While many people believe that Anime is just Japanese cartoons, that's not true. Ask any anime fan and he/she'll tell you how mesmerizing and fun anime movies can be.
In this article, we are going to share some of the best-animated movies that you can watch in 2021 to enjoy some unique entertainment sessions. So, without any further ado, let's get started.
Part 1 Let's Review the Most Popular 15 Anime Films Ever: Grab the Popcorn!
1. Grave of the Fireflies
Released in 1988, Grave of the Fireflies is one of the most popular anime of all time. The movie shows hope and the strong bond of two siblings who only have each other after the devastating firebombing in their hometown.
Reasons for Recommendation
It showcases how the family is most important.
Explains how fragile human life can be.
The storyline is interactive.
User Reviews
"It is a beautifully constructed animation."
"This movie seriously deserves all the credit and recognition it gets, a heartbreaking and honest story."
2. Akira
What would you do if a gang of bikers has turned into psychopaths and has started to terrorize the entire town? Well, unless you're a superhero, you'd probably run for your life and try to escape the city. That's what's happening in the 1988 thriller - Akira.
Reasons for Recommendation
The perfect storyline for a sci-fi movie.
Visuals and animations are compelling.
Showcases how unexpected events can occur.
User Reviews
"Akira is by far the best anime film I've seen till now. It was so captivating, fast‑paced, and jam‑packed with action that I never realized how quickly 2 hours flew by."
3. Tamako Market
If you're not a fan of sad anime movies and want to watch something funny or romantic, Tamako Market is one of the best choices. The movie revolves around two characters - Mochizo and Tamako - a young couple who are deeply in love with each other.
Reasons for Recommendation
One of the best slice-of-life movies.
A great choice for beginners who aren't familiar with the sci-fi world of animes.
You'll have enough content for your entertainment session.
User Reviews
"This sickeningly adorable anime tugs at the heartstrings in some unexpected ways. The animation is lovely, and the show addresses some rather deep subjects in a healthy, non-trope way while remaining upbeat."
4. Her Blue Sky
Her Blue Sky is one of the latest and top animated movies that was released in 2019. It's a decent fantasy movie that'll be perfect for anyone who wants to watch a simple 2-hour movie. The movie is based on the love story of Akane and her boyfriend Shinno.
Reasons for Recommendation
The realistic storyline with a touch of the fantasy world.
A great movie that showcases the power of dreams and hope.
User Reviews
"This movie has some unique, yet emotionally captivating, theme: that shows what we risk growing apart and losing ourselves as we grow up."
5. Ghost in the Shell
There's no denying the fact that Ghost in the Shell is one of the best animated movies of all time. Many people don't know, but this movie was the reason why we go to see classics such as The Matrix. The story revolves around a cyborg policewoman whose job is to catch a hacker who goes by the name - The Puppet Master.
Reasons for Recommendation
The perfect example of a cult classic in the anime world.
There's also a sequel to Ghost in the Shell that's also worth watching.
User Reviews
"This is an amazing fun Sci‑fi movie and I watched it when it first came out and I loved the colorful concept of this movie."
6. Perfect Blue
Perfect Blue is yet another popular anime movie that was released in 1997. The movie showcases the story of a retired pop star who - despite leaving the acting world - continues to get haunted by the demons from his past.
Reasons for Recommendation
Perfect Blue is one of the best realistic anime movies.
A great choice for people who are looking for a one-time movie.
User Reviews
"Story: 5/5. When I say that this is insane, I mean that it is INSANE."
"This movie is an ABSOLUTE masterpiece and I am not exaggerating when I say it."
7. In This Corner of the World
In This Corner of the World is a manga-inspired movie that's based on the manga series that was released between 2007-2009. The movie is based on the aftereffects of the atomic bomb that was dropped in Hiroshima during World War II. Suzu, the protagonist, survives the atomic bomb attack but continues to struggle with his life as his hometown burns down to the ashes.
Reasons for Recommendation
Effectively explains how terrorizing wars can be.
Good choice for viewers who want to know more about Word War II.
User Reviews
"I mean I know the potential of anime, but I can't comprehend the fact that a piece of art can transcend into so many emotions"
8. Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'
Dragon Ball Z is one of the biggest names in the anime world. If you're a 90s kid, you may remember the love kids had for the Dragon Ball Z series. Continuing its charm, Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F' is the latest addition to the family. The movie was released in 2015, several years after the Dragon Ball Z series was first released.
Reasons for Recommendation
If you're a 90s kid, the movie will seem nostalgic.
The movie introduces new characters with their storylines.
User Reviews
"Blue was the most amazing moment of this movie. Everybody was given a moment of their desperate struggle. This was the best movie back I watch."
9. Vampire Hunter D
Vampire Hunter D is yet another animated movie that sets apart in the post-apocalyptic world. However, unlike any other movie that you've watched, this one comes with a surprise element, i.e., Vampires.
Reasons for Recommendation
The perfect combination of sci-fi and horror.
The movie has one of the most appealing storylines of all time.
User Reviews
"Vampire Hunter D is the best example of such storytelling that I have seen in any recent fantasy piece (animated and non)."
10. Summer Wars
Summer Wars is a 2009 animated movie that perfectly describes ancient Japanese culture. If you want to get a detailed insight into the Japanese world, Summer Wars could be a decent choice. The movie revolves around the story of two high school friends, who visit their family home where the people still appreciate the ancient culture.
Reasons for Recommendation
The perfect blend of fantasy and science fiction.
Great choice if you're looking for a family movie.
User Reviews
"I like this movie. I can watch it many times and not get bored of it. Its style is simple, amazing fight scenes, and it has exciting moments."
11. Weathering With You
Weathering With You is another top animated movie that garnered huge success in a short period. The movie was released in 2019 and showcases the story of two young characters - Hodaka and Hina.
Reasons for Recommendation
A decent slice of life movie you can watch with friends and family.
Showcases how helping other people is the greatest deed in one's life.
User Reviews
"This movie exceeded every expectation I could have had going in. My friend and I couldn't stop talking about it for over an hour afterward."
12. Your Name
Your Name is one of the best-animated movies that are inspired by a novel. The movie was released in 2016 and within a few months, it gained massive success - both commercially and critically.
Reasons for Recommendation
Your Name is one of the highest-grossing animated movies of all time.
With the story unfolding, you'll see how different life can be in two different corners of the country.
User Reviews
"No matter how many people call this movie overrated, this movie remains one of my favorite movies of all time."
"This movie explains why I have a nostalgic feeling of a place."
13. Princess Mononoke
Princess Mononoke is a 90's animated movie that gained massive success at the time and became a cult classic instantly. One of the major reasons behind the movie's incredible success was its well-thought storyline.
Reasons for Recommendation
User Reviews
"Princess Mononoke is a film that everyone needs to see. I'm not going to say that every detail in this film was perfect but there are so many things about this movie that makes it special and unique."
14. Barefoot Gen
Barefoot Gen is yet another popular animated movie that showcases the aftereffects of the Hiroshima incident. However, in this case, we get to see the story through a six-year-old kid who tries to regain his lost childhood when the entire country is going through war.
Reasons for Recommendation
The movie showcases mixed emotions of helplessness and tragedy.
Despite being one of the sad animated movies, Barefoot Gen will keep you engaged throughout.
User Reviews
"If you want to have a great combo of hope, sadness, and a little comedy then this would be a great movie for you."
"A great War Movie. Filled with so many emotions."
15. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a decent fantasy movie that you can watch and enjoy a great entertainment session. The movie is based on a novel that goes by the same name - however, the storyline in the movie is slightly different.
Reasons for Recommendation
One of the best combinations of fantasy and romance.
Quite interesting due to its completely different storyline
User Reviews
"This is seriously a good movie with very well-developed characters, awesome animation, and a solid story based upon a book by the same name."
Part 2 Upcoming New Anime Movies: 2021 Release Date Calendar
Apart from the above-mentioned 15 anime movies, several movies are going to be released this year.
1. Gintama The Final
Gintama: The Final will be a story about Gintoki Sakata, a talented Samurai warrior. As the name implies, this movie may be the last addition to the Gintama series.
2. Eureka Seven: Hi-Evolution Final
Initially planned to be released in 2019, Eureka Seven: Hi-Evolution Final is finally going to be released this year. This will be the final movie in the Eureka Seven trilogy.
3. Detective Conan Movie 24: The Scarlet Bullet
People who have been watching the Detective Conan movies since the beginning are probably waiting for this 24th edition of the series.
4. Amrita no Kyoen
Amrita no Kyoen will be one of the best animated movies in the horror genre in 2021. According to the trailer, Tamaki, a high-school girl will come across different unfamiliar creatures as she'll wander through the school building alone.
5. Kamiari no Kodomo
Want to know about the Kamiari myth and its tradition? Make sure to watch the upcoming anime movie Kamiari no Kodomo where Kanna- - the leading protagonist - will explore multiple stories related to the Kamiari myth.
Part 3 Animate Your Favorite Characters with Lip Movements
When discussing the top anime movies to look out for in 2024, Wondershare Virbo's innovative Talking Photo feature presents an intriguing opportunity to enhance the promotional content for these highly-anticipated releases.
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With Virbo's Talking Photo, fans can take static character art, promotional images, or key scenes from upcoming 2024 anime films and animate them with lip movements, facial expressions, and voiceovers using advanced AI technology. This allows:
● Creating engaging video previews or recaps starring the characters from films like Spy x Family Code: White, My Hero Academia The Movie: You're Next, and Haikyuu!! by lip-syncing them to dialogue snippets or narration.
●Animating official poster art or illustrations with the original Japanese voice actors' performances for an immersive promotional experience.
●Generating fun, sharable animated clips featuring fan-favorite characters to build excitement on social media.
●Producing supplementary animated character videos exploring side stories or what-if scenarios related to the films.
Rather than just having static visuals, Talking Photo bridges the gap between animation and live-action by breathing life into 2D anime art through AI-powered facial animation and voice synthesis. Anime studios and marketers can leverage this technology to craft engaging promotional content that resonates with modern audiences.
As fans eagerly await the year's biggest anime movie releases, integrating Virbo's Talking Photo capabilities presents an innovative way to build hype, share immersive previews, and foster a deeper connection with these beloved characters and stories
Key Takeaways from This Episode
● Almost every anime movie has a unique storyline that makes them worth watching.
● Since many animes are inspired by respective mangas, you'll always continue to see more and more entertaining animes.
● Animes explore a wide range of genres, which brings diversity to the table.