Japan has been producing some of the best animated films in the world for decades, with anime and manga creators crafting unforgettable characters and stories in fantastical settings. Unfortunately, many of these great films have not received widespread release or publicity in English-speaking countries. Often, the only way to view these films is through a quiet home media or streaming service launch, making it difficult for audiences to discover them.
To help fans of anime discover more of this incredible avenue of filmmaking, a list of the best anime movies of all time has been compiled. While some of the movies on the list are well-known, such as those produced by Studio Ghibli and the Pokémon franchise, there are also some lesser-known gems that deserve more attention.
The list includes Akira, a groundbreaking film that explores themes of power, corruption, and youth rebellion; The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, a retelling of a classic Japanese folktale in a stunning watercolor style; and Pokémon 3: The Movie, which follows the beloved characters as they face a new villain who threatens the balance of the world.
Other films on the list include Angel’s Egg, a haunting and surreal exploration of existential themes; Paprika, a mind-bending sci-fi thriller about dreams and reality; and The Castle of Cagliostro, a swashbuckling adventure with a master thief as the protagonist.
Also featured are The End of Evangelion, a deeply emotional and philosophical conclusion to the popular anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion; 5 Centimeters Per Second, a bittersweet exploration of love and distance; Little Prince and the Eight-Headed Dragon, a classic tale of heroism and adventure; Belladonna of Sadness, a provocative and visually stunning film that explores themes of sexuality and power; Ghost in the Shell, a cyberpunk classic that explores the nature of identity and consciousness; and Spirited Away, an Academy Award-winning masterpiece that takes viewers on a magical journey through a mysterious world of spirits and monsters.
In conclusion, these anime films represent some of the best that Japan has to offer in terms of animated storytelling. While they may not have received the same level of attention as Disney or Pixar movies, they are certainly worth seeking out and experiencing for oneself.
