Believe it or not, Watching Anime Movies on Netflix is the best form of escapism. Nothing can compare to the happy feelings we get watching them with our favorite popcorn. It’s not something new for a true otaku as it’s their go-to move in their leisure time.
If you are craving a fun-filled adventure, I have brought a worth watching list of anime movies that you can binge-watch. Don’t trust me? No problem, immerse yourself in this list of entries and find it yourself! 😉
Animated Movies On Netflix That Will Steal Your Heart
Highlights
- In this list, you’ll find movies with almost every genre, not just a specific one
- All of them are ranked on a subjective basis to help you choose easily
20. The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 7/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 23/30 |
Are you in search of the best fantasy anime movie on Netflix? Well, look no further! The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya will entertain you with everything you are looking for.
Okina was a bamboo cutter who was living a monotonous life until he found a small baby girl. Judging from her appearance, he assumed that she must be a gift from God. The baby girl was given the name Kaguya and was embraced by Okina and his wife.
Kaguya was happy living with her parents and enjoying life with her friends from the area. After some time, Okina finds a hidden treasure which forces him to move and adapt to a royal lifestyle. However, this was the beginning of challenges. The story gradually highlights the mysteries and the reasons why Kaguya was sent there.
19. Drifting Home
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 24/30 |
There are a lot of moments when people hurt us, and we hurt them–intentionally or unintentionally. However, when we call someone our friend, we must not be their foes. In fact, we should always communicate to solve the problem and it all begins by letting go of the past. This is just one of the beautiful lessons we learn from watching this movie.
The story revolves around Kousuke and Natsume who once were best friends. Unable to forgive each other’s mistakes, they grew apart from each other. Surprisingly, life puts them in a situation where they must rely on each other to tackle the tough challenges ahead of them.
Trust me or not, you’ll be blown away watching this masterpiece. This is undoubtedly one of the best anime movies on Netflix!
18. A Whisker Away
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 24/30 |
It’s a pretty entertaining movie that will intrigue you throughout. Let’s thank Studio Colorido for this movie with brilliant animation. The supernatural elements in it make it unique and enthralling. Miyo Sasaki is our female lead whose life is a total mess all because of her stepmother and father. Her encounter with Kento, her crush, gave an unexpected direction to her life. To win his love, she transforms into a cat and becomes her friend.
Becoming his friend was a short lived happiness in the cat form as the realization strikes her hard. Of course, she couldn’t stay as a cat in his life forever. What do you think? Will she risk everything to reveal her identity? The problem is she’s afraid that he might hate her.
17. The Cat Returns
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 25/30 |
Cat Lovers must watch this one of the most beautiful anime movies on Netflix. The story revolves around Haru Yoshioka, a girl who is struggling to find charm in life. Her seemingly monotonous life changes when she saves the life of a cat. Surprisingly, it was not an ordinary cat, but the cat was actually Prince Lune of a cat kingdom.
As a token of thank you and to return the favor, he invites his savior to his place. After accepting the invitations, things changed for her drastically. With the exploration of the Cat Kingdom, she learns many secrets and mysteries.
The biggest challenge was she was losing her humanity and was turning more into a cat. It’s extremely thrilling to see her grappling with the odds to stop herself from becoming a cat. I bet you will be electrified watching this masterpiece!
16. Ni no Kuni
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 25/30 |
The story revolves around three best friends, Yuu, Kotona, and Haru. It also highlights how their life bombards them with an unexpected challenge when someone mysteriously stabs Kotona. In an attempt to help their friends, the friends ran to the hospital but were about to get hit by a truck.
Thankfully, none of them was injured and guess what? They discovered themselves in a magical place full of unique creatures. A lot of unexpected things came their way, but now the biggest problem was their friend Kotona.
They could find her anywhere, and to top it off, they found her striking resemblance with the princess of the kingdom. What was happening, and what happened to Kotona? Well, to get these answers, log into Netflix, search Ni no Kuni, and click the play button.
P.S
Don’t forget to thank me later for recommending you one of the best anime movies on Netflix 😉
15. My Oni Girl
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 9/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 25/30 |
I am sure many of us had trouble making friends and the best thing is Anime always makes us believe that we are not alone. Hiiiragi had the same problem; he was not good at making friends, no matter how much he tried. However, his life shifts dramatically after he crosses paths with Tsumugi, a demon girl.
The gorgeous girl was on a mission to find her mother. Our cute boy joins the damsel to help her unite with her mom. The movie beautifully highlights the opposites-attract relationship. I am sure you will love the chemistry between the main leads. Their journey is full of adventures and fun, so make sure to watch it as soon as possible.
14. The Wind Rises
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 26/30 |
The movie perfectly gives a lesson: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way”. No matter how difficult your dreams may seem to achieve, if you are passionate enough, you will find a way to achieve them. This is the story of Jirou Horikoshi, who wanted to be a pilot, but his nearsightedness was his biggest hurdle.
Despite all the odds, nothing could stop him from doing what he loved, and he soon left to become an aeronautical engineer. He was happy building planes until World War II happened and he was struck hard with the harsh realities of life. Life forced him to question his choices once again, putting him in a tight spot.
13. Castle In The Sky
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 26/30 |
Sheeta is our gorgeous female lead who holds a mysterious crystal amulet. When the government agents learn about the amulet, they kidnap her and take her somewhere on a ship. When some pirates attack the ship, she finds a perfect chance to flee from her capturers.
On the run, she comes across Pazu, a boy who is on his way to “Laputa”, the Castle In The Sky. They find themselves being pursued by government officials and now must find a way to reach the top. The movie is perfect for anyone who enjoys watching adventure, romance, Sci-Fi & fantasy anime.
12. Whisper Of The Heart
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 26/30 |
Do you enjoy watching romance anime movies on Netflix with a touch of Drama? Then, my friend, be glad to have found one! Whisper Of The Heart highlights the life of 14-year-old Shizuka Tsukishima, who is fond of poetry. Therefore, one will mostly find herself around books somewhere in the library.
The book girl becomes curious when she learns that a boy named Seiji frequently checks her books. Life plays its role in making her meet the boy, and the duo quickly become friends, sharing common interests. Seiji’s ambition inspires the little girl to find purpose in her life. Eventually, she finds her goal, and in the process of acquiring it, she learns about her true potential.
11. Ponyo
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 10/10 | 9/10 | 27/30 |
Ponyo is another popular masterpiece that everyone’s favorite Studio Ghibli created. It highlights the adventurous journey of an adorable goldfish. After sneaking away from home, she faces some challenges on her way, but things change when she meets Sousuke, a 5-year-old boy. The duo becomes friends, and the boy starts calling her “Ponyo”.
A number of intriguing and mind-boggling things happen throughout the movie. Ponyo dreams of becoming a human, which becomes possible thanks to Sousuke’s powers. However, the magic disturbs the balance of the world and now the main leads must fix the things to bring the peace back. It’s a beautiful movie, in short, an entertainment package that keeps you spellbound throughout.
10. Flavors Of Youth (International Version)
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 10/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 27/30 |
After watching this movie, you will start appreciating the simple beauties of life. Have you ever tried to find the charm in a bowl of noodles? I am sure many of us don’t even focus on these little things. However, Flavors Of Youth holds the power to change one’s perspective to see things. The movie gives us the message to appreciate short-lived memories.
There are three episodes of this movie, where we watch three different stories in three different cities. So, buckle up for a ride full of countless lessons! One gets to learn about Chinese Culture and how they view life.
You will get to know the depth and significance of a Sunny Breakfast, a fashion show, and Shanghai Love. It will also expand your knowledge on how the Chinese Community perceives them. Each chapter/episode of the movie introduces a new character.
It mesmerizes the audience by highlighting the struggles of coping with heartbreaks, first love, youth, and a lot more. In short, there is so much more to look up to in this anime movie, and it’s definitely not something typical. The movie’s characters are also Chinese, but the voice actors are Japanese. Also, the credit for its fantastic animation goes to the popular Japanese Animation Studio CoMix Wave.
9. Stand By Me, Doraemon
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 9/10 | 10/10 | 9/10 | 28/30 |
Who doesn’t love Doraemon? One doesn’t need a specific reason to watch Doraemon, and that’s the beauty of this animated film. You will yearn to rewatch it, which makes it one of the best anime movies on Netflix. This charming story highlights the life of Nobita, who struggles with almost everything, and no matter how much he tries, failure is bound to hit him.
His life takes an unexpected turn when Sewashi, his successor from the future, visits him to help him. He also brings a robotic cat named Doraemon, who helps Nobita in almost everything he finds hard to do. Not gonna lie; the movie is pure JOY!
8. When Marnie Was There
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 28/30 |
Let’s add another masterpiece to your list of best anime movies on Netflix. Studio Ghibli never leaves a chance to amuse us with the best possible stories. It’s a perfect blend of drama, mystery, and suspense that keeps one at the edge of their seats. The story highlights numerous things that you will be able to relate to effortlessly.
Anna Sasaki is a self-contained individual who never seems to enjoy life. Her caring parents sent her to the countryside, hoping that the new surroundings would breathe a new life into her. Moving to a new place was actually a good idea as it helped her revitalize her spirit.
Actually, it all started when she came across a mysterious girl named Marnie while exploring an abandoned house. Marnie was exactly opposite to her; a girl full of life. The beauties soon became very good friends, and it was Marnie who got Anna out of her bubble. However, Marnie is not as simple as she seems. Soon enough, some twists and turns entangle Anna in an enigma.
7. From Up On Poppy Hill
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 28/30 |
This one is easily one of the best romance anime movies on Netflix. Umi Matsuzaki is a sweet and hardworking high school student. She works as much as she can in the part time facilitating others. Her school goes through a crisis, so along with some other students, she struggles to find a solution.
During all this, she crosses paths with an orphan boy, Shun Kazama, and the two lose their hearts for each other. However, their love story is not as simple, as there are some challenges that they will have to overcome together.
If you are friends with some Junior otaku, make sure to watch it with them, as it’s for All Ages.
6. My Neighbour Totoro
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 24/30 |
Are you looking for anime movies on Netflix famous for adorable characters? Well, I got you. The story is set in the 1950s, when the two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, shift to a rural area. In the new place, they experience a lot of things that captivate them. One thing none of them had ever imagined was their encounter with supernatural creatures.
The best part is the creatures were harmless and extremely sweet. The girls soon befriend the adorable Totoro, who brings a touch of fantasy and magic to their simple lives. Believe it or not, you will find yourself in love with the chubby Totoro. There are a lot of things to look for in this movie, so have a good time watching!
5. Princess Mononoke
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 28/30 |
It’s easily one of the best action fantasy anime movies on Netflix. The movie highlights the life of Prince Ashitaka and his efforts to bring peace despite fighting his inner battles. To protect his tribe, he was ready to sacrifice his life fighting a demon boar. However, the demon attacked his arm with evil energy that would slowly take away his life.
In a search for a cure, he enters Iron Town, where he learns about the most heated conflict between Forest Spirits and Humans. Upon investigation, it turns out that Lady Eboshi wants Deforestation. On the other hand, Princess San intends to protect the Forest species.
To dissolve the contention between the two parties, Ashitaka tries his best to bring peace. Unfortunately, his inner battle with the demonic energy still goes strong.
4. Kiki’s Delivery Service
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 28/30 |
You had the best childhood if this one was your favorite movie. One can easily consider it one of the best Japanese anime movies on Netflix. It follows 13-year-old Kiki, a witch in training who must leave her family to complete her witch training.
The way this adorable teenager overcomes the challenges of life with courage will leave you enthralled. It was not easy for her to adjust to a new town all by herself. After striving to find a place to stay, she eventually finds some good people willing to help her.
She meets Osono, a small bakery owner who allows her to stay in exchange for asking for Kiki’s help in making food deliveries. At such a young age, the cute little witch learns the biggest lessons of life!
3. Arrietty
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 28/30 |
Arrietty is full of reasons to be called one of the best Netflix anime movies. It was and forever will be Otaku’s friend in the darkest times. YES, it’s a relaxation pill for many of us who frequently find ways to escape reality. It highlights the life of Borrowers, who are humans with the size of a finger. Shou is our adorable protagonist who learns about their hidden existence in the house.
The miniature girl Arriety, intrigues him a lot that the duo becomes friends in no time. In fact, their friendship is ideal and one of the best things in the movie. Your mind will blow learning about the daily life struggles of Borrowers and how they survive trying to keep their existence hidden. Apart from the touching plot, many things attract the eyes, especially if you love miniatures. My friends, just watch this one of the best anime movies on Netflix without wasting another second.
2. Howl’s Moving Castle
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 28/30 |
There is no denying that this is absolutely one of the best anime movies on Netflix. Howl’s Moving Castle takes you straight back to your childhood by giving you a huge dose of nostalgia. It’s a movie one wishes to rewatch again and again, which proves it’s a timeless classic.
Sophie is your gorgeous female lead who was happy living a very simple life. She never thought that her unexpected encounter with Howl, the most charming wizard, would change her life forever. Trouble knocks on her door when an evil witch learns about Howl’s interest in her.
Out of jealousy, she curses the beautiful girl, turning her into an old woman. To lift the curse, Sophie starts her search, and the universe plays a part in giving her the right direction. Some twists and turns bring the main leads to living together. Wanna know how she lifts the curse and how love blossoms between the main leads? Watch the movie on Netflix right now!
1. Spirited Away
| Animation | Characters | Plot | Total Score |
| 9/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | 29/30 |
If you enjoy fantasy stories with a touch of horror, then Spirited Away is made for you! It will not only keep you on the edge of your seats but will also expand your horizons. 10-year-old Chihiro is the story’s main character who learns the hardest lessons in the toughest way.
Her life takes a drastic turn when she visits a haunted amusement park along with her parents. She requests her parents not to go to the creepy place but they don’t listen to her. This results in them turning into pigs leaving the girl all by herself among ghosts.
The movie highlights her struggles to keep herself protected with the help of a few interesting characters. How she survives, who helps her, and what happens to her parents must be the common questions crowding your mind! To find the answers, don’t waste a second to watch this one of the best anime movies on Netflix.
Final Notes
So, my otaku friends, how was the list of best anime movies on Netflix? Did you find any entry that matches your taste? I would love to know about the one you have decided to watch and why! I will surely be back with another list of anime movie recommendations soon! So, stay connected!
FAQS
Which anime makes you cry?
If you like emotional anime, then you can consider watching Violet Evergarden, Your Lie in April, and I Want To Eat Your Pancreas.
Which anime has the saddest ending?
Well, the answer to this question can be subjective, but Clannad After Story might be the most common answer.
Is it OK to cry over an anime?
Crying is not a Weakness and yes, there are many anime that will make you bawl your eyes out.
