My Top 10 Favorite Anime Movies
August 13, 2019
Back then, I was so big on watching anime series. I don't really watch anime movies because I prefer the detailed kind, and of course, I'm always a sucker for backstories of both the main characters and side characters. That changed when I got into college where I don't have much time to watch anime series. I even dropped watching Naruto Shippuden because I got too busy. That's when I started to look for the alternative aside from my go-to Studio Ghibli movies.
So without further ado, here are my top 10 favorite anime movies that you should watch if you still haven't!
- Only Yesterday - This movie is my ultimate favorite Studio Ghibli movie and truly a masterpiece. It is directed by the great Isao Takahata. I know this is not the typical adventure movie with all the magical stuff that Ghibli is known for. It's actually quite the opposite, given that this is really slow-paced with nothing special going on that others would find boring. This movie is a coming of age story about a 27-year old office woman named Taeko who went to the countryside, and along the way, flashbacks from her 5th-grade self came pouring in. Whenever I feel down or too unhappy about where my life is heading, I would always watch this because it somehow manages to lift my spirit up in a very subtle and gentle way. Sometimes I don't need that motivational quotes that I screenshot from Instagram to get me hyped up and conquer the day, all I want is a gentle nudge that says everything will be okay. For some reason, I think this is an ode to my repressed self, and just like Taeko, I need to step out of it and have that ending that I always want.
Favorite Quote from the movie: If today is no good, you’ll have tomorrow. If tomorrow’s no good, you’ll have the next day."
- 5 Centimeters Per Second - This is my first Makoto Shinkai movie that made me fell in love with his works. I watched this many years ago, back when I was nursing my heart from unrequited love. It tells a story about Takaki Tohno who can't let go of his first childhood love. Yes, it's one of those sad movies out there that really resonates with me. The artwork is astonishing and the music blend really well with the theme. I ugly cried when the ending song played because it gave a very bittersweet ending. I think it made me realized that I love melancholic, sad, and nostalgic stuff, basically molding my taste in both movies and music.
- Whisper of the Heart - Another Studio Ghibli movie directed by Yoshifumi Kondō. I always find myself rewatching this movie every once in a while because it's really heartwarming. I just wish that I watched this back when I was in high school so I would be like Shizuko and read all the books. lol! This movie is about self-discovery and innocent love between two 8th graders who supported each other to make their dreams come true. The scenery is really breathtaking just like any other Ghibli movies. And oh! I really love John Denver's Country Road.
"Being left alone has its hard parts too." - Shizuku Tsukishima
"You see that rough surrounding stone? You can polish it all you want, but it'll still be worthless. But there might be something much more valuable inside that you can't yet see." - Shirou Nishi
- Kiki's Delivery Service - It's another Studio Ghibli gem! Director Hayao Miyazaki definitely created a masterpiece in this one. The story is about a 13 years old witch-in-training named Kiki, who must make it on her on own in a new city for a year. What I like about this movie is that it's so light-hearted, funny, warm, charming, and it never fails to put me in a good mood. The scenery is breath-taking and I love Jiji (the talking black cat) so much. And yes, I still watch this even if I'm already in my mid-twenties.
Favorite Quotes from the movie:
“I think something's wrong with me. I make friends, then suddenly I can't bear to be with any of them. Seems like that other me, the cheerful and honest one, went away somewhere.” - Kiki
“I think something's wrong with me. I make friends, then suddenly I can't bear to be with any of them. Seems like that other me, the cheerful and honest one, went away somewhere.” - Kiki
- The Girl Who Leapt Through Time - Oh god! I think the last time I saw this movie was maybe 8 years ago? Yeah, it's one of those movies where I'm not so keen into rewatching because it's like opening an old wound. Although this is really an amazing movie, and my number 1 favorite by Mamoru Hosoda, the thought of that bittersweet and empty feeling after watching that movie made me feel really sad. It's probably because of the concept of time traveling and the notion that you'll never see each other again. I'm probably overreacting but this is how I felt after watching the movie. The story revolves around Makoto and her 2 guy friends and the repercussions of the leaps she took just to change events from the past into her advantage. But what makes this movie beautiful is that it teaches you to embrace the moment just the way they are. Okay, I'm thinking about rewatching this movie later.
Favorite Quote from the movie: "Time waits for no one."
- Summer Wars - It's another movie directed by Mamoru Hosoda and it's my only favorite sci-fi with a dash of cyberpunk movie that made into my list. The premise of this movie is simple, a cyber battle that threatens the virtual society and one family must defeat the malicious computer virus. I really enjoyed this movie because there's comedy, drama, a bit of romance, and the extended family member are so quirky yet likable, kind of makes me want to belong into their family.
Favorite Quote from the movie: "Never turn your back on family, even when they hurt you. Never let life get the better of you. And if you remember nothing else, remember to find time to eat together as a family. Even when times are rough; especially when times are rough. There's no lack of painful things in this world, but hunger and loneliness must surely be two of the worst. Thanks to you, my precious family, I didn't know a moment of either of those the last ninety years." Sakae Jinnouchi
- To the Forest of Firefly Lights - I found this movie when I was looking for an anime similar to Natsume's Book of Friends. Little did I know that it will rip my heart into pieces. I have no idea why I'm drawn to movies like this. It's a story about a girl who fell in love with a forest spirit and how every summer they would meet and have adventures together. While watching this, I can't help but feel relaxed because of how gentle and innocent the movie was. If you ever feel the need to believe in love again, then you must definitely watch this one.
Favorite Quote from the movie: “I probably won’t be able to look forward to summer for a long time. My chest will hurt. My tears will be overflowing. But this warmth in my hands and these summer memories will live on in my heart." - Hotaru Takegawa
- Millennium Actress - Unrequited and love lost are always right up in my alley. I just enjoy watching them because I've been there and spent years to finally be able to move on. This movie by Satoshi Kon is one of those movies that will take you on a journey between fantasy and reality. The story is about a retired actress named Chiyoko and her search for love. For me, the ending is quite hopeful but still, it made me bawl my eyes out. Like, y u do dis?
- Colorful - This movie is dark yet beautiful and colorful, directed by Keiichi Hara. I was watching this one evening and didn't really know what I was getting into. The story is about about a boy named Makoto and how he was given a second chance after he committed suicide. What's really great about this movie is I can relate to Makoto at times, and it also gives you a valuable lesson that will make you realized something profound, and hope for brighter days ahead.
Favorite Quote from the movie: "I have an interest in things that are gone. It's like getting some form of revival." - Saotome
- Perfect Blue - If you've seen Blackswan and loved it, then I think you would also enjoy Perfect Blue directed by the genius Satoshi Kon. I've known this movie even when I was a kid because I used to collect anime magazine, but the plot and scenes horrified my innocent eyes. It's not until 2016 when I was trying to diversify my taste in anime that I decided to watch this. And man! Just like any Kon movies, this too is a masterpiece.
Favorite Quote from the movie: "There is no way an illusion can come to life." - Eri Ochiai
Thank you so much for reading this really long post. I hope you had a good time.
So what's your favorite anime movie?
all photos are not mine
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52 comments
I've only seen Kiki's!
ReplyDeleteJennifer
Effortlessly Sophisticated
Great choice! It's really good!
DeleteAhhh! This post is amazing because I've been looking for anime movies (and series) to start watching! I love Paprika from Satoshi Kon as well as Your Name and A Silent Voice. 5 Centimeters apart was great too!
ReplyDeleteMai
✰ maidoesthings.com
Yaay! I'm so happy that we both like the same anime from great directors <3
DeleteI love Whisper of the Heart!
ReplyDeleteThank you for all these recommendations. I've been looking for new films to watch and you provided a really great list. Will be watching these soon.<3
❀ ADI IN PINK ❀ INSTAGRAM ❀
UODATE: I just watched Only Yesterday (thanks to this blog post) and I love it so much! It made my cry twice which is a reaction I rarely have from movies. Maybe it's because I was able to relate to her in so many ways and it's nice to see a character you can strongly relate to. Thank you for sharing it.<3
DeleteYaaaay! I'm so happy that you liked Only Yesterday!
DeleteGreat choices. I like Lupin the 3rd, Death Note,Robotech,7 Samurai,etc.
ReplyDeletewww.kimchicakes.com
Yes! I always wanted to watch Death Note too!
DeleteMost of the movies u mention above are from studio ghibli. Anw havent watched any, i think i need to watch some haha, thanks for share anw
ReplyDeletewww.torichux3.com
Yes, you need to watch one of their movies and I suggest you start with Kiki's Delivery Service or My Neighbor Totoro :)
DeleteMine is Spirited Away
ReplyDeleteYeees! It's nice too!
DeleteWow so many amazing movies one of my favorites too is 5 Centimeters Per Second and Kiki's Delivery Service. i remember when I watchesd Summer Wars. I want to watch Colors and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time. Thanks for share great recommendations
ReplyDeleteYaay! I'm happy to know someone who loves 5 Centimeters Per Second! Yes, please watch them because I'm sure you will enjoy it <3
Delete(｡◕ ‿ ◕｡)/ Holaaa!!!
ReplyDeleteReconozco pocos de los animes que pusiste pero creo que haz hecho un gran top :D
Te invito a visitar mi humilde espacio ♥
穛 S4Ku SEK4i®
Thank you!
DeleteThere are a lot of these I haven't seen despite loving anime movies. I love Whisper of the heart but can only recall watching it a handful of times!
ReplyDeleteYes, Whisper of the Heart is just so cute <3
DeleteOnly Yesterday sounds like a great film. I love what you said about it cheering you up in a subtle way.
ReplyDeleteKiki's Delivery service sounds like a fun anime film!
Thanks for sharing these recommendations.
Aww, I'm glad you liked it, Ivana :)
DeleteI haven't watched anime (that's like cartoons for grown-ups - right?). I guess the films come with ratings so if I want to watch one with a grandchild I'll know if it's inappropriate for the little ones? This is a great list to have for anyone looking for anime. Thank you so much for the honest reviews!
ReplyDeleteRuth
www.VogueFauxReal.com
Actually, there are a lot of genre that adults would definitely enjoy. It depends on your taste. Studio Ghibli have the most kid friendly themes :)
DeleteOh these all sound wonderful. In particular 5 centimeters per sec,To The Forest of Fireflies and Colorful b/c of the artwork. I wonder if any are on Netflix.
ReplyDeleteAllie of
www.allienyc.com
I don't know if they're on Netflix yet but I hope it will be soon.
DeleteThanks for sharing this list of your faves! I really need to get back into anime and will definitely look into your picks. Whisper of the Heart is one of my faves as well.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Rowena! WOH is such a cute movie that shakes your childish dreams awake <3
DeleteI'm not into Anime but I watched one anime movie which was 'Your Name' and it was honestly beautiful!
ReplyDeletehttps://lifewithmins.blogspot.com
Yes, I watched it too. It's directed by Makoto Shinkai who is also directs 5 Centimeter per Second
DeleteI'm not into anime but I have seen some good ones! My favorite would have to be The Cat Returns!
ReplyDeleteEena ☼ cabin twenty-four
Yes I've seen The Cat Returns and it's good too!
DeleteI haven't watch any anime for a long time. Used to enjoy watching movies.
ReplyDeleteIt's okay. To each his own :)
DeleteI've never seen any anime movies so wouldn't even know where to start. Thanks for the recommendations x
ReplyDeleteSophie
www.glowsteady.co.uk
You're welcome, Sophie!
DeleteHello!
ReplyDeleteIt's so sad that I've only read Kiki's delivery service.
My goal for this year was to watch all the studio ghibli movies but I couldn't do it. I have a few months left so I'll try to reach my goal.
I think my favorite by far is Your Name and Howl's Moving Castle.
Yaaaz! You can do it and you won't have to worry about being bored because I'm sure you'd be really invested while watching it. I love Howl's Moving Castle too!
DeleteExcellent choices! I have seen a number of them and even have some of them in my DVD collection. I really want to see the first one you mentioned,only yesterday. Some of those others I have been meaning to watch, like colorful and millennium actress. This makes me want to pull out my list of favorites sometime. Thanks for the idea. ♥
ReplyDeleteYaaa! Please watch them, I'm sure you will not regret it :)
DeleteGreat choices!! Though I am not a big fan of movies but I have seen Kiki's Delivery Service on your list.
ReplyDeletehttps://manjoreegraphics.blogspot.com
Yaaaay! I'm glad that even thought you're not a big fan, you're still able to watch Kiki :)
DeleteIt has been a while since I've watched anime. It is great that there are so many different options out there. Oh man, DBZ brings me back to my childhood days! Pretty cool to see how anime has changed over the years. Thanks for sharing all of these movies!
ReplyDeleteNancy ♥ exquisitely.me
I know right? DB has been around for a long time and I'm not complaining >.<
DeleteI've seen all the movies you've mentioned, and they are all great choices. I'm a huge fan of Kiki's Delivery Service and even dressed up as her one year for Halloween. One of my favorite anime movies is The Silent Voice. I cried so much the first time I watched it.
ReplyDeleteWow! That's so great to know that you've watched a lot of these.
DeleteI haven't seen A Silent Voice yet, but it's on my to watch list.
I haven't seen any of these movies so thank you for sharing your recommendations :)
ReplyDeleteHope that your week is going well! We have a day off today for the Ekka holiday, yay!
Away From Blue
You're welcome, Mica!
DeleteYou know anime well!!
ReplyDeleteI was born in 1970, so I used to watch many Japanese animations when I was a child.
Kiki's Delivery Service is one of my favorite anime!
akiko
www.akikohiramatsu.com
Yes, I've been a fan of anime since I was a kid. Yes, I think Kiki is everyone's favorite.
DeleteI watched Kiki's and another of Ghibli's movies but I was never a fan of Ghibli for some reason and I don't know why because it seemed like even non-anime fans loved those movies. One of my co-workers was big fan of them and she didn't like anime at all. I've heard of some of them, but for some reason unless the movies were attached to a tv series I just never watch them, but I am not a big movie person for some reason, but a lot of those sound amazing and I will be checking them out. I remember Millennium Actress because I gave my friend money to get me things when she went to an anime convention and she got me a poster of Millennium Actress and it was actually that exact one in your photo. I loved DBZ and Lupin also. :)
ReplyDeleteLove is Zero
Aw, I think it's okay, maybe it's not your cup of tea. I enjoy both anime movies and series but I've been leaning towards movies lately since I've been really busy with work and I only have short time for things like this. Please do check them out, I hope you will like them :)
DeleteBeautiful choices! Will be checking out a few of these titles. I'm a huge ghibli fan, but if I had to pick one, Spirited Away has a special spot in my heart.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your time! Your thoughts about this post are highly appreciated. I read each of them and respond as much as I can. And don't forget to click 'NOTIFY ME' so you can read my reply. ♥