Top 100 Anime Movies

From Isao Takahata, starring Tsutomu Tatsumi, Ayano Shiraishi, Akemi Yamaguchi, Yoshiko Shinohara
Rated Not Rated

Grave of the Fireflies is a 1988 Japanese animated war drama film written and directed by Isao Takahata and animated by Studio Ghibli. It is based on the 1967 semi-autobiographical short story of the same name by Akiyuki Nosaka. It follows the story of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, who suffer the effects of the war on the Japanese home front during World War II. During a period of extreme food shortages and poverty, the two struggle to survive while their father is away at war and their mother dies in a firebomb attack. In the end, they must resort to desperate measures to stay alive, but ultimately succumb to their fate. The film emphasizes the human cost of war and conveys a powerful message of the importance of family ties and the value of human life.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Yôji Matsuda, Yuriko Ishida, Yûko Tanaka, Billy Crudup
Rated PG-13

Princess Mononoke is a 1997 Japanese animated epic historical fantasy adventure film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Set in the late Muromachi period of Japan, the film tells the story of a young prince, Ashitaka, who is cursed by a demon and must journey to the forests of the west to find a cure. Along the way, he meets San, a young princess who is part human and part wolf, and she is determined to protect the forest and its inhabitants from the humans who want to destroy it. As the two clash in their beliefs, they must ultimately come to terms with their differences in order to save both the natural world and the human one. With a cast of memorable characters, breathtaking visuals, and a powerful story, Princess Mononoke is one of the most acclaimed animated films of all time, and a masterful work of art from the renowned director.

From Makoto Shinkai, starring Ryûnosuke Kamiki, Mone Kamishiraishi, Ryô Narita, Aoi Yûki
Rated PG

Your Name is a 2016 Japanese animated drama film written and directed by Makoto Shinkai. The film tells the story of a high school boy and girl who switch bodies unexpectedly and must figure out how to switch back while learning more about each other's lives. The two teenagers are Mitsuha Miyamizu, a high school girl living in the countryside and Taki Tachibana, a high school boy living in Tokyo. They each discover the other is living their life when they wake up in a different place and body. Despite never having met, they develop an unexpected connection and must work together to figure out how to switch back to their own bodies. As they learn more about each other, they come to understand the hardships and joys of growing up and recognizing the beauty of life.

From Naoko Yamada, starring Miyu Irino, Saori Hayami, Aoi Yûki, Kenshô Ono
Rated Not Rated

A Silent Voice: The Movie is a 2016 Japanese animated film directed by Naoko Yamada. It follows the story of Shoya Ishida, an aggressive school bully, and Shoko Nishimiya, a victim of his bullying. After Shoya's bullying causes Shoko to transfer schools, Shoya finds himself ostracized and bullied in turn. As he grows older, Shoya struggles to make amends for his past and reconnect with his former victim. Along the way, he learns the true toll of bullying and the power of forgiveness.

From Mamoru Hosoda, starring Aoi Miyazaki, Takao Osawa, Haru Kuroki, Yukito Nishii
Rated PG

Wolf Children is a 2012 Japanese animated film directed by Mamoru Hosoda. The film follows Hana, a young woman who falls in love with a mysterious man who turns out to be a wolf-man. After his death, Hana must raise their two children, Ame and Yuki, alone, teaching them to hide their true nature from the world. The film follows their journey as they grow up, learn to control their wolf powers, and struggle to find their place in the human world. Along the way, Hana faces difficult decisions and must come to terms with her own mortality. Ultimately, the children must decide whether to embrace their wolf nature or live a life as humans. Wolf Children is a sensitive exploration of identity and family, and a powerful story of love, loss, and acceptance.

From Satoshi Kon, starring Junko Iwao, Rica Matsumoto, Shinpachi Tsuji, Masaaki Ôkura
Rated R

Perfect Blue is a psychological thriller directed by Satoshi Kon. The film follows the story of Mima Kirigoe, a former pop idol who decides to pursue an acting career. After accepting a role in a crime drama, Mima begins to experience strange events and hallucinations. She also becomes increasingly paranoid that she is being stalked by an obsessed fan. As her life spirals out of control, Mima must ultimately confront the truths of her past and come to terms with her identity.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Sumi Shimamoto, Mahito Tsujimura, Hisako Kyôda, Gorô Naya
Rated PG

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a 1984 animated post-apocalyptic fantasy film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Set 1,000 years after a global war, the story follows Nausicaä, a young princess of the Valley of the Wind who embarks on a quest to understand a powerful and dangerous toxic jungle that spreads across the Earth to prevent its destruction and ultimately, the end of all life. Along the way, she must face various obstacles, including two warring nations and an evil, power-hungry ruler. With help from allies, both human and non-human, she discovers a way to save the world. The film is notable for its themes of environmentalism and pacifism, as well as its stunning animation and the breathtaking visuals of its fantasy world.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Mayumi Tanaka, Keiko Yokozawa, Kotoe Hatsui, Minori Terada
Rated PG

Castle in the Sky is a 1986 animated adventure film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows Pazu, an engineer's apprentice, and Sheeta, an orphaned girl with mysterious powers, as they try to keep a magical crystal from falling into the wrong hands. Along the way, they discover an abandoned floating castle, Laputa, and get caught up in a thrilling race to find its secret. Along their journey, they face off against pirates and a sinister government agency, all while seeking the truth behind Sheeta's power. The film is a classic example of Miyazaki's beloved brand of adventure, featuring stunning visuals, sweeping music, and a story full of fantasy, action, and heart.

From Isao Takahata, starring Chloë Grace Moretz, James Caan, Mary Steenburgen, James Marsden
Rated PG

The Tale of The Princess Kaguya is a 2013 animated fantasy film written and directed by Isao Takahata, and produced by Studio Ghibli. It tells the story of an old bamboo cutter who finds an infant girl in a bamboo shoot and takes her home as his own daughter, where she is named Kaguya. As Kaguya grows, she displays supernatural powers, and her adoptive parents take her to the capital to make her a princess. Kaguya is sought after by many suitors and she eventually reveals her divine origins and returns to her people on the moon, leaving behind the people of the capital who had come to love her. The film is based on the classic Japanese folk tale, "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter".

From Yoshifumi Kondô, starring Yoko Honna, Issey Takahashi, Takashi Tachibana, Shigeru Muroi
Rated G

Whisper of the Heart is a 1995 Japanese animated coming-of-age drama film written by Hayao Miyazaki, directed by Yoshifumi Kondō, and produced by Studio Ghibli. It was the first theatrical Studio Ghibli film to be directed by someone other than Miyazaki or Isao Takahata. The film follows 14-year-old Shizuku Tsukishima as she rediscovers her passion for writing and music. While exploring her local library, she finds a mysterious cat statuette, who later leads her to an antique shop, where she meets the friendly shopkeeper, Seiji Amasawa. Seiji's passion for making violins rekindles Shizuku's love of writing and she begins writing a fantasy novel based on her own experiences and feelings. Through her story, she learns more about Seiji and his dreams of becoming a famous violin maker. Ultimately, Shizuku discovers more about herself in the process and realizes that she wants to pursue her own dreams. With Seiji's encouragement, she decides to apply to a prestigious high school in Tokyo to pursue her writing and writing career. In the end, Seiji and Shizuku part ways with the promise of meeting

From Mamoru Oshii, starring Atsuko Tanaka, Iemasa Kayumi, Akio Ôtsuka, Kôichi Yamadera
Rated TV-MA

Ghost in the Shell is a 1995 Japanese science fiction anime film directed by Mamoru Oshii. Set in 2029, the film follows the story of Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg who works for a secret government organization called Section 9. The Major and her team are tasked with stopping a mysterious hacker referred to as the Puppet Master, who has been manipulating the minds of innocent citizens. In the course of their investigation, the Major and Section 9 uncover a vast conspiracy that could have far-reaching implications for the fate of humanity. Along the way, the Major must confront her own identity and the implications of being a cyborg. With its exploration of the relationship between technology and humanity, Ghost in the Shell invites viewers to consider what it means to be alive.

From Satoshi Kon, starring Miyoko Shôji, Shôzô Îzuka, Mami Koyama, Fumiko Orikasa
Rated PG

Millennium Actress is a 2001 animated film directed by Satoshi Kon. It follows the life of Chiyoko Fujiwara, a retired actress, who looks back at her life, career, and the mysterious man she loved. The film follows Chiyoko as she is interviewed by a documentary filmmaker and his assistant. Through her memories, Chiyoko weaves a story of her childhood dream of becoming an actress and the fateful meeting that led her to pursue that dream. As Chiyoko's story unfolds, it becomes clear that the mysterious man was an artist who gave her a key to a secret that changed her life. She embarks on a journey to reunite with him, while reflecting on the experiences that shaped her life. In the end, Chiyoko discovers the truth and finds peace.

From Satoshi Kon, starring Tôru Emori, Yoshiaki Umegaki, Aya Okamoto, Shôzô Îzuka
Rated PG-13

Tokyo Godfathers is a Japanese animated comedy-drama film directed by Satoshi Kon that follows the story of three homeless people – a middle-aged alcoholic Gin, a former drag queen Hana, and a dependent runaway girl Miyuki – who found an abandoned baby and set out to find its parents in Tokyo's busy streets over the course of a Christmas Eve. Along the way, they encounter various characters who help them in their quest, but also face various challenges and difficulties such as homelessness and poverty. In the end, the trio discovers the truth behind the baby's parents, and discover the true meaning of family and friendship.

From Directors: Shin'ichirô Watanabe, Tensai Okamura, Hiroyuki Okiura, Yoshiyuki Takei, starring Beau Billingslea, Melissa Fahn, Nicholas Guest, Kôichi Yamadera
Rated TV-14

Cowboy Bebop: The Movie is an animated sci-fi action film from 2001 directed by Shin'ichirō Watanabe, Tensai Okamura, Hiroyuki Okiura and Yoshiyuki Takei. Set in the year 2071, the story follows the crew of the spaceship Bebop as they search for an interplanetary terrorist who is threatening to unleash a deadly virus on the world. The crew of the Bebop is a ragtag group of bounty hunters and misfits: Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Edward Wong, and Ein the corgi. The crew must race against time to stop the terrorist before he can unleash the virus and devastate the world. Along the way, they discover a much bigger conspiracy at play and must use all their resources to save the world. The film features stunning animation, great action sequences, and a stellar soundtrack. It's a thrilling, heart-pounding sci-fi adventure that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Kirsten Dunst, Minami Takayama, Rei Sakuma, Kappei Yamaguchi
Rated G

Kiki's Delivery Service tells the story of a young witch named Kiki who, as part of her coming-of-age ritual, must leave home and spend a year living on her own. She moves to a seaside town, where she uses her flying ability to start a delivery service. Through her adventures, Kiki learns valuable lessons about independence, friendship, and the importance of finding one's own path in life. Along the way, she befriends a talking black cat, faces off against a rival delivery service, and even meets a handsome young artist. With the help of her friends, Kiki ultimately discovers her true purpose and regains her lost confidence.

From Hiromasa Yonebayashi, starring Sara Takatsuki, Kasumi Arimura, Nanako Matsushima, Susumu Terajima
Rated PG

When Marnie Was There is a 2014 Japanese anime film directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi. It is based on the novel of the same name by British author Joan G. Robinson and follows the story of an introverted young girl named Anna. She is sent to stay with distant relatives in the seaside town of Kushiro in Hokkaido for the summer. As she explores the marshlands and beaches around the town, she meets a mysterious girl named Marnie who appears only at high tide. Anna gradually comes to like Marnie and the two become close friends. Anna eventually discovers the truth about Marnie, her past and her connection to the town. In the end, Anna learns to be brave, stand up for herself and accept her feelings.

From Sunao Katabuchi, starring Non, Ava Pickard, Kenna Pickard, Karen Strassman
Rated PG-13

In This Corner (and Other Corners) of the World (2016) is a powerful and moving Japanese animated film from director Sunao Katabuchi. The film follows Suzu, a young woman living in Hiroshima during WWII, as she navigates her way through a country on the brink of disaster. Through Suzu’s eyes, we witness the horrors and beauty of wartime, as she experiences the harsh realities of war but also finds joy and love in unexpected places. The film captures the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of hope in the face of despair, and its beautiful animation creates an unforgettable visual experience.

From Directors: Jack Fletcher, Yoshiaki Kawajiri, starring Andrew Philpot, John Rafter Lee, Pamela Adlon, Wendee Lee
Rated R

Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is a 2000 Japanese anime horror fantasy film directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri and Jack Fletcher. It is the sequel to the 1985 film Vampire Hunter D and is based on the novel by Hideyuki Kikuchi. The story follows a young vampire hunter, D, who is hired by the parents of a young girl, Charlotte, to save her from a powerful vampire lord, Meier Link. D embarks on a dangerous journey to rescue Charlotte, and along the way he faces powerful enemies and unexpected allies, including a group of bounty hunters hired by Meier Link. In the end, D must use all his strength and cunning to defeat Meier Link and save Charlotte. The film features stunning animation, intense action sequences, and an unforgettable soundtrack.

From Isao Takahata, starring Miki Imai, Toshirô Yanagiba, Yoko Honna, Mayumi Izuka
Rated PG

Only Yesterday is a 1991 Japanese animated drama film written and directed by Isao Takahata and animated by Studio Ghibli. It tells the story of Taeko Okajima, a 27-year-old unmarried office worker living in Tokyo, who begins to question her life choices by taking a trip to the rural countryside. As she revisits her childhood memories and experiences the presence of nature, she reflects upon the changes in her life and the decisions she has made. The film explores themes such as the importance of family roots, the struggle of coming-of-age, and the understanding of the self.

From Hiromasa Yonebayashi, starring Amy Poehler, Will Arnett, Mirai Shida, Ryûnosuke Kamiki
Rated G

The Secret World of Arrietty is a 2010 animated fantasy film by director Hiromasa Yonebayashi. The film follows 14-year-old Arrietty, a tiny girl who lives under the floorboards of a suburban home with her parents. When Arrietty is discovered by Shawn, a human boy, they strike up an unlikely friendship. Through their relationship, Arrietty and her family must come to terms with their differences and struggle to find a way to coexist. The film explores themes of friendship, courage, and acceptance, as Arrietty and Shawn discover that even the smallest of creatures can have a big impact on the world.

From Mamoru Hosoda, starring Kôji Yakusho, Aoi Miyazaki, Shôta Sometani, Suzu Hirose
Rated PG-13

The Boy and the Beast is a 2015 Japanese animated fantasy film written, directed and produced by Mamoru Hosoda. Set in a universe parallel to our own, the film tells the story of Kyuta, a young orphan living on the streets of Tokyo, who stumbles upon an alternate world inhabited by beasts. After befriending Kumatetsu, a bear-like warrior beast, Kyuta learns to harness his own inner strength to become a master swordsman. Together, they form an unlikely bond that transcends the boundaries of their two worlds. Through their adventures, Kyuta learns valuable lessons about family, loyalty, courage, and the power of friendship.

From Michael Arias, starring Kazunari Ninomiya, Yû Aoi, Yûsuke Iseya, Kankurô Kudô
Rated R

Tekkonkinkreet is a 2006 Japanese animated film directed by Michael Arias and produced by Sunrise. The film follows the story of two orphaned street urchins, Black and White, who live in the dilapidated Treasure Town. Despite their poverty, the two boys live a carefree life as they explore their city and outwit the local yakuza gang. The arrival of an ambitious businessman, however, threatens to disrupt their lives and destroy Treasure Town. Thus, Black and White must put aside their differences and join forces to protect their home. With the help of some unusual allies, the two boys take on the powerful forces that threaten to take away their freedom.

From Mari Okada, starring Manaka Iwami, Miyu Irino, Yôko Hikasa, Hiroaki Hirata
Rated Not Rated

From Mamoru Hosoda, starring Ryûnosuke Kamiki, Nanami Sakuraba, Mitsuki Tanimura, Takahiro Yokokawa
Rated PG

From Gorô Miyazaki, starring Sarah Bolger, Chris Noth, Anton Yelchin, Christina Hendricks
Rated PG