20 Best Anime Movies for Beginners: Perfect Films to Start Your Anime Journey

1-20

Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - July 26th 2025, 13:00 GMT+2

Cropped look back 2024 — Look Back (2024)

Capturing the quiet ache of growing up and the bittersweet bonds of friendship, *Look Back* is a poignant short film that resonates far beyond its runtime. Adapted from Tatsuki Fujimoto’s acclaimed one-shot manga, the film tells the story of two young girls who connect through their shared love of drawing – only to be pulled apart by the unpredictability of life. Its emotional weight is grounded in stunningly minimalist animation and subtle direction that invites viewers to reflect on creativity, ambition, and grief. It’s a brief but powerful introduction to the kind of storytelling anime can offer, especially for newcomers who value character-driven drama over spectacle. | © Studio Durian

Cropped the colors within 2024 — The Colors Within (2024)

This coming-of-age romance delicately explores themes of expression, vulnerability, and the emotional barriers we build around ourselves. *The Colors Within* follows Yamanashi, a high schooler with color vision deficiency, and his classmate who helps him understand both the world of color and the emotional shades of human connection. The film uses color – both literally and symbolically – to reflect character growth and inner turmoil, which makes for a visually poetic experience. It’s a slow-burning, emotionally resonant film that offers first-time anime viewers a thoughtful, grounded story without relying on genre tropes or fantasy elements. | © Studio Colorido

Cropped blue giant 2023 — Blue Giant (2023)

Music lovers – especially jazz fans – will find *Blue Giant* to be a moving and exhilarating entry into anime cinema. The film centers on Dai Miyamoto, a passionate saxophonist chasing his dream of becoming the world’s best jazz player. What makes *Blue Giant* stand out is how it captures the emotional intensity of live performance – translating sound into motion with stylized animation and carefully orchestrated musical sequences. Even viewers unfamiliar with jazz will be swept up in the rhythm of the story and its portrayal of artistic obsession and perseverance. It’s a great pick for those who want something grounded, inspirational, and emotionally rich. | © NUT

Cropped inu oh 2021 — INU-OH (2021)

For those drawn to unconventional storytelling and boundary-pushing visuals, *INU-OH* is a wild and unforgettable ride. Directed by Masaaki Yuasa, this musical fantasy reimagines a historical legend through the lens of glam-rock spectacle and powerful rebellion. The story follows two outcasts – one a blind biwa player, the other a disfigured dancer – as they form a musical duo and take medieval Japan by storm. With its bold animation style, theatrical flair, and defiant spirit, it’s perfect for viewers who want to see how anime can defy expectations. It’s not your typical historical piece; it’s a roaring celebration of individuality and artistic freedom. | © Science SARU

Cropped words bubble up like soda pop 2021 — Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop (2021)

This feel-good romance offers a gentle, modern story set in the digital age, where poetry and pop culture collide. In *Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop*, a shy haiku-writing boy and a bubbly influencer meet by chance, gradually bonding over music, words, and shared insecurities. Its vibrant color palette, youthful energy, and low-stakes charm make it an excellent entry point for new viewers looking for something heartwarming and accessible. The film doesn’t demand deep anime knowledge – just an openness to character-focused storytelling and a touch of summer nostalgia. | © Signal.MD / Sublimation

Cropped Josee The Tiger and the Fish 2020 — Josee, The Tiger and the Fish (2020)

Few films handle disability and emotional vulnerability with as much care and beauty as *Josee, The Tiger and the Fish*. At its heart, it’s a story about connection – between a spirited young woman who uses a wheelchair and a university student chasing his dream of studying abroad. Their relationship unfolds slowly, allowing the audience to experience their personal growth, challenges, and shifting perspectives. The film balances romance and drama with a light, sincere touch, making it perfect for those new to anime who appreciate heartfelt, character-driven stories grounded in reality. The animation is soft yet expressive, further enhancing the emotional resonance of each scene. | © Bones

Cropped i want to eat your pancreas 2018 — I Want To Eat Your Pancreas (2018)

Despite its somewhat shocking title, *I Want To Eat Your Pancreas* is a tender and introspective film about life, death, and the impact people can have on each other in a short time. It follows the unexpected bond between a terminally ill girl and a quiet, bookish boy, developing into an emotional coming-of-age story that avoids melodrama in favor of quiet beauty. Its ability to evoke deep emotion without needing elaborate settings or fantastical elements makes it incredibly accessible for anime newcomers. The film’s simple but effective visual style lets the characters’ dialogue and chemistry take center stage, resulting in a deeply moving experience. | © Studio VOLN

Cropped Maquia When the Promised Flower Blooms 2018 — Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018)

Fantasy and emotion intertwine seamlessly in *Maquia*, a powerful story about motherhood, time, and letting go. The film follows Maquia, a young woman from a race that lives for centuries, who adopts a human child and raises him while watching him age. The emotional weight comes not from grand battles or magical conflicts, but from the passage of time and the bittersweet inevitability of change. Its lush world-building, detailed animation, and sweeping orchestral score create a cinematic experience that feels both magical and deeply personal. For new anime viewers looking for something mature, beautifully animated, and emotionally gripping, this film is an ideal choice. | © P.A. Works

Cropped your name 2016 — Your Name (2016)

Arguably the most globally recognized anime film in recent years, *Your Name* combines breathtaking animation with a romantic narrative full of mystery and longing. The film follows two teenagers who begin swapping bodies across time and space, eventually discovering a deeper connection that transcends logic. With its perfect pacing, emotionally resonant twists, and rich visual style, it’s easy to see why it became a cultural phenomenon. For newcomers, this movie offers an excellent example of what anime does best: blending the fantastical with the emotional in a way that’s universally relatable. It’s the kind of story that lingers long after the credits roll. | © CoMix Wave Films

Cropped in this corner of the world 2016 — In This Corner of the World (2016)

Set in Hiroshima during World War II, *In This Corner of the World* offers a gentle, human look at life during wartime – focusing not on battles, but on everyday perseverance. Through the eyes of Suzu, a young woman who relocates to a new town and family, the film shows how ordinary people maintain joy, hope, and dignity amid the harsh realities of war. Its hand-drawn aesthetic adds warmth to even its most painful scenes, creating a poignant contrast that makes the film feel deeply personal. For viewers looking to explore the quieter, more reflective side of anime, this is a profoundly moving entry point. | © MAPPA

Cropped wolf children 2012 — Wolf Children (2012)

Parenthood, identity, and unconditional love take center stage in *Wolf Children*, a touching film that resonates with viewers of all ages. It tells the story of Hana, a young mother raising two children who can transform into wolves – a gift inherited from their late father. The film gracefully explores the challenges of single parenthood, as well as the unique struggles her children face in choosing between their human and animal sides. With moments of quiet beauty, emotional depth, and gentle fantasy, this movie offers a heartfelt look at family that feels both personal and universal. It’s a brilliant introduction for those who appreciate slice-of-life drama with a touch of magical realism. | © Studio Chizu

Cropped redline 2009 — Redline (2009)

Prepare for pure, high-octane adrenaline. *Redline* is a visual spectacle that pushes the boundaries of animation in every frame. Set in a distant future where racers compete in a galaxy-spanning death race, the film is all about speed, style, and unapologetic chaos. But it’s not just mindless action – beneath the over-the-top energy lies a tightly directed, visually inventive story of risk, passion, and self-expression. For beginners, *Redline* is proof that anime can be cinematic, wild, and unlike anything seen in Western animation. The hand-drawn visuals alone make it worth watching, and its sheer momentum keeps it engaging from start to finish. | © Madhouse

Cropped sword of the stranger 2007 — Sword of the Stranger (2007)

This film delivers a tightly paced samurai action story with emotional stakes and beautifully choreographed sword fights. *Sword of the Stranger* follows a nameless ronin who becomes the unlikely protector of a young boy pursued by elite assassins. What sets this movie apart is its balance of breathtaking combat and quiet character development. It doesn’t rely on heavy exposition or complex lore, making it a great entry point for those new to anime. The emotional bond between the two main characters adds depth to the relentless action, creating a film that’s both thrilling and heartfelt. | © Bones

Cropped paprika 2006 — Paprika (2006)

Diving headfirst into the world of dreams, *Paprika* is a mind-bending exploration of consciousness, technology, and identity. Directed by the legendary Satoshi Kon, the film follows a research team whose invention – a device that allows people to enter others’ dreams – spirals out of control. The result is a kaleidoscopic journey that challenges reality and perception, blurring the lines between dream and waking life. While its surreal structure may seem complex, its captivating visuals and themes are accessible even to newcomers. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in how anime can tackle abstract ideas in bold, creative ways. | © Madhouse

Cropped tekkonkinkreet 2006 — Tekkonkinkreet (2006)

With its distinct visual style and emotionally raw story, *Tekkonkinkreet* is an urban fantasy like no other. The film centers on two street kids – Black and White – who live in a sprawling, chaotic city and battle both internal demons and external threats. It’s a story about duality, childhood trauma, and the fight for survival in a world that’s both beautiful and brutal. The animation style leans more experimental, which helps the film stand out visually from most anime, but the heart of the story remains deeply human. For beginners who want a mature, stylistically daring film that still offers emotional payoff, this is a standout pick. | © Studio 4°C

Cropped the girl who leapt through time 2006 — The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)

Time travel stories can often get tangled in their own complexity, but *The Girl Who Leapt Through Time* keeps things refreshingly grounded. This charming coming-of-age film follows Makoto, a high school girl who accidentally gains the power to leap back in time. At first, she uses it for trivial purposes – fixing grades, avoiding awkward moments – but soon realizes how her choices affect others. The film offers an accessible blend of sci-fi, romance, and emotional depth that speaks to the universal desire to undo mistakes. Its relatable characters and gentle pacing make it a perfect entry point for those exploring anime’s emotional storytelling. | © Madhouse

Cropped mind game 2004 — Mind Game (2004)

Surreal, chaotic, and visually unrestrained, *Mind Game* is not your typical anime film – yet it’s a fascinating watch for those ready to see how far the medium can go. Directed by Masaaki Yuasa, this psychedelic journey begins with the death of the protagonist and quickly spirals into a bizarre, metaphysical adventure about second chances and self-liberation. It’s raw, unpredictable, and wildly experimental, blending different animation styles and tones with breathtaking confidence. While not conventional, it’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the limitless creative potential of anime. Beginners who enjoy arthouse films or abstract storytelling will find this a bold and rewarding introduction. | © Studio 4°C

Cropped spirited away 2001 — Spirited Away (2001)

It’s hard to overstate the cultural impact of *Spirited Away*. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this fantasy masterpiece follows a young girl named Chihiro as she stumbles into a mysterious spirit world and must find the courage to save her parents. Every frame is packed with imagination – from the sprawling bathhouse run by gods and monsters, to the quiet moments of growth and wonder. What makes it ideal for newcomers is how effortlessly it blends fantastical world-building with deeply human themes like resilience, identity, and growing up. It’s not just a great anime film – it’s one of the greatest animated films ever made. | © Studio Ghibli

Cropped princess mononoke 1997 — Princess Mononoke (1997)

Powerful, violent, and steeped in environmental themes, *Princess Mononoke* presents a more mature side of Studio Ghibli’s storytelling. Set in a mythical version of feudal Japan, the film centers on the conflict between nature gods and industrial progress, as seen through the eyes of Ashitaka, a prince cursed by a demon. What unfolds is a sweeping epic filled with breathtaking animation, moral ambiguity, and powerful symbolism. Despite its fantastical setting, the themes are strikingly relevant – making it a compelling watch for adults and thoughtful teens alike. For beginners seeking depth, intensity, and visual grandeur, this is essential viewing. | © Studio Ghibli

Cropped perfect blue 1997 — Perfect Blue (1997)

Blurring the line between identity and illusion, *Perfect Blue* is a psychological thriller that still feels hauntingly relevant. Directed by Satoshi Kon, the film follows Mima, a pop idol who quits her music career to become an actress – only to find her reality unraveling in disturbing ways. The film explores themes of celebrity, mental health, and media obsession with surgical precision. Its suspenseful, often chilling tone makes it ideal for fans of psychological dramas or noir thrillers. Though intense, it’s a gripping and artful introduction to the darker, more cerebral side of anime cinema. | © Madhouse

1-20

Anime isn’t just for long-running series – some of the most powerful, visually stunning, and emotionally resonant stories are told in the form of films. If you're new to the world of anime and don’t know where to begin, anime movies are a fantastic entry point. They’re self-contained, often shorter than a typical series, and showcase the incredible range of storytelling that anime has to offer.

From heartfelt dramas and thrilling adventures to mind-bending sci-fi and breathtaking fantasy, this curated list of the 20 best anime movies for beginners includes something for everyone. Whether you're curious about what makes anime so beloved worldwide or simply looking for your next favorite film, these titles are the perfect starting place for your anime journey.