10. Princess Mononoke: IMDb (8.3) 1997
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Plot: In Muromachi Japan, a demon attacks an Emishi village. He discovers that the demon was once a boar god corrupted by an iron ball. Ashitaka sets out to find a cure and meets Jigo, who tells him about the Great Forest Spirit. In Iron Town, Ashitaka learns about conflicts between humans and nature. He saves San, a girl raised by wolves, and they become allies. As battles ensue and the Forest Spirit is attacked, Ashitaka and San work together to restore peace to the land.
My Recommendation: “Princess Mononoke” is an amazing movie that combines environmentalism, folklore, and the complexities of being human. It has beautiful animation and a captivating story. The movie explores the conflict between nature and industry in a way that really makes you think. It’s a must-see film because it stays with you long after you watch it.
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Producer: Toshio Suzuki
Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
Released Date: July 12, 1997 (Japan)
Runtime: 134 minutes
Distributor: Toho (Japan), Miramax Films (International)
Production Company: Studio Ghibli
Box Office in US Dollars: Approximately $159.4 million worldwide
Where to watch: HBO Max
9. To Your Eternity: IMDb (8.4) 2021
Plot: Once upon a time, a mystical being named Fushi was born from a white orb. He learned about life by taking the form of different creatures and meeting various people. Along the way, he faced challenges like fighting a monstrous bear and battling sinister creatures called Nokkers. With the help of friends, Fushi confronted his past and embraced his power to protect those he loved.
My Recommendation: “To Your Eternity” is a stunning anime that explores deep ideas about life, death, and what it means to be human. Its powerful storytelling, combined with beautiful animation, captures the attention of viewers right away. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with personal growth, sorrow, and strength. It’s truly a masterpiece.
Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Masahiko Murata
Producer: NHK, Kodansha, NHK Enterprises
Writer: Shinzou Fujita
Released Date: April 12, 2021
Runtime: 25 minutes per episode
Distributor: NHK
Production Company: Brain’s Base
Where to watch: HBO Max
8. Fullmetal Alchemist: IMDb (8.5) 2003
Plot: The anime’s first half is based on the first seven volumes of the manga. The story starts to diverge when Maes Hughes is murdered by Envy, who is disguised as another person. Dante, Hohenheim’s former lover and mentor to the Elric brothers’ teacher, becomes the main antagonist. Edward dies but is revived by Alphonse using the stone. They defeat Dante and Edward decides to use rocketry research to return home in Germany where they stay together.
My Recommendation: “Fullmetal Alchemist” is an amazing story that combines action, deep thoughts, and strong emotions. It explores what happens when people want too much and how important it is to give up something valuable. The characters are interesting, and the themes make you think. If you like anime with meaningful stories and exciting journeys, this one is a must-see!
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Seiji Mizushima
Producer: Masahiko Minami, Hiro Maruyama
Writer: Sho Aikawa
Released Date: October 4, 2003
Runtime: Approximately 24 minutes per episode
Distributor: Aniplex
Production Company: Bones
Where to watch: HBO Max
7. Your Lie in April: IMDb (8.5) 2014
Plot: Fourteen-year-old Kōsei Arima is a famous piano prodigy. After his mother’s death, he has a breakdown during a recital and can’t hear the sound of his piano anymore. Two years later, Kōsei meets Kaori Miyazono, a violinist who helps him return to playing the piano and shows him a new style. However, Kaori falls ill and eventually dies during surgery. Before her death, she reveals in a letter that she loved Kōsei’s piano playing from when they were young and wanted to play with him someday. Tsubaki supports Kōsei through this difficult time.
My Recommendation: “Your Lie in April” is an amazing anime that combines music, feelings, and growing up. It tells the story of a pianist who finds his love for music again with the help of love and friendship. Get ready to feel many different emotions while watching it!
Genre: Drama, Romance, Music
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Kyohei Ishiguro
Producer: Naohiro Tafu
Writer: Takao Yoshioka
Released Date: October 2014 – March 2015
Runtime: Approximately 22 minutes per episode
Distributor: Aniplex of America
Production Company: A-1 Pictures
Where to watch: HBO Max
6. Erased: IMDb (8.4) 2016
Plot: Satoru Fujinuma is a struggling artist living in Chiba. He has a unique ability called “Revival” that sends him back in time just before dangerous events occur. One day, his mother is killed by an unknown person at their home. Thanks to his power, Satoru gets sent back 18 years into the past. Now he has a chance not only to save his mother but also to prevent a serial killer from harming three of his childhood friends, including a girl from another school.
My Recommendation: “Erased” is a captivating story that combines mystery, suspense, and strong emotions. The plot revolves around a man who unexpectedly goes back in time to stop tragic events, like the murder of his childhood friends. This movie is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers and stories involving time travel because it has well-developed characters and an intricate narrative. It’s definitely worth watching!
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Supernatural
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Tomohiko Itō
Producer: Kenta Suzuki
Writer: Taku Kishimoto
Released Date: January 8, 2016
Runtime: Approximately 22 minutes per episode
Distributor: Netflix (streaming)
Production Company: A-1 Pictures
Where to watch: HBO Max
5. Rurouni Kenshin: IMDb (8.5) 1996
Plot: The story is set in 1878, eleven years after the Meiji era began. Himura Kenshin, a former assassin known as Hitokiri Battōsai, roams Japan with a unique katana. He helps and protects people as penance for his past killings. With the help of friends and Hiko Seijūrō’s training, Kenshin defeats Shishio but loses Tomoe in the process. Yukishiro Enishi seeks revenge by kidnapping Kaoru but is ultimately defeated by Kenshin and his friends. Years later, Kenshin marries Kaoru and passes on his sword to Yahiko.
My Recommendation: “Rurouni Kenshin” is a really interesting show that combines action, history, and moral lessons. The main character, Kenshin Himura, is on a journey to make up for his past mistakes during a turbulent time in history called the Meiji era. It has great characters and explores themes like honor and forgiveness. It’s been around for a while but it’s still worth watching because it has stood the test of time.
Genre: Mystery, Psychological Thriller
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Tomohiko Itō
Producer: Kenta Suzuki
Writer: Taku Kishimoto
Released Date: January 8 – March 25, 2016
Runtime: Approximately 22 minutes per episode
Distributor: Netflix (International)
Production Company: A-1 Pictures
Where to watch: HBO Max
4. Jujutsu Kaisen: IMDb (8.6) 2020
Plot: In “Jujutsu Kaisen,” Yuji Itadori, a strong high schooler, swallows a cursed finger to save his friends, becoming host to the sinister Ryomen Sukuna. Despite Sukuna’s threat, Yuji’s spared, trained by sorcerer Gojo. Battles against Cursed Spirits ensue, revealing a plot by Kenjaku. Yuji, with allies, confronts Sukuna, culminating in a fierce showdown where alliances and sacrifices shape the fate of humanity.
My Recommendation: “Jujutsu Kaisen” is an exciting mix of action, humor, and supernatural stuff. The animation is great, the characters are well-made, and the fights are intense. If you like anime, you should watch it. It has an interesting story that will keep you entertained all the way through. I highly recommend it!
Genre: Shonen, Supernatural, Dark Fantasy
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Sunghoo Park
Producer: Akita Shiro
Writer: Hiroshi Seko
Released Date: October 3, 2020 (Season 1)
Runtime: Approximately 24 minutes per episode
Distributor: Crunchyroll (Streaming)
Production Company: MAPPA
Where to watch: HBO Max
3. Spirited Away: IMDb (8.6) 2001
Plot: Ten-year-old Chihiro and her parents, Akio and Yūko, stumble upon an abandoned amusement park while searching for their new home. Her parents transform into pigs after eating enchanted food, leaving Chihiro stranded in a spirit world. While dealing with various challenges and encounters with magical creatures like No-Face and Zeniba, Chihiro eventually rescues her parents and escapes back to the human world with Haku’s help.
My Recommendation: “Spirited Away” is a beautiful movie that combines fascinating storytelling, stunning animation, and meaningful ideas about who we are, bravery, and embracing others. It takes you into a creative world that makes you feel amazed and understanding. This is a must-see film for those who want to be captivated by a magical adventure of imagination and finding oneself.
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Producer: Toshio Suzuki
Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
Released Date: July 20, 2001
Runtime: 125 minutes
Distributor: Toho (Japan), Walt Disney Pictures (International)
Production Company: Studio Ghibli
Box Office in US Dollars: $395 million
Where to watch: HBO Max
2. Death Note: IMDb (8.9) 2006
Plot: In Tokyo, a high school student named Light Yagami finds a mysterious black notebook called the “Death Note”. This notebook can kill anyone whose name and face are written in it. Light uses the Death Note to eliminate criminals, catching the attention of Ryuk, its previous owner. The media names this unknown killer “Kira”. A detective named L begins investigating Kira and suspects Light’s involvement. Four years later, new successors of L appear: Near and Mello. They engage in a dangerous game with Light, resulting in his eventual downfall and death.
My Recommendation: “Death Note” is a captivating story that explores the mental struggle between clever individuals. Its complex plot and ethical dilemmas will captivate you, making you ponder the thin line between fairness and cruelty. It’s highly recommended for those who enjoy suspense, moral conflicts, and an insight into the darker side of human behavior.
Genre: Psychological thriller, Mystery, Supernatural
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Tetsurō Araki
Producer: Toshio Nakatani
Writer: Toshiki Inoue
Released Date: October 3, 2006 – June 27, 2007
Runtime: 22 minutes per episode
Distributor: Madman Entertainment, Viz Media
Production Company: Madhouse
Where to watch: HBO Max
1. Hunter x Hunter: IMDb (9.0) 2011
Plot: The story is about a young boy named Gon Freecss. He was told that his parents were dead, but he discovers that his father is actually alive and a skilled Hunter. T Along the way, he befriends Kurapika, Leorio, and Killua. They face challenges together and pass the exam, except for Killua who fails due to his brother’s influence. Eventually, they reunite and train in martial arts to improve themselves. Later on, an expedition to the Dark Continent is organized with potential dangers ahead.
My Recommendation: “Hunter x Hunter” is an exciting anime that focuses on developing its characters, showcasing strategic battles, and creating a detailed world. It combines action, adventure, and emotional depth to keep viewers engaged. With its compelling story and well-developed characters, it’s a must-see for fans of anime.
Genre: Shonen, Adventure, Fantasy
Original Language: Japanese
Director: Hiroshi Kōjina
Producer: Toshio Nakatani, Manabu Tamura, Yoshihiro Sato
Writer: Yoshihiro Togashi
Released Date: October 2, 2011 (Japan)
Runtime: Approximately 23 minutes per episode
Distributor: Viz Media (North America)
Production Company: Madhouse
Where to watch: HBO Max