Anime films from the year of 2010 brought forth a variety of intriguing stories, diverse animation styles, and groundbreaking narratives. As we journey through this collection, we encounter a wide array of storytelling mastery, ranging from the whimsical and imaginative to the thought-provoking and introspective. Each film selected for this list stands out for its unique contribution to the medium, showcasing the versatility and creative depth that anime has to offer. From breathtaking adventures set in fantastical worlds to intimate tales of everyday life, these films showcase the artistry and emotional resonance that anime is capable of delivering. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best anime films of 2010.
10. Pokémon: Zoroark – Master of Illusions – Kunihiko Yuyama
“Pokémon: Zoroark – Master of Illusions,” directed by Kunihiko Yuyama, is a lively addition to the beloved Pokémon film series. The captivating story centers around the mythical Pokémon Zoroark, renowned for its remarkable and almost mesmerizing ability to conjure convincing illusions. The narrative takes place in Crown City, where Ash and his loyal friends stumble upon Zoroark. This unique Pokémon, entrapped in a web of manipulation, finds itself coerced into unleashing chaos throughout the bustling city. Throughout its duration, the film explores themes such as the depth of friendship and the ethical dilemmas associated with exploiting the abilities of Pokémon for selfish human interests.
The film’s visual style is a standout feature, distinguished by its ability to authentically capture the spirit of the Pokémon universe through its vibrant and animated graphics. The detailed character arcs draw viewers into a deeper emotional engagement, creating a sense of empathy for their diverse challenges and predicaments. There is also an exploration of thought-provoking themes such as the importance of preserving our environment and the often complex bonds that exist between Pokémon and humans. “Pokémon: Zoroark – Master of Illusions” stands out due to its enthralling storyline and depiction of the relationships that humans share with their Pokémon counterparts.
9. Welcome to the Space Show – Koji Masunari
“Welcome to the Space Show,” directed by Koji Masunari, is a mesmerizing sci-fi adventure, captivating its audience with a journey to the spectacular and uncharted realms of the universe. The intriguing plot is centered around a lively group of children who stumble upon a seemingly ordinary wounded dog. This dog, however, reveals its extraordinary secret as an alien named Pochi. In a delightful turn of events, Pochi invites them on an incredible interstellar journey, traversing the vastness of space to attend the cosmic fair known as the Space Show. During their exhilarating voyage, the children encounter a fascinating array of alien species and find themselves overcoming a series of unexpected and thrilling challenges.
This film has garnered widespread acclaim, particularly for its imaginative storytelling and the visually arresting special effects that capture the infinite wonders and sheer scale of outer space. One of the most notable aspects of the film is its emphasis on the evolving character arcs of the children, highlighting their individual growth and the deepening of their bonds of friendship as they navigate through their space odyssey. “Welcome to the Space Show” stands out as a thrilling and emotionally resonant experience, appealing to people of all ages and standing out as one of the best anime films of 2010.
8. Trigun: Badlands Rumble – Satoshi Nishimura
In “Trigun: Badlands Rumble,” directed by Satoshi Nishimura, audiences are immersed in the high-stakes world of Vash the Stampede, a character renowned as a legendary gunman and notorious for the substantial bounty placed on his head. This action-packed film unfolds in the rustic and lawless Macca City, setting the scene for a complex narrative where the infamous robber Gasback hatches a plan for a monumental heist. Vash, accompanied by his well-known allies and joined by a mysterious woman named Amelia, unexpectedly becomes entangled in this perilous scheme, his path crossing with that of Gasback. The storyline navigates a maze of themes including the pursuit of justice, the complexities of revenge, and the often murky waters of moral ambiguity.
The animation style of “Trigun: Badlands Rumble” combines both traditional and contemporary techniques, resulting in a distinct and visually striking aesthetic that perfectly encapsulates the rugged and desolate charm of the Badlands. A standout aspect of the film is the dynamic character interactions, which serve not only as a source of comedic relief but also provide a deeper understanding of each character’s distinct personality and backstory. Overall, “Trigun: Badlands Rumble” is an exhilarating experience for both long-time fans and those new to the series, delivering a compelling mix of high-octane action, well-timed humor, and a narrative that provokes deep reflection and intrigue.
7. Time of EVE: The Movie – Yasuhiro Yoshiura
“Time of EVE: The Movie,” directed by Yasuhiro Yoshiura, portrays an absorbing narrative in a not-so-distant future where the line between androids and humans is blurred. The story revolves around Rikuo, an introspective high school student, who stumbles upon unusual data in his household android’s log. This discovery propels him toward “Time of EVE,” a distinctive and avant-garde café where the usual boundaries between androids and humans dissolve, as neither group reveals their true identities. In this unique setting, the film delves into the evolving dynamics of human-technology interactions, prompting viewers to reconsider their ideas about consciousness, identity, and what it fundamentally means to be ‘individual’.
The film’s visual storytelling is exceptional, featuring carefully crafted animations that depict a world where futuristic advancements are the norm, seamlessly integrating into everyday life. Characters, whether they be human or android, are portrayed with great depth and complexity, creating a strong emotional connection and enabling viewers to understand their diverse experiences and dreams, helping to make this one of the best anime films of 2010. “Time of EVE: The Movie” is an introspective journey into the potential future of human interactions, causing ongoing discussions surrounding the ethical implications and societal impacts of artificial intelligence.
6. Colorful – Keiichi Hara
“Colorful,” directed by Keiichi Hara, presents a deeply engaging and thoughtfully constructed narrative centered around a soul granted an unexpected second chance at life. This soul, filled with a sense of mystery and curiosity, finds itself inhabiting the body of Makoto, a 14-year-old boy who recently faced the despair of suicide. As the film progresses, it navigates through Makoto’s personal journey, as he endeavors to unravel the tangled web of his past mistakes while striving to comprehend the reasons behind his unexpected return to life. In this quest, Makoto confronts and grapples with the often complicated and emotional dynamics of familial bonds, the everyday challenges of school life, and the profound journey of rediscovering and redefining his own sense of self.
The film’s animation style is particularly effective at capturing the subtle nuances and details of everyday existence, along with the profound emotional depth and complexities of its characters. Through Makoto’s interactions, both within his family circle and among his peers, the storyline explores and sheds light on themes such as the possibilities of redemption, the transformative journey of self-discovery, and the universal struggles inherent in the turbulent phase of adolescence. The narrative is engaging and introspective, prompting viewers to reflect on the value of life and the critical importance of empathy and understanding.
5. Heart and Yummie – Masaya Fujimori
“Heart and Yummie,” under the imaginative direction of Masaya Fujimori, is a charming and emotionally enriching tale centered on a young and curious boy named Heart. This story takes a turn toward the extraordinary when Heart encounters Yummie, a bizarre yet endearing creature. Together, they embark on an enchanting and magical journey, filled with wonder and surprises. Throughout this adventure, the film skillfully combines the tangible reality of Heart’s world with fantastical and whimsical elements, leading Heart and Yummie through a series of diverse challenges and thrilling escapades. The narrative serves as a captivating exploration of the themes of friendship, the courage to face the unknown, and the enchanting essence of childhood wonder and imagination.
Visually, “Heart and Yummie” is an absolute spectacle, dazzling the eyes with its vivid colors and wonderfully crafted imaginative landscapes that portray the world as seen through Heart’s eyes. The film’s character development is carefully considered, depicting Heart’s transformation from a shy and hesitant boy into a figure of bravery and deep compassion. Seamlessly blending humor with poignant emotional moments, the film creates a narrative that is both entertaining and deeply engaging, ensuring its place as one of the best anime films of 2010. “Heart and Yummie” stands as a beautiful ode to the power of imagination and the unbreakable bonds of friendship, offering a memorable and heartening cinematic experience to audiences of every age and background.
4. Black Lagoon: Roberta’s Blood Trail – Sunao Katabuchi
“Black Lagoon: Roberta’s Blood Trail,” directed by Sunao Katabuchi, offers an intense and gripping continuation of the renowned Black Lagoon series. This narrative unfolds around Roberta, known as a combat maid, who is driven by a fierce and unwavering desire for vengeance following the tragic death of her employer. Her relentless pursuit for retribution takes her deep into the heart of Roanapur’s criminal underworld, a place rife with danger and moral decay. In this setting, the main protagonists of the Lagoon Company find themselves inadvertently entangled in the escalating conflict, adding further layers of complexity and suspense to the storyline.
The animation in “Black Lagoon: Roberta’s Blood Trail” is particularly noteworthy, characterized by its dynamically choreographed action sequences and the detailed portrayal of Roanapur’s gritty and anarchic environment. The narrative juggles electrifying combat scenes with profound examinations of the characters’ underlying motivations and haunting pasts. Central to the film’s thematic core are the complexities of loyalty, the consuming nature of revenge, and the ethical problems inherent in acts of violence. “Roberta’s Blood Trail” stands out within the anime genre for its uncompromising action and the development of its characters.
3. Gintama: The Movie – Shinji Takamatsu
“Gintama: The Movie,” directed by Shinji Takamatsu, effortlessly transports the quirky and comedic essence of the popular Gintama series onto the big screen in a grand and entertaining fashion. The plot centers on the character of Gintoki Sakata, known for his unorthodox approach to the samurai lifestyle, who unexpectedly encounters a movie script with the power to alter reality itself. Joined by a cast of loyal and equally unconventional companions, Gintoki embarks on a frantic race against time to halt the escalating alterations to their world and to confront the figure responsible for the ensuing chaos. The film fuses elements of action, comedy, and just the right touch of absurdity, effectively maintaining the unique spirit and humor that defines the original Gintama series.
In terms of cinematic execution, “Gintama: The Movie” excels with its combination of slapstick comedy, high-energy action sequences, and moments of unexpected emotional depth, making it one of the best anime films of 2010. The animation style brilliantly captures the exaggerated and vibrant essence of the Gintama universe, characterized by its strong colors and dynamically animated scenes. “Gintama: The Movie” emerges as a wildly entertaining cinematic ride, appealing to both dedicated fans of the series and those new to the Gintama world, delivering an impeccable blend of humor, exhilarating action, and genuine emotional resonance.
2. The Secret World of Arrietty – Hiromasa Yonebayashi
“The Secret World of Arrietty,” directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, is a captivating and enchanting tale, inspired by the beloved classic children’s novel “The Borrowers.” Set against the backdrop of a serene suburban landscape, the story focuses on the life of Arrietty, a tiny yet fiercely independent and spirited teenage girl who comes from a family of Borrowers – a group of miniature people residing secretly within the walls and floors of human homes. Arrietty’s otherwise uneventful life veers into the realm of the extraordinary when she is unexpectedly discovered by Sho, a human boy, sparking off a series of thrilling adventures and complex challenges. The film navigates the complex interactions between the minuscule world of the Borrowers and the vast human world.
Under Yonebayashi’s expert direction, the film boasts exceptionally beautiful and detailed animation, which brings to life the lush gardens surrounding the Borrowers’ hidden home. The narrative, while gentle and soothing, is also incredibly engaging, drawing viewers into a mesmerizing and magical realm that coexists quietly alongside our own familiar world. The dynamics between the characters, especially the developing relationship between Arrietty and Sho, are crafted with great care and depth, providing an insightful and fresh perspective on the concepts of bravery, empathy, and mutual understanding. “The Secret World of Arrietty” stands out as a visually magnificent and emotionally powerful film, captivating a broad spectrum of audiences with its universally relatable themes and its enchanting storytelling.
1. The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya – Yasuhiro Takemoto, Tatsuya Ishihara
“The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya,” directed by the talented duo of Yasuhiro Takemoto and Tatsuya Ishihara, presents an absorbing and complex expansion of the popular “Haruhi Suzumiya” series. Set during the chilly month of December, the plot unfolds around Kyon, a seemingly ordinary high school student, who is thrust into a bewildering scenario where his familiar world undergoes a radical transformation. In this altered reality, his friend Haruhi Suzumiya is absent, and the members of the SOS Brigade, known for their involvement in supernatural events, appear to be nothing more than typical high school students. Faced with this perplexing situation, Kyon embarks on a surreal and introspective quest to unravel the mystery behind these dramatic changes and seeks a way to revert his world to its original state.
This film stands out due to its unique narrative structure and its profound exploration into the psyche and motivations of its characters. The animation is of a high caliber, skillfully capturing the subtle mood transitions from the realms of the known and comforting to those of the strange and unsettling. The movie combines elements of mystery, science fiction, and psychological drama, solidifying its place as one of the best anime films of 2010. “The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya” has been widely celebrated for its intelligent storytelling and its remarkable capacity to captivate both long-standing fans of the Haruhi Suzumiya series and newcomers alike, offering a layered and immensely satisfying cinematic journey.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best anime films of 2010:
- Pokémon: Zoroark – Master of Illusions – Kunihiko Yuyama
- Welcome to the Space Show – Koji Masunari
- Trigun: Badlands Rumble – Satoshi Nishimura
- Time of EVE: The Movie – Yasuhiro Yoshiura
- Colorful – Keiichi Hara
- Heart and Yummie – Masaya Fujimori
- Black Lagoon: Roberta’s Blood Trail – Sunao Katabuchi
- Gintama: The Movie – Shinji Takamatsu
- The Secret World of Arrietty – Hiromasa Yonebayashi
- The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya – Yasuhiro Takemoto, Tatsuya Ishihara
