12 Best Anime Movies Of All Time

Anime movies have captured the hearts of people around the world with their unique storytelling and breathtaking animation. Whether you’re a die-hard anime fan or just getting started, there’s no denying the impact that anime movies have had on the world of cinema. Here are 12 of the best anime movies of all time that you don’t want to miss.

Table of Contents

1. Spirited Away

Spirited Away is a masterpiece of anime filmmaking that won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2002. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this movie tells the story of a young girl named Chihiro who finds herself trapped in a mysterious world of spirits. The movie’s stunning animation and memorable characters make it a must-watch for any anime fan.

2. Your Name

Your Name is a 2016 anime movie directed by Makoto Shinkai that tells the story of two teenagers who find themselves mysteriously swapping bodies. This movie is a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and the power of human connection. With its stunning animation and powerful soundtrack, Your Name is a must-watch for any anime fan.

3. Akira

Akira is a classic anime movie that was released in 1988. Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, this movie is set in a post-apocalyptic world and tells the story of a group of teenagers who develop powerful psychic abilities. Akira is a groundbreaking anime movie that helped introduce a wider audience in the West.

4. Princess Mononoke

Princess Mononoke is another masterpiece of anime filmmaking from Hayao Miyazaki. This movie tells the story of a young prince who becomes embroiled in a battle between humans and the spirits of the forest. With its stunning animation and powerful environmental message, Princess Mononoke is a must-watch for any anime fan.

5. Perfect Blue

Perfect Blue is a psychological thriller anime movie directed by Satoshi Kon. The movie tells the story of a pop singer named Mima who becomes the target of a stalker. Perfect Blue is a gripping and intense movie that explores the darker side of fame and the impact it can have on a person’s mental health.

6. Grave of the Fireflies

Grave of the Fireflies is a powerful anti-war anime movie directed by Isao Takahata. Set during World War II, this movie tells the story of two siblings who struggle to survive in a war-torn Japan. Grave of the Fireflies is a heartbreaking movie that is a must-watch for anyone interested in anime movies that explore the human toll of war.

7. Ghost in the Shell

Ghost in the Shell is a classic cyberpunk anime movie that was released in 1995. Directed by Mamoru Oshii, this movie tells the story of a cyborg detective named Motoko Kusanagi who is tasked with tracking down a hacker known as the Puppet Master. Ghost in the Shell is a visually stunning movie that helped to establish anime as a serious form of science fiction.

8. Redline

Redline is an anime movie that is all about speed. Directed by Takeshi Koike, this movie tells the story of a daredevil racer named JP who enters a deadly underground race called the Redline. With its incredible animation and adrenaline-fueled action, Redline is a must-watch for any anime fan who loves high-octane thrills.

9. Howl’s Moving Castle

Howl’s Moving Castle is another masterpiece of anime filmmaking from Hayao Miyazaki. This movie tells the story of a young girl named Sophie who is transformed into an old woman by a witch’s curse. With its stunning animation and enchanting story, Howl’s Moving Castle is a must-watch for anyone who loves fantasy and magical worlds.

10. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a 2006 anime movie directed by Mamoru Hosoda. This movie tells the story of a high school girl named Makoto who gains the ability to time travel. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a touching and heartwarming movie that explores the power of friendship and the importance of living in the moment.

11. Paprika

Paprika is a sci-fi anime movie directed by Satoshi Kon. The movie tells the story of a therapist named Atsuko Chiba who uses a device called the DC Mini to enter her patients’ dreams. Paprika is a visually stunning movie that blurs the line between dreams and reality and explores the power of the human mind.

12. Millennium Actress

Millennium Actress is a 2001 anime movie directed by Satoshi Kon. This movie tells the story of an aging actress named Chiyoko who recounts her life story to a documentary filmmaker. Millennium Actress is a beautiful and emotional movie that explores the power of storytelling and the human experience.

These 12 anime movies are some of the best examples of the artistry and storytelling that make anime movies so unique and beloved by fans around the world. From classic tales to modern masterpieces, there is something for everyone in this list of the best anime movies of all time.

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Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com