Get ready for adrenaline-pumping action and epic battles! The world of shonen anime is filled with thrilling stories of young heroes overcoming challenges and proving their strength. These anime movies, in particular, offer intense action sequences, unforgettable characters, and captivating narratives that will keep you on the edge of your seat. So, what are the best action & battle shonen anime movies? Let’s scroll down to get details!
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1. Sword Of The Stranger (2007)
Sword of the Stranger is a samurai epic characterized by its dynamic action sequences and engaging characters. Set against the backdrop of the Sengoku period, the narrative centers on a young boy named Kotaro, who is fleeing from the Ming dynasty, which seeks to exploit his blood for the purpose of attaining immortality. During his journey, Kotaro encounters a swordsman named Nanashi, whom he persuades to accompany him to a designated temple. The path to their destination is fraught with violence and complexity.
The film produced by Bones is widely acclaimed for its exceptional fight scenes, which not only maintain a high standard but also improve as the story progresses. While these action sequences are indeed remarkable, Sword of the Stranger does not depend solely on its animation for impact; the film’s narrative is both well-structured and captivating. Although it occasionally veers into the realm of the exaggerated, the storyline remains relatively grounded, especially in comparison to works such as Ninja Scroll.
2. Ninja Scroll (1993)
Ninja Scroll is regarded as a cult classic and stands out as one of the best action & battle shonen anime movies to gain recognition before the 2000s. While it may not have achieved the same level of influence or popularity as Ghost in the Shell or Akira, this 1993 film holds a significant position in the annals of anime history and is essential viewing for enthusiasts of action-fantasy narratives aimed at an adult demographic.
The narrative follows Jubei Kibagami, a wandering swordsman who becomes embroiled in a tumultuous struggle involving ninjas, deadly plagues, and malevolent adversaries possessing supernatural abilities. Characterized by its graphic violence and relentless pacing, Ninja Scroll delivers an exhilarating experience from start to finish, ensuring that there is never a moment of tedium. Although the plot may take a backseat to the action, the latter is so captivating that the compromise is undoubtedly worthwhile.
3. Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018)
Dragon Ball has delivered more than a dozen movies spread across four decades. While the ’80s and ’90s delivered a few fun adventures like Fusion Reborn and Cooler’s Revenge, these non-canon stories are more like glorified specials than proper cinematic features. That changed with 2013’s Battle of Gods, a movie that revived the anime following almost 20 years of inactivity.
Since its big return, Dragon Ball has released four canon movies, with 2018’s Broly being the pick of the bunch. Packed to the brim with over-the-top fights and transformations, Toei’s movie condenses everything great about Dragon Ball into 90 minutes, and it is a delight. Compared to Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan, the 2018 movie presents a more three-dimensional version of its eponymous character. Broly is a sympathetic figure who has been molded by a parental figure fueled by revenge. The movie wisely positions Broly as its first act’s protagonist, before transitioning him into the role of antagonist.
4. Redline (2009)
Some films aim to convey intricate narratives featuring complex characters, ambitious themes, and elaborate plots, while others aspire to be visual spectacles. Redline belongs to the latter category. Centered around a perilous race that draws the most esteemed drivers from across the cosmos, this remarkable anime film accelerates at an astonishing pace.
With some of the most visually stunning animation ever captured on film, Redline delivers an exhilarating experience from start to finish. Although the storyline may appear somewhat simplistic, the film’s presentation is anything but lacking. Madhouse dedicated over five years to the animation of Redline, and this commitment is clearly reflected in the final product.
5. Mugen Train (2020)
As the best action & battle shonen anime movies globally, Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Movie: Mugen Train has certainly achieved remarkable popularity. However, how does it compare in terms of quality? This shonen anime sequel serves as a stunning showcase of ufotable’s unparalleled animation, particularly in its action sequences. It stands as one of the best action & battle shonen anime movies, and Mugen Train raises that benchmark even further.
As a sequel, Mugen Train is not intended for newcomers and assumes that viewers are already acquainted with the preceding narrative. As a result, this film primarily appeals to those who have already committed to the series. Mugen Train takes additional care to ensure that it retains the engagement of its established audience throughout the experience.
6. Fate/Stay Night Movie: Heaven’s Feel Trilogy (2017-20)
There is an abundance of content within the Fate franchise; both Fate/Zero and Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works have established a remarkable benchmark for action anime overall, and the Heaven’s Feel trilogy may surpass both of these works.
Focusing on the concluding route of Type-Moon’s Fate/stay night visual novel, Heaven’s Feel delves into the dynamics between Shirou Emiya and Sakura Matou, alongside the events of the 5th Holy Grail War. This trilogy provides a deeper exploration of Shirou’s character than the television series, making it essential for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the narrative.
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