Music has often been used as a prominent theme in anime films due to its capability to transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries. Anime films centered around music often capture the euphoria, heartbreak, passion, and dedication associated with musical pursuits. Each film on this list is a unique testament to how music can shape narratives, define characters, and elevate the visual experience to new emotional heights. From adventurous tales set in fantastical worlds to the intimate stories of personal growth and friendship, these films traverse a diverse range of themes and styles. They are not just stories with music as a small component, but symphonies of visual storytelling where music plays the lead role. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best anime films about music.
10. The Anthem of the Heart – Tatsuyuki Nagai (2015)
Set in the beautiful and historical town of Chichibu, “The Anthem of the Heart” explores the transformative power of music through the journey of Jun Naruse, a young girl who loses her voice due to the effects of a magical egg. Jun’s voice is tragically sealed away after she causes deep emotional pain to her family with her unintentional words, leading her to navigate the complexities and challenges of life in a silent world. The film unfolds as Jun is unexpectedly chosen to be part of a committee tasked with the daunting challenge of organizing a community musical, a pivotal event in the town. This unforeseen opportunity reignites her connection with sound and self-expression, offering a glimmer of hope and transformation.
“The Anthem of the Heart” is a captivating and deeply moving exploration of self-discovery and emotional healing, set against the backdrop of adolescent turmoil and the quest for identity. The anime skillfully uses music as a powerful narrative device, masterfully intertwining Jun’s personal growth and emotional evolution with the melodies she encounters throughout her journey. The film’s vibrant animation perfectly complements the emotional depth of the story, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience. As Jun embarks on her quest to find her voice, viewers are invited to engage in a reflective journey about the pivotal role of communication in shaping our lives.
9. Given – Hikaru Yamaguchi (2020)
“Given” follows the emotionally charged story of Ritsuka Uenoyama and Mafuyu Sato, two high school students whose lives become intertwined due to their shared, deep-rooted passion for music. Ritsuka, a once-dedicated guitarist whose love for music has dimmed, finds his world altered when he encounters Mafuyu, a mysterious newcomer holding a guitar that seems to harbor untold stories. Their paths cross, leading to the formation of an unexpected and profound bond solidified through their joint musical endeavors. The film captures their evolving journey, as they navigate the often challenging realms of friendship, burgeoning love, and the pursuit of artistic expression.
This film stands out due to its raw and genuine portrayal of the emotions typical of teenage life and the compelling force of music. The narrative delves deeply into the personal struggles and triumphs of young musicians, as they endeavor to carve out their unique identities amidst a sea of personal challenges. “Given” is widely celebrated for its authentic and relatable characters, coupled with its sincere and touching storytelling. The film’s keen attention to the details of musical expression firmly establish it as one of the best anime films about music.
8. Gauche the Cellist – Isao Takahata (1982)
In “Gauche the Cellist”, directed by Isao Takahata, viewers are introduced to the character of Gauche, a dedicated but notably underperforming cellist in a small, local orchestra. Gauche finds himself consistently struggling to keep up with his more accomplished fellow musicians, a challenge that weighs heavily on his confidence and self-esteem. His life takes an enchanting turn when a series of animals begin to make unexpected visits to his quaint home in the countryside. Each of these animal visitors, peculiar and charming in their own right, imparts a unique and transformative musical lesson, profoundly influencing Gauche’s approach to both music and life.
This animated film is a touching and insightful story about personal growth, self-discovery, and the often unexpected sources of wisdom we encounter in life. It distinguishes itself with its straightforward yet deeply moving storyline, which is brought to life through masterful and expressive animation. The interactions between Gauche and the animals, filled with a balance of warmth, humor, and whimsy, offer viewers a gentle yet profound glimpse into the complex journey of an artist. The film’s distinctive ability to blend imaginative, fairy-tale-like elements with a relatable and heartwarming human story cements its place as a unique and enduring work in the realm of music-themed anime.
7. Chibi Maruko-chan: My Favorite Song – Tsutomu Shibayama, Yumiko Suda (1992)
“Chibi Maruko-chan: My Favorite Song” centers around the endearing and often humorous adventures of Maruko, a young girl renowned in her small town for her vibrant imagination and playful spirit. In this delightful musical installment of the series, Maruko becomes enchanted with a particular popular song, sparking a dream to witness a live performance by her favorite singer. Her eagerly anticipated journey to the concert is a rollercoaster of emotions, brimming with both humorous mishaps and heartwarming moments. Along this adventurous path, Maruko encounters various situations where she learns invaluable lessons about the importance of friendship, the power of determination, and the unparalleled joy that music can bring into our lives.
This film beautifully captures the essence of childhood wonder, specifically focusing on the magical and transformative role that music often plays during our formative years. It’s widely celebrated for its endearing characterizations and the engaging storytelling that resonates with viewers across different age groups. The animation style, faithful to the original series, is filled with a nostalgic quality that not only appeals to long-time fans but also warmly welcomes new viewers into Maruko’s world. “Chibi Maruko-chan: My Favorite Song” stands out as one of the best anime films about music, highlighting how it can act as a powerful source of inspiration and a bringer of joy to people from all walks of life.
6. Lu Over the Wall – Masaaki Yuasa (2017)
“Lu Over the Wall,” directed by Masaaki Yuasa, presents the captivating story of Kai, a solitary and somewhat downcast middle schooler who resides in a secluded fishing town. His mundane, uneventful life undergoes a remarkable transformation when he crosses paths with Lu, a mermaid possessing the mystical ability to force humans to dance whenever she sings. This encounter blossoms into a unique and heartwarming friendship that boldly challenges the town’s longstanding and deep-seated prejudices against mermaids. Throughout the film, viewers witness the harmonious blend of Kai’s own music with Lu’s magical singing, a fusion that showcases their joint efforts to bridge the cultural gap between their different worlds.
Masaaki Yuasa’s creation stands as a vibrant exploration of friendship and the courageous act of breaking free from the shackles of conventional boundaries. The film’s animation is notably bright, colorful, and dynamic, masterfully capturing the whimsical, fairy-tale-like magic that permeates the story. The innovative and imaginative use of music as a medium to connect characters from vastly different worlds is both inspiring and deeply symbolic. “Lu Over the Wall” effectively serves as a powerful and heartening testament to the extraordinary ability of music to transcend the most rigid barriers, fostering understanding and unity among diverse communities and cultures.
5. INU-OH – Masaaki Yuasa (2021)
“INU-OH,” directed by Masaaki Yuasa, ventures into the realm of historical storytelling, blending it with the dynamic elements of a rock opera to tell the captivating tale of Inu-oh, a talented Noh performer who is burdened with a strikingly unusual and distinct appearance. In this world, Inu-oh forges an unlikely friendship with Tomona, a blind biwa player with exceptional musical talent. Together, this duo defies the conventional norms of their era by creating avant-garde performances that rapidly gain immense popularity and ignite a whirlwind of controversy. Their shared musical journey becomes a powerful narrative of self-expression, the exploration and affirmation of identity, and a testament to the transformative influence of art in society.
This film has a bold and creatively innovative approach, as it seamlessly fuses elements of historical Japanese culture with contemporary musical styles. The animation style, distinct from traditional anime, fills the film with an unmistakable and memorable visual flair. Yuasa’s masterful direction ensures that the film deeply explores the characters’ personal struggles and their triumphant moments within the confines of a rigidly structured society. “INU-OH” emerges as a resounding celebration of the rebellious spirit of art, underscored by the enduring impact and depth of friendship, ensuring its place as one of the best anime films about music.
4. K-On! The Movie – Naoko Yamada (2011)
“K-On! The Movie,” directed by Naoko Yamada, chronicles the delightful adventures of the Light Music Club from Sakuragaoka High School as they embark on a trip to London. This special journey serves not only as a celebratory graduation trip but also as an extraordinary opportunity for the band, Ho-kago Tea Time, to showcase their talents on an international stage. The film captures both the excitement and the challenges the girls face as they navigate through the unfamiliar and bustling streets of a foreign country, determined to make their performance a resounding success. As they immerse themselves in the culture of London, they not only strengthen their bonds of friendship but also deepen their collective and individual love for music.
This film, an extension of the beloved “K-On!” series, is renowned for its charming blend of comedy, heartwarming slice-of-life storytelling, and music. It excels in portraying the growth and maturation of its characters, highlighting their passion for music, all set against the vibrant and dynamic urban landscape of London. The animation is particularly noteworthy, characterized by its attention to detail and a palette of bright, inviting colors. “K-On! The Movie” is not just a story about a band’s journey abroad, but a vibrant celebration of friendship, the joy of youth, and the creation of unforgettable moments through the universal language of music.
3. On-Gaku: Our Sound – Kenji Iwaisawa (2019)
“On-Gaku: Our Sound,” directed by Kenji Iwaisawa, introduces us to the world of Kenji and his friends, a group of high school delinquents who decide to embark on a musical venture despite their glaring lack of musical experience or training. The film humorously follows their journey as they dive into the diverse and often bewildering world of music, turning their initial lack of skill into a unique musical style that becomes their signature. Their approach to music, unorthodox and spontaneous, leads them through a series of both comedic and eye-opening experiences, each more enlightening than the last.
Kenji Iwaisawa’s film emerges as an unconventional, refreshing, and endearing take on the music genre, particularly celebrating the raw and unpolished side of creativity that often goes unnoticed. The animation style, characterized by its minimalist aesthetic, perfectly complements and enhances the film’s narrative, emphasizing the DIY, grassroots spirit of the characters and their musical journey. The movie’s inherent charm and appeal lie in its authentic portrayal of amateur musicians who find immense joy through their imperfect, yet heartfelt music. “On-Gaku: Our Sound” stands as a compelling and heartwarming testament to the idea that music is an inclusive and universal language, making it one of the best anime films about music.
2. Liz and the Blue Bird – Naoko Yamada (2018)
“Liz and the Blue Bird,” directed by Naoko Yamada, portrays the journey of two high school musicians, Mizore and Nozomi, who are integral members of a concert band preparing for an upcoming competition. The film focuses on the evolving and deepening relationship between these two girls, a dynamic beautifully mirrored by the enchanting fairy tale ‘Liz and the Blue Bird,’ which forms the central piece of their musical performance. Mizore, with her reserved and introspective nature, discovers an unexpected connection with the more outgoing and universally beloved Nozomi. As they engage in continuous rehearsals, their personal stories and emotions gradually become intertwined with the elements of the fairy tale.
Directed by Naoko Yamada, the film stands as an insightful exploration of teenage emotions and the complexities inherent in close friendships. The animation, subtle yet remarkably expressive, masterfully captures the dynamics and unspoken understanding that exist between Mizore and Nozomi. It presents a visually stunning cinematic experience, where the music is thoughtfully inserted into the very fabric of the narrative. “Liz and the Blue Bird” is a tender portrayal of the unique ways in which music can act as a medium to communicate the unspoken, beautifully illustrating the profound power of art in expressing the depths of human emotion.
1. Interstella 5555: The 5tory of the 5ecret 5tar 5ystem – Kazuhisa Takenouchi, Daisuke Nishio (2003)
“Interstella 5555: The 5tory of the 5ecret 5tar 5ystem,” directed by Kazuhisa Takenouchi and Daisuke Nishio, represents a groundbreaking fusion of anime and music, presenting a narrative entirely synchronized with Daft Punk’s acclaimed album “Discovery.” This innovative film tells the story of an interstellar pop band’s abduction and their dramatic journey as they are ultimately rescued and begin their long trek back to their home planet. The film is completely devoid of dialogue, relying exclusively on the emotive music and the vibrant animation to convey the layers of the story. It’s an enthralling tale of adventure, intrigue, and the universal language of music, which spans across a variety of different worlds and diverse cultures.
This film stands out due to its innovative storytelling approach, merging the style of Japanese anime with French house music. The deliberate absence of dialogue elevates the importance of the animation and the soundtrack, making them central to driving the narrative forward and creating a deeply immersive and engaging viewing experience. “Interstella 5555” stands as a powerful testament to the incredible power of music and animation, ensuring its place as one of the best anime films about music. It is a groundbreaking artistic collaboration that celebrates the harmony between visual art and music, showcasing an innovative blend of mediums that has captivated and inspired audiences worldwide.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best anime films about music:
- The Anthem of the Heart – Tatsuyuki Nagai (2015)
- Given – Hikaru Yamaguchi (2020)
- Gauche the Cellist – Isao Takahata (1982)
- Chibi Maruko-chan: My Favorite Song – Tsutomu Shibayama, Yumiko Suda (1992)
- Lu Over the Wall – Masaaki Yuasa (2017)
- INU-OH – Masaaki Yuasa (2021)
- K-On! The Movie – Naoko Yamada (2011)
- On-Gaku: Our Sound – Kenji Iwaisawa (2019)
- Liz and the Blue Bird – Naoko Yamada (2018)
- Interstella 5555: The 5tory of the 5ecret 5tar 5ystem – Kazuhisa Takenouchi, Daisuke Nishio (2003)
