Anime, derived from the Japanese abbreviation for "animation," is internationally recognized as animation produced in Japan. Distinguished by its use of stark colors, vibrant characters, and fantastical or futuristic themes, anime sets itself apart through its unique stylistic choices. Unlike other forms of animation, anime places less emphasis on movement, focusing instead on the intricate details and settings of characters, the combination of effects, and distinctive art styles, including features such as large, expressive eyes.
A topic of debate among anime enthusiasts is whether Studio Ghibli films qualify as anime. Opinions are divided, but from a Western perspective, these films are often included in the genre. Studio Ghibli's works have played a significant role in introducing many viewers to Japanese animation, serving as a gateway to the broader world of anime. Here, we present the top 10 unforgettable anime movies to watch before you die, each one a testament to the artistry and storytelling prowess of this medium.
Akira - 1988
For many in the West, "Akira" served as a groundbreaking introduction to Japanese animation. Before Katsuhiro Otomo’s landmark film, Western exposure to anime was largely limited to children's Saturday morning cartoons like "Speed Racer" and "Battle of the Planets." However, "Akira" revolutionized this landscape.
Adapted from Otomo’s own epic manga, the film significantly condensed and reworked its source material. It tells the story of rival biker gangs and genetically enhanced children in a dystopian future. Upon its release, "Akira" captivated both critics and audiences, breaking box office records in Japan and making a substantial impact internationally.
This futuristic thriller not only received widespread acclaim but also opened the floodgates for anime in the US and Europe. Unfortunately, the rush to capitalize on this newfound interest led to the importation of many lower-quality anime, focusing more on visual similarities and violence rather than narrative depth. This resulted in a mixed reception from potential new fans. Despite this, "Akira" remains a crucial piece of cinema and is considered essential viewing for anyone interested in the genre.
When compiling list of top 10 unforgettable anime movies to watch before you die, Akira invariably earns its place. Alongside its recognition in 25 most popular anime movies, its profound impact and pioneering animation techniques continue to influence the anime landscape, making it a touchstone for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
My Neighbor Totoro - 1988
"My Neighbor Totoro," directed by Hayao Miyazaki, is often hailed as a masterpiece and one of the greatest animated films ever made. There are many reasons why this film has such enduring appeal. Miyazaki masterfully captures the energy and personalities of its two child protagonists, blending their innocence and wonder with the story's magical elements.
The film's attention to detail is extraordinary. Kazuo Oga's breathtaking background paintings, combined with a beautifully simple score, create a visually and emotionally captivating experience. The meticulous animation and heartfelt storytelling make "My Neighbor Totoro" a joy to watch repeatedly, a sentiment echoed by many parents whose children insist on viewing it daily.
One of Totoro's most significant strengths is its universal appeal. It is a family film that resonates with both children and adults without relying on slapstick comedy or overly sophisticated humor. Its charm lies in its sincerity and the genuine emotions it evokes.
If you haven't seen "My Neighbor Totoro" yet, it is a must-watch. Its timeless beauty and heartfelt story make it an essential part of any animated film collection.
Ghost In The Shell - 1995
Mamoru Oshii's "Ghost in the Shell" is widely regarded as one of the most influential anime films of all time. Its impact extends beyond the realm of animated sci-fi, significantly influencing Hollywood, most notably the distinct visual style of "The Matrix" movies. While some fans of Masamune Shirow’s original, action-packed, and often light-hearted manga critique the adaptation, Oshii’s choice to transform it into a dark, brooding, and beautifully paced drama secured its status as a science fiction classic.
"Ghost in the Shell" is celebrated as the definitive visual depiction of the cyberpunk movement, often compared to a filmic adaptation of William Gibson’s classic Sprawl Trilogy novels. The film's exploration of themes like artificial intelligence, identity, and consciousness, paired with its groundbreaking animation, cemented its place in cinematic history.
The success of "Ghost in the Shell" was not confined to its initial release. It spawned a vast franchise, including a sequel, a Hollywood adaptation, two 26-part TV series, various novels, toys, video games, and the controversial "Ghost in the Shell 2.0" special edition. Its influence and legacy continue to resonate, making it a cornerstone of both anime and science fiction genres.
Spirited Away - 2001
Is Spirited Away the greatest anime film ever made? Most likely. It is also among the most exquisite, alluring, and mysterious works of art to have ever graced a screen. Princess Mononoke opened the door for Studio Ghibli's global fan base four years earlier, and Hayao Miyazaki's film was a turning point for Japanese animation. Spirited Away, a film that masterfully entwines Japanese mythology and folklore, centers on Chihiro, a teenage girl whose parents are transformed into pigs and who must work at a bathhouse. Along with his fearsome boss Yubaba and the enigmatic shape-shifter Haku, Chihiro will have to cope with a challenging clientele of gods.
Your Name - 2016
In 2016, Makoto Shinkai's Your Name became a global sensation and one of the highest-grossing anime films ever made. The plot centers on two high school students who, despite never having met, start to switch bodies abruptly. Shinkai is known for his fascination with rain, natural disasters, imagination, and flamboyant teenage romance.
Though the movie constantly takes the most unexpected turn, this extraordinary setting creates for great hilarious moments and a classic whimsical rom-com proposition. And that makes it even better. If you haven't read these sentences while picturing the soundtrack from Radwimps, you should definitely rewatch Your Name.
Maquia: When The Promised Flower Blooms - 2018
Maquia - When the Promised Flower Blooms deftly and heartbreakingly examines motherhood. Maquia chooses to adopt and nurture a youngster she finds who has survived the fighting as her son while fleeing the battle.
Maquia, a little girl who belongs to the immortal race known as the Iorph, is the focus of the film. Though she is only 15 years old at the moment, she is aware that she is one of these supernatural beings with a long lifespan. Prepare to experience a wide range of emotions as Mari Okada makes her directorial debut.
Perfect Blue - 1997
The reason for any resemblance to Black Swan is that Darren Aronofsky took inspiration from it. A brilliant psychological horror film, Perfect Blue is a satire of celebrity society that devolves into a horrific nightmare because to its convoluted plot and fractured point of view.
Mima Kirigoe, a former member of a Japanese idol group who is now interested in acting, is the protagonist of the story. Mima becomes delusional as a brutal murder occurs all around her and she is stalked by an obsessed fan. Perfect Blue continues Satoshi Kon's trend of balancing realism and imagination in his films.
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time - 2006
A delightful fantasy tale of coming of age, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is lighthearted and incredibly engaging. It also imparts to us a valuable lesson: living in the now is the greatest way to live. The film centers on a teenage girl who, after learning she has the capacity to travel across time, takes advantage of this newfound knowledge without considering the repercussions.
One of the most intriguing anime filmmakers of our day, Mamoru Hosoda directed critically acclaimed feature films like The Girl Who Leapt Through Time after working on popular series like Digimon and One Piece. Among the greatest anime films of all time is Hosoda, who was hired by Studio Ghibli to helm Howl's Moving Castle until disagreements over creative vision forced him off the project.
The Wind Rises - 2013
Although The Boy and the Heron is now available in Japan, we now know that this was not his final film. Nevertheless, it is unquestionably one of his best and among the greatest anime films ever made.
This was meant to be Hayao Miyazaki's farewell song, and what a fitting farewell it would have been: a poignant tale about what drives us to live, along with his greatest passions, flight, wind, battle, and Italian planes. Jiro Horikoshi, who designed battle planes during World battle II, served as a loose inspiration for The Wind Rises. But as usual, Miyazaki is more interested in taking us to a different era and inspiring in us the thought-provoking idea that the beauty of imagination and ingenuity may be corrupted for the worst ends.
Voices Of A Distant Star - 2002
"Voices of a Distant Star" may seem an unconventional addition, given its 25-minute runtime and initial DVD release, technically classifying it as an OVA. However, it undeniably earns its place as a must-see film. This remarkable work was single-handedly written, directed, and animated by the now-legendary Makoto Shinkai on his Mac at home. It stands out as one of the most touching, beautiful, and exhilarating examples of animation in recent history.
The film tells the poignant story of a long-distance relationship conducted through text messages between a teenage mecha pilot and her boyfriend back on Earth. It masterfully blends gentle, slow-paced scenes with bursts of frantic sci-fi action. "Voices of a Distant Star" has become the thematic and stylistic foundation for Shinkai’s subsequent larger-budget productions.
This mini-masterpiece is likely available at a very affordable price on DVD, leaving no excuse for missing out on this stunning example of animated storytelling.
In the broader context of anime, voices of a distant star holds a significant place. When compiling lists such as the 25 best anime moviesor top 10 unforgettable anime movies to watch before you die, its inclusion highlights the diverse range of storytelling and artistic expression that anime offers. This film, though brief, exemplifies the profound emotional impact and innovative animation techniques that characterize some of the best works in the genre.
FAQs About Top 10 Unforgettable Anime Movies To Watch Before You Die
Who Is The No 1 Anime Movie In The World?
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - Mugen Train, the movie. Tanjiro Kamado's adventure as a demon slayer started after his sister was converted into a demon and his family was ruthlessly slaughtered. On their way to despair, Tanjiro and his friends set off on a fresh adventure on the Mugen Train.
Which Anime Has The Best Movie?
Critics agree that Princess Mononoke is a watershed moment in animation history, thanks to its epic tale and magnificent visuals.
What Is The Top 1 Strongest Anime In The World?
- Zeno (Dragon Ball)
- Haruhi Suzumiya (The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya)
- Usagi Tsukino (Sailor Moon)
- Son Goku (Dragon Ball Z)
- Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)
- Saitama (One-Punch Man)
- Lain Iwakura (Serial Experiments Lain)
- Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)
What's The Most Popular Anime Right Now?
Demon Slayer is currently the most popular anime on the planet, and for good reason: it contains some of the most exciting and intense action scenes ever depicted on film.
Wrap Up
These top 10 anime movies offer a diverse range of stories, themes, and visual styles. From the fantastical worlds of Studio Ghibli to the gritty cyberpunk landscapes of "Akira" and "Ghost in the Shell," each film provides a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're a longtime anime fan or new to the genre, these movies are essential viewing that showcase the depth and creativity of anime as a medium. Watch them, and you'll understand why they are celebrated as some of the best films ever made.
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