Anime has evolved into a global phenomenon, with millions of fans eagerly awaiting the latest releases. Anime movies offer a captivating viewing experience with stunning animation and powerful stories. To help navigate the overwhelming options, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best anime movies of all time.
We have selected the movies based on their artistic quality, storytelling depth, and cultural impact. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Japanese animation, these movies are sure to impress.
Table of Contents
20 Best Anime Movies List
Anime has revolutionized the entertainment industry, creating a vast and diverse landscape of animated productions that have captivated audiences worldwide. Among the countless anime films produced over the years, a select few stand out for their exceptional storytelling, stunning visuals, and lasting impact on the genre.
These titles have earned their place among the best anime movies of all time. Also, they continue to inspire and enthrall new generations of viewers.
Each of these movies is a masterpiece, a work of art that has become a cultural phenomenon. Fans of all ages and backgrounds have loved the movies. Whether you’re a seasoned anime enthusiast or new to the genre, these films are a must-watch, offering a glimpse into the limitless possibilities of animation and the power of storytelling to move and inspire us.
So let’s start the list of best anime movies of all time.
1. A Silent Voice (2016)
Prepare to be moved by A Silent Voice, a touching coming-of-age drama that explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and empathy.
This emotional journey of self-discovery and redemption is brought to life. All this is due to stunning animation and a beautiful soundtrack, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Follow the story of a young boy named Shoya who seeks to make a good relationship with a deaf girl he once bullied.
2. Akira (1988)
Akira is a masterpiece of the cyberpunk genre and a must-watch for anime fans. In this sci-fi epic, a teenage biker named Kaneda and his friends try to stop a secret government project that threatens to destroy Tokyo in a dystopian future.
With its revolutionary animation, complex characters, and groundbreaking themes, Akira has become a cultural touchstone.
3. Castle in the Sky (1986)
Legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. Castle directed the film. Castle in the Sky is a whimsical adventure story set in a fantastical world of floating islands and ancient technology.
The film follows the story of a young girl named Sheeta and a young boy named Pazu as they race to find the fabled castle in the sky before it falls into the wrong hands. The film contains enchanting world-building, memorable characters, and stunning visuals. All this makes Castle in the Sky a must-watch for fans of Miyazaki’s work.
4. Cowboy Bebop: The Movie (2001)
Get ready for a thrilling ride with Cowboy Bebop: The Movie, a standalone story within the Cowboy Bebop universe. Follow the bounty hunter crew of the spaceship Bebop as they track down a dangerous terrorist on Mars in this sci-fi action movie.
With its slick animation, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack, Cowboy Bebop: The Movie is a must-watch for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
5. Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Explore thought-provoking themes of identity, consciousness, and humanity in the seminal work of the cyberpunk genre, Ghost in the Shell. It is a must-have member of any anime movies list.
Follow the story of a cyborg police officer named Major Motoko Kusanagi. Here she hunts down a notorious hacker known as the Puppet Master. With its groundbreaking animation and its cult classic status, Ghost in the Shell is a must-watch for anime fans.
6. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)
A heartwarming and charming coming-of-age story, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time tells the story of a high school student named Makoto who gains the ability to time travel.
As she tries to make the most of her newfound power, Makoto learns valuable lessons about life, love, and the consequences of her actions. With its relatable characters, beautiful animation, and touching story, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
7. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
A devastatingly powerful anti-war movie that tells the story of two siblings struggling to survive in war-torn Japan during World War II, Grave of the Fireflies is a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict.
The film includes haunting visuals, unforgettable characters, and an unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war. Grave of the Fireflies is a must-watch for anime fans and anyone interested in the human toll of war. If you are an anime series fan then this movie will blow you.
8. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
Legendary Hayao Miyazaki has directed this visually stunning masterpiece anime. Howl’s Moving Castle tells the story of a young girl, Sophie who is cursed by a witch. The curse has transformed her into an old woman.
She seeks the help of the wizard Howl, who lives in a magical castle that can move across the countryside. With its imaginative world-building, lovable characters, and breathtaking animation, Howl’s Moving Castle is a must-watch for anime fans.
9. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
A heartwarming and enchanting story about two young sisters who move to the countryside to be closer to their sick mother, My Neighbor Totoro is a beloved classic that has captured the imaginations of audiences of all ages.
The movie follows the girls as they discover magical creatures and embark on fantastical adventures, all while learning the importance of family, friendship, and the wonders of the natural world. Its iconic character, Totoro, has become a symbol of childhood wonder and imagination.
10. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
One of the earliest works of Hayao Miyazaki, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a post-apocalyptic epic that takes place in a world ravaged by environmental catastrophe. The movie follows the story of a young princess named Nausicaä, who seeks to protect her people and restore the balance of nature.
With its complex themes, breathtaking animation, and memorable characters, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a must-watch for anime fans. Its ecological message is still relevant today, making it a timeless classic.
11. Ninja Scroll (1993)
A violent and action-packed samurai movie that has become a cult classic, Ninja Scroll follows the story of Jubei, a wandering swordsman who must battle a group of deadly ninja assassins.
With its brutal fight scenes, stunning animation, and gripping storyline, Ninja Scroll is a must-watch for fans of the genre. Get ready to experience some of the most intense sword fights you’ve ever seen.
12. Paprika (2006)
A mind-bending sci-fi movie that explores the nature of dreams and consciousness, Paprika tells the story of a group of scientists who develop a machine that allows people to enter and explore their dreams.
When the machine falls into the wrong hands, chaos ensues, and it’s up to a young researcher named Paprika to save the day. With its stunning visuals and thought-provoking themes, Paprika is a must-watch for anime fans. Prepare to have your mind blown by the mind-bending visuals and unique storytelling.
13. Perfect Blue (1999)
A dark and psychological thriller that explores the dark side of the entertainment industry, Perfect Blue tells the story of a young pop singer named Mima who is forced to confront the twisted realities of fame and stardom.
With its tense atmosphere, complex characters, and stunning animation, Perfect Blue is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions and a deep dive into the price of fame.
14. Princess Mononoke (1997)
Another classic work of Hayao Miyazaki, Princess Mononoke is an epic fantasy adventure that takes place in a world of gods and demons. The movie follows the story of a young prince named Ashitaka, who seeks to find a cure for a deadly curse that has befallen him.
Along the way, he becomes embroiled in a conflict between humans and the forest gods, led by the fierce Princess Mononoke. With its breathtaking animation, memorable characters, and complex themes, Princess Mononoke is a must-watch for anime fans. Get ready to be transported to a world of magic, adventure, and epic battles.
15. Spirited Away (2001)
A magical and enchanting story about a young girl named Chihiro who is transported to a fantastical world of spirits and monsters, Spirited Away is a masterpiece that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. The movie follows Chihiro as she tries to find a way to escape this strange world and return to her own.
Along the way, she meets a cast of memorable characters and learns important lessons about courage, friendship, and the power of self-discovery. Let yourself be swept away by the magic and wonder of this timeless masterpiece.
16. Summer Wars (2009)
A unique and visually stunning movie that blends elements of science fiction, romance, and family drama, Summer Wars tells the story of a young math genius named Kenji who is recruited to help his crush, Natsuki, solve a crisis in her family’s virtual reality world.
With its creative world-building, lovable characters, and breathtaking action scenes, Summer Wars is a must-watch for anime fans. Fun fact: The virtual world in the movie was inspired by the real-life social network, Second Life.
17. Tokyo Godfathers (2003)
A heartwarming tale of three homeless people who find an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve and set out on a journey to find the child’s parents, Tokyo Godfathers is a touching story about the power of kindness, friendship, and family.
Directed by the legendary Satoshi Kon, the movie balances moments of humor and sadness to create a truly unforgettable experience. The movie is also a nod to John Ford’s classic western, Three Godfathers.
18. Weathering With You (2019)
From the director of the critically acclaimed, Your Name comes another stunning masterpiece that combines breathtaking visuals with a touching story about love and sacrifice. Set in a world where rain never stops, the movie follows a young boy named Hodaka who meets a mysterious girl named Hina, who has the power to control the weather.
As the two become closer, they must make difficult choices that will change their lives forever. The movie was a box office success in Japan and everyone praise it for its stunning animation and pleasing music pieces.
19. Wolf Children (2012)
A unique and heartwarming movie about a young woman named Hana who falls in love with a wolf-man and raises their two children alone after he passes away. As the children grow up, they must navigate the challenges of being half-human and half-wolf, while also coming to terms with their own identities.
With its stunning animation and touching story, Wolf Children is a must-watch for anyone who loves heartwarming family dramas. Fun fact: The movie was partially inspired by the director’s own experience of raising his daughter as a single father.
20. Your Name (2016)
One of the most successful anime movies of all time, Your Name tells the story of two teenagers who mysteriously switch bodies and must find a way to communicate and navigate each other’s lives. Makoto Shinkai is the director of the movie. The film combines stunning visuals with a touching story about love, loss, and the power of fate.
With its memorable characters and unforgettable soundtrack, Your Name has become a modern classic in the world of anime. The movie was so successful that it became the highest-grossing anime movie worldwide surpassing Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away.
Conclusion
Anime movies have had a profound influence on cinema, breaking new ground in animation and tackling important themes.
Their popularity has grown thanks to wider availability and streaming services. These 20 movies are the best examples of creativity and talent in the industry, offering something for everyone. Now Sit back and relax, and experience multiple unforgettable worlds.
FAQs
What are the big 4 anime?
Dragon Ball, One Piece, Naruto, and Bleach are known as the “Big Four” in anime.
Where is anime most popular?
In Japan, Anime is very popular with millions of active viewers.
Which is the best anime movie of all time?
Many anime lovers consider Spirited Away as the best anime movie of all time.
What is the best romance anime movie?
A Silent Voice is known as the best romance anime movie of all time.