48 Essential Anime Films
48 titles
- 1
Princess MononokeMovie · 1997 · 134m · Adventure, Fantasy, AnimationPrince Ashitaka of the Emishi is cursed by a vengeful boar god and journeys west seeking a cure. His travels force him to confront the clash between those who want to protect the forest and those who seek to exploit it. He meets San, a fierce protector of the woods, and Lady Eboshi, a determined leader aiming for prosperity by using the forest's resources. Ashitaka must now navigate the conflict between these opposing forces, searching for a way to find balance between nature and humanity.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.3 - 2
PromareMovie · 2019 · 111m · Animation, Action, Science FictionThe Galo and the Burning Rescue Fire Department confronts BURNISH, a group of mutants with the power to control fire, who have triggered a global fire disaster.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 3
MetropolisMovie · 2001 · 107m · Animation, Science FictionIn the futuristic city of Metropolis, amidst growing social unrest, Kenichi and his uncle Shunsaku Ban investigate the origins of Tima, the first robot designed to closely resemble a human being.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 4
Barefoot GenMovie · 1983 · 83m · Animation, Drama, WarThe film follows a young boy's experience of the aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It shows how this historical disaster deeply affected the Japanese people, changing their lives and minds as they faced a world transformed by immense destruction. The story explores resilience, survival, and hope in the face of ruin and despair, highlighting a pivotal moment in history and reminding us of humanity's capacity for both destruction and perseverance.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 5
Giovanni's IslandMovie · 2014 · 102m · Animation, Drama, HistoryFollowing a catastrophic global war, the small island of Shikotan becomes part of the Sakhalin Oblast. On the still-scarred border of this isolated region, a fragile friendship develops between children from two different nations. They navigate language differences and the weight of past conflicts as they try to connect. Based on true events.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.5 - 6
The Tale of the White SerpentMovie · 1958 · 79m · Animation, FantasyA young man named Xu-Xian accidentally releases a snake goddess, Bai-Niang, who then falls in love with him. After a magical change into human form, Bai-Niang sets out to find him, but her journey is complicated when a wizard wrongly accuses Xu-Xian of being a vampire and banishes him from the village. Determined to help their owner, two pandas, Panda and Mimi, form an animal gang and try to restore Xu-Xian's reputation. The story is a whimsical exploration of love, loyalty, and self-discovery, drawing on ancient myths and beliefs.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 7
Night Is Short, Walk On GirlMovie · 2017 · 93m · Comedy, Romance, AnimationA group of university students enjoy a night out, and a sophomore known as "The Girl with Black Hair" has a series of strange experiences throughout the city's nightlife. Unbeknownst to her, a senior student, "Senpai," is persistently trying to win her affection by inventing increasingly elaborate excuses to see her.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 8
The Case of Hana & AliceMovie · 2015 · 99m · Animation, Comedy, MysteryA Japanese girl having trouble adjusting to her new school finds an unlikely ally in a withdrawn neighbor. Together, they investigate the disappearance of an older student whose vanishing was shrouded in mystery.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3 - 9
AkiraMovie · 1988 · 124m · Animation, Science Fiction, ActionIn a futuristic Neo-Tokyo, a top-secret government experiment goes wrong, transforming a biker gang member into a dangerous psychic. This unstable individual threatens the city's survival. Two ordinary teenagers and a group of people with psychic abilities must join forces to control this destructive force and save their home. The story explores loyalty, trust, and the dangers of science gone too far, set against a visually impressive dystopian backdrop with intense action.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 10
A Thousand and One NightsMovie · 1969 · 128m · Animation, Drama, FantasySet in the Middle East, the film follows Aldin, a nomadic water carrier who journeys in search of love, wealth, and power. His travels take him through diverse lands, where he experiences both beautiful and difficult events that challenge him.
The movie immerses viewers in a vibrant world, exploring ambition, sacrifice, and the search for happiness. Aldin's experiences invite us to consider the complexities of human desires and the impact of our decisions.
This moving story explores love, ambition, and power through the eyes of a simple water vendor. With its powerful storytelling and beautiful visuals, the film reminds us of life’s uncertainties and the strength of the human spirit.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.7 - 11
ArionMovie · 1986 · 119mArion was taken by Hades as a child and raised with the belief that his mother was blinded by Zeus. He's told that killing Zeus, the ruler of Mount Olympus, is the only way to restore her sight.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 12
Voices of a Distant StarMovie · 2002 · 25m · Animation, Science Fiction, RomanceIn 2046, a mysterious alien force starts wiping out humanity. Mikako joins the interstellar fight as a pilot, leaving behind the person she loves. While she risks everything to save humankind, Noboru waits for her. The two lovers struggle to stay connected as the distance between them grows rapidly.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 13
Revolutionary Girl Utena: The MovieMovie · 1999 · 85m · Animation, Fantasy, ActionWhen Utena Tenjou joins Ohtori Academy, she becomes caught in a world of duels, secret abilities, and the destinies of her friends. Her classmate Anthy Himemiya becomes the focus of these duels, attracting challengers who fight for her and the power she seems to possess. Utena reconnects with Touga Kiryuu, an old friend who knows about the dark secrets at Ohtori.
As Utena tries to understand these mysteries, she must decide whether to accept a growing strength or risk losing everything she cares about. This story explores friendship, power, and the search for love and connection. Will Utena find the courage to uncover the truth about Anthy's power before it destroys them?IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.4 - 14
Robot CarnivalMovie · 1987 · 90m · Animation, Science FictionThis anthology film presents a collection of stories connected by robots as central characters. The tales span drama, comedy, and science fiction, each using unique artistic styles from hand-drawn animation to CGI. The film offers a visually stunning exploration of how humans and robots relate, examining themes of love, fear, friendship, and what it means to be alive in the age of technology.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 15
Ringing BellMovie · 1978 · 46m · Animation, Drama, FamilyIn a peaceful valley, Chirin lives a simple life with his family on their farm, unaware of the dangers beyond their home. His world is shattered when a wolf kills his mother, leaving him consumed by grief and a desire for revenge. He follows the wolf into the wilderness, determined to make it pay.
As Chirin journeys through unfamiliar lands, he discovers that true strength comes from resilience and adapting to new situations. Facing challenges and encountering different creatures, he begins to question the difference between survival and becoming the cruel thing he hunts. This difficult journey tests his own values and the price of becoming stronger, potentially losing his innocence in the process.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 16
Momotaro, Sacred SailorsMovie · 1945 · 74mDirected by Mitsuyo Seo and produced by Shochiku Moving Picture Laboratory, this 74-minute black and white film, released in 1945, is a sequel to Seo's 1943 film *Momotarō no Umiwashi*. Commissioned by the Japanese Naval Ministry as war propaganda, the movie depicts Japan’s "liberation of Asia." Despite its wartime origins, Seo subtly incorporates elements of dreams and hope, aiming to offer children solace and instill a yearning for peace. It premiered on April 12, 1945.IMDb 5.5TMDB 4.5 - 17
Whisper of the HeartMovie · 1995 · 111m · Animation, Drama, FamilyShizuku, a young girl who loves stories and writing, lives a quiet life filled with the adventures of fictional characters. Her world shifts when she discovers that all the books she's borrowed from the library were previously read by the same person: Seiji Amasawa. This discovery sparks her curiosity and sets her on an unexpected journey to learn about him.
The story shows how these ordinary lives become connected through a shared love of stories and words. The film gently explores themes of connection, ambition, and how literature can change us, prompting viewers to think about their own relationship with reading. With a gentle tone and beautiful visuals, the film reminds us that life holds unexpected moments of beauty and chance encounters.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.0 - 18
Mai Mai MiracleMovie · 2009 · 94m · Animation, Adventure, DramaYoung Shinko, inspired by her grandfather's tales, creates imaginative stories about her hometown's past. However, the challenges of adolescence begin to overshadow her fantasies.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 19
Angel's EggMovie · 1985 · 71m · Animation, Fantasy, MysteryIn a bleak, empty world, a young girl searches for water. She carries a single, precious egg, protecting it from the harsh environment. A mysterious stranger appears, and they begin to talk about their desolate world and the forces shaping their lives. Their conversation creates a fragile connection, offering brief moments of hope in the darkness.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.7 - 20
Alakazam the Great!Movie · 1960 · 88mA monkey king gains magical powers and repeatedly disrupts the gods, leading to his imprisonment. To atone for his actions, he's tasked with protecting a prince – the son of the gods – during a perilous journey across a land teeming with monsters, cannibals, and demons.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.4 - 21
Flying Phantom ShipMovie · 1969 · 60mA giant robot attacks Hayato's city, leaving his parents dead and his best friend only his dog. Consumed by vengeance against the Phantom Ship, the robot's sender, Hayato seeks out Kuroshio, the city's leader in the fight against the Phantom Ship. While exploring an underground passage, Hayato uncovers a hidden truth that contradicts everything Kuroshio has revealed. Now in grave danger, he realizes he's the only one who can prevent the villains from succeeding.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1 - 22
Jin-Roh: The Wolf BrigadeMovie · 1999 · 102m · Animation, Drama, RomanceThis intense drama follows a counter-terrorism operative grappling with the emotional fallout of a young girl's suicide bombing. While undergoing retraining, he becomes entangled in the intricate dynamics and rivalries within the police department. The girl's sister emerges as a significant presence in his life, and their mutual grief forges an unforeseen connection. The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and strength as the protagonist confronts his emotional wounds and seeks a path toward healing and a fresh start.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 23
TekkonkinkreetMovie · 2006 · 103m · Action, Adventure, AnimationBlack and White, two orphaned children, fight to survive in the harsh streets of Treasure Town. Their lives are upended when a powerful corporation plans to demolish the town for a new amusement park, forcing them into a desperate struggle for their home.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 24
Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of EvangelionMovie · 1997 · 87m · Animation, Science Fiction, DramaSeele launches a major attack on NERV, hoping to destroy the Evas before Gendo can complete his dangerous plan. Alliances are tested as the conflict intensifies, threatening the world's fate. Will NERV survive Seele's assault and prevent Gendo's plan for Instrumentality and Third Impact? The story is a thrilling mix of political maneuvering and action, exploring themes of power, destiny, and sacrifice.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.3 - 25
Grave of the FirefliesMovie · 1988 · 89m · Animation, Drama, WarIn the last months of World War II, this moving story follows siblings Seita and Setsuko as they cope with the loss of their mother in an air raid that destroyed Kobe, Japan. After a conflict with their aunt, the children are forced to live in a deserted bomb shelter. As supplies run out, Seita and Setsuko face hunger and despair, relying on each other for strength. The film is a reminder of the resilience of young people and the power of family love during terrible times.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.4 - 26
Perfect BlueMovie · 1998 · 82m · Animation, ThrillerMima, a rising pop star, is encouraged by her management to star in a popular TV show. Balancing her music career with this new challenge, she begins to notice a disturbing pattern. Her managers and collaborators are being murdered, one by one, making her increasingly fearful of the repercussions. The film explores identity, fame, and the merging of reality and fiction as Mima tries to uncover the truth behind these unsettling events while trying to keep her career going.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.3 - 27
My Neighbor TotoroMovie · 1988 · 86m · Fantasy, Animation, FamilyTwo sisters, Kiki and Chizu, leave their city home and move with their father to be near their mother, who is hospitalized. While adjusting to their new surroundings, they discover a magical secret: ancient Totoros live in the forest.
The youngest sister, Satsuyu, finds a giant, flying Totoro who becomes her friend. When Satsuyu runs away upset, Kiki, the older sister, must seek help from the Totoros to find her.
The sisters go on a fantastical journey together, strengthening their bond and connection to nature. The film shows how magic can be found everywhere and how love helps during difficult times.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1 - 28
MidoriMovie · 1992 · 55m · Animation, Drama, HorrorThis is the story of Midori, a young girl whose life changes drastically when her parents die. Alone and vulnerable, she is taken in by a carnival and becomes exploited working as a flower seller. Her situation worsens as she endures physical and emotional abuse from those who say they are helping her.
A small, unusual magician enters her life, offering a glimmer of hope. His captivating illusions spark a sense of possibility within Midori, and with his support, she starts to believe in a better future.
The film explores themes of strength, hope, and the importance of human connection as Midori navigates a path toward healing and finding herself. The magician's world of wonder reminds her that even difficult experiences can lead to unexpected growth and opportunities.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1 - 29
Ninja ScrollMovie · 1993 · 94m · Fantasy, Adventure, AnimationSet in feudal Japan, this action film follows Jubei, a masterless ninja who works as a mercenary. His freedom leads him on many adventures, but his life is threatened when a plot to control the country unfolds. The story shows the complex power struggles of the time, as Jubei's loyalty is challenged by political intrigue. He must use his skills to survive and uphold his reputation as the best ninja.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 30
Royal Space Force - The Wings of HonneamiseMovie · 1987 · 121m · Animation, Science FictionIn a future world consumed by war between the nations of Honneamise and The Republic, a group of dreamers launches an ambitious space program to escape the violence. Shirotsugh Lhadatt, an astronaut candidate, joins this program and undergoes a profound transformation, growing from a lost person into a leader determined to push humanity forward.
Against a backdrop of possible global disaster and driven by a yearning for change, the film explores personal growth, responsibility, and the potential for good within people. As Shirotsugh faces the challenges of leadership and wartime choices, the story is an emotional experience that examines war, ambition, and the pursuit of knowledge during crisis.
With stunning visuals and a moving story, the film prompts viewers to think about their place in the future, reminding us that hope can endure even in difficult times.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 31
Summer WarsMovie · 2009 · 114m · Animation, Science FictionKenji Koiso, a teenage math prodigy, takes a summer job in his crush Natsuki's hometown. He discovers her family is gathered for their matriarch's 90th birthday and is asked to pretend to be Natsuki's fiancé. Simultaneously, Kenji's efforts to solve a complex mathematical problem inadvertently trigger a collision between our world and a parallel one.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.5 - 32
Horus: Prince of the SunMovie · 1968 · 82m · Adventure, Drama, AnimationIn ancient Scandinavia, a young man named Horus embarks on a quest when the Sword of the Sun, a symbol of his people's heritage, is stolen. He must overcome a giant rock creature guarding the path to retrieve it. After outsmarting the giant, Horus receives a prophecy: he must travel to his ancestors' homeland, facing dangerous landscapes and dark challenges. Along the way, he meets Hilda, a mysterious woman who becomes his companion. Their journey intertwines romance with mythology as Horus learns to accept his destiny and the hidden wonders of his world.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 33
Belladonna of SadnessMovie · 1973 · 87m · Animation, Drama, FantasyThis is a dark story of revenge in a strict, old-fashioned society. On her wedding night, a young woman is brutally attacked by the lord she's supposed to marry. Afterward, she's exiled from her village and family. Desperate, she makes a dangerous deal with supernatural beings, gaining powerful abilities in exchange for her soul. Driven by these powers, she sets out on a perilous journey to get revenge on the lord who ruined her life.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 34
The Wonderful World of Puss 'n BootsMovie · 1969 · 80mHe tries to protect those who can't protect themselves, but rescuing a mouse makes him a fugitive. Hunted relentlessly by foolish mice, Perro teams up with a young miller's boy named Pierre. They set out together hoping for fame and wealth. Their journey leads them to Princess Rosa, and Perro is determined to find Pierre a place by her side.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 35
Night on the Galactic RailroadMovie · 1985 · 108mGiovanni leads a bleak existence, consumed by work and relentlessly mocked by his classmates. His workplace offers no warmth or support. Overwhelmed by social isolation, he impulsively boards a train, leaving his unhappy home behind. He's joined by Campanella, a fellow student, and together they begin a journey that will fundamentally change Giovanni’s life.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.2 - 36
Mind GameMovie · 2004 · 103m · Animation, Romance, ComedyNishi is a failure with a longing for his childhood sweetheart. Following a run-in with the Japanese mafia, he experiences a trip to heaven and back, only to find himself stranded in an even stranger location.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 37
A Silent Voice: The MovieMovie · 2016 · 129m · Animation, Drama, RomanceShouya Ishida begins to bully Shouko Nishimiya, a new classmate who is deaf. As his teasing escalates, the other students in the class begin to disapprove of Shouya's cruelty. After elementary school, Shouko and Shouya lose all contact. Years later, a grown-up Shouya, haunted by his past actions, resolves to find Shouko and make amends. But can he ever truly atone for what he did?IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.4 - 38
On-Gaku: Our SoundMovie · 2020 · 71m · Animation, Comedy, MusicThree aimless high school students form a rock band. Lacking talent, funds, and even basic equipment like a complete drum kit, they're driven by a desire to play music and win over their closest friend.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 39
Tokyo GodfathersMovie · 2003 · 92m · Animation, Drama, ComedyOn Christmas Eve, three homeless people in Tokyo find a newborn baby discarded in the trash and decide to search for the child's parents.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.9 - 40
Your Name.Movie · 2016 · 106m · Animation, Romance, DramaMitsuha and Taki are two teenagers with completely different lives. Then, one night, they inexplicably swap bodies. Mitsuha wakes up in Taki's body, and Taki finds himself in Mitsuha's. This strange body-swapping continues to occur unpredictably, forcing them to navigate each other’s lives.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.5 - 41
The Spider and the TulipMovie · 1943 · 16mA spider tries to catch a ladybug in its web. The ladybug escapes and hides in a tulip. A storm then hits, damaging the spider's web, but the ladybug stays safe inside.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 42
Porco RossoMovie · 1992 · 93m · Family, Comedy, AnimationIn 1930s Italy, this animated film tells the story of Porco Rosso, a former World War I pilot transformed into a pig. He's the only pilot brave enough to fight sky pirates who are attacking ships in the Adriatic Sea.
Preparing for a major battle against a skilled American pilot, Porco Rosso teams up with a clever young mechanic named Fio Piccolo and seeks advice from his friend Madame Gina. As he fights to protect the skies and the seas, danger is always present.
The film explores themes of loyalty and friendship, set against beautiful Mediterranean scenery, and features exciting aerial combat. It's an adventurous, humorous, and thoughtful story, celebrating the history of flight and offering a memorable cinematic experience.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.8 - 43
Liz and the Blue BirdMovie · 2018 · 91m · Animation, Drama, MusicDuring their final year of high school, two girls in the school's brass band perform a piece of music inspired by a fairy tale that reflects their own close friendship.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.5 - 44
Ghost in the ShellMovie · 1995 · 83m · Action, Animation, Science FictionIn 2029, technology has blurred the lines between the real and digital worlds, giving people new abilities but also new risks, especially brain hacking. A mysterious hacker known as The Puppetmaster has increased their activity, now targeting political matters. So, Section 9, a special team of law enforcement officers with cybernetic enhancements, is tasked with stopping this elusive enemy and discovering their identity. Their goal is to capture The Puppetmaster and protect society from the dangers of digital control.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.9 - 45
Ghost in the Shell 2: InnocenceMovie · 2004 · 100m · Animation, Drama, Science FictionDetective Batou is tasked with solving a string of murders committed by gynoids – highly advanced, doll-like cyborgs. Each gynoid malfunctions, kills its victims, and then self-destructs. It appears their core programming activates to safeguard their manufacturer's data. However, in one gynoid that Batou personally disabled, a single file remains: a voice uttering the plea, "Help me."IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 46
The Tale of The Princess KaguyaMovie · 2013 · 137m · Animation, Drama, FantasyA bamboo cutter and his wife discover a tiny girl inside a bamboo stalk. She grows quickly into a beautiful young woman, captivating everyone she meets. However, she eventually faces a predetermined destiny.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1 - 47
Urotsukidōji: Legend of the OverfiendMovie · 1989 · 106m · Animation, Action, HorrorBeneath modern-day Japan's bustling cities exist hidden worlds: the demonic Makai and the hybrid Jujinkai. Legend says every 3000 years, a being called the "Choujin" appears to restore balance. In present-day Japan, Amano Jyaku, a Jujinkai, discovers evidence of the Choujin within Tatsuo Nagumo, an ordinary high school student. As Amano works to protect Nagumo and his new girlfriend Akemi Ito, alongside his sister Megumi and friend Kuroko, they face the Makai. The Makai believe Nagumo is not the savior, but a dangerous force threatening Earth. This story blends action, supernatural elements, and personal relationships, exploring destiny's impact in a world where myth becomes real.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.0 - 48
Taro the Dragon BoyMovie · 1979 · 75mInspired by Japanese art and silk screens, *Taro, The Dragon Boy* is an animated film exploring Japanese mythology and culture. It follows Taro, a young boy on a journey to a faraway lake. His mission: to save his mother, who has been transformed into a dragon.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.5
