Prepare to embark on an incredible journey through the captivating realm of animated cinema. Anime films, celebrated globally for their breathtaking artistry, profound storytelling, and limitless imagination, offer something truly unique for every viewer. Whether you’re captivated by the whimsical wonder of Studio Ghibli, the intense action of modern blockbusters, or the timeless narratives of foundational classics, the world of anime movies is rich and diverse.
We’ve curated a definitive list of the best anime movies, designed to cater to all tastes, from seasoned enthusiasts to curious newcomers. This article highlights a range of exceptional films, now available on streaming TV, ranked by their IMDb rating. Get ready to explore the pinnacle of animated storytelling with these unforgettable films.
What are the best anime movies to watch?
Identifying the ultimate anime films for every fan involved a straightforward, fan-centric approach. Our ranking prioritises IMDb rating, reflecting each movie’s widespread appeal. This metric offers a clear indicator of which films have resonated most with audiences around the world.
Alongside their IMDb rating, each entry provides crucial details for fellow enthusiasts. You’ll find the film’s release year, its visionary director, and where it’s currently available on a streaming service.
We also include the age rating, a concise synopsis, box office revenue, country of origin, original language, any significant awards won, and the renowned studio behind its creation. This ensures a complete picture of each cinematic standout.
K-Pop: Demon Hunters
Action •Adventure •Fantasy •Music •Musical •Animation •Comedy •Family •Kids
Overview
When K-pop superstars Rumi, Mira and Zoey aren’t selling out stadiums, they’re using their secret powers to protect their fans from supernatural threats.
Director
Maggie Kang
Duration
96 minutes
The Wild Robot
Animation •Sci-fi •Family •Kids
Overview
After a shipwreck, an intelligent robot called Roz is stranded on an uninhabited island. To survive the harsh environment, Roz bonds with the island’s animals and cares for an orphaned baby goose.
Director
Chris Sanders
Cast
Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu
Duration
102 minutes
Spirited Away
Animation •Fantasy •Family •Kids
Overview
A young girl, Chihiro, becomes trapped in a strange new world of spirits. When her parents undergo a mysterious transformation, she must call upon the courage she never knew she had to free her family.
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Cast
Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki, Takashi Naito, Yasuko Sawaguchi
Duration
125 minutes
Shrek
Animation •Kids •Comedy •Fantasy •Family •Romance •Action •Adventure
Overview
It ain’t easy bein’ green — especially if you’re a likable (albeit smelly) ogre named Shrek. On a mission to retrieve a gorgeous princess from the clutches of a fire-breathing dragon, Shrek teams up with an unlikely compatriot — a wisecracking donkey.
Director
Andrew Adamson
Cast
Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, John Lithgow, Vincent Cassel
Duration
90 minutes
Piece by Piece
Animation •Comedy •Family •Kids •Documentary •Music •Musical
Overview
A unique cinematic experience that invites audiences on a vibrant journey through the life of cultural icon Pharrell Williams. Told through the lens of LEGO® animation, turn up the volume on your imagination and witness the evolution of one of music’s most innovative minds.
Director
Morgan Neville
Cast
Pharrell Williams, Chad Hugo, Gwen Stefani, Kendrick Lamar, Timbaland
Duration
94 minutes
Sing
Animation •Kids •Comedy •Family •Music •Musical
Overview
A pig, a mouse, a porcupine, a gorilla, an elephant and other animals gather at a koala’s theatre for a singing competition.
Director
Garth Jennings
Cast
Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane, Scarlett Johansson, John C. Reilly
Duration
103 minutes
Despicable Me
Animation •Kids •Comedy •Crime •Family •Sci-fi
Overview
Villainous Gru lives up to his reputation as a despicable, deplorable and downright unlikable guy when he hatches a plan to steal the moon from the sky. But he has a tough time staying on task after three orphans land in his care.
Director
Chris Renaud
Cast
Steve Carell, Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier, Elsie Fisher, Jason Segel
Duration
95 minutes
Migration
Animation •Comedy •Family •Kids
Overview
After a migrating duck family alights on their pond with thrilling tales of far-flung places, the Mallard family embarks on a family road trip, from New England, to New York City, to tropical Jamaica.
Duration
83 minutes
Despicable Me 4
Animation •Family •Comedy •Kids •Sci-fi •Crime
Overview
Gru and Lucy and their girls — Margo, Edith and Agnes — welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad. Meanwhile, Gru faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, forcing the family to go on the run.
Director
Chris Renaud
Cast
Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, Sofía Vergara, Joey King
Duration
95 minutes
My Neighbor Totoro
Animation •Fantasy •Family •Kids •Comedy
Overview
Two sisters move to the country with their father in order to be closer to their hospitalized mother, and discover the surrounding trees are inhabited by Totoros, magical spirits of the forest. When the youngest runs away from home, the older sister seeks help from the spirits to find her.
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Cast
Noriko Hidaka, Hitoshi Takagi, Chika Sakamoto, Shigesato Itoi, Sumi Shimamoto
Duration
83 minutes
Frequently asked questions
Anime movies stand out due to their exceptional visual artistry, compelling narratives, and emotional depth. They frequently explore complex themes, often blending fantasy with realistic human experiences. The diverse range of genres and unique animation styles also offers something distinct, drawing in viewers worldwide who appreciate truly innovative storytelling.
Not all anime movies are suitable for younger viewers, as content varies widely. While some, like many Studio Ghibli films, are family-friendly, others address mature themes, violence, or complex psychological concepts. Always check the age rating and synopsis before watching to ensure it aligns with your preferences.
Anime movies typically offer a self-contained story with a focused narrative, similar to a Western feature film. Anime series, however, are usually episodic, developing characters and plots over multiple instalments. While some movies extend existing series, they often provide a cinematic, often higher-budget, experience with grander scale.
Studio Ghibli is widely regarded as one of the most influential anime studios. Co-founded by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, it’s celebrated for its stunning hand-drawn animation, environmental themes, and memorable characters. Their films have garnered international acclaim and significantly impacted animation worldwide.
The director’s vision is crucial in shaping an anime movie’s unique identity. Legendary directors like Hayao Miyazaki, Satoshi Kon, and Makoto Shinkai infuse their personal styles, philosophies, and artistic choices into their works. This distinct creative input defines the film’s tone, pacing, and overall impact on the audience.
Many of the best anime movies are readily available on popular streaming platforms in Australia. You’ll find a wide selection on services like Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Stan. Specific availability can change, so it’s always worth checking your preferred platform for the latest catalogue.
Yes, anime movies have increasingly gained international recognition and won prestigious awards. Films like Spirited Away and The Boy and the Heron have won Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature. This demonstrates anime’s growing artistic credibility and its impact on the global cinematic landscape.
IMDb is a reliable reflection of a movie’s broad appeal and success. While not the sole measure of quality, it demonstrates which films have resonated with massive audiences. A high IMDb rating often reflects engaging storytelling and widespread cultural impact.
Best internet streaming plan
Best internet streaming plan
Benefits
