Anime has garnered a dedicated global following due to its unique style, complex narratives, and detailed characters. From mind-bending science fiction to enchanting fantasy, these animated films capture a wide spectrum of human emotions and experiences that is often not possible to recreate in traditional live action cinema. These selections highlight the versatility of anime, showcasing its ability to tackle a plethora of subjects with grace and creativity. The chosen films not only represent the pinnacle of animation but also offer profound insights into the human condition. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Japanese anime films of all time.
10. Your Name. – Makoto Shinkai (2016)
Mitsuha, a high school girl from a rural town, and Taki, a high school boy from Tokyo, discover that they have begun switching bodies at random intervals. The duality of their lives, contrasting rural serenity with urban hustle, presents both conflicts and understanding. As they adjust to each other’s lives and establish a system to communicate, they develop a bond that neither expected. As they unravel the reason behind their mysterious connection, they find that time, fate, and distance pose challenges they must overcome. Their evolving relationship stands as a testament to the adaptability and resilience of the human spirit.
Makoto Shinkai’s “Your Name.” shines as a contemporary gem in anime cinema. Blending stellar animation with a compelling story, the film offers both visual delight and emotional depth, with the attention to detail, from the accuracy of Tokyo’s cityscape to the traditions of Mitsuha’s hometown, enhancing the film’s appeal. Shinkai’s storytelling prowess elevates the age-old theme of star-crossed lovers into a fresh and modern tale. Its success both domestically and internationally attests to its universal appeal and resonance with audiences all around the world.
9. The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya – Yasuhiro Takemoto, Tatsuya Ishihara (2010)
Kyon, an ordinary high school student, wakes up one December morning to find that his reality has drastically changed. The eccentric and unpredictable Haruhi Suzumiya, his close friend, has vanished, and no one around him seems to remember her existence. In this altered world, Kyon grapples with his own sanity and the weight of isolation. As Kyon seeks to uncover the truth behind her disappearance, he discovers altered relationships and unfamiliar faces. Throughout his quest, he confronts challenges of memory, time, and the fragile nature of reality.
Adapted from the light novel of the same name, “The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya” offers viewers a more somber and introspective side of the otherwise lively Haruhi series. The film carefully explores the human psyche, probing the lengths one would go to retrieve lost connections. Directors Yasuhiro Takemoto and Tatsuya Ishihara craft a film that seamlessly balances its complex narrative with character development, standing as one of the best Japanese anime films of all time, succesfully blurring the lines between the mundane and the extraordinary.
8. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya – Isao Takahata (2013)
A tiny, thumb-sized girl mysteriously springs forth from a glowing bamboo shoot, catching the attention of a humble bamboo cutter. As he takes her home, she transforms into a radiant baby, who he and his wife raise. Surrounded by nature’s wonders, Kaguya finds solace in the simple joys of life and as she grows at an unnatural speed, gifts of gold and fine robes are discovered in bamboo stalks, leading them to move to the city to establish her as a noble princess. Yet, Kaguya’s celestial origins and the challenges of human desires create a complex web of emotion and choice due to her newfound affluence bringing her luxuries, while also bringing forth unexpected hardships.
Isao Takahata’s adaptation of the famous Japanese folktale “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter” is a compelling exploration of identity, purpose, and destiny. The hand-drawn animation style offers a unique and mesmerizing viewing experience, perfectly complementing the raw emotion of the story. Kaguya’s journey, filled with both wonders and trials, becomes a reflection on the transient nature of life. The film’s artistry is paralleled by its storytelling, offering layers of meaning with each scene, ensuring that it’s a brilliant display of Studio Ghibli’s capacity to transport viewers into magical and thought-provoking worlds.
7. Akira – Katsuhiro Otomo (1988)
In a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, now known as Neo-Tokyo, the explosion that triggered World War III still casts a long shadow. Kaneda, a young biker gang leader, finds his life entangled with his friend Tetsuo when Tetsuo gains telekinetic abilities after a motorcycle accident. The landscape of Neo-Tokyo is filled with remnants of the past, a constant reminder of the catastrophic event. As the government tries to control Tetsuo, his powers grow more unstable, threatening the city’s very existence. A mix of politics, youth rebellion, and psychic warfare unfolds in this cyberpunk setting. The undercurrents of societal unrest permeate every corner, making the atmosphere palpable with tension.
Katsuhiro Otomo’s “Akira” is nothing short of revolutionary. Adapted from Otomo’s own manga, the film is heralded as a landmark in the animation industry and cyberpunk genre, with its influence to be seen across multiple forms of media, from films to video games, attesting to its enduring impact. Its detailed animation, combined with its profound social commentary, set a new benchmark for animated films worldwide, ensuring its place as one of the best Japanese anime films ever made.
6. Howl’s Moving Castle – Hayao Miyazaki (2004)
Sophie, a hat-maker, finds her life transformed when she is cursed by a witch, turning her into an elderly woman, causing the world around Sophie to become both unfamiliar and daunting in her aged state. To reverse the spell, she seeks the help of the enigmatic wizard Howl, residing in a walking castle. As they journey together in a world filled with war and magic, their destinies become intricately linked. The film explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the consequences of war. Amidst the fantastical, the movie subtly touches on the human condition and the resilience of spirit.
Hayao Miyazaki’s adaptation of Diana Wynne Jones’ fantasy novel is a visual and narrative masterpiece. The fluidity of the animation captures the transformative essence of both characters and the moving castle, while Miyazaki’s storytelling artfully combines elements of fantasy with deeper emotional themes. The juxtaposition of Sophie’s internal transformation against the ever-changing backdrop of war provides viewers with a multifaceted experience. The film, with its enchanting characters and vivid worlds, serves as a testament to Studio Ghibli’s unparalleled craft in animation. As a tale of magic, love, and war, “Howl’s Moving Castle” remains one of the best anime films of all time.
5. Princess Mononoke – Hayao Miyazaki (1997)
In the late Muromachi period of Japan, a young warrior named Ashitaka is cursed by a boar demon he kills while protecting his village. Searching for a cure, he ventures into the forests of the west where he finds himself caught in a conflict between the industrial town of Iron Town, led by Lady Eboshi, and the spirits of the forest, including the wolf god Moro and his human companion, the fierce Princess Mononoke. The story delves deep into the relationship between humanity and nature, with Ashitaka striving to mediate peace between the opposing forces. The underlying tensions of environmental degradation and the drive of human progress take center stage.
Hayao Miyazaki’s “Princess Mononoke” captures the essence of nature’s beauty and the cost of human ambition. The characters’ varied motivations present a multifaceted look at the struggle between development and preservation, contributing to the popularity of this favourite amongst Studio Ghibli fans. With breathtaking visuals, the film presents a balanced view, showing that neither side is entirely right or wrong, ensuring that “Princess Mononoke” stands as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between humanity and the environment.
4. Perfect Blue – Satoshi Kon (1997)
Mima Kirigoe, a member of a J-pop group, decides to leave her singing career to pursue acting. As she transitions into this new world, the spotlight on her grows brighter and more scrutinizing. She becomes the target of a mysterious stalker and begins to experience disorienting episodes where reality and fiction blur. These disturbing occurrences escalate as Mima starts to lose her grasp on her identity and reality. Her journey unravels the vulnerability of one’s mind under extreme pressure, and as threats intensify, the line between her life and her roles becomes terrifyingly thin.
Satoshi Kon’s “Perfect Blue” is a psychological thriller that captures the dark side of fame and the perils of identity in the modern age. The film astutely taps into the anxiety of a society obsessed with celebrity culture, while its narrative structure challenges the viewers’ perception, making them question what is real. Kon’s unique storytelling, combined with the film’s unsettling atmosphere, makes it one of the best Japanese anime films ever made. The visual sequences, often jarring and disorienting, add another layer of depth to Mima’s experiences, ensuring that “Perfect Blue” offers an intense, gripping experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
3. Grave of the Fireflies – Isao Takahata (1988)
Set during the darker, tumultuous final days of World War II, the film closely follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they desperately struggle for survival after losing their home and family to the merciless bombings. As resources become increasingly scarce and society gradually breaks down around them, the pair cling to one another, finding solace in each other’s company. In the midst of a shattered world, faced with the pressing challenges of hunger, illness, and the relentless devastation of war, the resilience and innocence of these young children is continuously put to the test. Their tale, sodeeply rooted in historical events, is a heartbreaking reflection on the profound human cost of war and the undeniable scars it leaves behind.
Isao Takahata’s “Grave of the Fireflies” emerges as a profound anti-war statement, drawing attention to the overlooked victims of global conflicts. The film’s hauntingly beautiful animation masterfully conveys the fragility and transient nature of life during such dire, uncertain times. Drawing its audience into its raw emotion, despite its harrowing narrative, it beautifully showcases the unwavering strength of the human spirit and the unbreakable bond of family in the face of overwhelming adversity. Echoing through the years, it remains one of the most evocative and moving films in anime history, challenging viewers to confront the realities of war’s aftermath.
2. Spirited Away – Hayao Miyazaki (2001)
During a move to a new neighborhood, ten-year-old Chihiro and her parents stumble upon a seemingly abandoned amusement park. However, as night falls, the park becomes a bustling world of gods, spirits, and supernatural creatures. This magical realm, while captivating, holds its own set of challenges and rules. When her parents are transformed into pigs by the witch Yubaba, Chihiro must navigate this strange world, making allies and facing dangers, in order to save them and return to the human realm. Along her journey, she encounters a mysterious boy named Haku, who plays a pivotal role in her adventure and teaches her valuable lessons about trust and courage.
“Spirited Away” is another masterpiece by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, filled with imaginative creatures and breathtaking landscapes. Miyazaki’s world-building is unparalleled, creating a realm that is both enchanting and eerie. Themes of identity, transformation, and resilience run through the film, echoing the universal struggles and triumphs of growing up, making it relatable to audiences of all ages. Winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, it’s no surprise that “Spirited Away” is celebrated as one of the best Japanese anime films of all time.
1. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion – Hideaki Anno (1997)
In the aftermath of the TV series, humanity is on the brink of extinction as the apocalyptic event, known as the Third Impact, looms. The organization NERV, along with its pilots Shinji Ikari, Rei Ayanami, and Asuka Langley, are humanity’s last defense against mysterious beings known as Angels. With external forces seeking to take control of NERV and the impending apocalypse, Shinji grapples with his emotions, responsibilities, and the weight of human existence. Amidst the chaos, personal conflicts and the overarching threat, allegiances are tested and revelations come to the fore.
Hideaki Anno’s “Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion” serves as a cinematic conclusion to the groundbreaking TV series. The film’s complex narrative and character dynamics explore profound existential themes. It’s a visual spectacle, with intense action sequences and symbolic imagery challenging viewers to interpret its deeper meanings, while the detailed relationships and dilemmas faced by the characters add further layers of depth to the story. As a conclusion to the “Evangelion” saga, the film provides both closure and new avenues of thought, solidifying its place as a monumental work in the world of anime.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Japanese anime films of all time:
- Your Name. – Makoto Shinkai (2016)
- The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya – Yasuhiro Takemoto, Tatsuya Ishihara (2010)
- The Tale of the Princess Kaguya – Isao Takahata (2013)
- Akira – Katsuhiro Otomo (1988)
- Howl’s Moving Castle – Hayao Miyazaki (2004)
- Princess Mononoke – Hayao Miyazaki (1997)
- Perfect Blue – Satoshi Kon (1997)
- Grave of the Fireflies – Isao Takahata (1988)
- Spirited Away – Hayao Miyazaki (2001)
- Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion – Hideaki Anno (1997)
