Top 10 Best Anime Movies of All Time (According to Rotten Tomatoes)

Anime films have transcended cultural boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide with their stunning animation, profound storytelling, and diverse genres. From action-packed blockbusters to introspective dramas, the world of Japanese animation offers something for everyone. But with so many incredible movies to choose from, where do you begin? Look no further! We’ve delved into the critical acclaim of Rotten Tomatoes to bring you the top 10 best anime movies of all time, as ranked by the Tomatometer. Now, let’s dive in!

1. The Boy and the Heron – 96%

Despite Hayao Miyazaki’s previous “retirement,” his 2023 film, The Boy and the Heron, quickly became a blockbuster and even won an Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film. Beyond its accolades, the movie deeply resonated with audiences for its poignant exploration of grief and coming-of-age during personal tragedy. It follows young Mahito as he grapples with the loss of his mother and adjusts to a new, unfamiliar life. Miyazaki’s masterful storytelling, combined with Studio Ghibli’s immersive animation, creates a film that’s both breathtaking and heartbreaking.

2. In This Corner of the World – 97%

In This Corner of the World is a powerful war drama set during World War II. Though it boasts a Ghibli-esque hand-drawn animation style, it was actually created by MAPPA, the studio behind Jujutsu Kaisen and Attack on Titan. With an impressive 97% Rotten Tomatoes rating, this film offers a somber and realistic look at life during wartime. Intriguingly, its director, Sunao Katabuchi, briefly worked with Hayao Miyazaki, explaining the visual influence. However, In This Corner of the World stands as its own work of art, respectfully portraying one of humanity’s most painful historical periods.

3. Kiki’s Delivery Service – 97%

Often hailed as one of Miyazaki’s finest creations, Kiki’s Delivery Service has remained a fan favorite since its 1990 release. The film follows Kiki, a young witch who starts a delivery business, flying on her broomstick to drop off packages. Trouble arises when Kiki suddenly loses her ability to fly, crushing her confidence. While set in a whimsical world of magic, Kiki’s very real fears of self-doubt are incredibly relatable. This, along with its motivational coming-of-age story about self-trust, explains why the film has resonated with viewers of all ages for over three decades.

4. Demon Slayer -Kimetsu No Yaiba- The Movie: Mugen Train – 98%

Over four years after its April 2021 release, Demon Slayer: Mugen Train remains the highest-grossing anime movie of all time. In Mugen Train, Tanjiro and his comrades confront two powerful Upper Rank demons, learning crucial lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and coping with loss. The film’s astounding box office success showed Hollywood the global demand for anime films, leading to more theatrical releases than ever before. Mugen Train was not only a massive win for the Demon Slayer franchise, influencing plans for its final arcs to be theatrical “Infinity Castle” movies, but it also transformed the entire anime movie landscape for the better.

5. Jujutsu Kaisen 0: The Movie – 98%

Jujutsu Kaisen 0: The Movie, the franchise’s only feature film to date, certainly proved the need for more. Released in 2021, it grossed a remarkable $195 million worldwide and earned a 98% Rotten Tomatoes rating. This prequel is set one year before the anime series, following Yuta Okkotsu, a jujutsu sorcerer who had limited screentime previously. The film offers much-needed background insight into major characters like Gojo Satoru and Geto Suguru, while delivering a fresh story through Yuta’s perspective as he faces off against a vengeful Geto.

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6. Your Name – 98%

Your Name is a magical story about two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who discover a baffling shared ability: they can switch bodies. The situation becomes even more complex as they try to meet, drawn by budding romantic feelings and a desire to understand their undeniable connection across vast distances. As they seek answers, they encounter a major twist, teaching them profound lessons about grief, love, and their mysterious bond. Your Name is widely considered a masterpiece, earning its 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ list of top anime films.

7. The First Slam Dunk – 100%

One of the best entries in the expanding sports anime genre, The First Slam Dunk follows main character Ryota Miyagi. He dreams of being a top basketball player, a goal put to the test during a challenging championship. Miyagi’s ambition is twofold: he also wants to excel in basketball to honor a promise to his late older brother. The film achieved a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes thanks to its riveting plot and distinctive animation, which blends 3D and 2D elements for a fast-moving style perfectly suited for its high-paced basketball games.

8. Grave of the Fireflies – 100%

Grave of the Fireflies is often hailed as the best anti-war film of all time for its stark depiction of human conflict’s atrocities. Siblings Seita and Setsuko experience these devastating effects firsthand, as the Pacific War leaves them orphaned, relying solely on each other amidst fear and uncertainty. This film is one of three Studio Ghibli movies to receive a perfect 100% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Notably, it was directed by Isao Takahata, not Hayao Miyazaki, proving that Takahata’s films are no less impactful.

9. Only Yesterday – 100%

Only Yesterday is a story told through memories, exploring the complexities of growing up and how childhood experiences shape adulthood. When protagonist Taeko Okajima feels unfulfilled in her career and adult life, she delves into her past for answers. The film offers a bittersweet perspective on aging, prompting viewers to reflect on their own lives and upbringings. Only Yesterday also earned a 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating, a testament to filmmaker Isao Takahata’s phenomenal storytelling once again.

10. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya – 100%

The Tale of the Princess Kaguya holds the distinction of being both the highest-rated anime movie and the highest-rated Studio Ghibli movie on Rotten Tomatoes. The story centers on Kaguya, a tiny woman discovered inside a piece of bamboo and freed into the world by a farmer. Once outside her familiar bamboo stalk, Kaguya encounters romantic suitors, emotional dilemmas, and all the challenges of being human. While its narrative is strong, what truly sets it apart is its hand-drawn storybook animation style, giving what is widely considered Isao Takahata’s best film a truly distinctive touch.