If you’re a fan of diverse storytelling and unique animation styles, 5 best anime anthology movies in our list is the perfect guide for you. Anthology films offer a collection of short stories, each with its own distinct narrative and artistic flair, showcasing the creativity of various directors and animators. These films often explore a range of themes, from whimsical adventures to thought-provoking tales, making them a rich viewing experience.
In this list, you’ll discover some of the most acclaimed anime anthology movies that highlight the versatility of the medium. Now, let’s begin!
1. Flavors of Youth
Flavors of Youth is a captivating anthology film composed of three remarkable short stories that evoke nostalgia for days gone by. Produced by Studio CoMix Wave Films, this 2018 release features stunning visuals and heartfelt narratives set in various cities across China, inviting audiences to reflect on their own cherished memories. The first segment, The Rice Noodles, follows a man named Xiao Min as he grapples with adulthood while reminiscing about the comfort and joy he found in his childhood memories of noodle soup.
The second short, A Little Fashion Show, centers on two sisters pursuing their dreams in the fashion industry. As they navigate the challenges of fame and ambition, the elder sister begins to feel overwhelmed, straining their relationship. The final story, Love in Shanghai, tells the tale of two lovers who drift apart due to misunderstandings, highlighting the complexities of love and communication.
You may also like:
2. Short Peace
From the creators of Akira comes an exciting anthology titled Short Peace, released in 2013. This compilation features four films that explore various eras of Japan, both real and fictional, each filled with captivating stories and stunning visuals.
One of the standout entries is Possessions, an Oscar-nominated short that follows a lone traveler seeking shelter from a storm in an old shrine inhabited by spirits. Combustible transports viewers to the Edo period, telling a tragic love story that inadvertently ignites a fire, devastating an entire neighborhood. In Gambo, we meet a white bear named Gambo who battles an alien creature to save a girl’s life, showcasing a unique twist on classic heroism.
3. 5 Centimeters Per Second
5 Centimeters Per Second is an anime film composed of three interconnected short stories that follow the same two protagonists, each set years apart. This poignant narrative explores the challenges of maintaining long-distance relationships and how time inevitably leads to change. Written and directed by Makoto Shinkai, the film is beautifully animated by CoMix Wave Films.
The first segment, titled Cherry Blossoms, takes place in 1991 and depicts the budding friendship between Akari and Takaki when she transfers to his elementary school. However, as they grow older, circumstances force them to move to opposite ends of the country, complicating their ability to stay connected.
The second part, Cosmonaut, is set in 1999 and follows Takaki during his third year of high school. He still yearns to communicate with Akari but struggles to send her any messages.The final segment, simply called 5 Centimeters Per Second, brings a bittersweet conclusion to their story, reflecting on the passage of time and the feelings left unexpressed. Through its exploration of love and distance, the film captures the essence of longing and the inevitability of moving on.
4. Modest Heroes
Modest Heroes is a Netflix original anime anthology film produced by Studio Ponoc, released in 2018. This collection features three inspiring stories that convey powerful messages to viewers. The first short, Kanini and Kanino, follows two sibling fish creatures as they navigate the dangers of the ocean in their quest to reunite with their family.
The second film, Life Ain’t Gonna Lose, centers on a boy named Shun who struggles with a severe egg allergy, impacting his daily life and that of his mother. The final segment, Invisible, tells the story of a man who becomes invisible to those around him, leading to a gradual loss of his physical presence. Together, these narratives explore themes of resilience, connection, and the challenges of everyday life, making Modest Heroes a poignant viewing experience.
5. Genius Party and Genius Party Beyond
Genius Party and Genius Party Beyond are intriguing compilations of short films created by Studio 4℃. The first volume, Genius Party, was released in 2007 and features seven unique shorts, while the second volume, Genius Party Beyond, debuted in 2008 with five additional films. Each entry showcases a distinct animation style and tells its own captivating story, crafted by renowned Japanese writers and directors.
The shorts in the first volume include titles such as Genius Party, Shanghai Dragon, Deathtic 4, Doorbell, Limit Cycle, Happy Machine, and Baby Blue. The second volume features Gala, Moondrive, ‘Wanwa’ the Doggy, Tojin Kit, and Dimension Bomb. Each story is a testament to the creativity and talent of Japanese animators, offering viewers a diverse array of narratives that are both bizarre and thought-provoking.
Related Posts
Top 5 Best Anime Movies The Whole Family Can Enjoy
Top 5 Best Anime Movies of All Time