While Studio Ghibli has a long history of producing belovedanimefilms, many other works exist beyond Ghibli’s shadow. Over the years, there have beena wide variety of directors and studios that have created works that are stunning in both narrative and animation. Some originate from well-known franchises, while others bring forth entirely fresh and captivating ideas that leave audiences wanting more.
With Rotten Tomatoes serving as a helpful resource for gauging which films have struck a chord with both critics and audiences, fans can easily discover which ones should top their watchlist. Beyond Studio Ghibli,several anime series have received notable acclaim, often pushing the boundaries of storytelling, artistic direction, and thematic exploration.These anime films are must-watch masterpieces, backed by their Rotten Tomatoes scores.
Released in 1995,Ghost in the Shellis a cyberpunk action thriller film thathelped redefine what animated science fiction was capable of.Set in a near-future fictional New Port City where cybernetic enhancements blur the lines between humans and machines, the film follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a government operative tracking a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master, who illegally infiltrates the computerized minds of cyborg-human hybrids. With haunting visuals, a philosophical tone, and stunningly detailed cityscapes, the film stands out in both anime and sci-fi cinema.
Beyond its visually striking animation,Ghost in the Shellexplores themes of identity, consciousness, and what it means to be human in an increasingly digitalized world. Its introspective pace and dense philosophical questions may demand more from audiences, but this is a major aspect of the film’s appeal. Despite its release three decades ago,the film remains remarkably relevant, and its influence can be seen in everything fromThe Matrixto modern discourse surrounding technological advancements, making it a timeless and influential classic.
Released in 2021,Belleis amodern fairy tale set against the backdrop of a virtual world known as “U.”The story centers around Suzu, a shy high school girl who rises to fame as a global singing sensation under the avatar of Bell, the English translation of her name that people begin to refer to as Belle, meaning “beautiful” in French. As her fame grows, she crosses paths with a figure known as “The Dragon,” who is pursued by the Justices, leading her to uncover a deeper mystery that connects the virtual world to the real one.
With visually stunning animation and an emotionally rich narrative, the film offers a modernreimagining ofBeauty and the Beast. What setsBelleapart from other films is its thematic ambition and emotional sincerity.It explores grief, self-expression, and connection in a world increasingly shaped by technology.Hosoda expertly brings these elements together with complexity and depth, presenting a bold and relevant perspective on modern adolescence. Critics have praised the film for its heartfelt storytelling, visuals, and social commentary.
Makoto Shinkai’s 2022 filmSuzumefollows a teenage girl who stumbles upon a mysterious door in an abandoned town and inadvertently sets something in motion after she attempts and fails to pass through. Suzume can then see what others cannot, which leads her to encounter a young man named Souta, whocloses doors to prevent disasters from tearing through Japan.With vivid animation and breathtaking landscapes that define Shinkai’s films,Suzumeoffers both a heartfelt story and an unforgettable spectacle.
At its core,Suzumeis a story about loss, healing, and the emotional aftermath of natural disasters. It blends myth with realism in a way that powerfully resonates with audiences,especially those in Japan in the shadow of events like the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.Shinkai’s hallmark themes of connection, longing, and the fragility of time are all present in the film, but they are presented in a way that is more grounded and mature compared to his other works. Critics and audiences alike havepraisedSuzume’sdepthand visuals, making it one of Makoto Shinkai’s most accomplished creations.
Released in 2016,In This Corner of the Worldis a war drama film thatoffers an authentic and raw depiction of wartime life in 1940s Japan.The story centers on Suzu, a young woman who moves to the outskirts of Hiroshima after marrying into a naval family. Through her perspective, the film captures the daily life before, during, and after the devastation of World War II. With watercolor-inspired animation and a quiet observational tone, it portrays the era with a focus on resilience and endurance.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its ability to draw emotional weight from quiet moments. Instead of dramatizing history,it takes viewers into Suzu’s world, allowing the impact of the war to unfold in a much more personal way.Themes of perseverance, memory, and everyday heroism are present throughout the story. The film is known for its sensitivity and artistry and is remembered by many for its powerful commentary on the civilian cost of war.
Released in 2020,Mugen Trainpicks up directly after the first season of theDemon Slayerseries, pushing its core characters on a mission aboard a mysterious train alongside the Flame Hashira, Rengoku.Tasked with investigating a series of disappearances, Tanjiro and his allies confront some of Muzan Kibutsuji’s most powerful demons, Lower Rank One of the Twelve Kizuki and Upper Rank Three later in the film. The film features explosive action sequences, high-end animation, and dynamic direction, complemented by unforgettable moments of cinematic beauty.
Mugen Trainis known for its emotional and character-driven storytelling. At its core,the arc revolves around grief, sacrifice, and the bonds forged between others through shared goals and struggles.The film is one of the highest-rated and most-watched due to its strong following and significant success afterDemon Slayer’sfirst season. Its record-breaking box office success speaks not only to its popularity but also to its ability to resonate with audiences through its themes and execution.
Released in 2021,Jujutsu Kaisen 0serves as amovie that predates the first season, expanding its universe with a story that stands strong on its own. The film centers on Yuta Okkotsu,a high school student haunted both literally and figuratively by the spirit of his childhood friend Rika, who returns as a powerful and vengeful curse. After Yuta enrolls in Tokyo Jujutsu High to learn how to control his powers, he becomes entangled in a larger conflict involving other sorcerers with twisted ideologies.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0stands out for its ability to blend high-stakes supernatural battles with a powerful and moving narrative about guilt, grief, and redemption. Yuta’s journey from isolation to self-acceptance mirrors the broader themes of the franchise, including resilience and found family. With eye-catching animation and standout performances,the film received widespread acclaim for its compelling story and strong character development.Its success only reinforced the series’ ongoing commercial and critical achievements.
Released in 2016,Your Namequickly became a global phenomenon. Following the story of two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who begin to mysteriously swap bodies despite never having met, the film captures something truly unique. Set in Tokyo and a rural town,Your Nameis a tale about connection, fate, and understanding each other across time and space. Its stunning animation and narrative propelled the film to international acclaim, appealing to audiences far beyond traditional anime fans.
The film explores universal themes of love, loss, and identity, allowing it to resonate with viewers worldwide. Supported by Shinkai’s poetic visual style and an unforgettable soundtrack,Your Namestands as a modern masterpiece. Critics praise the film for its emotional depth and fresh narrative, which elevated its status as one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time.
Released in 2022,The First Slam Dunkbrings theiconic basketball manga to life with breathtaking animation and a cinematic, stylistic approach.The film revisits Hanamichi Sakuragi, a rebellious high school student who reluctantly joins his school’s basketball team, where he discovers a newfound passion and purpose. However, instead of focusing on his story, the film centers on Ryota Miyagi. It revives a classic sports anime favorite, complete with intense sports action and character-driven growth.
The First Slam Dunkstands out for its dynamic animation style and emotional depth. It balances high-stakes sports matches withdeeper explorations of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery.Fans and newcomers to the franchise have praised the film for its ability to reimagine a legendary story while delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience.
