature of existence through a unique animation style.
RT score: 100%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
9. A Silent Voice (2016)
Director: Naoko Yamada
Cast: Miyu Irino, Saori Hayami, Aoi Yūki (Japanese) / Robbie Daymond, Lexi Cowden, Kristen Sullivan (English)
What’s it about: After mercilessly bullying a deaf girl, Shouya seeks redemption years later when their paths cross again, forcing him to confront his past.
What we think: This emotionally charged film thoughtfully addresses bullying, disability, and redemption, showcasing the characters’ growth while exploring the critical importance of empathy in relationships.
RT Score: 94%
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
8. Memories (1995)
Director: Katsuhiro Otomo, Tensai Okamura, Koji Morimoto
Cast: Tsutomu Isobe, Hideyuki Hori, Yuu Hayashi (Japanese) / Marc Swint, Stephen Fu, Jack Britton (English)
What it’s about: An anthology film that includes stories of a haunted spaceship, bio-terrorism, and societal critiques based on individual narratives.
What we think: Memories captures various elements of sci-fi and horror, intricately woven into a compelling collection, representing a peak era of avant-garde anime and storytelling.
RT score: 82%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
7. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Director: Isao Takahata
Cast: Tsutomu Tatsumi, Ayano Shiraishi, Yoshiko Shinohara (Japanese) / Adam Gibbs, Emily Neves, Shelley Calene-Black (English)
What it’s about: Set during World War II, the film follows siblings Seita and Setsuko as they struggle to survive after being separated from their family.
What we think: Grave of the Fireflies is an intense, heart-wrenching narrative showcasing the hardships of war through the eyes of innocent children, illustrating the emotional toll war takes on individuals.
RT Score: 100%
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
6. Akira (1988)
Director: Katsuhiro Otomo
Cast: Mitsuo Iwata, Nozomu Sasaki Mami Koyama (Japanese) / Cam Clarke, Jan Rabson, Lara Cody (English)
What it’s about: In the chaotic aftermath of a nuclear war, rebellious teens become embroiled in a clandestine government project involving a terrifying child with immense powers.
What we think: Akira not only raises the bar for animation but also crafts an engaging narrative full of vibrant visuals and complex themes, solidifying its place as a landmark in anime history.
RT score: 91%
Words by Jakob Barnes
5. Paprika (2006)
Director: Satoshi Kon
Cast: Megumi Hayashibara, Tōru Emori, Katsunosuke Hori (Japanese) / Cindy Robinson, Yuri Lowenthal, Michael Forest (English)
What it’s about: A device that allows users to enter dreams falls into the hands of a dream terrorist, leading to chaos that a dream detective must unravel.
What we think: Paprika masterfully blends striking visuals and intricate storytelling, influencing numerous works, including Hollywood films, while exploring deep psychological themes through its innovative narrative structure.
RT score: 86%
Words by Jakob Barnes
4. Suzume (2022)
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Cast: Nanoka Hara, Hokuto Matsumura, Eri Fukatsu (Japanese) / Nichole Sakura, Josh Keaton, Roger Craig Smith (English)
What it’s about: Suzume becomes involved with Souta while exploring ruins, accidentally triggering a disaster that imperils Japan.
What we think: Makoto Shinkai’s film encapsulates stunning animation, rich storytelling, and emotional depth, solidifying his reputation among anime enthusiasts.
RT score: 96%
Words by Anamika Das
3. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Chieko Baisho, Takuya Kimura, Akihiro Miwa (Japanese) / Emily Mortime, Christian Bale, Lauren Bacall (English)
What it’s about: Cursed by the Witch of the Waste, Sophie seeks refuge in Howl’s magical moving castle, where she encounters a world of enchantment and complexity.
What we think: This film touches on profound topics such as the consequences of war and the importance of compassion, illustrating Miyazaki’s enduring themes in a beautifully imaginative setting.
RT Score: 87%
Words by Tulisha Srivastava
2. Your Name (2016)
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Cast: Mone Kamishirashi, Ryunosuke Kamiki, Ryo Narita (Japanese) / Stephanie Sheh, Michael Sinterniklaas, Kyle Hebert (English)
What it’s about: Mitsuha, a village girl desiring city life, finds herself swapping bodies with a boy named Taki, navigating thrilling and emotional experiences.
What we think: Your Name combines a beautiful narrative with breathtaking visuals, capturing the spirit of adolescence, identity, and connection while resonating emotionally with diverse audiences.
RT score: 98%
Words by Anamika Das
1. Spirited Away (2001)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki (Japanese) / Daveigh Chase, Jason Marsden, Suzanne Pleshette (English)
What it’s about: Upon moving, Chihiro and her family stumble into a mysterious spirit realm where enchanting and perilous adventures await.
What we think: Hayao Miyazaki transports audiences to an extraordinary world filled with rich detail and emotion, illustrating Chihiro’s courageous journey through a bathhouse filled with intriguing spirits, inspiring wonder as she seeks to rescue her parents.
RT score: 96%
Words by Anthony McGlynn
These are the finest anime films that highlight the genre’s expansive creativity and emotional storytelling.
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