The typical journey for an anime series usually begins when a manga becomes widely recognized and demonstrates its potential for adaptation onto the screen. Many of the largest anime series we know today, such as Dragon Ball, One Piece, and Attack on Titan, originated from mangas. Moreover, some of the most influential anime feature films like Akira and Ghost in the Shell were born from works penned by masters of the comic medium.
On the other hand, some outstanding anime productions draw inspiration from literary works, light novels (similar to Japanese young adult literature), or are entirely unique creations. The following ten films are highly recommended for those seeking to explore anime beyond the conventional manga-to-anime adaptations that are prevalent in a significant portion of the industry.
10
‘Night on the Galactic Railroad’ (1985)
In a simpler and more natural way, A lad named Giovanni grapples with feelings of loneliness and family troubles, as his mother lies in bed and his father is nowhere to be found. On the night of the Milky Way Festival, Giovanni takes a brief respite on a hill, but ends up falling asleep. Upon waking, he discovers that he’s boarded a magical train traveling through the cosmos. Accompanied by his friend Campanella, Giovanni embarks on a sequence of fantastical journeys.
An Overlooked Japanese Classic
The unique Japanese essence of “Night on the Galactic Railroad” is evident, given its origin from Kenji Miyazawa’s novel which significantly impacted various facets of Japan’s culture. The film tackles heavy themes such as grief over a lost loved one and fears of abandonment, yet it does so through an engaging fantasy story that appeals to viewers of all ages. Despite being considered a classic, it is frequently underestimated in the Western world. Even after 40 years since its release, “Night on the Galactic Railroad’s” ending continues to tug at heartstrings as powerfully as ever.
9
‘Violence Voyager’ (2018)
In Japan, an American boy named Bobby and his friend Akkun decide to visit a mountain-dwelling friend. However, during their journey, they stumble upon an unusual amusement park called “Violence Voyager.” Convinced to participate in its grand opening, they find themselves involved in an ‘alien hunt event.’ Little did they know, this was all part of the owner’s plan – a mad scientist conducting strange experiments. Among these experiments was the kidnapping and transformation of children into a monstrous army. When Akkun is metamorphosed, Bobby bravely ventures deep into the facility in an attempt to save his friend.
Anime on the Fringe
In a distinctive animation style known as ‘gekimation,’ artist Ujicha stands apart from conventional anime; his work flourishes precisely because of this difference. The animated series Violence Voyager, hard to classify, offers a singular horror narrative born from childhood curiosity about guns, aliens, monsters, and super sentai. Essentially, it’s an unusual blend of childlike wonder and adult anxieties, portrayed in a visual direction that is nothing short of extraordinary. Although it may not be the norm for some viewers, it certainly warrants exploration.
8
‘Belladonna of Sadness’ (1973)
In a medieval European setting, Jeanne, a simple villager, is abducted on her wedding night by an unscrupulous lord to seize taxes from her partner. The dishonor inflicted upon her and subsequent abandonment by her family lead Jeanne to forge a deal with the devil, seeking vengeance. The animation’s aesthetic draws inspiration from the Art Nouveau era, featuring artists like Gustav Klimt, and was also influenced by Osamu Tezuka’s legendary work.
A Timeless Work of Art
Experiencing Belladonna of Sadness is like stepping into an art exhibit. Although the storyline delves deep into sorrow and carries feminist messages that were progressive for its era, it’s the striking visual style that truly captures attention. What makes this animation even more distinctive is that it was influenced by timeless French literature, specifically Jules Michelet’s 1862 novel La Sorcière. Despite these literary roots, Belladonna of Sadness offers a surreal and dreamlike journey that leaves viewers spellbound. This groundbreaking animation deserves wider acclaim for its visionary approach to storytelling.
7
‘Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop’ (2021)
In a heartfelt narrative from my perspective, I delve into the story of two timid souls, Cherry and Smile, whose lives intertwine like bubbles in a fizzy drink. Cherry, a quiet artist who pens haikus to convey his feelings, and Smile, a vibrant social media sensation grappling with self-image issues, find themselves in an unexpected encounter when they unintentionally swap phones. A serendipitous agreement to meet at Cherry’s job leads them on an adventure to help a kindly old man locate a cherished record. As they journey with their close companions, a tender love story unfolds, blossoming gradually amidst the shared search for meaning and connection.
The Youthful Days of Summer
Although the animation’s emotional resonance might lead you to believe it was drawn from a popular light novel, it is an entirely unique creation. A manga spin-off of the movie was published subsequently. This underappreciated Netflix original anime film boasts stunning visual style, a melodious soundtrack, and a heartfelt examination of adolescence that matches Makoto Shinkai’s mastery in portraying teenage strife (as showcased in “Your Name” and “Garden of Words”).
6
‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (1988)
Sisters Satsuki and Mei relocate to the rural area along with their father to stay near their sick mother in the hospital. As time goes by, they come across small beings called Soot Sprites dwelling in their new house, eventually uncovering a grand forest spirit they call Totoro. Alongside other enchanting creatures, Satsuki, Mei, and Totoro embark on adventures through a fantastical realm that gradually intertwines with the sisters’ actual hardships.
One of Studio Ghibli’s Best
Studio Ghibli’s collection could easily fill this entire list, given their long-standing reputation for creating masterpieces within the anime genre that have captivated a global audience. However, if you’re new to Studio Ghibli or seeking a rewatch for a boost of joy, My Neighbor Totoro is an exceptional starting point. Despite moments of sadness, typical of Studio Ghibli’s work, the film radiates a heartwarming charm through its character, Totoro, and his gentle interactions with the two girls as they encounter real-life struggles.
5
‘Perfect Blue’ (1998)
Under the guidance of beloved director Satoshi Kon, the gripping tale of Perfect Blue unfolds, focusing on celebrity Mima Kirigoe as she ventures from her pop-idol group CHAM! to delve into acting. This transition seems to ignite an obsessive admirer, who gradually begins to harass and menace Mima. The relentless strain of the entertainment industry and the escalating threats from those in her vicinity push Mima towards dissociation and hallucinations.
The Best Psychological Horror Anime Ever Made
Horror anime genre, typically associated with shōnen content, transforms scares into superhero conflicts quickly. Few pieces in this medium successfully convey fear, and Perfect Blue is one of these rare exceptions. This film portrays a harrowing journey into insanity, delving into the dark side of unhealthy pop idol infatuation. Although it was adapted from a light novel, director Satoshi Kon significantly deviated from the source material; the resulting work might as well be an original creation. Perfect Blue is exceptionally unsettling in a compelling way and is frequently praised as the finest mature anime movie ever produced.
4
‘The Girl Who Leapt Through Time’ (2006)
17-year-old Makoto Konno uncovers the ability to traverse time, linked to a peculiar walnut-shaped artifact she stumbles upon. As an awkward teenager, Makoto initially employs this newly acquired talent to boost her academics, dodge social situations that expose her clumsiness, and cultivate feelings for a fellow time traveler. However, as she delves deeper into the use of her powers, she recognizes their detrimental impact on those around her. Realizing she has a restricted number of jumps, Makoto endeavors to correct her errors before she exhausts her opportunities.
The Consequence of Time Travel
Finding movies that handle time travel convincingly can be challenging, but “The Girl Who Jumped Through Time” skillfully achieves this by weaving a believable tale of time travel impacting others’ lives, linked to the everyday experiences of a high school student. Although it delves into science fiction, the narrative remains relatable for anyone who navigated through an awkward adolescence. The film masterfully combines humor, drama, and romance while maintaining a heartwarmingly humorous and endearing coming-of-age tone. With roots in the acclaimed sci-fi novel by Yasutaka Tsutsui, “The Girl Who Jumped Through Time” offers a well-balanced anime experience.
3
‘Your Name’ (2017)
Two teenagers, Mitsuha Miyamizu and Taki Tachibana, reside in distinct areas of Tokyo initially. However, an extraordinary event leads to them exchanging bodies occasionally. At first, they struggle and exchange confusing messages, but eventually, they learn to utilize this strange occurrence to aid one another in dealing with personal issues. Once the body-swapping ceases, Taki develops a strong determination to locate Mitsuha.
A Body-Swapping Love Story
Enthusiasts of renowned artist Makoto Shinkai may find a suitable spot for any of his productions here; each piece he creates shares a deep, introspective examination of adolescent hardships and love. However, “Your Name” stands out among Shinkai’s works as one of his most celebrated and successful, as well as one of the most moving and thoughtfully crafted projects. From start to finish, “Your Name” is flawless, boasting a striking visual style, a heartwarming and soothing soundtrack, a harmonious blend of humor and romance, and an emotionally resonant conclusion. Notably, “Your Name” was initially an anime film, though Makoto Shinkai later wrote a novel adaptation.
2
‘Paprika’ (2006)
A groundbreaking technology called DC Mini is employed for venturing into people’s dreams. At first, a psychiatrist named Dr. Atsuko Chiba employs it therapeutically under the alias ‘Paprika’, assisting her patient, who grapples with suppressed memories and is a police officer. However, the technology starts to intrude on reality, transforming Tokyo into a realm teeming with mythical beings. When someone attempts to dominate Tokyo, Paprika proves most adept at maneuvering through this chaotic terrain and saving the world. Paprika stands as Satoshi Kon’s crowning achievement.
A Visual Wonder Unlike Any Other
Paprika isn’t just a visually captivating and stunning anime film, it’s essentially an ode to the art of cinema itself. The movie starts with one of the most breathtaking sequences ever put on screen, as Paprika journeys through various cinematic eras while assisting a police officer whose passion for films shapes his dreamworld. This movie is a visual spectacle, yet it’s also supported by a compelling narrative. It offers equal measures of suspense, horror, mystery, humor, drama, and romance. Similar to the film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Paprika borrows elements from Yasutaka Tsutsui’s renowned novel of the same name to create its genre-blending narrative.
1
‘Spirited Away’ (2001)
10-year-old Chihiro finds herself transported into a mystical world brimming with supernatural beings while on a trip with her folks. To adapt to this bizarre new existence, she takes a job at a bathhouse catering to spirits, which challenges her resolve as she navigates the quirks and whims of its diverse inhabitants. When she discovers that her parents have been turned into swine by the spirits, she sets out on a mission to rescue them with the aid of a secretive boy named Haku.
The Film That Introduced Studio Ghibli to the World
Hayao Miyazaki, the chief at Studio Ghibli, penned and helmed the creation of “Spirited Away“, finding inspiration in his daughter’s and a friend’s imaginative spirit. This film went on to be Japan’s highest-grossing anime, earning worldwide recognition that showcased Studio Ghibli’s exceptional storytelling, world creation, and animation techniques. The impact of this movie on the entire anime genre and culture is indisputable, with it remaining a cherished, essential classic in the medium.
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2025-04-07 05:03