The best Anime films to watch right now!

The Boy and the Heron (2023)

What used to be an underappreciated genre because of the misconception that "animations are just for kids" is slowly becoming one of the best-received genres in cinema, with many anime films breaking records and winning awards. Japanese animations are more than just "cartoons"; they are masterclasses in visual storytelling, taking on complex human emotions and breathtaking beauty in ways that live-action Hollywood films rarely dare to. Want to start exploring this genre, or are you already watching them but looking for more recommendations? You're in the right place! In this blog, I will take you through some of my favorite Japanese animations.

Perfect Blue

Released in: 1997

Directed by: Satoshi Kon

Genre: Horror

Runtime: 82 mins

IMDB: 8.0/10

Perfect Blue is a psychological thriller masterpiece that explores the dark side of fame and obsession. When pop idol Mima Kirigoe leaves her music group to pursue an acting career, she becomes the target of a dangerous stalker. As her public image shifts and a series of gruesome murders occurs around her, Mima begins to lose her grip on reality, blurring the lines between her performance, her delusions, and her actual life.

This is actually one of the first anime films I've watched. As a big fan of horror films, I had to see what all the hype was about. This film stands out in many different aspects and serves as inspiration for some other major films as well. Without this film, we probably wouldn't have "Black Swan" directed by Darren Aronofsky. Perfect Blue is also what I would consider one of the scariest films ever. Thanks to its masterful direction, this film makes you feel uneasy at many moments. The main character is being stalked, and those scenes creep up on you like no other.

If you like this film also try: Black Swan (2010)

Chainsaw man: Reze arc

Released in: 2025

Directed by: Tatsuya Yoshihara

Genre: Action/Romance

Runtime: 100 mins

IMDB: 8.3/10

Chainsaw man: Reze arc is a dark, action-packed cinematic continuation of the hit dark fantasy series. The story follows Denji, a teenage Devil Hunter with a chainsaw heart, as his brutal daily routine is disrupted by a sweet, unexpected romance with a mysterious girl named Reze. However, as secret factions clash and hidden motives come to light, their blossoming connection quickly devolves into an explosive, high-stakes battle for survival. Blending hyper-violent, jaw-dropping action sequences with a surprisingly melancholic emotional core, this film delivers a breathless and unforgettable ride.

Serving as the direct sequel to Chainsaw Man Season 1, this film is easily one of the best anime movies out there right now. Visually, it is an absolute masterpiece, pairing insanely good, fluid animation with a beautiful color palette that makes every single frame pop. But what really locks you in is the plot—it's incredibly interesting, balancing the series' signature chaotic energy with a genuinely gripping storyline. On top of all that, the movie features an outstanding soundtrack that is so addictive I literally listen to it on a daily basis. If you loved the first season, this is an absolute must-watch that takes the entire franchise to a whole new level.

If you like this film also try: Tokyo Gore Police (2008)

A Silent Voice

Released in: 2016

Directed by: Naoko Yamada

Genre: Drama/Romance

Runtime: 129 mins

IMDB: 8.2/10

Koe no Katachi also known as A Silent Voice follows Shoya Ishida, a high school student who is socially isolated and consumed by guilt over bullying a deaf classmate, Shoko Nishimiya, during their elementary school years. Reaching a breaking point, Shoya tracks Shoko down in an effort to make amends and apologize for his past actions. The film explores their evolving relationship as they both navigate the lasting psychological effects of bullying, while also dealing with personal struggles related to communication, mental health, and social anxiety.

This is easily one of the strongest anime films to start with, especially because it handles heavy, complex human emotions with so much care. It tackles topics like social anxiety, guilt, and the desire for forgiveness in a way that feels incredibly raw and relatable. The direction in this film is absolute genius—the way scenes are framed and edited allows you to genuinely feel the crushing anxiety and isolation that both Shoya and Shoko are dealing with on a daily basis. Beyond just being a powerful drama, it teaches so many valuable lessons about communication, empathy, and learning to forgive yourself. From the stunningly detailed animation and beautiful color palette to the deeply atmospheric soundtrack, every element works together perfectly to deliver an unforgettable story.

If you like this film also try: I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (2018)

The First Slam Dunk

Released in: 2022

Directed by: Takehiko Inoue

Genre: Sport

Runtime: 124 mins

IMDB: 8.0/10

The First Slam Dunk follows Ryota Miyagi, the short but lightning-fast point guard for the Shohoku High School basketball team. During the intense Inter-High National Championship match against the seemingly undefeated reigning champions, Sannoh Kogyo High, Ryota flashes back to his past. The film explores his childhood trauma, his grief over losing his older brother, and his struggle to find his own identity while leading his teammates—Sakuragi, Rukawa, Akagi, and Mitsui—in a high-stakes, grueling battle on the court.

Covering the final arc of the legendary manga, this film introduces brand-new, never-before-seen footage that finally dives deep into Ryota Miyagi’s backstory. While the original manga centered almost entirely around Sakuragi, putting Miyagi in the spotlight is an absolute game-changer—he’s such an interesting character with a deeply compelling, emotional history. He might be the smallest guy on the court, but he is definitely not the weakest asset on the team. What makes this film truly special is that it was written and directed by the manga creator himself, Takehiko Inoue, who teamed up with Toei Animation to deliver a unique, beautiful animation style that perfectly captures the intensity of the sport. The tension built throughout the entire movie is incredible, and the flawless direction keeps you on the edge of your seat from tip-off to the final buzzer.

If you like this film also try: 100 meters (2025)

Akira

Released in: 1988

Directed by: Katsuhiro Otomo

Genre: Science Fiction

Runtime: 124 mins

IMDB: 8.0/10

Set in a dystopian, neo-cyberpunk Neo-Tokyo, Akira follows Kaneda, a brash leader of a teenage motorcycle gang, whose life is upended when his best friend, Tetsuo, is involved in a mysterious government accident. Following the crash, Tetsuo begins developing unstable, god-like psychic powers that quickly spiral out of control. As Tetsuo's sanity fractures and he turns against society, Kaneda is forced to team up with anti-government activists and military officials to stop his friend before his destructive abilities trigger a second catastrophic explosion that could wipe out the entire city.

Akira is a film that was easily years ahead of its time, standing as an absolute masterpiece of modern animation. Visually, it is completely mind-blowing, featuring bizarrely stunning, hand-drawn animation that creates a beautifully detailed world you can just lose your imagination in. Beyond the visuals, it delivers one of the coolest stories in cinema, packed with fantastic, iconic action sequences that have influenced pop culture for decades. From the legendary bike chases to the mind-bending sci-fi scale, every single frame showcases a level of craft and ambition that holds up perfectly today.

If you like this also try: Ghost in the Shell (1995)

Princess Mononoke

Released in: 1997

Directed by: Hayao Miyazaki

Genre: Fantasy

Runtime: 134 mins

IMDB: 8.3/10

Princess Mononoke follows Ashitaka, a young prince cursed by a dying boar god turned into a demon. In search of a cure, he travels to the Western forests and finds himself caught in a brutal conflict between the industrial workers of Iron Town, led by Lady Eboshi, and the ancient gods of the forest. Among the defenders of nature is San, a human girl raised by wolf gods. As the war threatens to destroy the balance of the world, Ashitaka struggles to find a way for humanity and nature to coexist peacefully.

Crafted by the legendary Studio Ghibli, Princess Mononoke is what I consider to be the absolute pinnacle of animation. Visually, it is a masterclass, featuring stunning hand-drawn animation that brings its world to life with an incredible level of detail. The experience is elevated by what is genuinely the most beautiful soundtrack my ears have ever heard, perfectly capturing the film's epic scale and raw emotion. From the complex, deeply gray characters to the flawless world-building, every single element of this movie is crafted to absolute perfection. It’s one of the best-written stories ever told, making it an undeniable masterpiece.

If you like this film also try: Any Studio Ghibli Project

Your Name.

Released in: 2016

Directed by: Makato Shinkai

Genre: Romance

Runtime 106 mins

IMDB: 8.4/10

Your Name follows Mitsuha, a high school girl living in a rural mountain town, and Taki, a high school boy living in the bustling city of Tokyo. Out of nowhere, the two teenagers discover that they are mysteriously swapping bodies with each other on random days. To navigate this bizarre phenomenon, they begin leaving each other notes and phone messages to manage their daily lives. However, just as they form a deep, unexplainable connection and attempt to finally meet in person, a cosmic event shifts their realities, turning their search for one another into a dramatic race against time.

Your Name is easily one of the most beautiful romances ever released, delivering a unique and masterfully written story that stays just as interesting even after multiple watches. Instead of just focusing on typical relationship dynamics, the movie prioritizes grand, sweeping storytelling that completely hooks you from start to finish. Visually, it is an absolute jaw-dropper with some of the cleanest, most stunning animation you will ever see, all backed by a beautiful and unforgettable soundtrack. It’s not just an incredible anime film; it’s easily one of the greatest cinematic romances of all time.

if you like this film also watch: Suzume (2022)

In Conclusion

When it comes to anime films, the variety is endless, and there are far more true masterpieces out there than most people realize. From brilliant, boundary-pushing animation styles to flawlessly written stories, these films prove that animation is definitely not just for kids. If you’re diving into the genre for the very first time, I always recommend starting with Studio Ghibli—their films are the most accessible, deeply comforting, and filled with pure cinematic magic.

What about you? Drop a comment and let me know your absolute favorite anime film!