24 Recommendations for the Best Anime Films of All Time, Too Good to Miss

Kapanlagi.com - Among the many types of films, anime or Japanese cartoons have become one of the most favored. It is evident that many people are looking for recommendations for the best anime films to watch.

Anime films never lack fans. From children to adults, many people enjoy anime. It’s understandable because anime films have exciting and interesting stories to follow. Moreover, there are several recommendations for the best anime films that have already proven their quality. Curious about what those anime titles are?

Summarized from various sources, here are some recommendations for the best anime films that you must watch at least once in your lifetime.

1. MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO

Poster MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO (credit: imdb)

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO has become one of the most popular Japanese anime of all time. The cute and adorable character Totoro is also very famous around the world. As a result, even though it was produced back in 1998, MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO still often appears on lists of the best anime films of all time.

This anime, produced by Studio Ghibli, tells the story of a family that moves to a remote village. In this family, there are two daughters, Satsuki and Mei. One day, Mei meets Totoro, a mysterious yet cute and magical mythical creature. The two girls then befriend Totoro and do various magical things together.

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO has a simple yet captivating plot. Viewers just need to sit back and watch in awe at the wonders performed by Totoro, Satsuki, and Mei.

2. SPIRITED AWAY

The second recommendation for the best anime film still comes from Studio Ghibli. The anime is titled SPIRITED AWAY. This anime is also in the fantasy genre. It tells the story of a girl named Chihiro who must embark on an adventure to save her parents from a curse. Chihiro's father and mother are cursed to become pigs due to their greedy nature.

There is a reason why SPIRITED AWAY is worthy of being called one of the best anime films. This anime has won many awards. One of the most prestigious, SPIRITED AWAY won the Best Animated Feature category at the Oscars.

3. GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES

Poster GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES (credit: imdb)

If you are looking for recommendations for the best anime film with a sad story, GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES could be the choice. GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES tells the story of children who are victims of World War II in Japan, specifically when the atomic bomb was dropped on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The characters in this anime are named Seita and Setsuko, siblings whose lives are filled with hardship due to the war. Seita's days are very heavy as he must provide for his younger sister. The struggle of Seita and Setsuko is very emotionally draining. The relationship between Seita and Setsuko is also very touching and full of emotion. Viewers will feel pity and sympathy watching the struggles of these siblings.

4. YOUR NAME

The next recommendation for the best anime film is titled YOUR NAME. When it was released in 2016, YOUR NAME immediately became one of the films that sparked discussions. Even until now, YOUR NAME remains a favorite anime film for many people.

YOUR NAME tells the story of a man named Taki Tachibana and a girl named Mitsuha Miyamizu who are mysteriously connected. One day, Taki and Mitsuha experience a strange event. They suddenly swap bodies. Out of curiosity, Taki and Mitsuha then try to find each other.

In their quest, Taki and Mitsuha are faced with even greater secrets and mysteries. Curious about how the story of Taki and Mitsuha unfolds? Just watch this anime.

5. WEATHERING WITH YOU

Poster WEATHERING WITH YOU (credit: imdb)

WEATHERING WITH YOU is also one of the best anime films that is a shame to miss. WEATHERING WITH YOU comes from the same director who worked on KIMI NO NA WA. This anime tells the story of two characters named Hodaka and Hina.

Hodaka is a worker at a small magazine. Meanwhile, Hina is an ordinary-looking girl but actually has the power to summon the sun and bring rain. One day they meet. They then use Hina's abilities to do the things they want. Curious about how the story continues? Just watch WEATHERING WITH YOU.

6. 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND

Poster 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND (credit: imdb)

For fans of romantic anime films, 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND is one of the highly recommended titles. The anime 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND has a romantic yet touching story. Viewers watching it can easily get carried away emotionally. Not only about love, 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND also presents a story about friendship.

The story follows Toono Takaki and Shinohara Akari, two people who have been in a relationship for a long time. One day, they are forced to part ways because Akari has to move with her parents. Even though they live apart, they continue to communicate by sending letters. However, distance and busy schedules remain significant issues.

Will they be able to maintain their relationship amidst the various problems they face? If you're curious, just watch and follow the story of Toono Takaki and Shinohara Akari in the anime 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND.

7. PERFECT BLUE

Next on the list of best anime film recommendations is an anime titled PERFECT BLUE. This anime has a story that is quite mature and deep, making it not very suitable for children under age. Moreover, this anime contains scenes of violence and rape that are certainly not child-friendly. However, for adults, PERFECT BLUE is a must-watch title.

PERFECT BLUE tells the story of a character named Mira Kirigoe. Mira is a member of an idol group who has just ventured into the acting world. Unfortunately, Mira's career as an actress is considered lacking. Mira, who was once adored as an idol, now receives a lot of criticism and terror.

8. THE WIND RISES

Poster THE WIND RISES (credit: imdb)

THE WIND RISES can also be considered one of the best anime film recommendations ever. THE WIND RISES is an animated film produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. This anime has an interesting and complex story about disaster, romance, war, and loss.

The anime tells the story of a boy named Jirou who dreams of creating airplanes. Jirou is a determined individual. In the end, Jirou succeeds in realizing his dream. However, of course, Jirou's journey to achieve that dream is not easy. Many conflicts arise and shape Jirou's life.

9. SILENT VOICE

If you are looking for the best romantic and heartwarming anime film recommendations, SILENT VOICE might be the answer. This anime has a touching story. SILENT VOICE tells the tale of Shouko Nishimiya, a deaf girl who experienced bullying from her classmate, Shouya Ishida.

Years later, a significant event occurs in Ishida Shouya's life, changing his previously mischievous and bullying nature to one of kindness. Shouya then decides to seek out Nishimiya and make amends for his past wrongdoings.

10. MIRAI NO MIRAI

Poster MIRAI NO MIRAI (credit: imdb)

The anime MIRAI NO MIRAI is another recommendation for the best anime films. MIRAI NO MIRAI has an exciting and interesting story. The main character in this anime is Kun Oota, a 4-year-old boy. Kun Oota is the beloved child in his family. However, Kun's life begins to change after he gets a younger sister named Mirai.

Since then, Kun's parents seem to love Mirai more. Feeling sad, Kun decides to go to a park. At that moment, a magical event occurs. Kun is able to meet several people from his past and future, including a teenage Mirai. Together with teenage Mirai, Kun embarks on an amazing adventure.

11. WORDS BUBBLE UP LIKE SODA POP

WORDS BUBBLE UP LIKE SODA POP is one of the popular original Netflix anime productions. This anime is directed by Kyohei Ishiguro. The story of WORDS BUBBLE UP LIKE SODA POP is light and refreshing. It tells the story of a quiet boy named Cherry and a girl named Smile.

Cherry and Smile have different personalities. One day, they experience an event that causes their phones to get swapped. From that moment on, the relationship between Cherry and Smile develops from friendship to love. However, due to their differing personalities, Cherry and Smile have exciting and unique interactions.

12. WOLF CHILDREN

WOLF CHILDREN Poster (credit: imdb)

The last recommendation for the best anime film is WOLF CHILDREN. This anime falls under the fantasy genre. The story of WOLF CHILDREN begins when Hana, a woman, enters into a relationship with a wolf-man.

Hana then has two children with ears and tails like a wolf. Born as unusual children, both of Hana's kids struggle to adapt to the world they live in.

Unfortunately, shortly after the two children are born, their father passes away. Hana ultimately has to raise her two children on her own. Yes, this anime has a sad and touching story, as it tells a lot about a mother's perseverance in raising her children.

13. PONYO (2008)

PONYO Poster (credit: imdb.com)

The next recommendation for the best anime movie is PONYO. This anime film features an exciting comedy and adventure genre. The story highlights the friendship between Sosuke and Ponyo. It's not an ordinary friendship; it turns out they have different lives.

Ponyo is not a human but a fish. She is ambitious to become like a human. With magical powers, she often changes her form. Their meeting begins when Sosuke finds Ponyo at the beach. Their relationship grows closer. Ponyo and Sosuke also like each other. However, those feelings come with their own consequences.

14. I WANT TO EAT YOUR PANCREAS (2018)

Poster I WANT EAT YOUR PANCREAS (credit: imdb.com)

I WANT TO EAT YOUR PANCREAS is among the recommended anime movies that should not be missed. Especially for fans of the romance and family genre, I WANT TO EAT YOUR PANCREAS has an exciting storyline. The story focuses on the character Sakura Yamauchi. She hides her illness from her friends.

However, one day Haruki, Sakura's school friend, accidentally discovers her pancreatic disease. From this point, their relationship becomes close. On the other hand, their feelings for each other deepen. However, Sakura's time is limited, making Haruki not want his friend to go.

15. GINTAMA: THE VERY FINAL (2021)

GINTAMA: THE VERY FINAL Poster (credit: imdb.com)

The next recommended anime movie is GINTAMA: THE VERY FINAL. This anime movie has an exciting story and serves as the conclusion to Gintoki Sakata's adventures. The synopsis of GINTAMA: THE VERY FINAL tells the story of Gintoki Sakata facing his strongest enemy, Utsuro.

Utsuro's power has even increased. Apparently, Utsuro's return will threaten Gintoki's closest people. Together with other characters, Gintoki strives to defeat Utsuro. To find out the final chapter of this battle, KLovers can watch Gintoki's journey in GINTAMA: THE VERY FINAL.

16. SPY FAMILY CODE: WHITE (2023)

Poster SPY×FAMILY CODE: WHITE (credit: imdb.com)

SPY FAMILY CODE: WHITE is among the recommended best anime movies in the action and comedy genre. The story of SPY FAMILY CODE: WHITE highlights Anya's adventures with the Loid Forger family. Initially, Loid is undercover as a spy. He receives a special mission. The Forger family then decides to go to Frigis to learn cooking.

The reason is that Anya wants to learn how to cook traditional food to receive an interesting prize. During their journey, unexpected events occur. Anya also discovers something that holds a secret threatening peace. Loid, who is currently a spy in the Strix operation, faces his own challenges.

17. BLACK CLOVER: MAHOU TEI NO KEN (2023)

Poster BLACK CLOVER: MAHOU TEI NO KEN (credit: imdb.com)

The next recommended anime movie is BLACK CLOVER: MAHOU TEI NO KEN. This anime features exciting action and adventure genres. The synopsis of BLACK CLOVER: MAHOU TEI NO KEN tells the story of the main characters named Yuno and Asta.

Living in a world of magic, Yuno and Asta both aspire to become Wizard King. On the other hand, Asta apparently cannot use his magical abilities. Nevertheless, Asta always strives to train so that he can acquire that magical power. Throughout his journey, it turns out that the resurrection of the previous Wizard King poses a threat, including to the inhabitants of the Clover Kingdom.

18. ONE PIECE FILM: RED (2022)

Poster ONE PIECE FILM: RED (credit: imdb.com)

The next recommended anime movie is ONE PIECE FILM: RED. This anime film features the exciting adventures of the main character ONE PIECE, namely Luffy and Shanks. The synopsis of ONE PIECE FILM: RED tells the story of Luffy and his crew sailing to Elegia Island.

Their goal is to witness a concert by Uta with her melodious voice. But it turns out, Luffy's crew discovers a shocking fact that the island is not real. Moreover, Uta is actually hiding her identity. In order to escape, she must defeat the enemies that appear. At that moment, Shanks reappears.

19. PRINCESS MONONOKE (1997)

PRINCESS MONONOKE (credit: Studio Ghibli)

A peaceful village in the mountains is attacked by a boar possessed by a demon. A young prince named Ashitaka is gravely wounded and cursed. He is exiled and embarks on a journey to find a cure for his curse. Along the way, he arrives at Iron Town, led by Lady Eboshi, where humans and forest spirits are at war. Amidst the conflict, Ashitaka tries to mediate and discover the meaning of balance between humans and nature.

20. KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE (1989)

MAJO NO TAKKYUUBIN (credit: Studio Ghibli)

Kiki, a young witch, must leave home to fulfill a tradition to become a true witch. Together with her black cat, Jiji, she starts a delivery service in a new town. The film depicts Kiki's journey of finding independence, responsibility, and the meaning of self-confidence in a vast and challenging world.

21. HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE (2004)

HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE (credit: Studio Ghibli)

Sophie, a hat maker, suddenly transforms into an old woman due to a curse from a jealous witch. In her quest to restore herself, she meets a handsome wizard named Howl and ascends to his magical flying castle. This story combines adventure, love, and the struggle for self-acceptance through an unexpected magical world.

22. MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO (1988)

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO (credit: Studio Ghibli)

Satsuki and her younger sister, Mei, move to the countryside and discover a large, fluffy creature named Totoro. Totoro introduces them to the wonders of nature and a fantasy world full of magical beings, including a cat-shaped bus. The film presents warmth, childhood innocence, and the human relationship with nature through the perspective of two small children.

23. RASCAL DOES NOT DREAM OF BUNNY GIRL SENPAI (2019)

RASCAL DOES NOT DREAM OF BUNNY GIRL SENPAI (credit: CloverWorks)

In the city of Fujisawa, Sakuta lives happily with his girlfriend, Mai Sakurajima, until he reunites with his first love, Shouko. However, he faces two Shoukos—teenage and adult versions. This confusing situation tests Sakuta's love, loyalty, and life choices as Shouko's secret illness is revealed and her past comes back to haunt them.

24. SUZUME'S LOCKING UP (2022)

SUZUME NO TOJIMARI (credit: CoMix Wave)

Suzume, a 17-year-old girl from Kyushu, meets a mysterious young man searching for a magical door. As they open one of the doors in the ruins, disaster strikes across Japan. Suzume then embarks on a journey to close all disaster doors, discovering the meaning of loss, freedom, and self-growth amidst a spiritual journey filled with surprises.

25. QnA Recommendations for the Best Anime Films

1. Why are Studio Ghibli anime films often considered the best?

Because each film features a strong moral message, artistic visuals, and universal themes about love, life, and nature.

2. What do Mononoke Hime and Tonari no Totoro have in common?

Both explore the theme of the relationship between humans and nature and highlight strong characters who strive to maintain environmental balance.

3. Is Seishun Buta Yarou wa Yumemiru Shoujo no Yume wo Minai a film with a teenage romance theme?

Yes, this film combines teenage romance with elements of fantasy and psychology that delve into emotions and life's dilemmas.

4. What is the main appeal of Suzume no Tojimari for young audiences?

This film showcases adventure, captivating cinematic visuals, and the emotional journey of a girl discovering the meaning of courage and loss.

Those are some of the best anime film recommendations. Enjoy watching! Stay updated with the latest celebrity news only at Kapanlagi.com. If not now, when?

(kpl/gen/psp)