2018 was a year that proved to be a remarkable one for the anime industry. Anime films from this year offered a wide array of compelling stories, varied artistic expressions, and a mixture of different themes. From breathtaking adventures set in fantastical worlds to deeply moving stories rooted in emotional depth, each film on this list offers a unique experience. These movies demonstrate the versatility of the anime medium, featuring everything from heartwarming tales of growth and friendship to thought-provoking narratives that challenge and engage. The films on this list promise a blend of emotions and concepts, appealing to a diverse audience. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best anime films of 2018.
10. Flavors of Youth – Yoshitaka Takeuchi, Xiaoxing Yi, Li Haoling
“Flavors of Youth,” a heartfelt and emotionally resonant anthology, explores the lives of young individuals navigating through the complexities and vibrancy of different Chinese cities. Each segment of the film presents a selection of unique challenges and experiences, reflecting the diverse aspects of urban life. Spanning various locales, the film explores themes of love, personal growth, and the often challenging struggles of youth, while encapsulating the distinctive essence and spirit of each city it portrays. The animation style, marked by its artistic finesse and attention to detail, beautifully complements the narrative, adding depth, color, and vibrancy to the storytelling.
Under the collaborative direction of Yoshitaka Takeuchi, Xiaoxing Yi, and Li Haoling, the film tells a narrative that powerfully resonates with a wide audience, transcending cultural boundaries. Their collective vision brings to life the subtleties of human emotions, making each story not only visually stunning but also deeply relatable and emotionally engaging. The film’s exploration of various relationships paints a realistic and touching picture of contemporary life. These narratives explore personal aspirations, the challenges of finding one’s place in a rapidly changing world, and the enduring strength of human connections. “Flavors of Youth” offers a unique and refreshing perspective on the joys, sorrows, and transformative experiences of growing up in the modern cities of China.
9. Okko’s Inn – Kitarou Kousaka
“Okko’s Inn,” directed by Kitarou Kousaka, follows the heartwarming journey of Okko, a young girl who, after facing a significant personal tragedy, moves to the picturesque countryside to live with her grandmother at a traditional Japanese inn. Adapting to her new environment, she uncovers an extraordinary ability to see friendly ghosts, a discovery that profoundly shapes her experiences. These spectral encounters, each with their unique stories and wisdom, help her grow, find solace, and gradually understand her place in the world. In doing so, the film blends elements of fantasy and reality, creating a compelling narrative about healing, self-discovery, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Kitarou Kousaka’s direction brings this visually stunning film to life with fluid animation that captures the serene beauty of the countryside and a vibrant color palette that adds a sense of warmth and enchantment. The film’s portrayal of the inn’s diverse array of guests, each with their own unique backgrounds and stories, adds multiple layers of depth and complexity to the narrative. These interactions not only contribute to Okko’s personal growth but also beautifully illustrate the themes of empathy and the healing power of human connections. “Okko’s Inn” is a heartfelt celebration of community, the importance of kindness, and the transformative power of understanding and acceptance, ensuring its place as one of the best anime films of 2018.
8. Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! Take On Me – Tatsuya Ishihara
“Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! Take On Me,” directed by Tatsuya Ishihara, is a charming and imaginative story that revolves around the evolving relationship between Yuta and Rikka, two high school sweethearts on the cusp of graduation. The film explores Rikka’s persistent “chunibyo” (adolescent delusions), a central aspect of her character, and the couple’s enchanting adventures, which are both whimsical and reflective of their deepening bond. As they embark on an enlightening journey across Japan, the film explores their shared dreams and their apprehensions about an uncertain future. This spontaneous road trip illustrates their transition from the whimsical world of adolescence to the realities of adulthood.
Under the direction of Tatsuya Ishihara, the film stands out due to its highly imaginative storytelling and visually striking animation. The characters’ inner worlds and fantasies are depicted with remarkable creativity and flair, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, and adding a layer of depth to their personalities. The film thoughtfully addresses themes of personal growth and acceptance, showcasing the characters’ journeys as they confront and come to terms with change. “Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! Take On Me” captivates its audience with a blend of humor and heartwarming moments, making it a memorable and significant addition to the series, and a testament to the enduring charm and appeal of its characters and their story.
7. Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple – Takuya Igarashi
“Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple,” directed by Takuya Igarashi, plunges into a captivating supernatural world inhabited by gifted individuals who wield unique powers to unravel mysteries and combat looming threats. Set against a backdrop of intrigue and suspense, the film focuses on the exploits of the Armed Detective Agency as they embark on a critical investigation into a series of mysterious and perilous incidents shaking the city. The main protagonist, Atsushi Nakajima, along with his companions, not only confronts a formidable new enemy but also grapples with their own internal struggles. The narrative combines these personal conflicts with action-packed scenes, showcasing a blend of inner turmoil and an unwavering resilience among the characters.
Takuya Igarashi’s distinct directorial style adds a unique flair to the film, striking a harmonious balance between intense, adrenaline-fueled action sequences and meaningful character development. The animation is particularly noteworthy for its dynamic and fluid style, which captures the essence of each character’s powers and the story’s fast-paced nature. The film navigates through themes of loyalty, bravery, and the ongoing quest for identity, resonating deeply with its audience. “Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple” thoughtfully invites viewers to reflect on the more profound aspects of power, personal struggles, and moral complexities, making it one of the best anime films of 2018.
6. Mirai – Mamoru Hosoda
In “Mirai,” directed by Mamoru Hosoda, we are introduced to Kun, a young boy whose world is upended by feelings of neglect and jealousy following the arrival of his baby sister, Mirai. His ordinary life takes a turn towards the extraordinary when he stumbles upon a magical garden where he encounters an older version of Mirai. This surprising meeting marks the beginning of an exceptional journey through time, where they visit various pivotal moments in their family’s history. During these travels, Kun is given the opportunity to view his relatives from diverse perspectives, shedding new light on their personalities and histories. This adventure becomes a transformative experience for Kun, helping him to comprehend and accept the evolving dynamics within his family.
Mamoru Hosoda’s expert direction in “Mirai” creates a world that is deeply engaging, where the boundaries between the past and the present blur in a seamless dance. The animation in the film is particularly noteworthy, featuring a visually striking style that effortlessly captures the fantastical journey and the strong emotional undertones of the narrative. Throughout the film, Hosoda explores universal themes such as family bonds, the intricacies of human connections, and the complex journey of growing up. “Mirai” stands out as a captivating and imaginative tale that masterfully blends elements of fantasy with the heartfelt realities of family life.
5. Penguin Highway – Hiroyasu Ishida
“Penguin Highway,” directed by Hiroyasu Ishida, centers on the life of Aoyama, a curious and intelligent fourth-grader. He is utterly fascinated by the sudden and unexplained appearance of penguins in his otherwise ordinary suburban town. This bizarre occurrence sparks Aoyama’s scientific curiosity, propelling him into an investigative adventure that soon becomes the focus of his keen intellect. These penguins quickly become the main subject of his scientific inquiry, leading him to encounter a mysterious dental assistant who appears to have a connection to this strange phenomenon. As Aoyama delves deeper into the heart of this mystery, he faces a series of challenges and revelations that blur the lines between his childlike sense of wonder and the more complex realities of the world around him.
Under the direction of Hiroyasu Ishida, “Penguin Highway” emerges as a visually stunning and beautifully animated film, bringing to life a story that is as unique as it is intriguing. The film combines elements of science fiction with a coming-of-age story, offering viewers a fresh perspective on exploration, discovery, and the transition from childhood innocence to a more adult understanding of the world. It addresses themes such as the pursuit of knowledge, personal growth, and the beauty of the unknown. “Penguin Highway” is a thoughtful reflection on the awe-inspiring and often bewildering marvels of the world, ensuring its place as one of the best anime films of 2018.
4. Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms – Mari Okada
“Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms,” directed by Mari Okada, is an emotionally resonant story that follows Maquia, an immortal girl hailing from a mystical and ethereal clan. Her serene existence is shattered by a tragic raid that leaves her isolated in the mortal world, a stark contrast to her timeless nature. In this unfamiliar world, Maquia encounters an orphaned baby boy named Ariel and makes the decision to raise him, fully aware of the inevitable heartache that awaits, as she will remain ageless while he grows older. Their journey together becomes a profound exploration of their bond, with Ariel maturing and evolving while Maquia remains unchanged, highlighting the bittersweet dynamics of their unique relationship.
Under the skilled direction of Mari Okada, this film stands out for its remarkable emotional depth and visually stunning storytelling. The animation, a blend of delicate beauty and powerful expression, serves as a perfect medium to convey the film’s deep themes of love, loss, and the relentless passage of time. The narrative examines the complexities of motherhood and connection against the backdrop of a world engulfed in war and transformation. “Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms” is a deeply moving tale, inviting viewers to contemplate the enduring nature of love, the painful beauty of impermanence, and the profound experiences that shape our existence.
3. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin VI – Rise of the Red Comet – Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, Takashi Imanishi
“Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin VI – Rise of the Red Comet,” directed by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko and Takashi Imanishi, dives into the complex backstory of Char Aznable, a pivotal figure in the Gundam universe. The film chronicles his transformation into the legendary “Red Comet,” a title that becomes synonymous with his prowess and enigmatic presence. Set during the period leading up to the One Year War, the narrative explores Char’s motivations, his rivalry with Amuro Ray, and the events that activate the impending conflict. This installment is key in providing a comprehensive understanding of the characters and the political landscape that forms the core of the Gundam world.
Under the guidance of directors Yoshikazu Yasuhiko and Takashi Imanishi, the film stands out due to its world-building and character development. The animation is of exceptional quality, capturing the grandeur of space battles and the design of the Gundam mechs, bringing them to life in a visually stunning manner. The film not only resonates with long-standing fans of the Gundam series but also serves as an accessible and engaging introduction for newcomers to the franchise. “Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin VI – Rise of the Red Comet” stands as a profound and exciting addition to the Gundam saga, enriching the series with its in-depth exploration of the complex world and its intriguing characters, ensuring its place as one of the best anime films of 2018.
2. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas – Shinichiro Ushijima
“I Want to Eat Your Pancreas,” directed by Shinichiro Ushijima, tells the touching story of an introverted high school boy who stumbles upon a diary belonging to his popular classmate, Sakura. This diary reveals that Sakura is battling a terminal illness, a secret she has kept from her peers. Despite the stark contrast in their personalities, an unexpected friendship blossoms between them, with Sakura showing a fierce determination to embrace life to its fullest in her remaining days. The narrative gracefully portrays their shared experiences, exploring themes of life, mortality, and the profound impact that authentic connections can have on individuals. As they spend more time together, both characters undergo significant personal growth, leading to a deepening of their bond.
Under the direction of Shinichiro Ushijima, the film stands out for its sensitive and thoughtful portrayal of a delicate subject. The animation style, characterized by its expressiveness, conveys the emotional depth and nuances of the story. The film balances moments of light-heartedness and humor with the serious and sobering reality of Sakura’s condition, providing an interesting perspective on how the transient nature of life can drive meaningful changes in our perceptions and relationships. “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is a heartfelt and moving exploration of the complexities of friendship, the multifaceted nature of love, and the lasting impact we can have on each other’s lives.
1. Liz and the Blue Bird – Naoko Yamada
“Liz and the Blue Bird,” directed by Naoko Yamada, presents a captivating and emotionally resonant story centered around Mizore and Nozomi, two high school musicians deeply immersed in preparing for a duet in their final concert. The narrative parallels their evolving relationship with the storyline of a fairy tale they are set to perform, titled “Liz and the Blue Bird,” highlighting the depth and complexity of their bond. As the day of the performance draws nearer, their friendship encounters various challenges and unspoken emotions, reflecting the emotional journey of the characters in the fairy tale they are portraying. The film explores adolescent emotions, their aspirations, and the nuanced nature of change as they transition into adulthood.
Naoko Yamada’s masterful direction is evident in the film’s storytelling, which is complemented by its exquisite and visually appealing animation. The character development is particularly notable, revealing the complex depths of Mizore and Nozomi’s connection, as well as their individual inner struggles and journeys of self-discovery. The music, integral to the story’s narrative, plays a significant role in enhancing the emotional resonance and depth of the film. “Liz and the Blue Bird” beautifully captures the complex dynamics of friendship, the challenges of self-discovery, and the personal growth that accompanies these experiences, making it one of the best anime films of 2018.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best anime films of 2018:
- Flavors of Youth – Yoshitaka Takeuchi, Xiaoxing Yi, Li Haoling
- Okko’s Inn – Kitarou Kousaka
- Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! Take On Me – Tatsuya Ishihara
- Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple – Takuya Igarashi
- Mirai – Mamoru Hosoda
- Penguin Highway – Hiroyasu Ishida
- Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms – Mari Okada
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin VI – Rise of the Red Comet – Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, Takashi Imanishi
- I Want to Eat Your Pancreas – Shinichiro Ushijima
- Liz and the Blue Bird – Naoko Yamada
