In recent years, anime has grown in popularity as a storytelling medium. Tragedy and misfortune is a popular niche in anime that frequently examines human nature’s darker and more emotional sides. Tragic anime movies and series may have a long-lasting influence on viewers, making them consider the fragility of life and the human condition.
The experiences vary from war, disease, death, and the loss of loved ones to more personal challenges, such as mental health and relationships. These stories might be heartbreaking, but they can also be effective in eliciting empathy and allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The tragedy felt or experienced by the titular characters resonates with the audience. Thus, several of these anime programs and films are considered among the best in the genre. Here’s a list of 50 anime movies and series with sad endings that you should watch.
1. Grave of the Fireflies
Grave of the Fireflies (1988), helmed by Isao Takahata and made by Studio Ghibli . The film is based on Akiyuki Nosaka’s semi-autobiographical novel of the same name, which was published in 1967.
Setsuko and Seita
Seita and Setsuko, two siblings, are the focus of the plot, which is set in post-World War 2, Hiroshima, Japan. This movie is a heartbreaking story of loss and survival as the siblings fight to find food and shelter while dealing with the brutal realities of war.
The film shows how conflict can destroy families and have terrible effects on innocent citizens. The bond between the siblings, as they struggle to maintain love and hope in the face of so much sorrow and suffering, is the core of the film.
2. Your Lie In April
Kyohei Ishiguro’s anime series Your Lie in April is well known. Your Lie In April explores the lives of musician Kosei Arima and his student Kaori Miyazono. In the series, we meet Kosei, who is suffering from a mental breakdown as a result of his mother’s death.
Kaori Miyazono and Kosei Arima
It features a fascinating narrative and heartfelt storytelling, making it one of the finest anime series . It explores the themes of love, friendship, and pursuing one’s aspirations. The series is immensely engaging despite its sorrowful tone, and it ends in tragedy too, when one of the major characters dies. The characters are complicated but accessible, and the emotional rollercoaster trip will be inevitable.
3. Assassination Classroom
Assassination Classroom is one of the best, if not the best, anime of all time, and nobody can deny that. Reading the synopsis might make you think otherwise, but a series with an IMDB rating of 8 and a crunchy roll rating of 4.8 is no joke.
Assassination Classroom
The series is mostly comical and shows us the lives of students who are trying to kill their teacher for a huge amount of money. The real tension arises when they get to know the truth about their sensei and why he must be killed.
When IMDB rates something as high as 7.8, you know the series is good. Directed by Tatsuya Ishihara, the series is based on a novel of the same name and premiered in 2008, with the last episode airing in 2009.
Tomoya and Nagisa
The second season follows Tomoya and his journey. We see that Tomoya has already proposed to Nagisa, and they are in a relationship. He also continues to meet new people with family issues and helps them.
The series reminds us how fragile a human’s mental state is and why we should celebrate our life with the people we love and care about. The series is treasured by people all over the world and is regarded as one of the best series of all time.
5. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
This fantasy drama from 2011 depicts the lives of five childhood friends as they reconnect to fulfill the desires of a deceased buddy. The anime starts with a tragedy when one of their pals is killed in an accident.
Anohana Characters
Throughout the series, the protagonists struggle to accept their friend’s death, and the climax serves as a reminder of the finality of death and the need to cherish the memories of loved ones who have died. The series ponders over the issue that the group has with their friend’s death. Anohana covers the theme of love, revelation, and the significance of moving on, while the main character also contends with loss and illusions.
6. Elfen Lied
Elfen Lied is 2003 anime series about the often complicated interactions between humans and decisions, a mutant species similar to humans in build but who are distinguishable by two cat-ear-like horns and “vectors,” transparent arms which can pass through air and objects at high speed.
Lucy
Despite having just 13 episodes, this series is fantastic. Elfen Lied is sad, violent, full of fantastic characters and emotions, and extremely delightful. While many fans claim that it has aged badly, some are still awed by its storyline.
7. The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya
CC: The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya Franchise
The story follows the characters of Haruhi Suzumiya and Kyon. And the tragic ending of the movie shows that Haruhi has the power to change reality, and she alters it to a world where she doesn’t exist, and the events that had happened with Kyon and the other members of the SOS Brigade never happened.
8. Wolf-Children
The 2012 movie was directed by Mamoru Hosada and followed the story of a single mother, Hana, trying to raise her half-human, half-wolf children Ame and Yuki, alone. The movie explores the subplot of family building, love, and identity crisis.
Wolf Children Characters
Wolf-Children has a tragic ending as Hana, in the end, is left alone, as her son Ame chooses to be a werewolf, leaving her alone despite her cries. It is also revealed by the end that her daughter, Yuki, has also left home to live in the school dormitory.
9. Charlotte
This 2015 anime series , based on an original narrative by Jun Maeda, writer of Angel Beats and Clannad, explores the supernatural lives of a group of teens and the price they must pay for being different.
Charlotte
Yuu Otosaka, a teenager who discovers the capacity to briefly control another person for five seconds, is the protagonist of the fantasy series. The story shows the importance of responsibility and using your powers for a good cause as it leads to a tragic end.
10. The Promised Neverland
Do you like human vs. demon storylines? If yes, then this series is for you! The promised Neverland follows the story of three Titular characters Emma, Ray, and Norman.
The Promised Neverland
While the anime is adventurous, the ending is not, as you, along with the characters, find out the truth about the orphanage and its legacy. The 2018 series was directed by Mamoru Kanbe and released in two seasons, with the first season being aired on Fuji TV.
11. The Wind Rises
Toshio Suzuki produced this masterpiece which gives us a peek into the life of the Japanese Engineer and aircraft designer Jiro Horikoshi. The Wind Rises, set up in World War 2, follows the story as Jiro aspires to be an aeronautical engineer.
Nahoko and Jiro
While he travels to the university, he falls in love with Nahoko Satomi. The story slowly reaches its tragic climax as Jiro, in the end, realizes the brutal reality of his personal life and the part that his technologies played in the conflict.
12. Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Puella Magi Madoka Magica introduces us to Mitakihara, Japan’s magical city, as it digs into the fantasy and magic genre. Madoka Kaname, the protagonist, is given magical abilities and the duty of slaying witches.
Cast
The main character gains knowledge about the value of sacrifice and the nature of hope as the plot develops. The series also deals with the question of what it means to be a savior and the cost of trying to change fate.
13. The end of Evangelion
The movie serves as an alternate ending to the original Tv series, which faced backlash after its controversial last episodes. Directed by Hideaki Anno and Kazuya Tsurumaki, they released the anime film in 1997.
End of Evangelion (Source: Gainax)
The movie follows Shinji Ikari, Rei Ayanami, and Asuka Langley Soryu, who pilot a mecha called Evangelion. The climax of the movie is altogether opposite to the TV series as Shinji struggles with his insecurities and his relationship with Asuka.
14. Anthem of the Heart
This 2015 production by Shunsuke Saito has its own fan base. The story is about a high schooler named Jun Naruse, who, due to a trauma she faced during childhood, can’t speak.
Characters
The narrative emphasizes emotional healing and the necessity of self-expression, as well as Jun’s emotional challenges. The characters become entangled in a love triangle when everyone misinterprets the main character’s compassion as a sign of love.
15. Erased
A tragic hero, time jumps, romance, Erased has everything stuffed into it. This 2016 A-1 Production has an impressive 8.5 IMDb rating and doesn’t fail to deliver a murder mystery story.
Erased
The story follows Satoru Fujinuma, whose mother gets killed, and someone wrongly blames him for the same. Satoru has time travel powers, and he gets sent back 18 years into the past. The story then shows us how sacrifices must be made for justice and why having justice is not always a precursor to a happy ending.
16. I Want To Eat Your Pancreas
Or Kimi no Suizō o Tabetai in Japanese is a 2018 anime film based on a novel of the same by Yoru Sumino. The movie is already based on the tragic premise as Sakura Yamauchi, the main character, is suffering from some kind of terminal illness.
Characters
I Want To Eat Your Pancreas makes you cry by its end as the male protagonist not only faces rejection from other female characters but also loses the one person he somehow starts to care about.
17. Banana Fish
Nobody who watched Banana Fish was surprised by the outcome; nonetheless, not everyone anticipated how painful it would be. Following several confrontations, including a mind-control medication, human experimentation, human trafficking, and more, Ash Lynx, the protagonist, is finally able to address some of those issues. He liberates himself from Dino Golzine’s grasp and returns Eiji, his lover, to Japan safely.
Characters
All the hardships faced by the main character are not the only sad themes in the series. He has to give up the one person he cares about and has to send him back because Ash knows if he keeps Eiji in NYC, Eiji won’t be safe.
18. The forest of Firefly Lights
Another good story with a tragic end, The forest of Firefly Lights or ‘Hotarubi no Mori e’, is a romance/drama movie directed by Takahiro Omori.
CC: The forest of Firefly Lights Movie
The story is about a forest spirit, Gin, and a little girl named Hotaru Takegawa, who meet and grow very close to each other. As the story progresses, it takes passion and romanticization. The two eventually fall for each other, but the ending of the movie will definitely put you to tears.
19. Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a neo-noir cult classic series based in a post-apocalyptic world. While we usually see aliens colonizing earth, this movie makes humans a superior race who have colonized several planets and moons.
Characters
The action-based action-based series is a tragedy in its own right, as the main character has lost his loved one and is emotionally unavailable to any outsider.
20. Tokyo Magnitude 8.0
A series that focuses on disaster and its aftermath is bound to be grim. The story is about siblings Mirai Onozawa and Yuuki Onozawa. Mirai is one of those obnoxious teens that has reached the age where they simply despise everything and everyone. The story, in the end, establishes that Yuuki was never alive and that Mirai was hallucinating his presence.
Anime: Tokyo Magnitude 8.0
21. Death Parade
Death Parade is a 2015 anime series available on Hulu. The series is a psychological thriller, and the ending is quite tragic as both the main characters have to part ways despite visibly growing close to each other.
Death Parade
The story follows Decim, the arbiter of the afterlife, who has no emotions whatsoever and is supposed to judge humans who come to his bar, but all of it changes when a black-haired woman arrives at his bar.
22. Devilman Crybaby
Satan, mythical demons, and devils, do you need it in the plot? You got it! Devilman crybaby follows the story of Akira Fudo and his best friend, Ryo Asuka, both of whom visit a nightclub to investigate something.
Ryo and Akira
The 2018 series, directed by Masaaki Yuasa, delves into satanic storytelling and does it while covering the themes of puberty, sexuality, and love. Many people consider it terrible when a narrative closes with a significant character dying. But what happens when practically the whole primary cast perishes? That’s really depressing.
23. Plastic Memories
No matter how much anyone desires anything, it doesn’t last forever. Plastic memories cover this theme in its plot and boy, does it deliver. The anime is set in a future world where artificial intelligence and androids are common.
Plastic Memories
One such android and a human grow close, and the story is about the progressing relationship between the two; it deals with very relatable issues such as death and the inevitability of seeing your loved ones pass away.
24. Your Name
These 2016 fantasy and romance anime have their plot based on body swapping. The titular characters swap bodies and live each other’s life without knowing the names of each other. They only communicate through notes, messages on phones, and sometimes on each other’s skin.
The ending is tragic as one of the characters finds out that he can’t swap bodies anymore. Not only that, everything related to the female lead is slowly disappearing, including his memories related to her.
25. True Tears
The title itself suggests the theme of the plot in this 2008 series. True Tears shares the same name as its visual novel from 2006, but it has a totally distinct story, characters, and aesthetics. The titular characters deal with sadness and love. Its finale is rather tragic, as it forces the male protagonist to pick between two female characters with who he has gotten very close.
True Tears Characters
26. Akame Ga kill
This anime starts with a tragedy as the lead character’s childhood friends are abducted and killed in their city of dreams. Akame ga kill doesn’t stop there. Throughout the story, every character you grow accustomed to is killed off.
Characters
Even the ending of this 2014 anime series will keep you on the edge of your seats as, in the finale, one of the main characters dies, leaving behind a lot of memories to reminisce.
27. 5 Centimeters per Second
Written, produced, and directed by Makoto Shinkai, 5 Centimeters per Second is based in Japan and centers around the life of a boy named Takaki Tōno.
Characters
The movie contains three segments, each representing a timeline in the life of the protagonist. The movie contains a lot of drama as Takaki and his childhood friend promise each other to live together forever, only for Takaki to end up alone.
28. Darling in the Franxx
Known for its polarizing ending, Darling in the Franxx is a 2018 science fiction, monster romance anime TV series. Why polarizing? Many claimed that the ending, which involves reincarnation, is not something a sci-fi movie should have. While many still shed tears when both protagonists die.
29. Code Geass
Produced by Goro Taniguchi, Code Geass is based on an alternate timeline in which Lelouch vi Britannia gets the superpower of controlling anyone and everyone.
Code Geass Characters
What’s tragic in the story is that Lelouch has to lead a rebellion against his own father, who apparently was the reason for his mother’s death and his sister’s paralytic condition.
30. Shiki
Based on a novel of the same name by Fuyumi Ono, Shiki is a horror anime series that delves into the theme of morality and evil. The series is based in a village where sudden disappearances and deaths of villagers occur due to supernatural beings known as Shiki or Corpse Demons.
Shiki
Many of the key characters, including Natsuno, die at the series’ terrible conclusion, and some of the survivors are forced to leave their village and start a new life, leaving behind their memories and loved ones. The conclusion emphasizes the fragility of human life and the value of community in times of distress.
31. Seven Deadly Sins
The Seven Deadly Sins or Nanatsu No Taizi is a 2015 anime series based on a manga of the same name. The travels of Elizabeth, the third princess of the Kingdom of Liones, and her pursuit of the Seven Deadly Sins are chronicled in Nanatsu no Taizai. She attempts, with their assistance, not only to reclaim her kingdom from the Holy Knights, but also to seek justice in an unfair world.
Nanatsu no Taizai.
32. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
This series, a successor to the original and immensely successful Mobile Suit Gundam, takes place eight years after the end of the One-Year War. As the anime proceeds, it delves into subjects like war and governmental corruption.
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
The premise of the story is set in a futuristic timeline with robots and mecha, which are controlled by humans. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam’s central characters get entangled in a feud between Titans and the Anti-Earth Union Group. The story ends in a tragedy as Kamille suffers from dementia in his last battle.
33. Wolf’s Rain
Wolf’s Rain is a tragic and gloomy story about a pack of wolves fighting to live in a harsh world and eventually dying on their path to a place they call “Paradise,” which appears to be a better place than the one they’re in now.
‘Wolf’s Rain,’ C[Bones]
Wolf’s Rain is a Studio BONES anime series that premiered in 2003. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic future where wolves are thought to be extinct, yet they still exist and may assume human form.
34. The vision of Escaflowne
The Vision of Escaflowne is known for its niche of fantasy and romance, but don’t let the fantasy fool you, as the ending is quite tragic, as the main characters have to part ways because of some difficult circumstances. Hitomi is a High School Girl transported to a new world and gets caught in the wars of its different kingdoms. The series is set in a fantasy world where humans and dragons coexist.
The Irregular at Magic High School
36. Toradora
The 2008 anime series based on a novel of the same name revolves around Ryuuji Takasu, a high school student with a cranky exterior but a gentle heart. He meets Taiga Aisaka, a brash and adamantly independent young woman who has a crush on his closest buddy. Toradora’s finale is heartbreaking because one of the series’ characters is abandoned, having lost both her closest friend and a future partner.
Toradora Characters
37. Parasyte: The Maxim
The anime series follows the life of Shinichi Izumi, whose right arm is taken over by an alien parasite. The 2014 sci-fi thriller series delves into the theme of survival and the co-existence of two different entities altogether. Throughout the series, the lead character grows personally, and ultimately his conscience is tested in the finale.
Characters
38. Redline
Redline is a 2009 anime film directed by Takeshi Koike, and it was his directorial debut. The sci-fi movie is full of action, high speed, and modified car races and chases. It digs into the protagonists’ emotional challenges as they come to terms with the race’s high stakes and the sacrifices they must make to win. As you reach the end of the movie, you realize that both the main characters died trying to win the race.
CC: The Japan Times
39. Voices of Distant Stars
The voices of a Distant Star are a story of two childhood friends who get split when one of them is sent to combat aliens in space. This 25-minute OVA shows us never-ending bonds and love that crossed boundaries.
MikakoHoshi no Koe Movie
In the climax of the anime, the ship Mikako is shown drifting in space due to the heavy damage it has taken, thus indicating a tragic end to it. The voices of a Distant Star debuted in 2002 and was followed by two DVD releases.
40. The Girl who Leapt through Time
Characters
It deals with time travel as the female lead, Makoto Konno, gets the ability to time-leap. Initially using the ability for her day-to-day needs, such as not getting late to class, Makoto realizes the gravity of the situation she is in as she loses a friend she loves.
41. Gurren Lagann
Not every story is supposed to have a happy-ever-after ending, and Gurren Lagann gives us that kind of story. Lord Genome, the Spiral King, rules over humanity in a fictional future where mankind lives in isolated subterranean villages.
Gurren Lagann
As the heroes emerge triumphant from their final battle against the Anti-Spirals, the built-up emotions plunge the audience into grief mixed with joy. The series is co-produced by Konami and Aniplex and was released in the year 2007.
42. Inuyashiki
Adapted into an anime in 2017, the story follows the life of Inuyashiki Ichirou, an old, lonely, and unappreciated salaryman who is transformed into a powerful cyborg after an alien spacecraft crashes on him. Inuyashiki uses his new powers to help others.
Inuyashiki: Last Hero
As the story progresses, Inuyashiki is confronted by another cyborg, Shishigami Hiro, a high school student who also has the same power but, unlike Inuyashiki, uses his powers for personal gain. The series has a tragic ending as the two cyborgs confront each other on the moon. Inuyashiki has to make a difficult decision to stop Shishigami Hiro and sacrifices his own life in the process.
43. Dusk Maiden of Amnesia
It is not always that a predictable story cannot be impactful and toasts what Dusk Maiden of Amnesia proves. This 2012 anime revolves around the life of a high schooler, Teiichi Niiya. He finds out that a ghost, Yuuko Kanoe, is haunting his school’s buildings.
Dusk Maiden of Amnesia
During the two falls in love, it is painstakingly evident that someday or at some point in the anime, they have to part ways as Yuuko has to move on from his world to a world where every soul goes.
44. Cyberpunk: Edge Runners
Based on the video game Cyberpunk 2077, Edgerunners is a result of the Polish-Japanese collab. Nearly all of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’ important characters – including protagonist David Martinez – perish. Rebecca’s crushing by Adam Smasher, David’s near-death experience from cyber psychosis, or Kiwi’s betrayal by Faraday after betraying the other Edgerunners first, the entire ending is tragic.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Although Lucy – the person the Edgerunners were trying to rescue – survives, she isn’t exactly thrilled about it. Her boyfriend, David, was all she had to live for. Her dream of going to the moon comes true, but without him there, the experience rings hollow.
45. Yu-Gi-Oh! GX
First aired in Japan in 2004 and later dubbed in English and aired in North America in 2005, Yu-Gi-Oh! GX is a part of the Yu-Gi-Oh! Franchise. The series follows the story of Jaden Yuki, a young boy who becomes a student at Duel Academy and learns how to become a better duelist. The series is known for its action-packed card battles and its character development.
Yu-Gi-Oh! GX
To get Yubel to stop trying to eliminate all of his friends, Judai takes off on a lengthy mission, living within his body the whole time. To put it simply, he has abandoned his former life and his friends to spend all of his time with the spirit that has made him miserable since he was a child. Despite the show’s appearance, it’s a shockingly bleak conclusion. Despite the show’s appearance, it’s a shockingly bleak conclusion.
46. Happy Sugar Life
Characters
47. God Eater
God Eater
God Eater ends tragically as the characters are forced to make difficult decisions in order to save humanity. The series explores themes of sacrifice, determination, and the cost of survival.
48. Witchblade
An American comic book with the same name served as the basis for Witchblade. Writing and directing credit for the show goes to Yasuko Kobayashi and Yoshimitsu Ohashi.
Witchblade
A girl called Masane Amaha finds out that she is the wielder of Witchblade. Masane’s difficulties adjusting to her new abilities and her responsibility for defending the world against entities attempting to utilize the Witchblade for their good reasons are both explored throughout the series.
To ensure the safety of her daughter, Masane uses the Witchblade to its full extent destroying everything that threatens the Earth and its inhabitants.
49. The Secret World of Arrietty
Unbeknownst to the owners and staff, Arrietty, a little girl, lives with her parents in a basement apartment in a suburban house. Arrietty hides from her human hosts but often emerges from beneath the floorboards to steal necessities like sugar cubes. When 12-year-old Shawn meets Arrietty, they develop a secret connection, but their relationship may be dangerous for Arrietty’s family.
Arrietty
50.Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x hunter is one of the most popular anime of recent times. The 2011 adventure/fantasy drama follows Gon Freecss, a young boy, and his journey to meet his father, Ging, who left him a long time ago.
Characters
As the story progresses, Gon meets several people who become his friends. By its end in 2014, we see tragedies happen throughout, with Gon losing all his powers in the end.
One of the most critically acclaimed directors of the century is Hayao Miyazaki . He has directed and written many famous movies. One of them is Howl’s Moving Castle . Howl’s Moving Castle is a Japanese animated film released in 2004. The film is based on a book of the same name. The movie was so popular that its English adaptation was also released.
The movie follows the story of a young girl named Sophie, who makes her living by designing and manufacturing hats. She lives in a fictional world where magic and technology coexist. This tiny world has magic as well as technologically advanced equipment existing at the same time. One day, a witch enters the shop and, in a fit of anger, curses Sophie. Due to this, Sophie turns into an old woman.
The story is set against the backdrop of war. One fine day, Sophie comes across a wizard named Howl, and her fate gets entangled with him. The wizard is in a fight with the king, and she gets trapped in a mess. The beauty of Ghibli ’s films is unparalleled. Along with a good story, the film has some breathtaking visuals.
The one thing that differs between the book and the movie is that the movie mostly focuses on the power of love and the side effects of war on people’s lives. Hayao Miyazaki said in an interview that he made the film because he had a lot of rage in his heart due to the Iraq war.
Nevertheless, the film did exceptionally well at the box office and remained one of the most critically acclaimed films of the century. If you love animated films and are a sucker for good storytelling, then here are some more films just like Howl’s Moving Castle that you must check out.
Spirited Away (2001)
A 2021 Japanese animated film, Spirited Away , is a name everyone must have heard of. The film was highly successful and appreciated by the audience. Animated by Studio Ghibli, the film is another phenomenal work by Hayao Miyazaki.
Still from Spirited Away
The story follows the life of a young girl named Chihiro Ogino, who, on one fine day, accidentally enters the world of spirits. Yubaba, a witch, turns her parents into pigs, who keep on slogging for food for the whole film.
To escape from this world and free her parents, she takes up a job in Yubaba’s bathhouse while uncovering their secrets. The film did quite well at the box office and went on to win the Critic’s Choice Award for the best-animated film.
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Another one of the classics, My Neighbor Totoro follows the story of a university professor and his two daughters, Satsuki and Mei. Their mother is sick and has been admitted to a hospital nearby. Thus, the girls and their father moved to a house near the hospital. Soon the girls befriend a friendly wood ghost, and their adventure continues from there.
Still from My Neighbor Totoro
The film follows the theme that all living things have spirits and focuses on the philosophy of protecting the environment. The film is rated 95% on Rotten Tomatoes and has won many awards and a lot of appreciation from people all over the world.
Princess Mononoke (1997)
Princess Mononoke , released in 1997, was Japan’s highest-grossing film of 1997. Animated by Ghibli Studios, the film follows the story of a young man named Ashitaka. The boy finds himself stuck in the battle between the gods of the forest and humans who consume the resources of that forest.
Still from Princess Mononoke
The film returns to the much-needed but under-reported subject of how humans are depleting the Earth’s resources. The main theme of the movie centers around the environment and its importance in our lives. If you are a fan of Miyazaki and the environment, then this is the film for you.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
How to Train Your Dragon follows the story of Hiccup, a teenager who lives in the fantasy village of Viking. The village is frequently attacked by a vicious dragon. Hiccup, who was raised to believe that dragons are evil, builds his own machine to kill the night fury. He attacked him but failed to kill him.
Still from How to Train Your Dragon
So, he befriended the dragon, and soon they became inseparable. Hiccup soon realized that the dragons were really misunderstood, so he went on a mission to protect them. The film had a beautiful ending as the villagers finally accepted the dragon. The film was quite famous around the world. So much so that it had many other sequels. The film has won numerous awards over the years and is regarded as one of Dreamworks’ best works.
The Breadwinner (2017)
The Breadwinner follows the story of a young girl named Parvana and the struggles she faces as she finds ways to survive in a Taliban-ruled country. After her father was arrested by the Taliban, she cut her hair and set out into the world disguised as a boy to provide for herself and her family.
Parvana runs through a street market in the trailer for “The Breadwinner”.
However, her journey is not going to be an easy one, and she will have to face many challenges to rescue her father from jail. The story gives deep insight into the lives of people living under Taliban oppression and speaks heavily of perseverance and strength. A good film to watch.
Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018)
Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms, also known as “Let’s Hold the Promised Flowers in the Morning of Farewells,” is a Japanese animated fantasy drama. The film was highly appreciated by the fans, and one critic said that it would invoke emotions and memories that you thought were long dead. The film went on to win many awards.
Maquia from When the Promised Flower Blooms
The story follows the life of a special girl from a different clan known as Iorph. The people of this race live a separate life and age slowly. Thus, they can live for many years. One day, their clan was attacked, killing most of them. While surviving and escaping the war, Maquia comes across an infant and decides to adopt and raise him as her son.
After a lot of twists and turns, in the end, we see her son dying of old age in her arms. After his death, she had to bear pain and loneliness, unlike anything else. The movie is quite an emotional one, so if you are planning to watch it, grab a few tissues.
Labyrinth (1986)
A classic fantasy film directed by Jim Henson, Labyrinth tells the story of a young girl named Sarah who must solve a magical riddle within 13 hours to save her brother. While solving the riddle, she comes across many magical creatures and learns about life in general. One of the lessons is that no one should take their loved ones for granted.
Still a scene from Labyrinth.
The film, although quite old, remains a classic and feels like a mixture of The Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland. The actors did quite a phenomenal job with the characters, and they were highly praised for the same.
The Castle of Cagliostro (1979)
The Castle of Cagliostro, co-written and directed by the mastermind himself, is a Japanese animated action-adventure film. It is the story of gentleman thief Arsène Lupin III, who robs a casino only to find that the money is fake. He went to a different country to save their princess but ended up being trapped. The story follows his adventures and how his life transforms after the incident.
Scene from The Castle of Cagliostro
The film was made with a lot of attention to the details of the city, depicting the classic Miyazaki signature. The film was highly successful and appreciated by film directors.
The Wind Rises (2013)
The Wind Rises was supposed to be Miyazaki’s last film. The film draws strong similarities to Miyazaki’s own life. He draws inspiration from his own life through the main character. Just like Miyazaki, the hero is quite obsessed and engrossed in his passion.
Still from The Wind Rises
The film focuses on the theme that anything taken too far can be dangerous, even if it is as harmless as a dream. As he becomes entangled in his own life, the hero has to choose between what must be done and what he does.
The film is beautifully made and covers a very serious topic very subtly. Although, till the end, we do not get a specific answer to our questions, we find solace in the simple fact that life exists, so one must do their best to live in the best possible way.
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
The classic fantasy film Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind was animated by the studio, which was the predecessor of Ghibli. It is based on an original manga series and was created in 1984. It is regarded as one of Miyazaki’s earliest works.
Still from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Based in a post-war country, the story takes place after 1000 years of a deadly war that destroyed civilization and created a toxic forest. The forest is said to be the home of toxic plants and vicious creatures, and animals. One day, a prophecy occurs that a young girl will come and stabilize the country’s situation.
Nausicaä, a young princess dressed in a blue gown is the prodigy princess. She gives her best to try and understand the forest so that the enmity between human civilization and nature can end. The result of her actions was that, in the end, one non-toxic flower bloomed in the forest.
Porco Rosso (1992)
Porco Rosso is Italian for “red pig” and is a film about a war veteran who, after the 1 st World War, is acting as a bounty hunter for pirates in the Adriatic Sea. He has been converted into a pig due to a curse.
Still from Porco Rosso
Just like any Miyazaki film, this one is quirky and beautiful at the same time. It also pays homage to the early aircraft. Miyazaki said that he wanted to make a sequel to the film but later did not.
Wolf Children (2012)
Quite an emotional film, Wolf Children follows the life of a young girl, telling her story over the course of 13 years. Hana, the young girl, fell in love with a wolf and married him. One day, when he is out searching for food for his family, he is killed.
Married life of the couple
Now Hana must raise the half-human, half-wolf siblings on her own. She moves to a new city in search of a job to feed her children and raise them. The kids will grow up and have their own lives one day. Finally, Hana comes to terms with this as her children find their own lives.
The film was so beloved that it became the second highest-grossing film in Japan on its release. The film centers around the story of family love and drama.
Still Walking (2008)
Still Walking narrates the story of a family who comes together every year on the anniversary of the death of their oldest son, who died saving another drowning child. The story spans a period of 24 hours that the family spent together. We have people of different personalities in the family, and it all shows how different characters deal with and express the loss.
Still from the 2008 movie Still Walking,
In a beautiful, well-written story directed, written, and edited by Koreeda, the director draws inspiration from his own childhood memories of the passing of his mother. It is a slice-of-life movie, and one can easily relate to the story one way or another. Koreeda is a mastermind when it comes to conveying emotions through his storytelling and visuals.
Persepolis (2007)
Persepolis is adapted from the animations of Marjane Satrapi, in which she drew conclusions from her own life in war-torn Iran. Although the place she grew up in was surrounded by a dictatorship, she grew up in a loving family, which gave birth to her own imagination and identity.
Scene from Persepolis
The story gives an insight into what it is like to grow up in such a conflicting environment. The environment in which she was raised made her a strong, independent woman, despite the state of her country was in. Although in 2D, the story never felt flat, and it was due to the powerful writing of the writer.
Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Animated by Ghibli, “Grave of the Fireflies” is a tragedy-themed animated film written and directed by Isao Takahata. Ranked as one of the best Japanese films of all time, it is a work of art. The emotional journey of two war orphans, Seita and Setsuko, tells the story of how they survived the bombing of Kobe in World War 2. After their mother died, they moved into their aunt’s house, but after many insults, they left that place
Ending scene of Grave of the Fireflies
After going through a lot of trouble, they started to find it difficult to fend for themselves, and one of them died of malnutrition and another of starvation. After their deaths, they are reunited when they board a ghostly train and live happily ever after with the ghost of fireflies.
Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
Miyazaki is no stranger to strange and magical storylines. Kiki’s Delivery Service is no different; only in this case does the difference emerge from the common mundane of everyday life. Kiki decides to leave her home one day to pursue her dream of becoming a better witch.
Poster picture of Kiki’s Delivery Service
She starts to work for a witch as a delivery service, and the story unfolds from there. Set in quite a simple setting, the story is not that crazy, but it gives quite an important message that one must believe and follow their dream no matter what.
Whisper of the Heart (1995)
It tells the story of a girl who loves to write and read books. While reading a book, she comes across a boy who appears to be following her.
Still from Whisper of the Heart
Being keen on knowing where the story starts, she went to an antique shop, where she met the boy again. They discussed it, and he told her that he wanted to learn how to play musical instruments. He attended a distant college to pursue the same.
Seeing him pursue his dreams motivated her, and she started writing her first novel. After two months of hard work and stress, her novel is finished, and she decides to pursue her studies. The boy returned and proposed to her, and they lived happily ever after.
Perfect Blue (1997)
Perfect Blue , a psychological thriller , explores a previously unexplored side of anime. It tells the story of a woman who leaves her career as a pop star to become an actress, but she starts going insane when a ghost from her past starts to stalk her and make her life miserable.
Still a scene from Actress from Perfect Blue.
The film strikes a similar tone to Black Swan and Requiem for a Dream. Satoshi Kon has done a perfect job of depicting how things can go wrong and how reality can be twisted if the person is suffering.
Ink (2009)
Ink is an award-winning American film that shows a struggle between good and evil while two people are caught in the crossfire. Though it seems like a grim movie, the message it portrays is quite good and hopeful. No matter what the situation, you can always discern good from bad and choose a different path.
Still from Ink
One important message that we get from this film is that there is hope, no matter what. “I hope to do good, to choose better, and to survive.”
Only Yesterday (1991)
Only Yesterday, a film to which everyone can relate, tells the story of Taeko Okajima, who is taking a train to the countryside. The film shifts between the past and the present as the protagonist reminisces about her past.
Train scene from Only Yesterday
Her childhood, schooldays, first crush, puberty, and more. Along with the past, the movie shows the realistic side of today. It is something that everyone can understand and relate to. Moreover, the amazing visuals of the show do not disappoint and glue the audience to the screen.
Castle in the Sky (1986)
Still scene from Castle in the Sky
96% of the reviews of the film were positive, and it even got an American remake. The film was a huge success in Japan and many other countries.
Ponyo (2008)
A western fairy tale but with Miyazaki’s magical touch, Pony tells the story of a goldfish who wants to be independent of her controlling father and reunite with her human friend Sosuke. He named her Pony, and the story revolves around their friendship and relationship.
Ponyo from the movie
Miyazaki’s environmental touch is also evident in the movie as our characters go through their lives. He never fails to tell us the importance of environmental protection through his films.
To the Forest of Firefly Lights (2011)
To the Forest of Firefly Lights, a short film of approximately 45 minutes, is a sweet, simple film that will make you feel good. It is based on a manga of the same name. The bond between a spirit named Gin and a girl named Hotaru is explored in the movie. The story follows their sweet love story and tells everything it wants to in a short time.
Gin from To the Forest of Firefly Lights
Mary and Max (2009)
Mary and Max follow an unusual friendship between an overlooked child and an autistic old man from New York. The girl starts to communicate with the man, and an unusual friendship develops between them where they understand each other perfectly. Although it addresses some serious issues, the film does so with humor and lightheartedness.
Still from Mary and Max
Babette’s Feast (1987)
The movie tells the story of two nuns, Martine and Filippa, who live a life of simplicity, rejecting any love advances. One fine day, a French immigrant came to live with them. Her name was Babette, and she was escaping the war. With her arrival, the lives of the sisters changed, and they got to see life from a different perspective.
Babette from the movie
The film explores a very serious topic as to whether a life of simplicity is enough for one to live or not.
Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011)
Children Who Chase Lost Voices is a film directed by the same person who directed 5 centimeters per second . It tells the story of a girl named Asuna. Having lost his father at a very young age, Asuna had to grow up soon. One fine day, she was attacked by a vicious creature, and a boy named Shun saved her.
Still a scene from Children Who Chase Lost Voices.
She later learns that this boy is from another world called Agartha, which is the land of the dead. Later, she travels to Agartha to unravel a secret and finds many new adventures on the way. The film is perfect for those who are looking for a Ghibli-like feel. The movie is quite picturesque and will pull at your heartstrings.
Voices of a Distant Star (2002)
Voices of a Distant Star is a short film created and animated by Makoto Shinkai. The film follows the lives of two childhood friends, a boy, and a girl. At the age of 15, the girl is sent to space to fight the aliens, and the boy must continue his life waiting for her.
Still from Voices of a Distant Star
As the distance between the earth and space increases, so does the distance between the two of them. The greater the distance, the longer it took for the messages to reach the boy. Despite the distance between them, their love never falters. After some time, it would take 7-9 years for her message to reach the boy, but he did not give up hope. He studies hard, joins NASA, and joins the mission to rescue the team.
Tamako Love Story (2014)
Tamako Love Story is the story of a young boy named, whose school years are going to end soon. He wants to go to Tokyo to pursue his dreams but is reluctant to leave his friends and family behind.
Mochizou Ooji from Tamako Love Story
More than anything, he does not want to leave his childhood crush behind. Since she has no future, she will be staying back in town. Now that the time for his departure has arrived, he must make a decision whether to leave his love unrequited or gather up the courage to confess his true feelings. A sweet and simple love story, the movie can be easily enjoyed by all.
I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (2018)
The 2018 film tells the story of a boy who discovers his classmate, Sakura Yamauchi, is suffering from a terminal illness. He then begins to care for her, and her illness brings them closer together, eventually leading to love.
Still, a scene from I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.
Directed by Shin’ichirô Ushijima, the film was highly appreciated for its story. People even said there were no dry eyes in the theater. The film will hit you hard and make you feel things you haven’t felt in a long time.
Your Name (2017)
Just like Howl’s Moving Castle, Your Name was a huge success in Japan as well as other countries. It received huge appreciation from fans worldwide as it is deemed one of the best-animated films ever made.
Still scene from Your Name (2017)
Your Name tells the story of two teenagers who swap their bodies. The concept isn’t new and has been covered before. One fine day, two teenagers find out that they can randomly switch bodies. Taking advantage of this, they switch places and try to help each other in any way they can.
They communicate with each other through notes. They discover one day that they cannot switch back, but their circumstances have worsened, and thus their adventure begins. The story is deeply moving and shows the power of true connection.
The Garden of Words (2013)
A Japanese animated film, The Garden of Words, tells the story of a young teenager who aspires to be a shoemaker and a middle-aged woman who is struggling in her life. Through sheer coincidence, they keep meeting and communicating with each other.
Still from The Garden of Words
The boy tells her all about her ambition and story, while the woman keeps calm and mysterious. Once they come to terms with their feelings, they learn that they have been teaching each other “how to walk.” Through the story, the director tries to tell a story that is filled with love and life. Moreover, the age difference between the characters is significant as well, and we can see how people of different ages can learn from each other.
5 Centimeters per Second (2007)
5 Centimeters per Second is a Japanese animated film written and directed by Makoto Shinkai. The film is divided into three parts, in which it discovers the life of Takaki Tōno and his relationship with three different women at different times. The film was later adapted into a manga series as well.
Takaki and Akari from 5 Centimeters per Second
Takaki fell in love with a girl named Akari when he was a child, but due to his parent’s job, he had to move, and they were separated. Last night, before his departure, they promised each other they would meet again under the cherry blossom tree, but life happened in a way they did not meet.
Although they always loved each other, they moved on with their lives with a pinch of regret. They keep going back to the last night they met and keep remembering their promise to each other. The story is bittersweet and will leave you in tears. However, it has some of the most beautiful visuals.
A Silent Voice (2017)
A Silent Voice is a type of film that is rarely made. Combined with great visuals and amazing writing, the film portrays some powerful messages. It is a coming-of-age psychological film that covers heavy topics such as suicide, depression, mental health, bullying, and more. The film tells the story of a bully boy who grows up to be a social outcast.
Poster picture of A Silent Voice (2017)
Having faced a lot, he understands all that he did wrong in his childhood and tries to befriend the deaf girl he bullied. Although the story covers some dark topics like suicide, it is a must-watch as it covers many important life lessons.
From Up on Poppy Hill (2013)
Scene from From Up On Poppy Hill
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2007)
Still from The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
It is an amazing romance anime film and a great start for anyone who wants to explore the world of anime.
