Best Anime Movies of All Time - Top 10 Ranked [with Year]
by B Kishwar
Updated Apr 05, 2023
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Best Anime Movies of All Time
Best Anime Movies of all Time" is a term used to describe the most acclaimed and popular animated films produced in Japan, which have gained widespread recognition and appreciation from both anime enthusiasts and mainstream audiences around the world. These movies often feature intricate plots, compelling characters, stunning visuals, and memorable soundtracks, and they cover a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to romance and drama. Some of the most renowned anime movies of all time include classics like Akira, Ghost in the Shell, and My Neighbor Totoro, as well as more recent hits like Your Name, Weathering with You, and Demon Slayer: Mugen Train. Overall, the "Best Anime Movies of all Time" represent the pinnacle of animation storytelling and artistry, and continue to inspire and captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Other notable anime movies include the cyberpunk thriller Perfect Blue, the action-packed Ninja Scroll, the post-apocalyptic Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, and the coming-of-age drama Grave of the Fireflies. With its rich storytelling, striking visuals, and wide-ranging themes, anime has become a globally recognized and influential art form, inspiring countless fans and creators around the world.
Top 10 Best Anime Movies of All Time
The anime movies represent the pinnacle of anime storytelling and craftsmanship, featuring intricate plots, well-developed characters, stunning animation, and memorable soundtracks. The specific movies that make up the "Top 10 Anime Movies" can vary depending on the source, but some of the most frequently cited titles are listed below. Have a read!
S. No
Best Anime Movies
Year
1
Spirited Away
2001
2
Akira
1988
3
Ghost In The Shell
1997
4
Ninja Scroll
1993
5
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
2006
6
Summer Wars
2009
7
Perfect Blue
1999
8
Your Name
2016
9
Weathering With You
2019
10
Cowboy Bebop: The Movie
2001
1. Spirited Away (2001)
"Spirited Away" is a beloved classic directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. It tells the story of a young girl named Chihiro who, after wandering into a mysterious and magical world, must work in a bathhouse for the spirits in order to save her parents and find her way back home. The film's stunning visuals and imaginative storytelling have made it one of the most beloved and acclaimed anime movies of all time, with a richly developed world and complex characters that have captured the hearts of audiences around the world.
2. Akira (1988)
"AKIRA" is a groundbreaking anime movie directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, based on his own manga series. The film is set in post-apocalyptic Tokyo and follows a group of biker gang members who get involved in a government experiment involving psychic powers and military technology. With its stunning visuals, action-packed set pieces, and deep thematic exploration of power, control, and human nature, "AKIRA" is widely considered a landmark achievement in the anime medium, influencing countless filmmakers and artists in the decades since its release.
3. Ghost In The Shell (1997)
"Ghost In The Shell" is a sci-fi classic directed by Mamoru Oshii, based on the manga by Masamune Shirow. The film is set in a future where humans can merge with machines and connect to a global network of information, and follows a cyborg detective named Motoko Kusanagi as she investigates a new kind of hacker who can manipulate people's memories. With its complex themes of identity, consciousness, and technology, as well as its stunning animation and iconic soundtrack, "Ghost In The Shell" is widely regarded as one of the most influential and groundbreaking anime movies of all time, inspiring countless filmmakers and artists in the years since its release.
4. Ninja Scroll (1993)
"Ninja Scroll" is a classic anime film that is often cited as one of the best in the action genre. The movie is set in feudal Japan and follows Jubei, a wandering ninja, as he becomes embroiled in a battle against the Eight Devils of Kimon, a group of powerful warriors with supernatural abilities. The film features stunning fight scenes, intricate character designs, and a gripping story that blends elements of samurai and fantasy fiction. "Ninja Scroll" is a must-watch for fans of action-packed anime movies.
5. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)
"The Girl Who Leapt Through Time" is a charming and heartwarming anime movie that tells the story of a high school student named Makoto who discovers that she has the ability to travel through time. The film explores themes of friendship, growing up, and the consequences of our actions, as Makoto learns to use her powers responsibly and face the challenges of adolescence. Directed by Mamoru Hosoda and produced by Madhouse studio, "The Girl Who Leapt Through Time" is a delightful and thoughtful movie that is sure to leave viewers with a smile on their faces.
6. Summer Wars (2009)
"Summer Wars" is a visually stunning anime film that blends elements of sci-fi, romance, and family drama. The movie takes place in a near-future world where a virtual reality called OZ has become an integral part of daily life, and follows a high school student named Kenji as he gets drawn into a battle to save the world from a rogue AI program. Along the way, he must also navigate the complexities of family relationships and the challenges of first love. Directed by Mamoru Hosoda and produced by the studio Madhouse, "Summer Wars" is a thrilling and emotionally resonant movie that showcases the best of modern anime storytelling and animation.
7. Perfect Blue (1999)
"Perfect Blue" is a psychological thriller anime movie directed by Satoshi Kon, which tells the story of a young pop singer named Mima who decides to leave her band and pursue an acting career, but quickly finds herself targeted by a mysterious stalker who seems to know everything about her. The movie explores themes of identity, reality, and celebrity culture, as Mima's life becomes increasingly fragmented and surreal. "Perfect Blue" is known for its intense and unsettling atmosphere, as well as its innovative use of animation to convey the protagonist's shifting mental state. It has been praised for its complex plot, compelling characters, and haunting visuals, and is often cited as one of the best anime movies ever made.
8. Your Name (2016)
"Your Name" is a romantic fantasy anime movie directed by Makoto Shinkai, which follows the story of two teenagers named Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously begin swapping bodies across time and space. The movie explores themes of connection, fate, and the transient nature of human relationships, as the two protagonists try to uncover the truth behind their strange connection and find a way to meet in person. "Your Name" is known for its stunning animation, evocative soundtrack, and heartfelt storytelling, and has become one of the highest-grossing anime movies of all time, both in Japan and internationally. It has been praised for its emotional depth, inventive premise, and universal appeal, and is often cited as a modern classic of the anime genre.
9. Weathering With You (2019)
"Weathering With You" is a fantasy anime movie directed by Makoto Shinkai, which tells the story of a teenage boy named Hodaka who moves to Tokyo and befriends a girl named Hina who has the ability to control the weather. The movie explores themes of sacrifice, hope, and the power of human connection, as the two protagonists navigate a world where climate change has caused endless rain and natural disasters. "Weathering With You" is known for its breathtaking visuals, immersive world-building, and memorable soundtrack, and has been praised for its poignant storytelling and relatable characters. It has become one of the highest-grossing anime movies of all time, cementing Shinkai's status as one of the most visionary directors in the medium.
10. Cowboy Bebop: The Movie (2001)
"Cowboy Bebop: The Movie" is a 2001 film based on the popular anime TV series of the same name. The film was directed by Shinichirō Watanabe and written by Keiko Nobumoto. It follows the crew of the spaceship Bebop, who are tasked with hunting down a dangerous terrorist who has released a lethal virus on the city of Mars. The movie is known for its stunning animation, action-packed sequences, and jazzy soundtrack, which blends together different genres to create a unique and memorable experience. The film is set between episodes 22 and 23 of the original TV series, and expands upon the world and characters of the show. "Cowboy Bebop: The Movie" received positive reviews for its animation, story, and music, and is considered a must-watch for fans of the TV series, as well as newcomers to the world of anime. It was also released in the US under the title "Cowboy Bebop: Knockin' on Heaven's Door".
Which is the Best Anime Movie of All Time?
Spirited Away is regarded as the best Anime movie of all time. It is a 2001 anime movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film follows a young girl named Chihiro who becomes trapped in a strange and magical world, and must navigate a series of surreal and dangerous situations in order to rescue her parents and return to the human world. Here are some reasons why "Spirited Away" is often considered to be the best anime movie of all time:
Visual and artistic beauty: One of the most striking aspects of "Spirited Away" is its breathtaking animation and visual design. The film is filled with vibrant colors, intricate details, and imaginative creatures that bring the magical world of the story to life.
Themes and storytelling: "Spirited Away" is a story about transformation, growth, and self-discovery. It explores themes of identity, independence, and the power of love and friendship to overcome obstacles. The film's narrative is both complex and accessible, weaving together multiple plotlines and characters to create a rich and satisfying story.
Cultural significance: "Spirited Away" has had a huge impact on both the anime industry and popular culture as a whole. The film was a critical and commercial success in Japan and around the world, and has been credited with introducing many people to the world of anime. It has also won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and has been cited as a masterpiece of the medium.
Overall, "Spirited Away" is a beautiful and emotionally resonant film that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. Its stunning animation, rich storytelling, and cultural significance make it a standout example of the power and potential of anime as an art form.
What are Some of The Other Anime Movies of All Time?
Here are some additional anime movies that are widely considered to be some of the best of all time :
1. Grave of the Fireflies (1988): This heart-wrenching drama tells the story of two siblings struggling to survive during the aftermath of the bombing of Hiroshima in World War II.
2. Millennium Actress (2001): This film, directed by Satoshi Kon, is a mesmerizing blend of reality and fantasy that tells the story of a retired actress looking back on her life and career.
3. Paprika (2006): Another Satoshi Kon masterpiece, this surreal and visually stunning film explores the nature of dreams and reality through the story of a therapist who develops a device that allows her to enter patients' dreams.
4. Redline (2009): A high-octane racing movie featuring incredible animation and a pounding electronic soundtrack, "Redline" tells the story of a daredevil racer who enters a dangerous and illegal race across the galaxy.
5. A Silent Voice (2016): A poignant and deeply emotional drama about a former bully who seeks redemption by reconnecting with the deaf girl he once tormented in school.
6. Princess Mononoke (1997): Directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli, this epic fantasy movie tells the story of a young warrior who becomes embroiled in a conflict between a forest spirit and the humans who seek to destroy it. The film explores themes of environmentalism, industrialization, and the clash between tradition and progress.
7. 5 Centimeters Per Second (2007): Directed by Makoto Shinkai, this film is a poignant and bittersweet meditation on long-distance relationships and the passage of time. The story follows two childhood friends who grow apart as they move to different parts of Japan, and their attempts to reconnect over the years.
8. Wolf Children (2012): Directed by Mamoru Hosoda, this film is a heartwarming and visually stunning tale about a young mother raising her half-human, half-wolf children on her own. The movie explores themes of parenthood, identity, and the challenges of growing up.
Best Anime Movies of All Time - FAQs
"Spirited Away" is a 2001 anime movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film follows a young girl named Chihiro who becomes trapped in a strange and magical world, and must navigate a series of surreal and dangerous situations in order to rescue her parents and return to the human world.
Some other highly regarded anime movies include "Akira," "Grave of the Fireflies," "Your Name," "Perfect Blue," "Cowboy Bebop: The Movie," "Princess Mononoke," "Ghost in the Shell," "The Girl Who Leapt Through Time," "5 Centimeters Per Second," and "Weathering With You."
Anime movies have become increasingly popular and influential in popular culture, both in Japan and around the world. They are celebrated for their stunning animation, rich storytelling, and diverse range of themes and genres. Anime movies have also been credited with introducing many people to the world of anime, and have had a significant impact on the global animation industry.
"Spirited Away" is often considered the best anime movie of all time because of its breathtaking animation and visual design, complex and accessible storytelling, and cultural significance. The film has had a huge impact on both the anime industry and popular culture as a whole, and has won numerous awards and accolades.
Common themes in anime movies include coming-of-age, love and romance, adventure, science fiction and fantasy, social commentary, and personal and societal transformation. Many anime movies also explore philosophical and existential themes, such as the nature of reality, the meaning of life, and the human condition.