Must-See anime/" class="auto-internal-link">Anime Films of the Past Decade

So, you’re looking for some top-tier animated cinematic experiences? You’ve come to the right place! The last decade has been an absolute goldmine for anime movies, serving up everything from heart-wrenching dramas to mind-bending sci-fi adventures. Forget endless scrolling on streaming services – we’ve curated a list of truly exceptional films that deserve a spot on your watchlist. Get ready to dive into worlds brimming with stunning visuals, compelling characters, and stories that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Top Anime Films You Need to Watch From the Last Ten Years

Picking the “best” of anything is always subjective, right? Like choosing your favorite flavor of ice cream. But, based on critical acclaim, box office success, and just plain “wow” factor, we’ve compiled a list of anime films released in the last decade that consistently rank high. We’re talking about movies that pushed the boundaries of animation, tackled complex themes, and introduced us to unforgettable characters. Get ready to expand your anime horizons, because these are films that deserve all the hype.

Your Name. (Kimi no Na wa.) (2016)

Alright, let’s start with a heavyweight. Makoto Shinkai’s *Your Name.* became a global phenomenon for a reason. It’s a beautiful blend of body-swapping comedy, heartwarming romance, and apocalyptic dread, all wrapped up in breathtaking visuals. The story follows Taki, a teenage boy in Tokyo, and Mitsuha, a girl living in a rural town, who mysteriously begin swapping bodies. As they try to navigate each other’s lives, they uncover a deeper connection and a looming threat that could change everything. Seriously, if you haven’t seen it, prepare to weep. It’s like *Freaky Friday* meets *Armageddon*, but with more heart.

Weathering with You (Tenki no Ko) (2019)

Speaking of Makoto Shinkai, *Weathering with You* is another visual masterpiece. While it might not have reached the same level of universal acclaim as *Your Name.*, it’s still a gorgeous and emotionally resonant film. It follows Hodaka, a runaway teenager, who meets Hina, a girl who can control the weather. Their powers come at a cost, and they must make difficult choices to protect themselves and the world around them. Think of it as a modern-day fairy tale with environmental undertones and breathtaking rain animation. It’s visually stunning and will tug at your heartstrings.

A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi) (2016)

*A Silent Voice* is a powerful and deeply moving story that tackles the difficult themes of bullying, redemption, and forgiveness. It follows Shoya Ishida, a former bully who seeks to atone for his actions towards Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he tormented in elementary school. The film is beautifully animated and handles its sensitive subject matter with nuance and empathy. Be warned, this one’s a tearjerker. It’s like *The Kite Runner* but with anime characters and a powerful message about the importance of understanding and communication. It truly is an important film and a must-watch.

Mirai (2018)

Mamoru Hosoda, the director behind *Wolf Children* and *The Boy and the Beast*, delivers another heartwarming family drama with *Mirai*. The story centers on Kun, a young boy struggling to adjust to the arrival of his baby sister, Mirai. Through magical encounters with future versions of his family members, Kun learns valuable lessons about love, family, and growing up. It’s a charming and insightful film that captures the complexities of sibling rivalry and the joys of family life. It’s like *A Christmas Carol* but with time-traveling family members and a whole lot of heart.

Belle (Ryu to Sobakasu no Hime) (2021)

Hosoda strikes again! *Belle* is a modern reimagining of *Beauty and the Beast* set in a virtual world called “U.” Suzu, a shy and insecure high school student, creates an avatar named Belle and becomes a global singing sensation. She encounters a mysterious and fearsome creature known as the Dragon, and their connection blossoms in the digital realm. The visuals are absolutely stunning, and the music is captivating. It’s a visually stunning and emotionally powerful exploration of identity, self-acceptance, and the power of connection in the digital age.

I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (Kimi no Suizo wo Tabetai) (2018)

Don’t let the title fool you, *I Want to Eat Your Pancreas* is not a zombie movie! It’s a deeply emotional and poignant story about a young man who discovers that his classmate, Sakura Yamauchi, is terminally ill. They form an unlikely friendship, and he becomes her confidant as she navigates her final days. Prepare to be emotionally wrecked by this one. It’s a beautiful and heartbreaking meditation on life, death, and the importance of living each day to the fullest. The unusual title is explained within the narrative, but be prepared for tears.

Children of the Sea (Kaijuu no Kodomo) (2019)

*Children of the Sea* is a visually stunning and philosophically complex film that explores the mysteries of the ocean and our connection to the natural world. Ruka, a young girl, encounters two mysterious boys named Umi and Sora, who were raised in the sea by dugongs. The film is a breathtaking visual feast, with stunning animation and a mesmerizing score. Be warned, the plot can be a bit abstract and requires some patience. It’s like a Terrence Malick film but animated and set in the ocean. Prepare to be visually and intellectually stimulated.

Ride Your Wave (Kimi to, Nami ni Noretara) (2019)

Another gem from Masaaki Yuasa, *Ride Your Wave* is a poignant and heartwarming story about grief, love, and moving on. Hinako, a young college student, is devastated by the death of her boyfriend, Minato, a firefighter. She discovers that she can summon him back by singing their favorite song. The film is beautifully animated and features a bittersweet story that will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss. It’s like *Ghost* but with surfing and a magical water connection. Get ready for some feels!

Penguin Highway (2018)

*Penguin Highway* is a quirky and imaginative coming-of-age story with a surreal twist. Aoyama, a precocious young boy, investigates the mysterious appearance of penguins in his town. He soon uncovers a bizarre and fantastical secret involving a young woman he admires. The film is visually creative and features a unique blend of science fiction and fantasy. Think of it as *Stranger Things* meets *My Neighbor Totoro*, but with more penguins and a slightly more mind-bending plot.

Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (Josee to Tora to Sakana-tachi) (2020)

Rounding out our list is *Josee, the Tiger and the Fish*, a heartwarming and uplifting story about two unlikely individuals who find solace and inspiration in each other. Tsuneo, a college student, takes on a job as a caregiver for Josee, a young woman with disabilities who dreams of seeing the world. Their relationship blossoms as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and mutual growth. It’s like *The Intouchables* but with anime characters and a focus on overcoming limitations and embracing life to the fullest.

Why These Anime Movies Stand Out

So, what makes these films so special? It’s not just the stunning animation or the captivating stories. These anime movies often tackle complex themes and emotions with a level of depth and sensitivity that is rarely seen in Western animation. They explore topics like love, loss, grief, identity, and the meaning of life in ways that are both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. They also embrace a unique storytelling style that often blends fantasy, reality, and symbolism, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience. They are not just cartoons; they are works of art.

The Power of Visual Storytelling

One of the key strengths of anime movies is their ability to tell stories through visuals. Animators use color, composition, and character design to convey emotions and create atmosphere. For example, the use of vibrant colors and detailed backgrounds in *Your Name.* helps to create a sense of wonder and beauty. Similarly, the use of muted colors and stark landscapes in *A Silent Voice* reflects the characters’ emotional states. This visual storytelling elevates the films beyond mere entertainment and transforms them into powerful works of art.

Exploring Complex Themes

Anime movies often delve into complex themes that resonate with audiences of all ages. *A Silent Voice*, for example, tackles the difficult topics of bullying, redemption, and forgiveness with remarkable nuance and empathy. *I Want to Eat Your Pancreas* explores the meaning of life and the importance of living each day to the fullest in the face of terminal illness. These films don’t shy away from difficult subjects; instead, they confront them head-on, offering audiences a chance to reflect on their own lives and experiences.

The Impact of Music and Sound Design

The music and sound design in anime movies play a crucial role in enhancing the emotional impact of the story. Composers like Radwimps, who scored *Your Name.* and *Weathering with You*, create soundtracks that are both beautiful and evocative. The use of sound effects, such as the crashing waves in *Ride Your Wave* or the bustling city sounds in *Belle*, helps to create a sense of immersion and realism. The combination of stunning visuals, compelling stories, and powerful music makes these anime movies a truly unforgettable experience.

FAQ

What makes an anime movie "good"?

That’s subjective, but generally, a “good” anime movie excels in several areas. Compelling storytelling with well-developed characters is key. Visually stunning animation, often pushing the boundaries of the medium, is also important. Finally, a memorable soundtrack and effective sound design add to the overall immersive experience. Bonus points if it tackles complex themes in a thoughtful and engaging way. It’s a combination of art, story, and emotion that truly resonates.

Where can I watch these anime movies?

Many of these films are available on streaming services like Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Funimation. You can also often rent or purchase them digitally on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play Movies. Physical media (Blu-ray and DVD) is also an option, especially for collectors who want to own their favorite films. Availability varies by region, so check your local streaming services and online retailers.

Are there any other great anime movies from the last decade that didn't make this list?

Absolutely! This is just a small selection of the many fantastic anime movies released in the past ten years. Some other notable titles include *Mary and the Witch’s Flower*, *Liz and the Blue Bird*, and *Okko’s Inn*. Don’t be afraid to explore beyond this list and discover your own hidden gems. The world of anime movies is vast and diverse, and there’s something out there for everyone. Happy viewing!