When you’re not in the mood for a series.
When we talk about anime, we usually talk about series, and not movies, and that’s understandable because series are often more popular. But it’s time to change that, at least for a while, and remember some outstanding anime movies.
1. Studio Ghibli movies
Perhaps it’s unfair to have about a dozen movies as a single number, but we just can’t choose only one to suggest. Studio Ghibli movies are very similar and completely different at the same time.
They explore relevant and intricate themes, they have that special Ghibli charm, and the best part is that you can watch them with your kids.
To give you at least a couple of titles to choose from, we’d suggest trying these movies out:
- Princess Mononoke (1997) ― MyAnimeList score: 8.66
- Spirited Away (2001) ― MyAnimeList score: 8.77
- Howl's Moving Castle (2004) ― MyAnimeList score: 8.66
2. Paprika (2006)
It’s said that Christopher Nolan was inspired by this anime movie when he was working on his Inception. If even such an acclaimed director watched it, you should, too.
DC Mini users are capable of using this device to delve into the dreams of others. It was developed to help people with their mental problems and treat their psychological disorders, but exploring people’s minds is a tricky and dangerous activity that might lead to various consequences.
MyAnimeList score: 8.04
3. Your Name (2016)
This iconic and award-winning movie will definitely touch something in you.
A mysterious thing happened to two high school students, Mitsuha and Taki: they woke up in each other’s bodies. To solve this mystery and get back to their old lives, they begin to search for each other.
MyAnimeList score: 8.84
4. Wolf Children (2012)
If you’re looking for a heartwarming movie that will make you appreciate your family even more, this is the perfect choice for you.
Hana is a college student who falls in love with a mysterious man attending her class. The man, however, has a secret: he’s the last remaining werewolf. But the revelation doesn’t scare Hana off, and the two start a family.
Unfortunately, the man dies some time after the birth of their two children, and now Hana has to learn to take care of them on her own while dealing with the wild sides they inherited from their father.
MyAnimeList score: 8.57
5. The Boy and the Beast
Why not add a little bit of isekai to our list, too?
The life of nine-year-old Ren is in shambles: he has no family and no place to go anymore. In his darkest hour, a “beast” Kumatetsu finds the boy and takes him to another world.
Kumatetsu sees Ren as his chance to replace the Lord of the realms once he retires. Kumatetsu craves recognition, Ren is looking for a place to call home. They have different goals, but perhaps they’re exactly the ones to help each other achieve them.
MyAnimeList score: 8.24