The 1990s was a transformative era for anime, filled with innovative storytelling and artistic experimentation. This period witnessed a surge in global popularity as many titles reached international audiences, breaking cultural barriers and reshaping perspectives on what animation could accomplish. From cyberpunk and magical realism to coming-of-age tales and social commentary, the anime films of the 90s opened new horizons in the world of animation, combining mesmerizing visuals with engaging narratives. Without further ado, we take a look at the ten best anime films of the 90s.
10. Ninja Scroll – Yoshiaki Kawajiri (1993)
Set in feudal Japan, “Ninja Scroll” follows Jubei Kibagami, a wandering swordsman, as he becomes embroiled in a bloody battle against the Eight Devils of Kimon. Hired by the Tokugawa Shogunate, Jubei joins forces with Kagero, the last survivor of a ninja team that was decimated by these demonic foes. Facing insurmountable odds and threats lurking in every corner, the duo forms a bond rooted in mutual respect and the shared goal of vanquishing their adversaries. Together, they must navigate a web of deceit, treachery, and dark magic in their mission to put an end to the evil that the Eight Devils seek to unleash upon the world.
Yoshiaki Kawajiri constructs a world that melds historical Japan with a dash of dark fantasy, resulting in an anime packed with thrilling combat sequences and memorable antagonists. This blending of realism and supernatural elements gives “Ninja Scroll” a unique place in the anime genre, appealing to both history buffs and fans of the fantastical. The animation style is fluid, with a keen attention to detail in its depiction of martial arts techniques and the distinct abilities of each character. Kawajiri’s vision to present a gripping tale of valor, revenge, and honor amidst the shadows of ninja mystique is clear.
9. Comet in Moominland – Hiroshi Saitō (1992)
“Comet in Moominland” focuses on the Moomin family, a selection of charming and whimsical creatures, who reside in a tranquil valley surrounded by the wonders of nature. Their peaceful existence, filled with simple joys and harmonious living, is threatened when a prophet predicts the arrival of a comet that could potentially obliterate their home. Driven by a sense of urgency and concern for their community, Moomintroll, along with his curious friend Sniff, embark on a challenging journey to an observatory on the Lonely Mountains, hoping to gather more information on the comet and find a way to save their cherished valley from impending doom.
Under Hiroshi Saitō’s direction, the film paints a heartwarming story of friendship, adventure, and the unwavering spirit of the Moomin family in the face of uncertainty. The landscapes, from serene valleys brimming with vibrant flora to the imposing Lonely Mountains with their treacherous paths, are beautifully illustrated, providing a captivating setting for Moomintroll’s quest. Throughout their journey, the themes of unity, determination, and facing adversity head-on are consistently emphasized, showcasing the resilience and courage of the characters. “Comet in Moominland” successfully brings the beloved Tove Jansson’s characters to life with charm and depth, making it one of the best anime films of the 90s.
8. Memories – Koji Morimoto, Katsuhiro Otomo, Tensai Okamura (1995)
“Memories” is a triptych of stories that explores different facets of human existence through imaginative and thought-provoking scenarios. In “Magnetic Rose,” space travelers on a routine mission are lured into a world created from the memories of a long-forgotten opera singer, finding themselves ensnared in her tragic past. “Stink Bomb” narrates the unexpected and chaotic tale of a young lab assistant who becomes the epicenter of a disastrous chemical reaction that spirals out of control. Lastly, “Cannon Fodder” depicts a dystopian society where citizens, including young children, lead lives dedicated to firing enormous cannons at unseen enemies, in a cycle of unending warfare.
This anthology, steered by the distinct vision of directors Koji Morimoto, Katsuhiro Otomo, and Tensai Okamura, showcases varying tones, from hauntingly beautiful to darkly humorous, captivating audiences with each twist and turn. Each segment offers a unique visual style and narrative approach, but they are unified by their ability to provoke thought on the human condition, technological advancements, and the ways in which individuals navigate their environment. “Memories” stands as a testament to the limitless possibilities of storytelling within the anime medium, offering a blend of emotion, suspense, and philosophical inquiry.
7. Porco Rosso – Hayao Miyazaki (1992)
“Porco Rosso” introduces audiences to Marco, an Italian World War I ex-fighter ace, haunted by the memories of battles and comrades lost. He now lives a somewhat reclusive life as a bounty hunter, chasing “air pirates” that plague the Adriatic Sea. However, due to a mysterious event, a curse has transformed Marco into an anthropomorphic pig. Flying his trusty red plane, a symbol of his unmatched skills and valor, he finds himself not only up against a rising American pilot but also confronting his own personal demons. Along the way, he grapples with memories of his tumultuous past and the love he left behind, as well as the constant reminder of his strange appearance.
Hayao Miyazaki crafts a tale that seamlessly combines action, humor, and romance, making it one of the best anime films of the 90s. The azure skies and cerulean seas provide a stunning canvas for the high-flying aerial dogfights and chase sequences, evoking a sense of both freedom and danger. Yet, at its core, the movie isn’t just about the thrilling escapades of a pig-faced pilot. It’s a contemplative exploration of identity, love, redemption, and the scars left behind by war, highlighting the internal battles that Marco faces. Miyazaki’s “Porco Rosso” remains a soaring testament to the idea that even in the face of curses and combat, the human spirit remains.
6. Ghost in the Shell – Mamoru Oshii (1995)
In a future where humans can enhance themselves with cybernetic implants, Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg federal agent, chases the elusive Puppet Master. This hacker is notorious for infiltrating the minds of cyber-enhanced humans and manipulating their memories and perceptions. The quest to apprehend this mysterious figure becomes not only a professional pursuit but also a deeply personal one for Kusanagi. As she delves deeper into the mystery, Kusanagi begins to question her own existence, identity, and the nature of what it truly means to be human, challenging her perceptions of reality and the moral implications of her actions.
Mamoru Oshii brings to life a vision of a future both alluring and alarming, a world on the cusp of technological singularity where the line between organic and artificial blurs. The sprawling metropolis, with its neon lights and colossal skyscrapers, creates an atmospheric setting for a narrative rife with philosophical undertones. Oshii doesn’t shy away from addressing profound questions about self-awareness, artificial intelligence, and the merging of man with machine. “Ghost in the Shell” remains a thought-provoking masterpiece, expertly blending cerebral themes with gripping action sequences.
5. Patlabor 2: The Movie – Mamoru Oshii (1993)
“Patlabor 2: The Movie” takes place in a near-future Tokyo, where Labors, large robotic mechas, are utilized for various tasks including construction and law enforcement. A string of terrorist attacks involving Labors casts a shadow of unease across the city. These events force the residents to confront the potential dangers of the very technology they’ve come to rely upon, and as the attacks escalate, the police’s Special Vehicle Section 2 Division is tasked with finding the perpetrator. Captain Goto and his team soon find themselves embroiled in a vast and complex conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of Tokyo.
Mamoru Oshii creates a film that adeptly combines thrilling mecha action with a sophisticated political thriller narrative. The city of Tokyo becomes both a character and a battleground, depicted with stunning visuals and meticulous attention to detail, making this one of the best anime films of the 90s. The looming skyscrapers and infrastructure of the metropolis serve as both a testament to human innovation and a stark reminder of its potential pitfalls. As tensions rise, the film explores themes of peace, warfare, and the very nature of human conflict.
4. Whisper of the Heart – Yoshifumi Kondo (1995)
In “Whisper of the Heart,” Shizuku Tsukishima, a 14-year-old student, discovers that all the books she borrows from the library are previously checked out by an individual named Seiji Amasawa. Intrigued by this coincidence, Shizuku embarks on a quest to find this mysterious person. As she ventures deeper into her search, the streets of Tokyo become the setting for her journey of self-discovery. Along the way, she forms bonds, discovers her passion for writing, and finds herself in the midst of an unexpected romance, all while navigating the ups and downs of adolescence.
Directed by Yoshifumi Kondo under Studio Ghibli’s banner, this film shines as a heartfelt exploration of youth, aspirations, and the magic that lies in everyday life. Each scene is lovingly rendered, bringing to life the charm of urban Tokyo and the dreamlike sequences of Shizuku’s imaginative tales. Kondo emphasizes the wonder of ordinary moments, and the importance of following one’s heart, creating a narrative that resonates deeply with viewers young and old. “Whisper of the Heart” stands as a touching tribute to the fleeting yet unforgettable nature of adolescence, reminding us all of the beauty that can be found in the simplest of moments.
3. Princess Mononoke – Hayao Miyazaki (1997)
“Princess Mononoke” unveils a world where the forces of nature and humanity are in stark conflict. Prince Ashitaka, after being cursed by a boar demon, ventures west to seek a cure and soon finds himself in the middle of a battle between the industrial town of Iron Town and the gods of the forest. As he travels, Ashitaka witnesses the complexities of human desires and their often unintentional consequences on the natural world. San, also known as Princess Mononoke, is a young girl raised by wolves who vehemently opposes Iron Town’s environmental destruction. Together, they must find a way to bring harmony between the warring entities, realizing that the path to understanding requires compassion and compromise from both sides.
Hayao Miyazaki tells a complex tale that challenges viewers to consider the balance between progress and preservation. In a world where gray areas are abound, the characters grapple with their own beliefs, testing the strength and sincerity of their convictions. The lush landscapes and creatures of the forest contrast sharply with the mechanized world of Iron Town, offering a visual representation of their clashing ideologies. Miyazaki doesn’t settle for simple answers, instead urging the audience to ponder the nature of conflict and coexistence, making this one of the best anime films of the 90s.
2. Perfect Blue – Satoshi Kon (1997)
“Perfect Blue” follows the life of Mima Kirigoe, a pop singer who leaves her idol group to pursue an acting career. Transitioning from the stage’s bright lights to the demanding world of film, Mima begins to experience disturbing events that challenge her perception. Haunted by the echoes of her singing past, she soon struggles to distinguish reality from fiction. She becomes the target of an obsessed fan, a sinister figure lurking in the shadows, and grapples with a rapidly fracturing psyche, as the lines between her roles on-screen and her real life blur alarmingly.
Satoshi Kon’s directorial debut is a chilling psychological thriller, marked by its intense visuals and complex narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film’s animation style offers a distorted, dreamlike quality, making every frame a visual puzzle, enhancing the sense of unease that permeates the story. Through Mima’s harrowing journey, Kon masterfully navigates the pressures of fame and identity, presenting a haunting reflection on the price of celebrity and the often overlooked vulnerabilities that come with it. With its unsettling atmosphere, suspense-filled sequences, and thought-provoking themes, “Perfect Blue” solidifies its position as a groundbreaking work in anime cinema.
1. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion – Hideaki Anno (1997)
“Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion” serves as a conclusion to the original series, providing a deeper dive into the unresolved conflicts of the show. As the shadowy organization SEELE launches a relentless assault on NERV headquarters, the pilots Shinji, Asuka, and Rei find themselves in a whirlwind of chaos and emotion. Faced with overwhelming odds, they confront their deepest fears, desires, regrets, and the weight of their responsibilities. The fate of humanity teeters on a precipice, with the Instrumentality Project looming ominously, threatening to dissolve individual identities and merge all human souls into a singular, collective consciousness.
Hideaki Anno delivers an experience that is both visually arresting and profoundly philosophical, a culmination of the series narrative arcs and character developments. The battles between the iconic Evangelion units and the monstrous Angels captivate with their sheer intensity. As they grapple with their own sense of self, Anno’s narrative challenges viewers to confront complex themes of individuality, depression, and the ever-present human desire for genuine connection. Controversial and bold, “Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion” is certainly one of the best anime films of the 90s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Anime films of the 90s:
- Ninja Scroll – Yoshiaki Kawajiri (1993)
- Comet in Moominland – Hiroshi Saitō (1992)
- Memories – Koji Morimoto, Katsuhiro Otomo, Tensai Okamura (1995)
- Porco Rosso – Hayao Miyazaki (1992)
- Ghost in the Shell – Mamoru Oshii (1995)
- Patlabor 2: The Movie – Mamoru Oshii (1993)
- Whisper of the Heart – Yoshifumi Kondo (1995)
- Princess Mononoke – Hayao Miyazaki (1997)
- Perfect Blue – Satoshi Kon (1997)
- Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion – Hideaki Anno (1997)
