What Are the Best Cyberpunk Anime Movies?

Dive into a neon-lit world of cybernetic enhancements, corporate dystopias, and technological marvels. Cyberpunk anime movies offer a unique blend of science fiction and noir, exploring the dark side of technological progress and the human condition.

From iconic classics to modern masterpieces, this genre has captivated audiences with its gritty realism, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. Get ready to explore the cyberpunk underworld and discover the best cyberpunk anime movies that have shaped this genre.

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1. Ergo Proxy (2006)

Featuring stark dystopian imagery and exploring philosophical concepts related to Gnosticism, Ergo Proxy examines the intricate dynamics between humans and androids. Set in the enchanting city of Romdeau, a number of androids, referred to as AutoReivs, have become infected with the Cogito Virus, which endows them with self-awareness and triggers a series of human murders. Inspector Re-I-Mayer, the granddaughter of Romdeau’s leader, is tasked with uncovering the perpetrator behind this crisis, aided by her AutoReiv companion, Iggy. As her investigation unfolds, she gradually uncovers a more malevolent force lurking beneath the surface of the violence.

2. Psycho-Pass (2012 – 2013)

Psycho-Pass is set in a futuristic Japan where the Sybil System, an advanced biomechatronic computer network, governs public safety by evaluating and determining the threat level posed by each individual. This evaluation of a citizen’s potential for criminal behavior is referred to as a Psycho-Pass.

The dystopian anime series draws significant inspiration from Blade Runner and Gattaca, resulting in remarkable outcomes. By delving into the flaws of the ostensibly flawless Sybil System, the series has provided viewers with one of the best cyberpunk anime movies, alongside the introduction of the distinctive weapon known as the “Dominators.”

3. Texhnolyze (2003)

From the same creators of Serial Experiments Lain emerges a narrative set in the decaying underground city of Lux, where its inhabitants live in perpetual dread under the dominance of various criminal organizations.

Texhnolyze, a somewhat overlooked masterpiece from Studio Madhouse, is a science fiction action drama that follows a young and talented fighter named Ichise, who has suffered the loss of an arm and a leg due to a violent encounter. After becoming a subject for Texhnolyze implants, which enable individuals to replace body parts with cybernetic enhancements, Ichise begins to work for one of the criminal factions and soon discovers that the city of Lux is teetering on the edge of destruction.

4. Serial Experiments Lain (1998)

In contrast to the present day, where the Internet is integral to daily life, the Internet in 1998 had only been in existence for seven years. Consequently, the general public remained relatively unacquainted with, and somewhat apprehensive about, its intended purpose.

In the series Serial Experiments, Lain, the introverted protagonist Lain Iwakura becomes deeply entangled with the Wired (akin to the Internet) after receiving a troubling email from a classmate who has recently passed away. As Lain delves deeper into the complex realm of the Wired, the boundaries between her reality and the digital world begin to blur, leading her to encounter various conspiracy theories, surreal identity crises, and feelings of social isolation.

5. Cowboy Bebop (1998)

If you are looking for the best cyberpunk anime movies, it is likely that you have heard of Cowboy Bebop. The beloved space cowboy Spike Spiegel, along with his eclectic group of misfits, embarks on a journey filled with bounty hunting and personal exploration in this unique space Western.

Disregarding the less favorable live-action adaptation produced by Netflix, the original Cowboy Bebop, released in 1998, captivated audiences with its innovative blend of diverse genres. In addition to featuring an exhilarating jazz soundtrack that energizes viewers throughout each episode, the series addresses profound themes such as loneliness and existentialism.

Hope that this list is helpful for readers! Thanks for reading!