Top 20 Anime Movies For Family (Recommendations)

Top 20 Anime Movies For Family (Recommendations)

I know you’re looking for a nice friend to help you find nice anime movies for family. And guess what… You just found one right here! So keep up with me until the end, and let’s figure out what movie you’ll watch today. 

Oh, wait… Are you new to the otaku world? Don’t worry, I can help you too! I have a special list for you, click here and welcome to the beautiful anime fan universe! Now, let’s move on.

20 Anime Movies That You Can Watch With Your Family

20. My Neighbors the Yamadas

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
7/10	7/10	7/10	21/30

This is the cutest movie of all on the anime movies for family list! I recommend this if you have a younger sibling. 

The movie is a comedy that follows the everyday life of the Yamada family! It shows their adventures and misadventures in ordinary and funny situations.

Even with the light energy, the film celebrates the simplicity and beauty of family life. It shows how the family is a source of love, support, and unity. At the same time it shows a little bit of an emotional family drama.

2. The Cat Returns 

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
8/10	7/10	7/10	22/30

This movie might look silly, I know. But I promise you, it will teach you a lot.

Haru, an ordinary teenager, rescues a cat that was almost run over. Later, she discovers that the cat is the prince of a magical cat kingdom! As a thank you, they take the girl to the magic kingdom. There, she must find a way to return to the human world.
About this movie, it is a story that shows self-discovery and courage. Also the importance of following your own path. Haru learns to trust herself and take control of her destiny, even in extraordinary circumstances.

18. Pompoko

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
8/10	7/10	7/10	22/30

Environmental awareness and empathy towards natural life? Here we go!

A group of tanukis (raccoons) face the destruction of their habitat due to Tokyo’s urban sprawl. Using their transformation abilities, they fight to protect their forest and their homes.

“Pom Poko” reflects on the impact of urbanization on the environment. It shows the fight to preserve nature. It highlights the importance of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. Let’s be honest here: everyone should be aware of this! 

So, if you’re looking for anime movies for family, this one is a great option.

17. Mary and the Witch’s Flower

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
8/10	7/10	7/10	22/30

Anime movies are never exactly what they seem to be about. It always teaches us something new. And this film is no different! 

Mary, a young girl, finds a mysterious flower that grants her magical powers for a day. She goes to a magic school and uncovers dark secrets about the origin of her powers.

This family-friendly movie highlights the importance of being true to yourself. The main point is the responsibility that comes with power. Mary learns that it’s not her magical powers that define who she is but her actions and choices.

Now tell me: how can you not fall in love with Mary?

16. Tales From Earthsea

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
7/10	8/10	8/10	23/30

A fantasy movie that is more than just fantasy? Oh, yes, you’re looking for this one!

The story takes place in a fantasy world where a threat looms over the balance between good and evil. The movie follows Arren, a prince who flees his kingdom after committing a murder. He meets the wandering wizard Ged, and together, they embark on a journey to restore order to the world. Along the way, they face magical creatures. They learn secrets about Arren’s past. And the imbalance that threatens to destroy the world. 

Tales from Earthsea explores themes. They include redemption, responsibility, and the balance of man and nature. Some have criticized the film compared to other Studio Ghibli works.It offers a visually impressive experience. And a story rich in mythology and imagination.

15. A Letter to Momo

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
8/10	8/10	8/10	24/30

Here I am with another emotional movie! I don’t want to make your whole family cry, I swear!  this movie is so touching and beautiful… I could never not add it to the list. 

After the death of her father, Momo moves with her mother to a rural island. There, she begins to experience supernatural encounters with three mischievous spirits. Goblins are their name.  Who helped her understand an unfinished letter left by her father. Surprisingly,the letter only says “Dear Momo”. 
This deals with family drama mixed with grief. Also acceptance, and connecting with the past. Momo learns to deal with loss and find peace. She shows how the love and memories of our loved ones live on within us. A beautiful masterpiece, if you ask me.

14. Porco Rosso

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
8/10	8/10	8/10	24/30

A curse transforms Marco, a seaplane pilot and veteran of the First World War, into a humanoid pig. He works as a bounty hunter in the Adriatic Sea, facing air pirates and his own loneliness.

As I mentioned, he fights his loneliness. Even with his problems, he finds a purpose to protect innocents. 

“Porco Rosso”  touches on themes of redemption, identity, and the impact of war on the human soul. Marco struggles with his past and his physical transformation. It symbolizes the search for inner peace and reconciliation with oneself.

13.  Ponyo

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	8/10	7/10	24/30

Sosuke, a five-year-old boy, finds and rescues a goldfish. He named it Ponyo but Ponyo is not a random fish! She becomes human! The fish girl uses magic to fulfill her dream. This triggers a series of magical events and natural disasters.

If you’re into adventure and mystical scenarios, this film will hold your attention from start to finish.

“Ponyo” is about the purity of childhood love, harmony with nature, and the power of dreams. It shows how innocence and kindness can transform the world around us.

12. 5 Centimeters per Second

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	8/10	8/10	25/30

Love is such a pretty word. More than that, it’s a pretty and strong feeling. Well, just as it is strong, it’s fragile. Follow the drama:

The film is divided into three parts. It portrays the lives of Takaki Tōno and his friend, Akari Shinohara. Yet Akari moves to another city, leaving Takaki. The film explores how time and distance affect their relationship. You will feel every emotion with the characters!

You’ll see the melancholy of lost connections and the impact of time on life and relationships. The movie is a reflection of the fragility and beauty of shared moments. Also how memories can haunt and inspire us.

11. Castle in the Sky

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	8/10	8/10	25/30

If you enjoy fantasy and adventure, go for this one! 

The plot follows Pazu and Sheeta, two young people. They embark on an adventure to find the legendary floating city of Laputa. The city holds both technological and mystical secrets. But, the secrets can be really destructive. 

Want to know the secrets? Well, I can’t tell you that it’s a secret! Go watch the movie and figure it out!

The story covers themes like human ambition. It also covers the balance of nature and technology. It also highlights the importance of friendship and courage in facing challenges.

10. Summer Wars

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	8/10	8/10	25/30

For you, technology lover! This one will make your hair stand on end.

The plot is about Kenji Koiso, a high school student. During summer vacation, the large Jinnouchi family drags the boy to their home. After playing an online game named Oz, he inadvertently helps an AI virus invade the game. What I didn’t tell you is that this game controls every aspect of modern life! So, the virus causes chaos in the real world.

“Summer Wars” explores the link between the digital and real worlds. It shows the need for family and teamwork to overcome challenges. It highlights how technology can be a powerful tool for good and evil.

If you’re looking for anime movies to watch with family, you might like this!

9. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	8/10	9/10	26/30

Makoto Konno discovers that she can leap through time. At first, she uses her power for fun. But, she soon sees the consequences of her actions on time and the people around her.

Have you ever thought about going back in time and changing something? Yes, me too! But be careful… Some simple changes might be really harmful. 

You will dive into themes of responsibility, coming of age, and the impact of our choices. Makoto learns that time is precious and that our decisions have lasting repercussions, both for us and for others.

8. My Neighbor Totoro

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
10/10	9/10	8/10	27/30

Who loves Studio Ghibli? There you go!

Studio Ghibli’s animation, “My Neighbor Totoro” is about Sisters Satsuki and Mei. They go there to be near the hospital where their mother is being treated. They discover the existence of magical creatures, including Totoro, a forest spirit.

With that description, you can think that the movie will be silly and childish. Well, what if I told you that the story celebrates the innocence of childhood? Just like the connection with nature and the importance of family. 

Also, Totoro becomes a symbol of comfort and security for the sisters in difficult times. That fantastic creature is more than just a character. It is a symbol of healing, of finding a rainbow after the rain. 
The meaning behind this family-friendly movie is emotional. I guess it is one of my favorite anime movies for family here. Once it talks about family and the unconditional love shared between family members.

7. Millennium Actress

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	9/10	9/10	27/30

This one made me think that we never know what happens to the artists. That they are just people like us. But their jobs make them famous; that’s the difference. Well, let’s check this out:

The story is about a documentary maker. He interviews a famous, reclusive actress about her career. The narrative mixes her memories with scenes from her films. With that, it creates an emotional journey through time. It’s impossible not to fall in love with her! You will follow her personal experiences, too. Life behind the scenes can be a lot harder than it looks.

The film talks about memory, identity, and the search for love. It makes you think about how the experiences and passions of a lifetime can intertwine. Studio Ghibli never misses out!

6. A Silent Voice

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
8/10	8/10	8/10	24/30

Here I am with another emotional movie! I don’t want to make your whole family cry, I swear!  this movie is so touching and beautiful… I could never not add it to the list. 

After the death of her father, Momo moves with her mother to a rural island. There, she begins to experience supernatural encounters with three mischievous spirits. Goblins are their name.  Who helped her understand an unfinished letter left by her father. Surprisingly,the letter only says “Dear Momo”. 

This deals with family drama mixed with grief. Also acceptance, and connecting with the past. Momo learns to deal with loss and find peace. She shows how the love and memories of our loved ones live on within us. A beautiful masterpiece, if you ask me. 

5. Your Name

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
10/10	9/10	9/10	28/30

Hey! DO NOT sleep during this movie (not even a minute)! Believe me, if you sleep for a second, you won’t understand anything. So, a little tip: watch this one when you’re fully awake. Tell your mom and dad because I know they like to sleep while watching movies. 

Mitsuha and Taki are two teenagers from different parts of Japan. They start swapping bodies for no clear reason. At first, they don’t understand what’s going on. They even start to think that they’re dreaming! The two teenagers must discover the cause of this mystical connection. And also find a way to get to know each other before a catastrophe occurs. What catastrophe? You’ll have to watch it to know! This romantic drama is a masterpiece.

The movie explores themes of fate, love, and the interconnectedness between people. It shows how our actions can affect others in ways we cannot imagine! And the importance of cherishing every moment and encounter. 

Lastly, a quick mention: the two are really charming characters!

Oh, boy… After you watch it, you’ll understand why I added it to the “anime movies for family” list.

4. Wolf Children

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	10/10	9/10	28/30

Quick review: this is one of the best anime movies for family. Why? Well, the film is exactly about family! 

This Japanese animation is about Hana, a young woman. She falls in love with a wolf man and has two children, Yuki and Ame, who can also turn into wolves. After her husband died, Hana struggled to raise her children. They live in a place that accepts their duality. As you can see, the movie will touch on some real-life themes but with fantasy.

The animated film deals with themes of identity, acceptance, and maternal sacrifice. Hana faces challenges raising her children in a world that doesn’t understand her unique nature. It highlights the strength and resilience of maternal love. So, here you will see what a mother’s love can do when it comes to her children.

3. Howl’s Moving Castle

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
10/10	9/10	9/10	28/30

Okay, now let’s dry our tears! Because this movie will bring you confidence.

A jealous witch turns Sophie, a young fashion designer, into an old woman. On her journey to break the curse, she meets the mysterious and powerful wizard named Howl. His moving castle is a real spectacle! So you will fall in love with the animation, trust me.

Also, the animated film explores themes of love, self-acceptance, and courage. The cursed girl learns to accept her true essence and see beyond appearances. On the other hand, Howl learns to face his fears and responsibilities.

So, for this film, you will come across countless life lessons. At the same time as you feel sorry for Sophie, you learn from her. Studio Ghibli did a great job with this one!

2. Grave of the Fireflies 

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
9/10	10/10	10/10	29/30

ADVISE: if you’re way too emotional, don’t watch this! (You will cry rivers for days. Don’t tell me I didn’t warn you.)

The plot is set in the Second World War. Siblings Seita and Setsuko struggle to survive after their parents’ death. Since the war was so intense, they lost their home, too. The film is a painful depiction of the horrors of war. If you know about History, you know what’s waiting for you here. I know this is the most heartbreaking anime movie you’ll ever watch.

Second, about the reflection it brings. “Grave of the Fireflies” is a powerful example of lost innocence, suffering, and human resilience. It shows the devastating impact of war on the lives of the most vulnerable. Lastly, the importance of empathy and humanity. This movie will teach a lot about the pain of losing everything you love. Also, the relevance of choosing love over power.

This is one of the most famous Japanese anime movies for family even with its touching story.

1. Spirited Away

Animation	Characters	Plot	Total Score
10/10	10/10	10/10	30/30

So, this movie won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature at the 75th Academy Awards in 2003. YES, it won an Oscar. After that, what can I say about “Spirited Away”? You can expect the best from this animation.

The story is about Young Chihiro and her parents. They come across an abandoned theme park during a move to a new town. Suddenly, a witch named Yubaba turns her parents into pigs. So, Chihiro must work in a magical public bath to free her parents and return to the human world. 

As you can see, the movie will take you on an adventurous trip! So, if you and your family like adventure movies with great cinematography… This is the one!

For more context, the movie deals with themes. These include the importance of identity, coming of age, and self-discovery. Chihiro learns to be brave, to trust herself, and to deal with challenges in a resilient way.

Want anime movies for family on Netflix? I truly recommend “Spirited Away”!

Wow, that was a long list! I hope you enjoyed it. This list is specifically about anime movies for family, that’s right. But they are good to watch alone and reflect on some aspects of life! 

Want more recommendations? I invite you to read our other texts, too! We have everything you need, from reviews to articles.

See you next time!

FAQ

1- How do I choose an anime movie to watch with the family?

Answer: Consider the interests of all family members, check the rating, read synopses and, if possible, watch trailers to get an idea of the content and style of the movie.

2- Why are anime films so popular?

Answer: Anime films are popular because of their diversity of themes, quality of animation, engaging stories and the ability to tackle both everyday and fantastic issues in a captivating way.

3- Where can I watch these anime movies?

Answer: Many of these movies are available on streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Crunchyroll and others. Some may be available for digital rental or purchase.

4- Are suggested anime movies suitable for young children?

Answer: Most of the recommended movies are suitable for children, but it’s always a good idea to check the rating and, if possible, watch the movie beforehand to make sure it’s suitable for your child.

5- Do anime films have English dubbing?

Answer: Yes, many popular anime films have English dubbed versions! Which can make it easier for those who aren’t used to reading subtitles. However, it is also possible to watch with original audio and subtitles, offering a more authentic experience.