Or you can always find better friends (just kidding)!
Admit it, we all have a friend or two who at best tolerates our passion for anime, and at worst actively disses it. It can be so frustrating to listen to their endless rants about how childish and stupid your love for Japanese “cartoons” (yuck!) is.
If only there was a way to prove them wrong. Well, one way to go is to introduce them to one of these titles, and maybe their ignorance will turn into a newfound love for anime, or at least some sort of appreciation for the art.
1.5 Centimeters per Second (2007) Romance/Animation movie
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To be fair, anything by Makoto Shinkai could make it to this list, but we recommend starting with this critically acclaimed 2007 masterpiece. Its gorgeous visuals and compelling story make it the purest tale of love and longing that is sure to tug at the heartstrings of any emphatic viewer.
2.Monster (TV 2004-2005) Mystery/Suspense/Drama
They keep saying anime is for kids? Show them the Monster – a brilliant story that many fans rightfully consider a “silver bullet” for anime haters. The monster in the story is not the kind that hides under the bed and scares children. It’s the one that scares adults because, unlike the first one, it actually exists.
3.Cowboy Bebop (1998-1999) Western/Drama/Adventure
This is a Golden classic that any anime fan has heard of at least once in their life. Despite it being made way back in 1998, Cowboy Bebop is still relevant and has strong animation, entertaining characters, and an awesome blend of genres, wonderfully accompanied by a cool, jazz-inspired soundtrack.
4.Grave of the Fireflies (1988) Drama/War
Okay, this is a hard movie to watch. If you’ve seen it, you know what we’re talking about. This Studio Ghibli film is based on Akiyuki Nosaka's 1967 short story about the horrors of the final moments of World War II. Let’s get this straight: no one will think anime is stupid after watching this movie, and if they do, it’s time to question their morals.
5.Attack on Titan (2013-present) Action/Drama/Fantasy
Many fans claim it’s the best anime of all time, and for good reason. This title is everywhere, and even those who are new to the world of anime have heard it mentioned at least once or twice. The animation, the soundtrack, the amazing world-building will hook you from the very first episode and won't let go until you've seen it all. No wonder some say AoT has successfully turned their friends into anime fans.
6.Made in Abyss (2020 – present) Adventure/Science Fiction/Dark Fantasy
It looks cute, right? Well, prepare to question your first impression, because this anime is not for the faint of heart. It has one of the best creature and world designs, and the atmosphere is so unique it’ll leave you in awe.