Anime, with its vast array of genres, can sometimes feel overwhelming for newcomers. Its origins date back to the early 20th century when Shimokawa Oten created a short chalk-drawn film.
Over time, anime became deeply ingrained in Japan’s cultural fabric, gaining recognition both domestically and internationally, even being utilized for propaganda during World War II.
Today, the anime industry is thriving, especially with the advent of streaming platforms offering an abundance of options. Whether you’re new to anime and seeking the perfect starting point or a seasoned enthusiast aiming to watch every noteworthy film, there’s something for everyone.
1) Ponyo
“Ponyo” stands as one of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli’s most beloved films, offering a charming tale suitable for both children and adults. The story revolves around Ponyo, a goldfish girl yearning to experience life as a human.
Born to a sea-dwelling wizard and the ocean’s queen, Granmamare, Ponyo defies her father’s wishes and ventures onto land, where she befriends a young boy named Sōsuke.
Using her magical abilities, Ponyo transforms herself into a human, leading to heartwarming adventures with Sōsuke and his hardworking mother, voiced impeccably by Tina Fey in the English version.
2) Paprika
“Paprika” marks the final masterpiece of the esteemed Satoshi Kon, showcasing the tale of a pioneering scientist whose revolutionary invention falls into nefarious hands.
Dr. Atsuko Chiba, along with her team, crafts a device capable of going into the dreams of others, intending to utilize it for benevolent purposes.
However, under the guise of Paprika, her virtual alter ego, she clandestinely enters the dreams of her patients to provide therapy. When this innovative technology is stolen, it sparks a gripping cat-and-mouse chase.
3) Whisper Of The Heart
In 1995, Yoshifumi Kondō made history as the first director outside of Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata to helm a Studio Ghibli film with “Whisper of the Heart.”
Set in Tokyo, this enchanting tale follows Shizuku Tsukishima, a young girl who discovers that a fellow library patron shares her literary tastes.
This chance encounter leads her to Seiji Amasawa, a boy with aspirations of becoming a master violin maker, even if it means leaving behind his home and Shizuku for an apprenticeship in Italy.
4) A Silent Voice
In Naoko Yamada’s “A Silent Voice,” the dynamic between bullies and their targets takes center stage. The story starts with Shoya Ishida, a troubled high schooler grappling with his past actions.
He once bullied his deaf classmate, Shoko Nishimiya, relentlessly, leading to his ostracization by his peers and deep remorse.
At a breaking point, he decides to seek redemption by apologizing to Shoko, but their encounter takes an unexpected turn when he asks to befriend her instead.
5) Ghost In The Shell
The Hollywood adaptation of “Ghost in the Shell” failed to match the high bar set by Mamoru Oshii’s original anime, a film praised by James Cameron as a groundbreaking work of adult animation.
Oshii’s version, set in the near future of 2029, follows the story of Motoko Kusanagi, also known as the Major, a cyborg operative pursuing a renegade hacker.
In this cybernetically advanced society, human bodies can be enhanced with technology, including the brain. While initially rated R in the United States, the film has since been reevaluated for a wider audience, making its themes accessible to younger viewers.
6) Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train
The highly anticipated sequel to the popular anime series, “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train,” made waves in Japan, surpassing “Spirited Away” to become the highest-grossing film in the country’s history, earning over 40 billion yen at the box office.
Building upon the story of Tanjiro Kamado and his quest to avenge his family’s death by the Demon King, who also turned his sister Nezuko into a demon, the film is set in Japan’s Taisho era.
Tanjiro, along with his companions, heads on a mission to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of 40 people aboard a peculiar train.
7) Kiki’s Delivery Service
Adapted from Eiko Kadono’s novel, “Kiki’s Delivery Service” tells the story of a young witch named Kiki who sets out on a journey to find herself at the age of 13, in accordance with witch tradition. In this enchanting universe, witches are embraced by society as helpful figures rather than feared entities.
Landing in the bustling city of Koriko, Kiki discovers her knack for delivery work and forms a heartwarming bond with a kind-hearted bakery owner.
Director Hayao Miyazaki beautifully captures the core of youth and the adventures that come with it, crafting a film that celebrates both the innocence and the challenges of growing up.
8) Perfect Blue
Satoshi Kon’s “Perfect Blue” is the unsettling journey of Mimi Kirigoe, a former J-Pop sensation who transitions to acting, triggering the ire of a disturbed fan.
As Mimi grapples with the consequences of her career shift, she becomes the target of a relentless stalker whose menacing presence blurs the lines between reality and illusion.
Drawing parallels to Darren Aronofsky’s “Black Swan,” Kon’s psychological thriller grips audiences with its intense narrative and striking visual motifs, prompting comparisons between the two cinematic masterpieces.
9) Princess Mononoke
Back in 1996, Studio Ghibli inked a deal with Disney, making the animation giant the exclusive distributor of its films. The first flick to hit the screens through this collaboration was Hayao Miyazaki’s breathtaking masterpiece, “Princess Mononoke,” which Disney rolled out via Harvey Weinstein’s Miramax.
However, the road to release wasn’t smooth sailing. Weinstein, later embroiled in scandal, pushed for hefty edits, but Miyazaki stood firm, insisting on the film’s integrity.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Japan’s Muromachi era, weaving the tale of San, a young woman raised by wolves, and Ashitaka, a noble prince cursed with a fatal affliction.
10) Grave of the Fireflies
Isao Takahata, a celebrated talent from Studio Ghibli, crafted the masterpiece “Grave of the Fireflies.” This film tenderly chronicles the journey of Seita and Setsuko, two siblings struggling for survival amidst the turmoil of World War II’s final days.
Renowned for its portrayal of wartime hardships, “Grave of the Fireflies” is often hailed as one of the most impactful films of its genre. Esteemed critic Roger Ebert described it as “an emotionally resonant experience that reshapes perceptions of animation.”
11) Howl’s Moving Castle
Loosely inspired by Diana Wynne Jones’ novel, Hayao Miyazaki’s “Howl’s Moving Castle” stands as a cherished gem among the director’s esteemed works. This enchanting tale unfolds in a reality where magic and machinery intertwine amidst the turmoil of war.
The narrative centers on Sophie, a humble hatmaker whose encounter with the malevolent Witch of the Waste results in a transformative curse, aging her into an elderly woman. Determined to break the spell, Sophie heads on a journey to confront the witch, ultimately finding herself within the walls of the moving castle.
There, she assumes the role of Howl’s caretaker, tending to the whimsical wizard while discovering her true self along the way.
12) Your Name
Makoto Shinkai’s “Your Name” emerged as a cinematic sensation in 2016. This beautifully animated tale of self-discovery centers on Taki, a city dweller, and Mitsuha, a girl from the countryside, who inexplicably find themselves swapping bodies.
As they maneuver this surreal phenomenon, a profound connection blossoms between them, prompting a heartfelt quest to uncover each other’s identities.
13) Akira
For years, Hollywood has been attempting to bring “Akira” to the big screen, but Katsuhiro Otomo’s iconic anime film has remained a tough act to replicate.
Otomo’s visually stunning masterpiece, adapted from his own manga, gained a dedicated following in the West through underground copies, solidifying its status as a timeless anime classic.
Set in the futuristic city of Neo-Tokyo, the story revolves around a young biker gang work through the urban sprawl after the city’s destruction.
When one of their own, Tetsuo Shima, acquires extraordinary psychokinetic abilities, his newfound power threatens to unleash chaos once again, prompting his friends to intervene before disaster strikes anew.
14) Spirited Away
Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece, “Spirited Away,” directed by the renowned Hayao Miyazaki, tells the enchanting story of Chihiro, a young girl whose life takes a magical turn when her parents undergo a peculiar transformation.
Upon stumbling into what they thought was an abandoned amusement park, Chihiro’s parents find themselves turned into pigs. To reverse the spell and return to their human forms, Chihiro looks for answers in the bathhouse inhabited by spirits, ruled by a powerful witch.
With the help of newfound friends she encounters along the way, Chihiro devises a plan to rescue her parents and find her way back home.
15) My Neighbor Totoro
The iconic figure of Totoro from Studio Ghibli has become a global symbol. Initially released alongside “Grave of the Fireflies,” Hayao Miyazaki’s “My Neighbor Totoro” took some time to gain popularity but eventually became a beloved part of Japanese culture.
The story revolves around sisters Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside with their father to be closer to their ailing mother. Despite the challenges of their new home, they find solace in the nearby forest where they encounter Totoro, a mystical creature who becomes a protector and friend to the girls.
16) The Wind Rises
Hayao Miyazaki’s fascination with flight traces back to his childhood, influenced by his father’s involvement in aircraft manufacturing for the military. This enduring passion is vividly portrayed in “The Wind Rises,” arguably Miyazaki’s most intimate creation.
The film portrays the fictionalized journey of Jiro Horikoshi, inspired by the real-life engineer behind Japan’s WWII fighter jets. Despite being unable to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot due to his nearsightedness, Jiro finds solace and purpose in his work as an aircraft engineer.
However, his ambition to create magnificent planes is clouded by the knowledge that they will be utilized in war.
17) The Boy And The Beast
Mamoru Hosoda’s “The Boy and the Beast” tells a touching story centered on themes of companionship and belonging. It revolves around Ren, a young boy who finds himself alone in the bustling streets of Tokyo following the loss of his mother.
Ren’s life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Kumatetsu, a grumpy yet endearing bear with a surprising proposition.
Despite Ren’s initial reluctance, he agrees to become Kumatetsu’s apprentice, setting off a transformative journey in the hidden Beast Kingdom. Under Kumatetsu’s guidance, Ren hones his skills and grows into a formidable kendo practitioner.
However, his newfound life is interrupted when he receives news of his estranged father’s reappearance. This revelation prompts Ren to confront his past and family ties, leading him to reconcile his dual identities as both a beast’s disciple and a human with unfinished business in Tokyo.
18) The Tale of Princess Kaguya
“The Tale of Princess Kaguya” garnered widespread acclaim upon its release in 2013, marking the culmination of Isao Takahata’s longstanding vision for a cinematic adaptation of the ancient Japanese folktale. The film brings to life the enchanting story of a mysterious girl discovered inside a bamboo shoot by a humble farmer.
As she matures, Princess Kaguya charms those around her, becoming a beloved presence in her village. However, her idyllic existence takes a dramatic turn when her adoptive parents, driven by aspirations of grandeur, decide to relocate her to the bustling city.
Transitioning from rural tranquility to urban unrest, Princess Kaguya head on a journey filled with both wonder and challenges as she grapples with the expectations thrust upon her.
19) Weathering With You
Makoto Shinkai’s “Weathering With You” paints a romantic tale set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s bustling streets and the mysteries of the sky. Hodaka Morishima, a spirited youth seeking a fresh start in the city, finds himself drawn towards urban legends when he takes up a job at an occult magazine.
His curiosity leads him to uncover the fabled Sunshine Girl, rumored to wield the extraordinary power of weather manipulation. To his surprise, he crosses paths with Hina Amano, a resilient young woman working hard to make ends meet.
As their paths intertwine, Hodaka becomes enthralled by Hina’s hidden talent, and the bond between them deepens as they go through life’s unpredictable storms together.
Amidst the bustling metropolis, their love story unfolds against a backdrop of magical realism, with nods to Shinkai’s previous masterpiece, “Your Name.”
20) Millennium Actress
Satoshi Kon’s “Millennium Actress” stands as a testament to his creative brilliance, offering a journey through the life of a former film star. The story unfolds through the eyes of two journalists tasked with discovering the past of Chiyoko Fujiwara, a once-prominent actress.
Initially reluctant to share her tale, Chiyoko’s memories are stirred when presented with a long-lost key, prompting her to head down memory lane. As she recounts her life’s story, the journalists are swept up in a narrative of love, longing, and the pursuit of dreams.
Through Chiyoko’s reminiscences, the film masterfully weaves together moments of joy and sorrow, transporting viewers across time and space to witness the highs and lows of a remarkable life lived on the silver screen.
With Kon’s signature blend of imagination and emotional depth, “Millennium Actress” offers a moving tribute to the power of storytelling.
21) Wolf Children
In Mamoru Hosoda’s “Wolf Children,” the storyline revolves around a mother’s journey as she raises her extraordinary offspring amidst the challenges of everyday life. Hana’s love story takes an unexpected turn when she falls for a man who shares a unique connection with wolves.
Tragedy strikes, leaving Hana to raise two children who inherit their father’s ability to transform into wolves. Determined to provide a normal upbringing, Hana relocates to the countryside, where she hopes her children’s extraordinary nature will remain undetected.
As Yuki and Ame grapple with their dual identities, Hana embraces the joys and struggles of single parenthood, seeking to create a sense of belonging for her unconventional family.
“Wolf Children” beautifully shows themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, offering a heartfelt portrayal of the bonds that unite us, regardless of our differences.
22) A Whisker Away
stunning animation. Despite the setback, anticipation for the dubbed release remained high, and when it finally arrived on the streaming platform in June 2020, the film quickly gained momentum as one of the summer’s standout hits.
The storyline follows Miyo Sasaki, a middle school student who stumbles upon a magical mask that grants her the ability to transform into a cat. Embracing her newfound feline persona, Miyo forms a special bond with her crush while in cat form, contemplating whether to make the transformation permanent.
23) Ride Your Wave
In “Ride Your Wave,” Masaaki Yuasa showcases a different side of his artistic flair, opting for a more refined visual style compared to his previous works. Inspired by the serene allure of surfing culture, the film portrays vibrant blue skies and tranquil ocean vistas, a departure from Yuasa’s signature surreal animation.
The storyline revolves around Hinako Mukaimizu, a college student who finds love in a coastal surf town. Tragically, her firefighter boyfriend loses his life during a rescue mission at sea.
However, Hinako discovers a unique connection with him as he mysteriously appears in water whenever she sings their favorite melody. This heartwarming tale has love, loss, and the power of memory, as Hinako moves forward while cherishing the moments shared with her beloved.
24) Only Yesterday
Isao Takahata’s “Only Yesterday” stands out from the typical Studio Ghibli fare, offering a departure from whimsical fantasies to deliver a heartfelt drama aimed at adult audiences.
Departing from the fantastical scenery often associated with the studio, Takahata crafts a narrative centered on Taeko Okajima, a 27-year-old urbanite who travels to the Japanese countryside.
Taeko’s visit triggers a wave of memories, prompting her to reassess her life choices, particularly in light of her interactions with Toshio, her brother-in-law’s second cousin. As Taeko reflects on her past and confronts her present, “Only Yesterday” unfolds as a path towards personal growth and self-discovery.
Through its relatable protagonist and nostalgic themes, the film resonates with audiences, offering a nuanced portrayal of adulthood and the pursuit of happiness.
25) From Up on Poppy Hill
Directed by Goro Miyazaki, son of the renowned Hayao Miyazaki, “From Up on Poppy Hill” unfolds in Yokohama amid the post-war era. The film centers on Umi Matsuzaki, a 16-year-old residing in a boarding house overlooking the city’s iconic port.
When a poem she pens about the signal flags she raises each morning garners attention in the local high school newspaper, Umi joins forces with Shun Kazama, a fellow staffer, to preserve the school’s clubhouse from demolition.
As they collaborate on their mission, their bond deepens, complicated further by the discovery of an old photograph hinting at a surprising familial connection. Umi and Shun go through adolescence, friendship, and love. “From Up on Poppy Hill” delicately talks about identity, heritage, and the enduring power of nostalgia.
Goro Miyazaki’s direction imbues the narrative with warmth and authenticity, creating a touching cinematic experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.
26) Porco Rosso
Hayao Miyazaki’s affection for Italy shines through in his work, with the very name “Ghibli” derived from an Italian term meaning “hot desert wind.” In 1990, the acclaimed filmmaker goes to Italy for location scouting, laying the groundwork for his animated masterpiece, “Porco Rosso.”
Set against the backdrop of a fictionalized Italy post-World War I, the film unfolds with vibrant animation, depicting the tale of a former fighter pilot transformed into an anthropomorphic pig by a mysterious curse. Now leading a life as a seasoned bounty hunter, he roams the skies above the Mediterranean Sea.
“Porco Rosso” shows Miyazaki’s fascination with flight and adventure, blending it seamlessly with elements of fantasy and nostalgia.
27) The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
Mamoru Hosoda made his mark on anime with “Digimon: The Movie” in the early 2000s, followed by the acclaimed “Baron Omatsuri and the Secret Island,” a standout in “One Piece” movies.
However, it was his next creation, the sci-fi romance “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time,” that truly solidified his reputation as a visionary filmmaker. The story revolves around Makoto Konno, a typical 17-year-old high school student, who discovers an extraordinary ability to manipulate time after a near-fatal encounter with a train.
As she grapples with the implications of her newfound power, Makoto maneuvers adolescence and the consequences of altering the fabric of time itself.
Hosoda’s film charms audiences with its showcase of youth, love, and the choices that shape our destinies. Through its engaging narrative and vibrant animation, “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time” transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, earning Hosoda comparisons to the legendary Hayao Miyazaki.
28) Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Hayao Miyazaki’s “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” is often considered a precursor to the iconic films of Studio Ghibli, laying the foundation for the studio’s signature style and themes.
Set in a distant future ravaged by environmental catastrophe and warfare, the story follows Princess Nausicaä as she maneuvers a reality plagued by toxic jungles and giant insect creatures.
Despite the chaos surrounding her, Nausicaä remains a beacon of hope, advocating for peace and coexistence between humans and nature.
Miyazaki’s masterful storytelling and richly imagined universe bewitches audiences, while the film’s profound showcase of environmentalism and the consequences of war resonates deeply with viewers.
29) I Want to Eat Your Pancreas
“I Want to Eat Your Pancreas,” released in 2018, tells the poignant story of Sakura, a high school girl facing a terminal illness. When Haruki, another student, learns of Sakura’s secret struggle with pancreatic disease, he offers to help her fulfill her bucket list.
Despite the heaviness of the subject matter, the film has themes of friendship, love, and the importance of cherishing every moment. Viewers are drawn into the emotional journey of Sakura and Haruki as they learn the bittersweetness of life and mortality.
The film’s beautifully animated scenes and heartfelt storytelling evoke a range of emotions, from laughter to tears. “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is a touching reminder of the preciousness of life and the bonds we form with others along the way.
30) Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust
Yoshiaki Kawajiri, known for his work on “Ninja Scroll,” directed “Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust,” which is based on Hideyuki Kikuchi’s popular series of “Vampire Hunter” novels. In this installment, the D faces off against the sinister Baron Meier Link, a powerful vampire accused of abducting Charlotte Elbourne.
Hired by Charlotte’s concerned family, D tries to rescue her from the clutches of the baron. However, upon finding Charlotte, D learns that she willingly accompanied the baron, having fallen deeply in love with him and choosing to stay by his side.
The story unfolds into a thrilling tale of romance, intrigue, and the eternal struggle between humans and vampires. As D unravels the mystery surrounding Charlotte and the baron, he must confront his own beliefs and convictions.
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