Netflix has established itself as one of the largest and most recognized streaming platforms globally. It began as a service that mailed DVDs to customers but has since evolved into a major player in the film industry.
Over the years, Netflix has gained popularity for its original content, known as Netflix Originals, which includes movies and series available exclusively on their platform.
In addition to live-action content, Netflix has expanded into the world of anime, acquiring distribution rights for both classic and new anime series and films.
This move has allowed the streaming service to cater to a growing audience that enjoys animated content from Japan.
As a result, Netflix has built a diverse library of anime, showcasing a range of genres and styles that appeal to various viewers.
Recognizing the demand for anime, Netflix has ventured into creating its own original anime films.
These movies cover a wide array of themes, from thrilling action-packed stories to delightful adventures suitable for family viewing.
The variety ensures that there is something for everyone, regardless of their tastes in animation. With such a vast selection of Netflix Original anime films, the question arises: which one stands out as the best?
The answer may differ from person to person, as preferences vary based on individual tastes and interests in different genres within the anime.
1) A Whisker Away Miyo’s Search for Connection
A Whisker Away follows the journey of Miyo Sasaki, a young girl living in the town of Tokoname. Miyo is having a tough time in her life she often clashes with her stepmother, creating tension at home.
On top of that, she has a crush on Kento Hinode, a classmate who doesn’t seem to notice her feelings, leaving her feeling isolated and unhappy.
Miyo’s life takes an unexpected turn when she meets a mysterious seller who offers her a special Noh mask.
This mask grants her the ability to transform into a cat, giving her a unique opportunity to experience life from a different perspective.
As a cat, Miyo can sneak into Hinode’s life, spending time with him and observing him without revealing who she really is.
This new existence fills her with joy and provides her with the connection she has been longing for. However, Miyo soon discovers that living this dual life isn’t as easy as it seems.
While she enjoys her adventures as a cat, the magical mask comes with unforeseen drawbacks. She is faced with tough decisions about her true self and what she truly wants in her life.
As she handles the ups and downs of her situation, Miyo learns that the magic of the mask also complicates her relationships and personal growth.
A Whisker Away is a charming film that beautifully weaves together elements of fantasy and real-life challenges. It explores important themes such as love, self-discovery, and the intricacies of family dynamics.
This heartwarming tale appeals to viewers of all ages, offering valuable lessons about the importance of being true to oneself and the need for meaningful connections with others.
Through Miyo’s journey, audiences are invited to reflect on their own relationships and the nature of identity.
2) Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop Finding Voice in Silence
Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop tells the story of Yui Sakura, a quiet and introspective young man who prefers to express his feelings through haiku rather than speaking.
Despite his talent for poetry, Yui struggles with shyness, preventing him from sharing his work with others and leaving his gifts unnoticed.
His life takes an unexpected turn when he accidentally swaps phones with Yuki Hoshin, a rising social media star who hides her teeth behind a mask, creating a barrier between her and the world.
As Yui and Yuki handle their new connection, they begin to understand each other’s vulnerabilities.
Their journey deepens when they meet a quirky record store owner who asks for their help in finding a rare vinyl record.
This shared mission allows them to grow closer, forcing them to confront their insecurities while learning to appreciate the beauty in each other.
Through their collaboration, they find a way to support one another as they step out of their comfort zones.
The film delicately captures the struggle of young people trying to find their identities in a society that often values appearances and perfection.
Yui learns to take pride in his poetic voice, discovering that sharing his haiku can connect him with others.
Meanwhile, Yuki gains the confidence to embrace her true self, realizing that her worth is not defined by her looks but by her character and passions.
Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop is a heartwarming tale about growth, friendship, and the importance of self-expression.
Its vibrant animation and relatable characters make it a delightful watch for anyone who has ever felt uncertain in their own skin.
The film beautifully reminds us that even in a world filled with challenges, the little moments of connection and understanding can create lasting change in our lives.
3) Flavors of Youth A Taste of Nostalgia
Flavors of Youth is an anthology film that explores the lives of young people through three interconnected stories, each capturing different experiences and emotions.
The first segment, The Rice Noodles, tells the story of Xiao Ming, a young boy who cherishes the memories of his grandmother and the bond they shared over San Xian noodles.
This heartwarming tale emphasizes the significance of family connections and how food can evoke powerful memories of love and tradition.
In the second segment, A Little Fashion Show, we meet Yi Lin, a fashion model, and her younger sister, Lulu. The two sisters handle their aspirations and challenges as they try to find their paths in life.
This story explores the pressures of the fashion industry and the struggle for self-identity, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external expectations.
The final story, Love in Shanghai, follows Li Mo, a young man who falls in love with his neighbor, Xiao Yu, while living in a busy apartment complex.
As their relationship develops, Li Mo faces the ups and downs of love, learning that it is often fraught with challenges and misunderstandings.
This segment beautifully illustrates the complexities of young love and the emotional depth it can bring.
Flavors of Youth is a poignant reflection on life’s joys and sorrows. Through its beautifully animated storytelling, the film captures the essence of growing up and the small moments that give us hope and strength.
Each story resonates with viewers, reminding them of the beauty found in everyday experiences and the lasting impact of relationships.
4) Bubble Gravity Meets Chaos
Bubble is an anime film crafted by the creative minds of Gen Urobuchi, Naoko Sato, and Renji Ōki, and brought to life by the acclaimed Wit Studio.
Set in a dystopian version of Tokyo, the story unfolds after a mysterious explosion sends gravity-defying bubbles cascading throughout the city, trapping it within a massive bubble.
This phenomenon causes bizarre changes in the laws of physics, leading the majority of the population to evacuate and the government to classify Tokyo as a hazardous area.
However, a group of resilient young individuals chooses to defy the government’s warnings and continues to inhabit the bubble-covered city.
They carve out a new existence through exhilarating parkour competitions that utilize the unique properties of the bubbles, turning the chaotic environment into a playground for resource trading and survival.
Hibiki, an 18-year-old parkour prodigy, excels in this thrilling atmosphere but soon finds himself drawn to an unexpected mystery when he hears a haunting melody emanating from the peak of Tokyo Tower.
Determined to uncover the source of the enchanting song, Hibiki goes on an adventure that leads him into a world of intrigue and unexpected revelations.
The film masterfully combines breathtaking animation with an engaging storyline, presenting a distinctive perspective within the sci-fi genre.
Bubble immerses audiences in a visually stunning world where the boundaries of gravity and reality blur, creating an amazing experience that resonates with both anime enthusiasts and newcomers.
5) Drifting Home A Boy’s Journey After Loss
Drifting Home tells the story of Kosuke Kumagaya, a young boy struggling to cope with the loss of his grandfather.
Since his grandfather’s passing, Kosuke has become distant from his friends, especially Natsume Tonai, who he once considered a sister.
Their friendship has changed as Kosuke deals with his grief, making it harder for him to connect with those around him.
When Kosuke’s friends plan a visit to their childhood apartment complex, which is set to be torn down, they insist on bringing him along, hoping to help him reconnect with his past.
The trip takes an unexpected turn when Kosuke discovers that Natsume is also exploring the building.
This revelation leads to a heated argument between them, filled with emotions that reflect their unresolved feelings.
Just as tensions rise, a strange rainstorm surrounds the building, creating a mysterious atmosphere.
The children soon find themselves in a surreal situation as the apartment complex begins to float on an endless ocean, separating them from their familiar world.
As they handle this bizarre new reality, the kids face both physical and emotional challenges. The drifting apartment becomes a backdrop for their journey of self-discovery, forcing Kosuke and his friends to confront their feelings about loss, friendship, and growing up.
The floating setting symbolizes their struggles to let go of the past while trying to move forward with their lives.
The characters work together to find a way back home while grappling with the weight of their memories and relationships.
Drifting Home is a beautifully animated film that captures the essence of childhood, friendship, and the pain that comes with change.
It resonates deeply with audiences as it explores the complexities of growing up and the importance of cherishing the connections we have.
With its memorable scenes and heartfelt performances, this film leaves a lasting impact, reminding viewers of the significance of friendship and the process of healing from loss.
6) GODZILLA City on the Edge of Battle Abandon Earth or Fight for Survival
After a hard-fought battle, humans finally manage to kill Godzilla, the creature that drove them off Earth 20,000 years ago.
However, this victory is not as final as they hoped. Another Godzilla, even more dangerous, still lurks on the planet.
Haruo Sakaki, the leader of the human forces, is severely injured during the battle. He wakes up in the care of a young girl from the Houtua tribe, a mysterious group of people who resemble humans and have survived the harsh, transformed conditions of Earth.
With their supplies nearly exhausted, Sakaki and the remaining soldiers face a difficult choice. They decide whether to give up their mission and leave Earth behind for good or risk everything in a final, desperate fight against the second Godzilla.
The situation looks grim, but the Houtua tribe offers some hope. They share their knowledge and offer assistance, showing that even in the face of overwhelming odds, there are still allies to be found on the planet.
Meanwhile, the Bilusaludo, an alien race that has been working with humans, makes an important discovery. They uncover the remains of their advanced anti-Godzilla weapon, Mechagodzilla.
With this powerful technology in hand, the humans now have a fighting chance. However, even with Mechagodzilla, the task of defeating this second Godzilla is daunting.
Over the centuries, Godzilla has been evolving, growing stronger and smarter. It is no longer just a monster but a force of nature that seems impossible to defeat.
As Sakaki and his team prepare for one last battle, they not only confront this unstoppable creature but also face their own fears and doubts about whether they can ever reclaim Earth as their home.
7) Maboroshi A Town’s Life Disrupted by Disaster
Maboroshi, brought to life by the renowned MAPPA studio, takes place in the fictional town of Mifuse, a place heavily reliant on a large mill for its livelihood.
The tranquility of this company town is shattered when the mill suddenly explodes, throwing the community into chaos.
This catastrophe isn’t just a typical disaster; it has a mysterious quality that cuts off the town from the outside world, trapping its residents in eternal winter and leaving them in a state of confusion and dread.
In the wake of the explosion, the townsfolk struggle to adapt to their bizarre new existence. Many of them start to believe that their misfortune is a punishment from the gods, leading to the rise of various superstitions and new rituals.
In their desperation, the locals attempt to appease the deities they think they have offended, and tension grows as they try to handle their increasingly fearful reality.
The plot takes an unexpected turn when Masamune Kikuiri, a middle schooler, encounters a feral girl found by his classmate Mutsumi Sagami in the debris of the mill.
This chance meeting dramatically alters Masamune’s life, as he becomes entwined with the girl’s mysterious past and the bizarre events that have unfolded in the town.
Their connection introduces new layers of intrigue and complexity to the story. Maboroshi amazes viewers with its rich atmosphere and unexpected plot twists, offering a compelling mix of mystery and strange fiction.
It’s a must-see for fans who appreciate stories that explore the eerie and supernatural, delivering a unique cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
8) Blame! a Philosophical Depths of a Post-Apocalyptic Future
Blame is adapted from the manga by Tsutomu Nihei and unfolds in a grim future where a mysterious infection has disrupted technology on a global scale.
In this dystopian world, humanity is confined within an endlessly expanding city controlled by AI, leading to a struggle for survival as food resources dwindle.
Zuru, a young girl from the Electro-Fishers tribe, feels the weight of this dire situation and decides to join her friends in a perilous quest to find sustenance.
Their search takes a dangerous turn when they accidentally trigger a security system, unleashing a swarm of killer robots.
The chaos results in the tragic loss of most of their group, leaving Zuru in a life-threatening storyline. Just as she faces certain doom, a mysterious figure named Killy arrives and rescues her and her friend Tae.
He reveals his mission: to find an individual with the Net Terminal Gene, a special trait that could restore humanity’s control over the malfunctioning automated systems.
Realizing the significance of Killy’s quest, Zuru and Tae choose to accompany him on this daunting journey.
They handle a world filled with menacing machines and numerous obstacles. Their survival depends on their ability to work as a team while confronting the harsh realities of their environment.
The story explores themes of hope, courage, and the resilience needed to face overwhelming odds in a crumbling world.
With its breathtaking animation and gripping sci-fi storyline, Blame amazes viewers who appreciate post-apocalyptic tales.
However, some pacing issues might detract from the experience, causing it to fall short compared to other Netflix Originals that deliver a more rounded story.
It stands out as a unique take on the genre, making it a worthwhile watch for those looking for something different in their viewing lineup.
9) Godzilla: The Planet Eater Titan With Unmatched Power
The Godzilla from the Reiwa Era anime movie trilogy is by far the most powerful version of the iconic monster.
In the first film, Planet of the Monsters, the Godzilla shown is already much larger than any previous version, but this isn’t the true Godzilla that forced humanity to flee Earth years ago.
As the story progresses, the real Godzilla finally reveals itself at the end of the first movie and continues to appear in the following films.
This version of Godzilla is enormous, covering a huge portion of the planet with its size and presence.
Though not portrayed as purely evil, this Godzilla is an unstoppable force of nature, capable of taking on massive enemies.
One of the most incredible things about this Godzilla is its ability to fight against gigantic beings and even cosmic threats like an intergalactic version of Ghidorah, a creature powerful enough to destroy entire planets.
Godzilla’s unique abilities make it nearly invincible, adding to its terrifying dominance over the Earth.
While this version of Godzilla may not be the most well-known, it is definitely the largest and most destructive.
Its unmatched size and strength set it apart from any other portrayal of the legendary creature, making it a standout in the Godzilla world.
10) Dragon Quest: Your Story A Nostalgic Journey for Fans and Newcomers Alike
Dragon Quest: Your Story is a charming animated film based on the popular Dragon Quest video game series, specifically the fifth installment.
Directed by Makoto Hanafusa, Ryuichi Yagi, and Takashi Yamazaki, the movie brings the beloved game’s storyline to life in a visually appealing way.
The animation combines a unique style that feels like a blend of computer-generated anime with elements reminiscent of How to Train Your Dragon and The Incredibles.
This mix gives the movie a fresh and exciting look, appealing to both fans of anime and those familiar with Western animated films.
In the original Japanese version, the characters were voiced by live-action actors, which sparked some controversy.
However, for the English dubbed version, the movie features popular voice actors such as Yuri Lowenthal, Stephanie Sheh, and Xanthe Huynh, who bring their own flair to the characters, adding depth to the story.
The film stays true to the spirit of the Dragon Quest games while providing a visually amazing experience.
With a mix of adventure, nostalgia, and heartwarming moments, Dragon Quest: Your Story offers an enjoyable journey for both longtime fans of the series and new viewers.
11) Altered Carbon: Resleeved A Visual Feast for Sci-Fi Fans
Altered Carbon: Resleeved is an animated film set a few centuries before the Altered Carbon series. It features stunning animation and thrilling action, expanding the world in familiar ways.
The movie includes a talented voice cast, including Ray Chase, Doug Stone, Kaiji Tang, Chris Conner, and Brittany Cox. The film takes place on the planet Latimer, immersing viewers in a rich, futuristic world.
The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, voiced by Ray Chase, as he investigates the murder of a yakuza boss. Along the way, he protects a tattoo artist named Holly, played by Brittany Cox.
This investigation leads Kovacs through a web of intrigue, showcasing the complexities of the yakuza underworld. The film combines elements of mystery and action, keeping viewers engaged with its fast-paced plot.
The direction by Takeru Nakajima, Yoshiyuki Okada, and Shouta Kitamoto is notable for its beautifully choreographed fight scenes.
The animation captures the essence of the Altered Carbon world, blending action with a visually appealing style. The film’s vibrant visuals enhance the storytelling, making each scene dynamic and exciting.
Altered Carbon: Resleeved is a compelling addition to the franchise. It offers a fresh take on the world established in the original series while providing action and drama that fans will enjoy.
With its unique characters and engaging plot, the film is a must-watch for those interested in sci-fi and anime.
12) My Oni Girl Themes of Family and Connection
My Oni Girl is a recent addition to Netflix’s original anime films. The story centers on Yatsuse Hiiragi, a first-year high school student who struggles to make friends.
Despite his best efforts to be liked and accepted by those around him, he often feels isolated and alone.
Everything changes for Yatsuse on an unusually snowy day in summer when he encounters Tsumugi, an energetic Oni girl.
Tsumugi is on a mission to find her mother in the human world, and she enthusiastically invites Yatsuse to join her on this quest.
This unexpected adventure introduces him to a magical world filled with fantastical creatures, snow gods, and exciting challenges.
As they journey together, Yatsuse discovers a vibrant world that expands his understanding of friendship and courage.
He faces both thrilling experiences and tough obstacles that test his character. Throughout their adventure, the film explores themes of growing up and the complexities of family relationships.
As Yatsuse and Tsumugi handle their new journey, their bond strengthens, allowing them to learn from one another.
My Oni Girl is a heartwarming tale that resonates with viewers of all ages. With its engaging story and meaningful themes, it offers a delightful experience for families looking to enjoy a magical adventure about friendship and the importance of family connections.
13) Child of Kamiari Month A Magical Encounter Changes Everything
Child of Kamiari Month follows the story of Kanna Hayama, a young girl with a passion for running. Tragically, her life changes when her mother passes away, turning her love for running into a painful reminder of her loss.
Struggling to cope with her grief, Kanna faces a setback when she fails to finish her school marathon. Feeling defeated, she runs to Ushijima Shrine, where she falls and hits the ground hard.
After her fall, something extraordinary happens: the bracelet her mother gave her activates, summoning a demon boy named Yasha.
He demands that Kanna hand over the bracelet, but before she can part with it, Shiro, a white rabbit from her school’s rabbit enclosure, arrives.
Shiro reveals that they are a messenger from the gods, bringing important news that will change Kanna’s life.
Shiro then shares a significant secret with Kanna, setting her on an exciting journey. This quest is not just about adventure it pushes Kanna to confront her grief and rekindle her love for running.
Along the way, she learns valuable lessons about resilience and finding joy again despite her hardships.
Child of Kamiari Month is a touching family film filled with heartwarming moments. It beautifully portrays Kanna’s journey of rediscovering her passion and the importance of keeping hope alive, making it a perfect watch for anyone who has faced challenges in pursuing their dreams.
14) Adam by Eve: A live in Animation A Dreamlike Interpretation of a Biblical Classic
Adam by Eve: A Live in Animation is a Netflix Original film that combines live-action and animation to tell a compelling story.
Adam by Eve: A Live in Animation is a standout anime film on Netflix that reimagines the biblical story of Adam and Eve.
This short film tells the tale of the first humans created by God, who lived in a paradise before being tricked into disobeying and facing exile.
The story is presented in a unique way, using animation and music instead of traditional dialogue, giving it a dreamlike quality that sets it apart from other films.
Directed by Hibiki Yoshizaki and Nobutaka Yoda, who also wrote the screenplay, the film has a runtime of just 58 minutes.
Despite its brevity, it packs a powerful emotional punch and amazes viewers with its artistic style.
The animation is visually stunning, bringing the story to life with vibrant colors and intricate details, making every scene a visual feast.
One of the film’s most impressive features is its musical storytelling. The music plays a vital role in conveying the emotions and themes of the story, enhancing the experience.
Fans appreciate how the film skillfully blends live-action sequences with animation, creating a unique viewing experience that feels fresh and innovative.
Adam by Eve stands out as one of the best anime films currently streaming on Netflix. Its combination of beautiful animation, compelling music, and a creative approach to storytelling makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
With its surreal and intriguing take on a well-known tale, it invites viewers to reflect on themes of love, loss, and the consequences of human choices.
15) Bright: Samurai Soul An Intriguing Blend of Cultures and Characters
Bright: Samurai Soul takes place during the Meiji Restoration and tells the story of Izou, a human Ronin, who is on a quest to help an elf return to her home.
During his journey, he forms a reluctant alliance with an orc named Raiden. They handle challenges that encourage them to reflect on their identities and their relationships with others.
This anime is a spin-off of the 2017 film Bright and features beautiful animation and an amazing soundtrack.
The colorful backgrounds and distinct character designs draw viewers into the world, making for an enjoyable visual experience.
However, the film shares some of the story weaknesses seen in the original Bright, which holds it back from being truly great.
One significant issue with Bright: Samurai Soul is its pacing. While the film presents many interesting ideas and has a few memorable scenes.
The story often feels uneven and lacks a smooth flow. This inconsistency makes it hard for viewers to fully engage with the plot and connect with the characters’ journeys.
In the end, Bright: Samurai Soul does not quite live up to the high expectations set by other Netflix Original anime films.
Despite its richly crafted world and exploration of themes like identity and belonging, it struggles to deliver a strong, cohesive story, placing it behind many other titles in the genre.
16) Baki Hanma VS Kengan Ashura Intense Fights with Lighthearted Moments
Baki Hanma VS Kengan Ashura is an exciting anime crossover movie, animated by TMS Entertainment, where characters from two popular series come together for a showdown.
The powerful fighters from Baki Hanma face off against their rivals from Kengan Ashura, with the two main stars, Baki Hanma and Ohma Tokita, taking center stage.
In the movie, Baki Hanma’s fighters are presented as experienced underground martial arts legends, while the Kengan Ashura cast is portrayed as younger, less seasoned fighters.
This difference is clear since Baki Hanma has had more episodes and tournament battles to develop its characters.
On the other hand, Kengan Ashura is still working through its first tournament, and Ohma Tokita is yet to reach his full potential.
As a result, the film focuses more on balancing the two sides rather than delivering high-stakes, intense rivalries.
While the movie features some exciting battles, many of the fights feel more like friendly sparring matches than heated competitions.
The film does manages to entertain with its intense fight scenes, flashy moves, and gripping martial arts techniques.
But instead of making the fights feel dramatic and full of tension, the movie leans more on comedic moments and lighthearted interactions between the fighters, which can take away from the excitement of the battles.
Despite these issues, Baki Hanma VS Kengan Ashura still offers fans of both series a fun crossover experience.
17) Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045 Sustainable War
In the year 2045, artificial intelligence has advanced at a rapid pace, and many governments now rely on it as a key weapon in their constant wars.
These conflicts have become endless, driven by the need to keep economies running. The mercenary group known as GHOST, led by Major Motoko Kusanagi, is deeply involved in this futuristic war.
But as AI technology evolves, a new and dangerous threat begins to appear. After leaving Public Security Section 9, Kusanagi and her team take on various missions around the world, usually involving the consequences of these proxy wars.
One mission, which initially seems simple, requires them to find an arms dealer. However, things take a dark turn when they come up against cybernetically enhanced individuals who are much stronger and smarter than expected.
These beings, known as post-humans, are unlike anything Kusanagi’s team has faced before. The arrival of the post-humans triggers a series of events that forces Kusanagi to reconnect with her old team, Section 9.
The post-humans possess incredible abilities, posing a serious threat to the world. As Kusanagi and her reassembled team come back together, they are tasked with a critical mission: to stop the post-humans from causing global chaos.
With the stakes higher than ever, Kusanagi and her team use all their skills and resources to stop this new menace.
The future of the world hangs in the balance as they try to prevent a disaster that could reshape the course of humanity forever.
