For anime fans it is natural to not have so much time to accomplish a daunting task like watching DBZ or One Piece from the start. So, for them to still enjoy anime, we have brought a list of 15 Best Rated Anime Movies. You will get to see top-notch animation, award-winning plots, everlasting musicals, and every other element present in the list of best anime movies ever.
Some of the best ever animated movies are original stories. It means, like any other movie, you can enjoy them without having pre-existing knowledge. Nevertheless, there are some best anime movies of all time that emerge as standalone installments of popular anime series. This results in added hype and charm to an already attractive and fully-packed anime movie. The genres are in abundance, and so are the fun and knowledge. So, let’s begin;
15 Best Rated Anime Movies That Are A Hard Miss
Highlights
- The below recommendations are based on personal preference.
- Perfect animation, intimidating characters, calming background music, and unique plots await you.
15- Suzume
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
9/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 23/30 |
This one doesn’t need an explanation, not because of the plot or the characters, but for its OST that broke even the language barriers. The song itself became popular even among non-anime fans, and that was one of the reasons this movie got so much hype. With a high rating of 8.30 on MAL this movie was nominated at Golden Globe Awards and is a perfect pick for our list of 15 best rated anime movies.
The story starts atypical when Suzume, a high school girl, meets a secretive Souta. Following Souta to an unknown place, she discovers a door to another world. Fantasy kicks in, and she witnesses a world beyond imagination. However, evil lurks from it and wants destruction. Suzume decides to help Souta and stop that evil from wreaking havoc. So, if you are into fantasy anime, then this one’s for you.
14- Violet Evergarden: The Movie
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
9/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 23/30 |
It is one of the best ever anime movies with marvelous animation and an 8.87 rating on MAL. Violet Evergarden has secured its safe spot in the list of 15 best rated anime movies. It is also one of the best romance anime movies, with a lot of drama and fantasy in it. Additionally, I have to give you a heads-up that you will be teary-eyed by the end of the movie. So, you have to watch it at your own risk.
The movie follows Violet, an auto-memory doll that was used as a tool in the war. Now, after the war has ended and she has lost all value, Violet has decided to make her own place in the world. She is trying her best to understand humanity, their sentiments, and their values. Above all, her purpose is to find the man who told her, “I Love You.” Whether she can or not is a mystery for you to solve.
13- My Hero Academia; Heroes Rising
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
10/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 25/30 |
Adding this one to our list of 15 best rated anime movies is a total must. Not only is it a personal favorite, but it actually has the spice and adrenaline rush to get you hooked. If you are craving for some action, superpowers, and a mildly slow-paced story, then it is highly recommended. Additionally, it has a rating of 7.59 on MAL, so authenticity is already there.
The movie is attached to the original work with a few strings. Deku, the popular hero with no quirk, and his fellows are tasked with a safety program. Their seemingly easy task of protecting an Island turns dangerously daunting when a villain called Nine makes his appearance. His goal is to create a world with only the strongest in it. Now, Deku and his fellows are challenged to stop his evil intentions, and obviously, they do. Because that is what heroes do.
12- Grave of the Fireflies
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
7/10 | 8/10 | 10/10 | 25/30 |
A story that mirrors history and is portrayed to bring reality to the screen is obviously deserving of being in the 15 best rated anime movies. Also, it is undoubtedly one of the best anime movies of all time, with a rating of 8.52 on MAL. Given the plot, hardships, and shocking realities of the world, this anime movie for kids impacts strongly.
This award-winning plot centers on two orphaned siblings, Seita and Setsuko. After World War II, they were left alone in this world. Seita and Setsuko struggle to find a place in a war-ravaged world filled with unknown people. The duo encounters many hardships as they face the negativity, cruelty, and kindness of the grownups. A must-watch if you want to have some life lessons.
11- Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
9/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 25/30 |
This anime movie is a feature film of the original series but can be enjoyed as a standalone. If you are someone who loves fantasy and magic enveloped in action, then this one is only for you. Black Clover movie easily got its place in the list of 15 best rated anime movies, thanks to its 8.02 rating on MAL.
The plot of this one is basic, with an unusual hero striving to reach the top. Still, it has its own charm because Asta, with his anti-magic, has his own points. The movie entails Asta’s adventure and trial. As he aims to become the Wizard King, he faces four evil wizard Kings who want to rule the world. It is time for Asta to prove himself once again, and he will.
10- Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel-III Spring Song
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
9/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 25/30 |
This one is among the highest-grossing anime movies of 2020 and, hence, safely lands on our list of 15 best rated anime movies. It is buttered with extremely good animation, and the excessively charming characters only add to its popularity. To watch this one you may require a little beforehand knowledge about the Fate series. Still, if you forget the how, what, and why, then you can enjoy it as a standalone anime movie.
The story focuses on Shirou, Rin, and Einzbern as they face a creeping evil. Their city is facing the threat of annihilation during the Fifth Holy Grail War. Adding to the terror, a hidden enemy is aiming to wreak havoc. Their task is to protect their loved ones but is it possible? Yes, with a bundle of action, a touch of fantasy, and a pinch of supernatural elements, everything is possible.
9- The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 26/30 |
Supernatural and mysteries go side by side, and if in anime, it only adds to its charm. The next one on our list is surely one of the best rated anime movies of all time for its compelling storyline and its sci-fi and mystery themes. It won several awards including one for animation and story. So, keeping it on our list is a given.
Ryon is our lead this time and he is no regular high school boy. He is familiar with supernatural stuff, and the haphazard stuff around falls in the normal light. Still, Ryon’s not-so-normal life suddenly turns plain when he discovers that he is facing an alternate reality. In this reality, his friends don’t know him, but still, there is nothing out of the ordinary. Now, he is in a dilemma, whether he should let this alternate reality go on or return to his abnormally normal life.
8- The First Slam Dunk
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
10/10 | 10/10 | 7/10 | 27/30 |
Applause to Japanese animation for making an award-winning movie that has to be on our list of 15 best ever animated movies, with a superb rating of 8.76 on MAL. Animation is obviously superlative, with characters that are close to originality. The plot may seem a little bit lacking, but the adrenaline rush and curiosity make up for it. So, if you are into sports anime then don’t miss out on this. A perfect fit for a get-together on a Saturday evening.
Enters Ryouta Miyagi, a fierce and athletic high school boy. His dream of becoming a basketball player was fueled after seeing his brother. Now, all grown up in high school, along with his fellow team members, he is to challenge the ruling champions. For a regular boy to come this far is a miracle, but can he win against the champions to prove himself?
7- Howl’s Moving Castle
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 27/30 |
Given a production from Studio Ghibli, and Hayao Miyazaki’s story there is 0 chance that it won’t be a masterpiece. Howl’s Moving Castle is one among them and safely lands in our list of 15 best rated anime movies of all time. It has always been famous among anime fans, be they kids or of any age. On MAL, this one secures a rating of 8.66, and since its release, it has maintained its hype.
The magical story of Sophie begins anew when she meets Howl one day. After a curse inflicts Sophie, she and Howl share one house. Just to mention, it is no regular house. Howl literally has a moving castle straight out of fantasy. Now, their lives are entangled, and their love grows for each other as they face hardships, and it ends in a fairy tale obviously. The story has equal portions of drama, fantasy, magic, and love, so you will enjoy it.
6- Jujutsu Kaisen 0
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
10/10 | 10/10 | 8/10 | 28/30 |
Aside from the popularity of the original series, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 has immense popularity as a standalone movie. Multiple thanks to Gojou Satoru since his fan base is forever growing. It was adapted from the manga and was made into an anime movie.
With excellent animation and hot and powerful characters both in terms of character and strength, this movie surely served its purpose. With a rating of 8.44, you can consider this one as one of the best ever animated movies. Additionally, it is among the highest-grossing anime films of all time.
The story majorly focuses on a high school boy, Yuuta. He is strong with raw power that even he is unable to curb. To get on equal footing with his bullies, Yuuta makes use of his power and is about to go the wrong way. Fortunately, Gojou Sensei found him timely. Under his guidance and teaching, Yuuta learns to control his powers and fights alongside his fellows for a better world.
5- Wolf Children
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
9/10 | 9/10 | 10/10 | 28/30 |
It is an award-winning anime movie by Mamoru Hosoda. It is aimed for kids and is a must among our list of 15 best rated anime movies. The plot itself is enough to make you insane, obviously in excitement. Wolf Children has a balanced ratio of fantasy along with a slice of life. It managed to get the 100th rank on MAL with a rating of 8.57. The story is slow-paced, but it keeps you hooked till the very end.
The story begins when Hana, a college student, falls in love with Ookami, a werewolf. Their union does not last long as Ookami leaves on the eternal journey and leaves Hana with her two children.
The plot develops as Hana struggles to live in the human world, trying to keep her half-human children safe. The efforts of a mother are portrayed marvelously. Crying is guaranteed, but the impact is everlasting.
4- One Piece: Stampede
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
10/10 | 10/10 | 8/10 | 28/30 |
The anime undoubtedly needs no introduction. Additionally, the movie also holds its ground as a standalone anime movie. Also, it happens to be one of the best animated movies of all time, with a high rating of 8.20 on MAL.
If you are making a list of the best adventure anime movies, then add this one to your list. With a lot of fantasy, action, and adventure, you will enjoy it at a friend’s get-together.
The story focuses on The Pirates Festival, which lures in pirates from all over the world. The main attraction of the festival is a quest to find the treasure left by Gol D. Rogers himself. Shockingly, a pirate makes his appearance at the festival, leaving every other pirate stunned. Luffy and the gang are in the lights to figure out the purpose of the mysterious pilot and to stop the lurking danger.
3- A Silent Voice
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 30/30 |
Talk about a movie with extreme drama, elements of love, bullying, and school life, and there you are with A Silent Voice. Shockingly this movie won a bunch of awards for the animation and the story.
You will be surprised to know that this coming of age story is ranked #17 on MAL. So, it is safe to say that it is one of the best ever animated movies of all time. Hence, by all rights it is placed on our list of 15 best rated anime movies.
The story focuses on high school students Shouya and the deaf Shouko. After junior high, Shouya encounters the lonely Shouko in high school. He realizes that his bullying has detached Shouko from her social life. Shouya struggles to become friends with her and bring back the colors to her life, but obviously, he will have to face the hurt and sadness that Shouko has.
2- Spirited Away
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 30/30 |
It is one of the best animated movies ever by Hayao Miyazaki that every anime fan has watched. Spirited Away is a movie suitable for all ages and a perfect fit for a movie night and also for our list of 15 best rated anime movies. The little suspense, the fun adventure, and the tingling interactions of the leads are heartwarming. Animation is undoubtedly marvelous, coming from Studio Ghibli.
The plot focuses on a naive and headstrong girl, Chihiro. She finds herself lost in the world of spirits and is worried about her parents, who have turned into pigs. Chihiro struggles to adjust to the unknown world and find a way to save her parents and go back. Still, things don’t seem to go her way. Nevertheless, there comes Haku, an enigmatic being for our damsel in distress. With his aid, Chihiro is bound to find a way back home but with memories that she can never forget.
1- Gintama: The Final
Animation | Characters | Plot | Total |
10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 30/30 |
With a whooping rating of 9.04 on MAL Gintama, The Final easily found its place on our list of 15 best rated anime movies. The popularity of this anime as a whole is obviously huge. Still, this anime movie has been voted as the best anime movie ever.
The animation is top-notch, the characters splendid, the plot is extremely entertaining, and fun is surely guaranteed in this one. The only drawback is that you might have to see the anime to know the backstory, but I bet we can work on that.
After the invasion of Tendoshuu, the team went their separate ways. Years have passed and the world is still balancing between peace and turmoil. Yet, another danger lurks, threatening the world’s peace. Gintoki and the rest of the team gather once more for a last round to save the world and their futures. This movie is loaded with action and thrill and an additional sprinkle of comedy. For a movie, this surely is the best one to give time to.
Final Notes:
Let’s bring an end to our list of 15 Best Rated Anime Movies of all time. Some of you might disagree with my choices in the list, so please feel free to add yours. Also, I would be delighted if you would let me know about your favorites so we can adjust our list a little bit.
If you loved the anime movie recommendations above, then visit us often for more.
What is the best animated movie of all time?
If we talk about the best anime movie of all time, and when I say anime movie, it means by Japanese animation, then we have one name only. Spirited Away by Studio Ghibli it is. You may find it bizarre, but for many reasons, it still holds this title.
And if we say what is the best animated movie of all time, then I would say Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse (2018) by Sony Pictures. Still, many of you may find it off. Nevertheless, this is what the poll says.
What movie won best animated film 2024?
The Boy and the Heron, yet again by Studio Ghibli, won the best animated movie 2024 at the 96th Academy Awards and 76th British Academy Film Awards. It engulfs a perfect blend of drama, fantasy, and adventure. It was even nominated as the best animated movie at the 81st Golden Globe Awards.