The 26 Best Anime Movies of All Time

Anime movies are a powerful expression of a director’s emotions, with each frame reflecting the feelings they pour into their work. When you watch the creations of brilliant minds like Hayao Miyazaki and Makoto Shinkai, you don’t just see the story unfold—you feel the love, joy, and sorrow of the characters come to life. It’s this emotional depth that makes anime movies one of the best things to happen in anime, drawing you in and leaving a lasting impact on your heart.

26. From Up on Poppy Hill

From Up on Poppy Hill, directed by Goro Miyazaki and written by his father, Hayao Miyazaki, is a touching slice-of-life story set in 1960s Yokohama. The film follows Umi, a high school girl who raises signal flags every morning in honor of her missing father, and Shun, a passionate boy fighting to save their school’s clubhouse from demolition. As the two work together on their school’s newspaper, they uncover family secrets that test their growing relationship. The animation captures the nostalgic beauty of post-war Japan, with detailed cityscapes, lush greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere that immerses viewers in the era.

What makes From Up on Poppy Hill stand out is its quiet yet profound exploration of memory, loss, and renewal. The film is a tribute to the resilience of youth and the importance of preserving the past while looking toward the future. Goro Miyazaki’s delicate direction, paired with his father’s storytelling, creates a heartfelt narrative that feels both intimate and universal. It’s a gentle, deeply emotional film that lingers long after the credits roll, making it one of Studio Ghibli’s most sincere works.

25. Flavours of Youth

Flavours of Youth is a beautiful anthology film, co-directed by Yoshitaka Takeuchi, Li Haoling, and Xiaoxing Yi. The film weaves together three short stories set in different cities across China, each reflecting on the passage of time, nostalgia, and the simple pleasures that shape our lives. From the comforting taste of a childhood meal to the fleeting beauty of young love and the pressures of adulthood, each segment explores how memories of the past influence the present. The animation is filled with rich, evocative visuals that capture the warmth of small moments and the vibrant energy of urban life.

The strength of Flavours of Youth lies in its emotional authenticity. Each story is a poignant reminder of how our experiences, no matter how seemingly ordinary, leave a lasting impact on who we are. The directors beautifully convey the themes of change and remembrance, creating a meditative film that resonates on a deeply personal level. It’s a thoughtful and heartfelt celebration of life’s fleeting but meaningful moments.

24. Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop, directed by Kyohei Ishiguro, is a colorful and heartwarming story about connection and communication. The film centers around Cherry, a shy boy who expresses himself through haiku, and Smile, a popular girl hiding behind her braces and social media persona. The two meet during a chance encounter and slowly form a bond over the summer, as they help an elderly man find a long-lost record. The animation is vibrant, with bright pops of color and an aesthetic that feels almost like a moving pop art piece, matching the upbeat tone of the story.

The film is a delightful ode to the simple joys of youth and the importance of being true to oneself. Ishiguro does an excellent job portraying the awkwardness of young love and the power of words in bridging emotional gaps. Despite its light and breezy exterior, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop carries a meaningful message about finding your voice and embracing your imperfections. It’s a charming, feel-good film with a lot of heart.

23. Whisper of the Heart

Whisper of the Heart, directed by Yoshifumi Kondō and written by Hayao Miyazaki, is a tender and inspiring coming-of-age story about following your dreams. The film follows Shizuku, a young girl with a passion for reading and writing, who discovers a mysterious boy named Seiji and becomes inspired by his dedication to becoming a violin maker. As their friendship blossoms, Shizuku begins to explore her own creative ambitions, finding the courage to write her first novel. The animation is grounded yet enchanting, with the bustling cityscapes and cozy interiors of Tokyo serving as a backdrop for Shizuku’s journey.

What makes Whisper of the Heart so special is its deep emotional resonance. It’s a film about the beauty of youthful dreams and the struggles of self-discovery, all wrapped in the quiet magic of everyday life. Kondō’s delicate direction and Miyazaki’s heartfelt writing create a gentle, hopeful film that speaks to anyone who has ever questioned their path in life. It’s a love letter to creativity and the pursuit of one’s passion, making it one of Ghibli’s most touching and relatable works.

22. The Cat Returns

In The Cat Returns, directed by Hiroyuki Morita, we dive into a fantastical world where cats walk and talk like humans. The story follows Haru, a girl who unwittingly saves the life of a cat prince, leading her into the whimsical and mysterious Cat Kingdom. As she gets drawn deeper into this strange world, Haru must rely on new friends, including the dashing Baron and the gruff Muta, to escape before she becomes a permanent resident. The animation brings the quirky charm of the Cat Kingdom to life, making it feel like a fairy tale come true.

The film is a delightful, light-hearted adventure with a playful sense of humor and a strong message about bravery and self-discovery. While not as heavy as some of Studio Ghibli’s other works, The Cat Returns still manages to captivate with its imaginative storytelling and colorful cast of characters. It’s a fun, whimsical ride that showcases the studio’s ability to create enchanting worlds out of the ordinary.

21. A Whisker Away

A Whisker Away is a magical and heartfelt story about love, identity, and the lengths one will go to in order to escape their pain. Directed by Junichi Sato and Tomotaka Shibayama, the film follows Miyo, a girl who is struggling with her emotions and turns into a cat to get closer to her crush, Hinode. As a cat, Miyo finds comfort and a sense of belonging, but she soon realizes that living as a cat forever may not be the solution to her problems. The film’s animation captures the magical transformation scenes beautifully, with bright colors and whimsical designs adding to its dreamlike quality.

At its core, A Whisker Away is a story about self-acceptance and the importance of facing one’s true feelings. The directors do a great job of blending fantasy with real-world emotional struggles, making it both enchanting and deeply relatable. The film’s magical realism, combined with its heartfelt message, creates a touching and visually stunning experience.

20. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

Mamoru Hosoda’s The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a charming and bittersweet coming-of-age story with a sci-fi twist. The film centers on Makoto, a high school girl who unexpectedly gains the ability to leap back in time. At first, she uses this power for lighthearted purposes, like reliving fun moments or fixing small mistakes, but she soon realizes the deeper consequences of her actions. The film’s simple yet expressive animation brings a sense of playfulness to the time-travel concept, while also capturing the emotional stakes as Makoto grapples with the complexities of choice and regret.

What makes The Girl Who Leapt Through Time stand out is its emotional depth. Hosoda expertly blends the excitement of time travel with the more serious themes of growing up, relationships, and the inevitability of change. It’s a heartfelt exploration of how fleeting youth can be, leaving viewers with a sense of nostalgia and the reminder that every moment counts. The film’s mix of humor, heart, and sci-fi makes it a modern anime classic.

19. Castle in the Sky

Castle in the Sky, one of Studio Ghibli’s earliest masterpieces, showcases Hayao Miyazaki’s incredible world-building and his love for flight and adventure. The film follows two young protagonists, Pazu and Sheeta, as they embark on a thrilling quest to discover the legendary floating city of Laputa. Along the way, they face sky pirates, government agents, and ancient technologies, all while piecing together Sheeta’s mysterious past. The film is filled with breathtaking airships, grand landscapes, and intense action sequences, setting a new standard for animated adventure films.

Miyazaki’s love for exploration and the unknown is evident in every scene of Castle in the Sky. The animation, particularly the flying sequences, is stunning, capturing the beauty and grandeur of the skies. At the same time, the film delves into themes of greed, power, and humanity’s relationship with technology, making it much more than just an action-packed adventure. Castle in the Sky remains a timeless classic, offering both excitement and thoughtful storytelling.

18. Drifting Home

Drifting Home is a recent gem that captures the wonder of childhood friendships and the mysteries of growing up. Directed by Hiroyasu Ishida, the film follows a group of kids who find themselves mysteriously adrift in an abandoned apartment building that floats across a vast, unknown ocean. As they journey through this surreal, otherworldly setting, they confront their emotions, strained friendships, and hidden memories. The animation is striking, with vivid depictions of both the desolate sea and the eerie, dreamlike world around them, perfectly capturing the feeling of being lost—both physically and emotionally.

The film’s strength lies in its balance between the magical and the emotional. Ishida skillfully uses the drifting apartment as a metaphor for the kids’ uncertain future and their search for a sense of belonging. It’s a beautifully crafted film that weaves adventure with introspection, making it both visually captivating and deeply moving. Drifting Home resonates with anyone who has felt adrift in life’s transitions.

17. Hello World

Hello World is a sci-fi romance that pushes the boundaries of animation and storytelling. Directed by Tomohiko Itō, the film explores a futuristic world where a high school boy named Naomi is tasked with saving the girl he loves from a tragic fate, using the help of his future self. The story dives into parallel worlds, memory manipulation, and time travel, creating a complex narrative that keeps the audience guessing. Visually, the film stands out with its bold use of 3D animation, blending digital landscapes with emotional storytelling.

What makes Hello World compelling is how it mixes the deeply personal with the fantastical, using cutting-edge animation to enhance the emotional stakes. Itō takes risks with both the narrative structure and the visual style, making this film a fresh take on the genre. The futuristic technology and philosophical undertones give the story depth, while still centering around a heartfelt love story, making it a unique entry in modern anime.

16. Kiki’s Delivery Service

Kiki’s Delivery Service, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, is a heartwarming tale about growing up and finding one’s place in the world. The film follows Kiki, a young witch who leaves home at 13 to begin her year of independence in a new city, relying on her flying broomstick and her trusty black cat, Jiji. As Kiki starts a delivery service, she faces the challenges of adolescence, self-doubt, and loneliness, all while navigating her new life in a bustling seaside town. The film’s animation beautifully captures the charm of the city, the sweeping skies, and Kiki’s adventures as she soars through the clouds.

What sets Kiki’s Delivery Service apart is its tender exploration of self-discovery and resilience. Miyazaki brilliantly balances the magic of Kiki’s abilities with the everyday struggles of growing up, making her journey relatable to viewers of all ages. The film is filled with quiet moments of reflection and joy, and it reminds us of the importance of believing in ourselves, no matter how tough things get. It’s a feel-good classic that continues to inspire and uplift.

15. The Garden of Words

Makoto Shinkai’s The Garden of Words is a delicate, intimate story about two lonely people who find solace in each other’s company. The film centers on Takao, a high school student who dreams of becoming a shoemaker, and Yukari, a mysterious older woman who he meets on rainy mornings in a beautiful, secluded garden. Their fleeting encounters under the rain are brought to life with Shinkai’s signature hyper-realistic animation, making the film a visual masterpiece. Every raindrop, leaf, and beam of light is rendered with breathtaking detail, creating a sense of calm and beauty throughout.

What stands out in The Garden of Words is its subtle exploration of human connection. The quiet moments between the characters speak volumes about their loneliness and unspoken emotions, making the film feel deeply personal. Shinkai masterfully captures the fleeting nature of their relationship, leaving viewers with a bittersweet feeling that lingers long after the film ends.

14. My Neighbor Totoro

My Neighbor Totoro is one of Studio Ghibli’s most beloved films, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside and discover a magical creature named Totoro. Set against the backdrop of rural Japan, the film is a peaceful exploration of childhood wonder and the healing power of nature. The iconic character Totoro, with his big, soft belly and playful demeanor, has become a symbol of comfort and imagination for audiences worldwide.

What makes My Neighbor Totoro so special is its simplicity and heart. It’s a film that doesn’t rely on action or drama, but rather on the small, magical moments of everyday life. Miyazaki’s gentle storytelling, combined with the beautifully animated countryside, creates a timeless experience that continues to charm both children and adults. It’s a testament to Ghibli’s ability to craft films that are not only visually stunning but emotionally uplifting.

13. 5 Centimeters per Second

Makoto Shinkai’s 5 Centimeters per Second is a beautifully melancholic exploration of distance, time, and unfulfilled love. The film follows three interconnected stories about a young man named Takaki and his drifting relationship with a girl named Akari, as life slowly pulls them apart. The title refers to the speed at which cherry blossom petals fall, symbolizing the slow but inevitable drift between people. Shinkai’s visual style is at its peak here, with each frame meticulously crafted to evoke deep emotions, from the snowy train rides to the sunlit streets.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to capture the bittersweet nature of love and growing up. 5 Centimeters per Second resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of lost connections or the passage of time. Shinkai’s use of stunning visuals paired with a quiet, reflective narrative makes this film a moving and poetic experience, solidifying his reputation as a master of emotionally charged storytelling.

12. Ponyo

Ponyo is Hayao Miyazaki’s charming and whimsical take on the classic Little Mermaid tale. The story follows a young boy named Sosuke, who befriends Ponyo, a goldfish determined to become human. The film is filled with the kind of imaginative world-building and innocent wonder that has become synonymous with Miyazaki’s work. From the underwater kingdom to the stormy seas, every scene is brought to life with vibrant, hand-drawn animation that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Unlike the more complex themes in Miyazaki’s other works, Ponyo is a simple, joyful story about friendship and nature, perfect for audiences of all ages. Yet, even in its simplicity, Miyazaki’s craftsmanship shines, especially in the way he captures the fluidity of water and the childlike wonder of its characters. Ponyo is a delightful reminder of the beauty in small, everyday moments, presented through the eyes of one of animation’s greatest visionaries.

11. Weathering with You

Makoto Shinkai’s Weathering with You is a visually stunning love story set against the backdrop of a climate crisis. The film follows Hodaka, a runaway boy who meets Hina, a girl with the mysterious ability to control the weather. As their bond deepens, they face the consequences of her powers in a world where the weather has become uncontrollable. The animation is nothing short of breathtaking, with Shinkai’s signature attention to detail creating vivid rain-soaked cityscapes and ethereal skies.

What makes Weathering with You stand out is its blend of romance and commentary on climate change, presented in Shinkai’s emotionally charged storytelling style. The characters’ personal struggles are beautifully mirrored in the extreme weather, making their journey feel both intimate and universal. Shinkai has once again proven his ability to craft stories that resonate deeply with viewers, making Weathering with You a worthy follow-up to Your Name.

10. Princess Mononoke

Princess Mononoke is one of Hayao Miyazaki’s most ambitious and visually striking films, blending epic fantasy with environmental themes. The story is set in a mystical forest where nature and man are at war, centering on Ashitaka, a young warrior caught between the forces of industrial progress and the spiritual world led by the fierce Princess Mononoke. The film is packed with breathtaking action sequences, and Miyazaki’s animation brings to life every detail, from the creatures of the forest to the bustling iron town.

This film marks one of Ghibli’s darker, more mature works, delving into the complex relationship between humanity and nature. The moral ambiguity of its characters is what makes Princess Mononoke so captivating—no one is purely good or evil. Miyazaki’s brilliance shines through in his ability to create such a nuanced story, making the viewer question their own views on progress and the environment. It’s an epic in every sense of the word and remains one of Studio Ghibli’s most critically acclaimed films.

9. Howl’s Moving Castle

Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Howl’s Moving Castle is a magical journey through a war-torn world filled with wizards, witches, and enchanted castles. The story follows Sophie, a young woman cursed to become an old lady, who finds herself entwined in the life of the mysterious wizard Howl. The moving castle itself is a marvel of animation—an ever-shifting, creaky structure that seems alive, much like the characters it houses. Miyazaki uses this whimsical tale to touch on deeper themes such as self-acceptance, the destructiveness of war, and the complexities of love.

What makes Howl’s Moving Castle shine is not just the imaginative world-building, but the way Miyazaki portrays human emotions through the fantastical. The animation is breathtaking, especially in the way it brings Howl’s transformations and the magical battles to life. Every scene is a visual delight, and the characters are as layered as the story itself. Once again, Miyazaki proves he’s a master storyteller who can weave enchantment and depth into every frame.

8. Josee, the Tiger and the Fish

Josee, the Tiger and the Fish, directed by Kotaro Tamura, is a touching and visually stunning love story about dreams, resilience, and the beauty of human connection. The film follows Tsuneo, a university student who meets Josee, a young woman with a disability who rarely leaves her house and lives in a world of books and imagination. As Tsuneo becomes her caretaker, the two form an unexpected bond. Josee’s fierce independence and vivid imagination contrast with her physical limitations, while Tsuneo’s calm and caring nature slowly helps her open up to the world. The animation paints a vibrant picture of both their inner and outer worlds, particularly through Josee’s fantastical visions of the sea.

What makes Josee, the Tiger and the Fish so impactful is its delicate handling of both characters’ growth. Tamura beautifully portrays Josee’s journey toward self-confidence and Tsuneo’s evolving understanding of dreams and responsibility. The film’s heartfelt moments are perfectly balanced with humor and warmth, creating a narrative that is both deeply emotional and uplifting. It’s a visually enchanting and emotionally resonant film that explores how love and understanding can help overcome personal struggles, making it a standout in modern anime cinema.

7. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas

I Want to Eat Your Pancreas, directed by Shinichirō Ushijima, is an emotionally charged and bittersweet story about life, death, and the unlikely bond between two high school students. The film follows an introverted boy who accidentally discovers that his popular classmate, Sakura, is suffering from a terminal illness. Despite their stark differences, the two form a deep friendship as Sakura, full of life and joy, teaches him to appreciate the world around him. The animation captures the beauty of their everyday moments together, highlighting the fleeting nature of time and the small joys in life.

What sets I Want to Eat Your Pancreas apart is its tender portrayal of mortality and human connection. Ushijima brings out the complexities of both characters, making their emotional journey feel incredibly real and relatable. While the film explores heavy themes of death and loss, it never loses sight of the hope and love that come with cherishing the present. The film leaves a lasting impact, reminding viewers to live fully and embrace the people they care about, even in the face of inevitable goodbyes.

6. A Silent Voice

A Silent Voice is an emotionally charged story that deals with heavy themes like bullying, guilt, and redemption. Directed by Naoko Yamada, this film tells the story of Shoya, a boy who cruelly bullied Shoko, a deaf girl, when they were younger. Years later, Shoya is consumed by guilt and seeks to make amends, leading to a powerful journey of reconciliation and self-forgiveness. The film doesn’t shy away from the emotional and psychological toll of bullying, making it a raw and honest portrayal of human relationships.

What sets A Silent Voice apart is Yamada’s delicate touch in handling such sensitive subjects. The animation beautifully captures the small, everyday moments that carry so much weight in the characters’ lives. It’s a deeply personal story that resonates with anyone who has experienced regret or the desire to change for the better. Yamada’s direction brings out the best of Kyoto Animation’s artistic abilities, making this film a modern classic.

5. Your Name

Makoto Shinkai’s Your Name became a worldwide phenomenon with its captivating mix of romance, fantasy, and stunning visuals. The story of Taki and Mitsuha, two teens who mysteriously swap bodies, unfolds with beautiful complexity. Shinkai’s signature animation style brings every detail to life, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the quiet rural town, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for the characters’ emotional journey. The film’s exploration of connection, fate, and memory is handled with such grace, making it both heartwarming and bittersweet.

Your Name isn’t just visually stunning—it’s a deeply emotional experience that resonated with audiences worldwide. Shinkai masterfully balances intricate storytelling with jaw-dropping animation, making it one of the best modern anime films. The impact of this film goes beyond just its box office success; it solidified Shinkai as a visionary in anime and left a lasting mark on pop culture globally.

4. Suzume

Makoto Shinkai’s Suzume is a visually stunning and emotionally charged adventure that blends elements of fantasy with deeply personal themes. The film follows Suzume, a young girl who encounters a mysterious man on a journey to close supernatural doors that are unleashing disasters across Japan. As she helps him in his quest, Suzume embarks on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and acceptance of her past. The animation is breathtaking, with Shinkai’s signature attention to detail creating immersive landscapes and otherworldly visuals that are both awe-inspiring and haunting.

What elevates Suzume is its exploration of grief and resilience. Shinkai masterfully weaves together the fantastical with the emotional, using the doors as metaphors for the memories and traumas we must confront to move forward in life. The film’s heart lies in its characters’ emotional journey, making it not just an adventure, but a deeply human story about overcoming loss and finding hope. Suzume stands as another testament to Shinkai’s ability to blend spectacle and sentiment in a way that resonates profoundly with audiences.

3. Grave of the Fireflies

Grave of the Fireflies is a gut-wrenching tale of survival and the harrowing impact of war, directed by the brilliant Isao Takahata. The story follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they navigate a world shattered by World War II, desperately trying to find hope amid unimaginable hardship. It’s a heartbreaking, deeply emotional film that reminds us of the human cost of conflict, and it’s often considered one of the most powerful anti-war films ever made, animated or not.

What makes this film particularly special is Takahata’s ability to capture the beauty in tragedy. The animation, though simple compared to other Ghibli works, is poignant and hauntingly real, making the sorrow of the characters all the more impactful. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, proving once again the emotional power that Studio Ghibli can wield through its storytelling.

2. Spirited Away

In Spirited Away, Miyazaki transports us into the fantastical world of a young girl named Chihiro, who becomes trapped in a mysterious bathhouse full of spirits. As she struggles to rescue her parents, Chihiro discovers her inner strength and learns valuable lessons about greed, kindness, and identity. Every frame of this film bursts with creativity, from the quirky characters to the stunning, hand-painted backgrounds. It’s a true masterpiece of animation, where every element feels meticulously crafted and full of heart.

What sets Spirited Away apart, though, is the international recognition it received, including the Oscar for Best Animated Feature in 2003. This was a monumental achievement for Studio Ghibli, marking its place on the global stage as a powerhouse of animated storytelling. With its rich imagination and layered narrative, this film will continue to enchant audiences for generations to come.

1. The Boy and the Heron

Hayao Miyazaki’s long-awaited return to filmmaking, The Boy and the Heron, is a beautiful dive into the imaginative worlds that have defined his legacy. The film brings us the story of a boy on a surreal quest following the death of his mother, pulling viewers into a dreamlike universe where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred. The lush landscapes, mythical creatures, and detailed animation evoke a sense of wonder that only Miyazaki can deliver, once again proving why he’s considered a master of his craft. This movie won 2024 Academy Awards for the best animated film.

With each hand-drawn scene, Miyazaki showcases a masterful understanding of emotion and atmosphere. The Boy and the Heron reminds us why Studio Ghibli’s films resonate on such a deep, emotional level. It’s more than just a story about grief and discovery; it’s a visual experience that brings out the kind of awe that Miyazaki’s films have always delivered.