20 Best Anime Movies of All Time

In addition to its well-known romantic movies, Japan is also famous for its animated movies. These animated films, known as anime movies, are a significant part of Japan's film industry. Many of Japan's top anime movies are just as popular as animated movies made in America.

Furthermore, several Japanese anime movies frequently receive nominations for the prestigious Academy Awards. In this article, Showpoiler will highlight some of the all-time best anime movie titles from Japan. Curious to know what they are? Keep on reading!

1. The First Slam Dunk

As many of you are aware, the Slam Dunk anime series used to be quite popular. However, in 2022, Toei Animation studio released a new Slam Dunk story in the form of a movie titled The First Slam Dunk.

This film's arrival sparked enthusiasm among anime fans, and it turned out to be both popular and of high quality, winning the Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year. What's the story all about?

Miyagi Ryouta is a member of the basketball team at Shohoku High School alongside Hanamichi Sakuragi. Ryouta is characterized by his small and slight build. Nonetheless, he's known for his superior agility and speed compared to other team members.

Due to his skills, Ryouta becomes the point guard for his team. What's really impressive is that he frequently scores three-point shots, leading his team to victory.

On a certain day, the Shohoku High School basketball team faces off against the formidable Sannoh team in the finals. The Sannoh team is not an opponent to be taken lightly; they're known for their toughness and strength.

Nevertheless, the Shohoku team showcases their abilities, particularly Ryouta, who remains relentless in his pursuit to overcome the Sannoh team. In fact, Ryouta harbors the ambition to become the finest basketball player. However, there's a significant question looming before achieving that goal: Can they overcome the challenge posed by the Sannoh team?

2. Gintama The Final

Among the top-rated anime films on IMDb is Gintama The Final. On its website, this movie has received a remarkable rating of 9.2 out of 10, nearly perfect! This high rating has also translated into impressive earnings, totaling around 1.7 billion yen.

As the title suggests, this movie serves as the conclusion to the Gintama storyline. Given that it's the final chapter, Gintama The Final features 34 characters and is tagged with the farewell phrase "Bye bye, Gin-san."

The movie's story revolves around the intense battle between Gintoki Sakata and his mentor, Yoshida Shouyou, who has transformed into a monstrous being named Utsuro. Utsuro's presence brings great distress, not only to Gintoki but also to all the residents of the Kabuki district.

Utsuro's strength keeps growing, but Gintoki isn't alone in confronting him. Alongside Kagura, Shinpachi, the Kabuki district's citizens, Katsura, Takasugi, and even his rivals, Gintoki forms a united front against the formidable power of Utsuro.

With the support of those around him, Gintoki is determined to do whatever it takes to put an end to Utsuro's reign of terror. The pressing question is, can Gintoki and his allies achieve victory in this showdown?

3. Violet Evergarden: The Movie

Despite facing delays due to COVID-19, Violet Evergarden: The Movie premiered in Japanese theaters on September 18, 2020. For those who haven't seen the anime series, it's recommended to do so before watching the movie, as the story is connected.

The movie is set in the post-war era and focuses on the central character, Violet. She works as a writer and is responsible for delivering letters to her clients. Through her profession, Violet gradually learns to understand emotions and the significance of love, particularly as she recalls the final words of Major Gilbert, a military officer who always cherishes her.

However, as time passes, the world becomes more modern, and Violet's services as a letter writer become less in demand. Unfortunately, while the world changes, Violet remains caught in her past, haunted by memories and traumas, especially those related to Major Gilbert.

Amidst this difficult period, one of Gilbert's acquaintances approaches Violet and asks her to write another letter at the C.H. post office. This encounter sets Violet on a path where she uncovers clues about Gilbert and becomes determined to find him at any cost. Does Violet eventually succeed in reuniting with Gilbert?

4. Demon Slayer The Movie: Mugen Train

Known as Kimetsu no Yaiba Movie: Mugen Ressha-hen in Japanese, Demon Slayer The Movie: Mugen Train achieved remarkable success, raking in a staggering 36.8 billion yen ($458.8 million)! Furthermore, the story of this movie garnered high praise from MyAnimelist, receiving a rating of 8.6.

After completing their training at the Butterfly Mansion, Tanjirou and his companions are all set for their next mission, which takes them aboard the Mugen Train. This train has been the site of a mysterious occurrence, where over 40 individuals have vanished in a brief span of time.

Tanjirou and Nezuko, accompanied by Zenitsu and Inosuke, team up with the Flame Hashira, Rengoku Kyoujirou, one of the mightiest swordsmen within the Demon Slayer Corps. Together, they confront the demons aboard the Mugen Train, aiming to prevent further loss of life.

However, this mission is fraught with challenges. While on the Mugen Train, they fall into a magical trap that transports them into an enchanting dream world, where each character's past is woven with heartwarming memories. Amidst this captivating illusion, the demon Enmu seeks to control them through magical threads, aiming to ensnare them in an eternal slumber.

With the malevolent demon's threat looming large, can Tanjirou and his companions overcome this perilous situation?

5. Evangelion: 3.0+1.01 Thrice Upon a Time

Evangelion: 3.0+1.01 Thrice Upon a Time certainly deserves a spot on the list of the greatest anime films ever. It's not an overstatement to call it one of the best, as the movie has achieved a flawless 100% rating from Rotten Tomatoes. IMDb rates it at 8.0, while MyAnimelist gives it a rating of 8.6.

As for the story, it commences with Shinji, Asuka, and Rei journeying to the Tokyo-3 district. There, they discover a haven sheltered from Earth's devastation. In this place, Shinji finally begins to mend the wounds of his past trauma from the prior conflicts.

Within the Tokyo-3 district, Shinji embraces a tranquil existence, momentarily distancing himself from the complexities of his life as an Evangelion pilot. Nonetheless, this serenity is disrupted when Shinji learns that NERV, an organization formed to combat creatures called Angels, is resuming the Instrumentality Project. It becomes clear to Shinji that this endeavor could further ravage the Earth.

Consequently, the once-peaceful and composed Shinji is besieged by uncertainty. Should he reenter the battlefield and thwart the Instrumentality Project? Particularly as the situation becomes even more intricate, involving clashes between WILLE (an anti-NERV organization) and NERV, adding another layer of conflict to the already intricate narrative.

6. Made in Abyss Movie 3: Dawn of the Deep Soul

This movie could be described as emotionally draining. It contains many intense scenes of violence that deeply impact the psychological state of each character. Nonetheless, despite its heavy content, the movie achieved remarkable success, grossing nearly 5 million dollars globally.

Just a heads up, before diving into this movie, it's advisable to watch the series first. While there are two preceding films, they simply recap the first season and don't relate to the events of this third film. Thus, Made in Abyss Movie 3: Dawn of the Deep Soul can be considered a direct continuation of the series.

The story continues to follow the characters Riko, Regu, and their newfound friend Nanachi. They've now reached the fifth layer within the great hole known as The Abyss, specifically The Sea of Corpses. However, when they are about to move on to the sixth layer, they encounter a series of challenges, with one of them is Bondrewd.

Bondrewd, shrouded in a mask, is tasked with assessing those who aim to venture into the Abyss's deepest layer. Yet, Bondrewd is characterized by a sociopathic nature, driven by the desire to prevent anyone from successfully reaching the Abyss's ultimate depths.

This sets the stage for conflict. Riko, Regu, and Nanachi must ready themselves to confront Bondrewd, who possesses formidable strength.

Despite his power, Bondrewd has a vulnerability – Prushka. Prushka, Bondrewd's own child, eventually aids Riko and the others in their quest to overcome her own father. Thus, the question emerges: Can they ultimately overcome Bondrewd's might and penetrate the Abyss's deepest layers?

7. Fate/Stay Night: Heaven's Feel III. Spring Song

Following the successful release of Fate/Stay Night: Heaven's Feel I, presage flower, the latest movie, Fate/Stay Night: Heaven's Feel III. Spring Song, emerged in 2020. This movie is a continuation of the previous one and is set a decade after the Holy Grail War.

After the war, there was an illusion of peace and tranquility. However, beneath this facade, the city of Fuyuki is plunged into another conflict. Shirou Emiya is reluctantly drawn into this new war, driven by the wishes of his father, Kiritsugu.

As Fuyuki city becomes a battlefield once more, chaos and violence spread, casting a dark and eerie atmosphere over the place. Amidst the turmoil, everyone strives to protect their loved ones. Shirou Emiya, especially, is determined to shield Sakura, a friend he considers family, from the horrors of this renewed conflict.

Thankfully, Emiya isn't alone; he partners with Rin Tohsaka in an effort to put an end to the conflict. However, as time passes, Emiya becomes increasingly unsure and hesitant. Will he find the resolve to emerge victorious in the war and safeguard Sakura?

8. Suzume no Tojimari 

During its screening period, this movie caused quite a sensation. Suzume no Tojimari managed to capture the attention not only of anime enthusiasts but also of those less familiar with the genre, drawing audiences to theaters.

While it didn't receive awards, it's certain that the visual aspects of Suzume no Tojimari are breathtaking and visually appealing, thanks to the creative direction of Makoto Shinkai.

The film centers around two key characters, Suzume and Souta. Their paths cross unexpectedly one day, driven by an impending earthquake in Tokyo. Just before the quake, Suzume notices a crimson mist emanating from a strange door. What's surprising is that only Suzume can perceive this phenomenon.

Intrigued, Suzume approaches the door and encounters a young man named Souta. Souta is an unconventional individual whose main pursuit involves seeking out open doors, much like the one Suzume had seen moments ago.

Upon reaching the door, Souta promptly closes it, leading to a decrease in the earthquake's impact on Tokyo. Captivated by this miraculous occurrence, Suzume decides to follow Souta. Her aim is to locate and seal these open doors.

As Suzume and Souta embark on a journey in search of these open portals, Suzume gradually realizes a striking connection between the doors and herself. It becomes apparent that these occurrences are somehow linked to her actions. Could Suzume inadvertently be responsible for the disasters unfolding across Japan through these open doors?

9. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 Movie

Jujutsu Kaisen 0 Movie, also known as Gekijouban Jujutsu Kaisen 0, is a movie based on an exciting manga story by Akutami Gege. This anime has become so popular that the movie even got a pretty good score on MyAnimelist, with a rating of 8.4.

This movie narrates the story of a character named Okkotsu Yuuta. Yuuta is a quiet high school student who often gets picked on by his friends. But everything changes when his childhood friend, Rika Orimoto, dies in an accident.

Following that sad event, Yuuta gets cursed by a powerful spirit that's somehow linked to Rika. This curse is strong and hard to control, and it gets the attention of Jujutsu mages, especially Satoru Gojo.

To help Yuuta, Satoru invites him to join Jujutsu school, a place where people learn to deal with cursed spirits. Here, Yuuta gets taught how to manage his curse. Satoru takes charge of teaching and guiding him.

However, there's more to Satoru's plan than just helping Yuuta. It turns out he wants to assess Yuuta's strength and have him fight against other Jujutsu wizards. Can Yuuta overcome this challenge?

10. Given Movie

This movie deals with a boy's love theme, which means it's about a story involving a same-sex couple. The story in Given Movie is really captivating, and the visuals are quite impressive and pleasing to the eye. But remember, Given Movie is suitable for viewers who are at least 13 years old.

This movie focuses mainly on two couples: Mafuyu and Ritsuka, and Haruki and Akihiko. All four of them are part of the same band, Given. However, things get complicated when conflicting emotions come into play.

Ritsuka's journey begins after the band Given achieves success at a live event. He starts realizing that his feelings for Mafuyu go beyond just friendship. Fortunately, Mafuyu reciprocates these feelings. But forming a romantic relationship turns out to be quite challenging.

Meanwhile, Haruki has a hidden affection for Akihiko. However, Akihiko is still involved with another person, even though their relationship isn't going smoothly.

Amidst these intertwined emotions, the four individuals struggle to maintain a balance between their roles in the band and their personal relationships. But even that proves to be quite difficult.

As the story unfolds, the tension escalates when the band's professional matters become entwined with their personal feelings of love. Will Given eventually face the possibility of disbanding due to conflicts of the heart?

11. Josee, the Tiger and the Fish

Also known as Josee to Tora Sakana-tachi, this anime movie is based on a touching romantic short story by Tanabe Seiko. You might even find yourself shedding a tear over its heartfelt narrative.

This tale revolves around two main characters: Josee and Tsuneo. Tsuneo, a student aspiring to be a diver, unexpectedly finds himself working part-time as a caregiver for a girl named Josee.

Josee is confined to a wheelchair due to her paralysis, which limits her daily activities. To make matters more challenging, she often directs her frustration towards Tsuneo. However, Tsuneo persists in understanding her and eventually grows accustomed to her demeanor.

Over time, their bond deepens, and one day, Josee opens up about her dream of experiencing diving in Mexico. This resonates with Tsuneo, who also harbors aspirations of becoming a diver. Inspired by Josee's aspiration, Tsuneo becomes resolute in helping her explore the outside world, which includes the opportunity to dive. Will their shared aspiration come to fruition?

12. Your Name.

Makoto Shinkai is known for creating stunning anime movies, and one of his absolute best works you shouldn't overlook is Kimi No Na Wa, also known as Your Name.

It's not an exaggeration to consider it one of the greatest anime films. Just take a glance at the awards lined up for Your Name., including the title of Best Animated Feature at the 2016 Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards. Additionally, the movie boasts a deeply moving storyline. What's the story about?

Mitsuha is a girl from a village who constantly dreams of living as a boy in the city. One day, her wish miraculously comes true. Mitsuha wakes up in the body of a boy named Taki, while Taki's soul now inhabits Mitsuha's body.

Recognizing this peculiar soul-swapping phenomenon, both are naturally bewildered and distressed. Nevertheless, they tried to adapt by communicating through notes and messages on their respective cell phones. As this extraordinary soul exchange persists, Mitsuha and Taki gradually grow close to one another.

However, an unexpected twist occurs. One morning, Mitsuha awakens back in her own body. She assumes the soul-swapping episode has concluded. Strangely, though, she feels a sense of unease with this situation. Determined to find answers, Mitsuha sets out to locate Taki in the city.

Upon reaching Taki's location, Mitsuha is met with a shocking sight: the city lies in ruins, hinting that Taki didn't survive a catastrophic event that struck the area. What truly transpired involving Taki and the city?

13. Spirited Away

In the collection of the best anime films, Spirited Away is an absolute must-watch! This gem hails from Studio Ghibli and has garnered immense success. The ratings across various review platforms speak for themselves. On IMDb, it boasts an 8.6 rating; on MyAnimelist, it stands at 8.7; and Rotten Tomatoes awards it a remarkable 97%.

These high scores aren't coincidental – Spirited Away's narrative is both distinct and meaningful. The story revolves around Chihiro, who embarks on a journey with her parents to their new home. Regrettably, they become lost along the way, winding up in a mysterious forest.

In this forest, they discover an abandoned amusement park. Despite the eerie ambiance, Chihiro's parents decide to feast at a food stall there without paying. Feeling uneasy about the situation, Chihiro explores the area and stumbles upon a meadow.

The plot takes a curious turn when Chihiro encounters a young man named Haku during her solitary exploration. Haku's unexpected warning urges her to leave before nightfall.

Returning to her parents, Chihiro is shocked to witness their transformation into pigs. This shocking moment then sets Chihiro on an adventure, with the assistance of Haku. Together, they navigate the spirit world, aiming to restore her parents to their original forms.

14. Stand by Me Doraemon 2

Whether you're an anime fan or not, you're probably familiar with Doraemon. Stand by Me Doraemon 2 is a follow-up to the animated film Stand by Me Doraemon (2014). This movie offers a different style compared to the usual Doraemon animation. Moreover, the story has grown up a bit.

It all begins with Nobita, who stumbles upon a doll left behind by his late grandmother. Seeing the doll brings back memories of his grandmother, and Nobita becomes quite homesick. He asks Doraemon to take him back in time so he can meet his grandmother again. Doraemon can't say no, so he fulfills Nobita's wish.

Upon returning to the past, Nobita's grandmother expresses her wish to see the woman he'll marry in the future. Being a dear grandson, Nobita once again requests Doraemon's help to take him to the future where he's married to Shizuka. And once more, Doraemon grants his wish.

However, as Doraemon and Nobita venture into the future, they discover a surprising twist: Future Nobita is nowhere to be found during the wedding ceremony. This prompts Nobita to take action to fix the situation and fulfill his grandmother's wish. And so, their quest to find Future Nobita and set things right begins!

15. Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector

If you're in the mood for a more serious anime movie, Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector might be a good choice. However, we recommend watching the series version first, as the Psycho-Pass anime includes many complex terms and conflicts.

As for the story in Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector, it's a summary of all the events from the third season of the Psycho-Pass series. The story follows Arata and Kei, who are focused on uncovering crimes that could threaten the Sybil system.

In their latest adventure, they face numerous challenges. One of these hurdles is a Bifrost agent named Kouichi Asuzawa. Kouichi deliberately attacks the Criminal Division and even takes everyone there, including Shindo, hostage.

Upon learning this, Arata and Kei take swift action to rescue Shindo and their colleagues. Through this mission, they not only manage to stop Kouichi but also unravel a long-hidden mystery from the past. What exactly is this mystery?

16. The Quintessential Quintuplets Movie

If you enjoy anime with a harem theme, The Quintessential Quintuplets Movie might be just what you're looking for. This movie stands out for its light-hearted and comedic story. What's more, it sprinkles in a touch of romance that might tug at your heartstrings.

The story revolves around a character named Fuutarou. He's a high school student known for his sharp intellect but also his serious demeanor. This seriousness stems from his family's troubles – Fuutarou needs to help them pay off a significant debt.

Luckily, Fuutarou's smarts lead to an opportunity to work for the Nakano family. He's hired to tutor the five Nakano twin girls. Teaching them isn't a challenge, as since Fuutarou started tutoring, the twins' grades have significantly improved.

However, the main conflict emerges when it becomes clear that Fuutarou has developed romantic connections with one of the twins. In fact, he even marries one of the five sisters. Who will he end up marrying? And is it really that simple to marry into a wealthy family?

17. 5 Centimeters Per Second

For those who appreciate romantic anime that stirs deep emotions, 5 Centimeters Per Second might be your choice. Don't worry about the visual quality; 5 Centimeters Per Second is among Makoto Shinkai's anime films that gained significant attention.

The story explores the relationship between Takaki and Akari. These two have been close friends since they were kids. However, when junior high arrives, Akari must move due to her father's job.

Despite the distance, Takaki and Akari's bond remains unbroken. In fact, Takaki realizes his love for Akari has grown. He plans to meet her in Tochigi and even pens a heartfelt letter. Sadly, their meeting is canceled, and the letter never reaches Akari.

Years rolled by; now Takaki and Akari are in high school. Takaki's friend, Kanae, has feelings for him, but Takaki is still stuck on Akari. Their connection fades, and news exchanged infrequently.

The final chapter finds Takaki as a programmer in Tokyo, with a girlfriend named Mizuno. Yet, his heart still yearns for Akari. In an attempt to bridge the gap, Takaki resigns, but the reunion he anticipates crumbles – Akari is married. Does Takaki ultimately let go of his emotions?

18. Sword Art Online: Progressive Movie – Aria of a Starless Night

Sword Art Online is a well-known anime that brings the concept of being transported to another world (isekai). Alongside its series, SAO has several movies that are definitely worth a watch. One of these is Sword Art Online: Progressive Movie - Aria of a Starless Night.

This movie doesn't continue the series, but rather takes place within the same timeline. However, it offers a different perspective, focusing more on Asuna's experiences. In a way, this movie explores Asuna's character more deeply.

The opening scenes show Asuna's everyday life in the real world, which includes playing games. Yet, when she logs into the SAO world, she finds herself trapped. Panics, she's unsure how to survive or protect herself. To remedy this, she decides to join a large, famous guild.

However, even in the guild, she prefers fighting alone. Yet, after going solo for a while, Asuna realizes that she needs the assistance of others to conquer all 100 levels and escape the SAO world. This is where she encounters Kirito and others. Regardless of the challenges, Asuna must gather her strength to endure until the very end, even when despair sets in.

19. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero

In 2022, Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero was released as a notable anime movie to watch. Fans of the Dragon Ball series from the 90s might feel a sense of nostalgia while watching it.

Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero's tale unfolds after Son Gohan's victory over Magenta's father. However, Magenta holds a deep grudge against Gohan and begins plotting revenge. One aspect of Magenta's revenge scheme involves resurrecting the Red Ribbon Army.

To accomplish this goal, Magenta teams up with Dr. Hedo, the grandson of the infamous evil scientist. To aid Magenta, Dr. Hedo creates a superhero android intended to eliminate Goku.

Yet, it turns out this android crafted by Dr. Hedo poses a threat to the entire world. Upon learning this, Piccolo, who is on Earth, springs into action. Gohan joins him to lend a hand. Eventually, the two of them join forces to confront the robot crafted by Dr. Hedo. Will they manage to succeed?

20. Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl

Seishun Buta Yarou wa Yumemiru Shoujo no Yume wo Minai, also known as Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl, is a school-themed anime movie with a touch of the supernatural. This 2019 anime release gained notable success, earning a score of 87% on Rotten Tomatoes.

The story revolves around the protagonist, Sakuta. He stands out from his peers as he's currently grappling with something called puberty syndrome. Although it's considered rare, interestingly, some of Sakuta's friends, mainly girls, are also dealing with this phenomenon.

One day, while at the school library, Sakuta encounters a girl dressed in a bunny outfit. Surprisingly, nobody seems fazed by her attire. Sakuta approaches her and they strike up a conversation.

This "bunny girl" is actually Mai, a former child artist. As they get to know each other better, it's revealed that Mai is also experiencing puberty syndrome. This revelation brings them closer, and Sakuta decides to help his friends who are struggling with the same syndrome.

Those are the top anime movies of all time, as chosen by our Showpoiler team. If your favorite anime movie isn't on this list, feel free to share it in the comment section below. Enjoy watching!