If you are a fan of the Japanese anime genre, you will probably know two concepts: subbed anime and dubbed anime. Unlike subbed anime, which have subtitles and the viewers listen to the original voiceover in Japanese, dubbed anime are those dubbed in other languages when bringing that anime internationally.
1. Fairy Tail
When it comes to successful series from manga to anime, we have to mention Fairy Tail, an anime series that has firmly established itself in the hearts of audiences throughout the years. Not only the Fairy Tail manga was a huge success. It was translated into many languages and known to readers around the world, but the anime of this series was also adapted into an animated film directed by Ishihira Shinji. This TV anime series has left an indelible impression on the audience.
2. My Hero Academia
| My Hero Academia | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | My Hero Academia |
| Author | Kohei Horikoshi |
| Genres | Super Hero, Action-Adventure, Comedy-Drama, Science Fantasy, School Life |
| Director | Kenji Nagasaki, Masahiro Mukai |
| Script Writer | Yōsuke Kuroda |
| Character Designer | Yoshihiko Umakoshi, Hitomi Odashima |
| Composer | Yuki Hayashi |
| Studio | Bones |
| Original Run | April 3, 2016 – Ongoing (Japanese), May 5, 2018 – Ongoing (English) |
| Episodes | 138 + 1 Recap + 7 OVA + 3 Movies |
| Timeslot | Japanese: MBS/TBS (Season 1), NTV/YTV (Season 2 onwards) |
| Streamer(s) | Funimation (Dubbed), Crunchyroll, Hulu (Subtitled), VRV (via Crunchyroll) |
| Notable Movies | My Hero Academia: Two Heroes, My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising |
| Notable OVAs | My Hero Academia: Save! Rescue Training, My Hero Academia: Training of the Dead, My Hero Academia: All Might Rising, and more |
| Crossovers | Marvel Studios film Avengers: Infinity War |
| Reception | Predominantly positive reviews |
My Hero Academia is an anime based on the manga by Kohei Horikoshi, published in 2014. This is an anime suitable for those who love Marvel and DC heroes. This anime is so successful that it has collected over 300,000 monthly searches. The appeal of My Hero Academia made this anime go beyond the world.
3. Assassination Classroom
| Assassination Classroom | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Assassination Classroom |
| Author | Yūsei Matsui |
| Genres | Action, Comedy, Science Fiction, Supernatural |
| Episodes | 47 |
| Aired | January 9, 2015 – June 30, 2016 |
| Studio | Lerche |
| Licensed | Funimation |
| Manga | Yes (Completed) |
| Manga Volumes | 21 |
| Opening Theme Songs | “Seishun Satsubatsuron” by 3-nen E-gumi Utatan (Class 3-E Song Unit) |
| Ending Theme Songs | “Hello, shooting-star” by moumoon |
| Second Season | “Assassination Classroom: Second Season” (renamed Final Season after the conclusion of the manga) |
| Second Season Aired | January 7, 2016 – June 30, 2016 |
| Second Season Opening | “QUESTION” by 3-nen E-gumi Utatan (Class 3-E Song Unit) |
| Second Season Ending | “Waning Moon” by Shion Miyawaki |
| Voice Actor Cast | The voice actor cast for the anime differs from the voice actors in both the “VOMIC” and 2013’s OVA voice actor casts |
| Exclusive Event OVA | An exclusive event OVA adaptation of Assassination Classroom produced by Brain’s Base |
| Streaming Platforms | Crunchyroll, Funimation, Myanimelist, Hulu |
Assassination Classroom is about an animal that takes the form of a terrifying octopus. It landed on Earth and announced its plot to destroy the Earth a year later. However, it has a requirement to be a teacher in class 3E of a prestigious middle school. With exciting and humorous content and details, Assassination Classroom has been loved by many anime lovers worldwide.
4. One-Punch Man
One-Punch Man is a testament that an anime adaptation is even more successful than its original manga. The plot of One-Punch Man revolves around the life of the character Saitama – an ordinary young man with dreams of becoming a hero. He has practiced a lot and has possessed tremendous strength that can knock down opponents with a single punch. This anime series has attracted a wider audience than the manga version and is well-received by passionate fans around the world.
5. The Seven Deadly Sins
| The Seven Deadly | Information |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Shōnen |
| Directed by | Tensai Okamura |
| Written by | Shōtarō Suga |
| Music by | Hiroyuki Sawano |
| Studio | A-1 Pictures |
| Network | JNN (MBS), Netflix |
| Original Run | October 5, 2014 – March 29, 2015 (Season 1) |
| Episodes | 24 |
| Manga | The Seven Deadly Sins |
| Manga Author | Nakaba Suzuki |
| Manga Published | October 10, 2012 – March 25, 2020 |
| Producers | Ryoichi Ishihara, Hiroyuki Okino, Keiichi Matsuda |
| Licensed by | Netflix, Funimation |
| English Network | AnimeLab, Funimation, Netflix |
| Japanese Network | MBS, TBS, BS-TBS, Animax |
| Spin-off Anime | The Seven Deadly Sins: Signs of Holy War |
The Seven Deadly Sins is adapted from the famous manga of the same name by author Nakaba Suzuki. The anime tells the story of a group of Seven Deadly Sins on their journey against the jihadist knights to regain the kingdom for Princess Elizabeth.
6. Hunter x Hunter
Before the anime adaptation, Hunter x Hunter was a very popular shounen manga. This anime is a story about the hunter profession, with unique details and curious situations. Not only that, the details and the content in Hunter x Hunter are very new. This anime is always loved and has a high search rate.
7. Naruto
| Naruto | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Naruto |
| Author | Masashi Kishimoto |
| Genres | Shonen manga, Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Main Protagonist | Naruto Uzumaki |
| Supporting Characters | Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, Kakashi Hatake |
| Setting | Hidden Leaf Village (Konohagakure) |
| Key Themes | Ninja, Friendship, Redemption, Determination |
| Legacy | Widely regarded as one of the most successful |
| Awards | Shogakukan Manga Award (2008) |
| Cultural Impact | Introduced Japanese culture and folklore |
| Latest Development | Boruto: Naruto Next Generations ongoing with new storylines and characters |
Regarding the most popular anime series of all time, we can’t help but mention Naruto. This anime was directed by Hayato Date, produced by Studio Pierrot and TV Tokyo, and premiered in Japan in 2002. With unique content and many interestingly built characters, Naruto has become An indispensable spiritual dish in the anime list of fans worldwide.
8. Attack on Titan
| Attack on Titan | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Attack on Titan |
| Author | Hajime Isayama |
| Genres | Dark fantasy, Action, Drama, Post-apocalyptic |
| Seasons | 4 |
| Episodes | 881 (including recap episodes, OVA, and recap movies) |
| Main Protagonist | Eren Yeager |
| Main Antagonist | Titans and Marleyan government |
| Setting | A world protected by Walls from Titans |
| Plot Summary | Humanity fights against Titans to reclaim their world |
| Themes | Survival, identity, morality, freedom, discrimination |
| Significant Characters | Mikasa Ackerman, Armin Arlert, Levi Ackerman, Historia Reiss, Erwin Smith |
| Directors | Tetsurō Araki, Masashi Koizuka, Yuichiro Hayashi |
| Producers | Tetsuya Kinoshita, Kensuke Tateishi, George Wada, Shin Furukawa, Tomohito Nagase, Toshihiro Maeda |
| Writers | Yasuko Kobayashi, Hiroshi Seko |
| Composers | Hiroyuki Sawano, Kohta Yamamoto |
| Original Run | Season 1: April 7, 2013 – September 29, 2013; Season 2: April 1, 2017 – June 17, 2017; Season 3 Part 1: July 23, 2018 – October 15, 2018; Season 3 Part 2: April 29, 2019 – July 1, 2019; The Final Season Part 1: December 7, 2020 – March 29, 2021; The Final Season Part 2: January 10, 2022 – April 4, 2022; The Final Season Part 3: March 4, 2023; The Final Season Part 4: Fall 2023 |
| Studio | Wit Studio, Production I.G, MAPPA |
| Japanese Network | MBS TV, NHK General TV |
| English Network | Funimation, Adult Swim |
| Genre | Dark fantasy |
| Critical Reception | Praised for intense storytelling and world-building |
| Popularity | One of the most popular anime and manga series |
Attack on Titan is always on the list of anime with the most spectacular and beautiful effects. This movie is probably familiar to otaku and anime fans. Attack on Titan is a long-running anime series with many interesting details, suitable for audiences who like horror and fantasy or want to experience unrealistic things through movies.
9. Fullmetal Alchemist: Conqueror of Shamballa (2006)
| Fullmetal Alchemist Conqueror | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa |
| Japanese Title | 劇場版 鋼の錬金術師 シャンバラを征く者Gekijōban Hagane no Renkinjutsushi: Shanbara o Yuku Mono |
| Release Date | 23 July 2005 (Japan), 8 September 2006 (English) |
| Language | Japanese, English |
| Run Time | 105 minutes |
| Studio | Bones |
| Director | Seiji Mizushima |
| Producer | Masahiko Minami, Hirō Maruyama, Ryo Ōyama, Nobuyuki Kurashige, Tsuyoshi Yoshida, Arimasa Okada, Yukio Yoshimura, Kenji Komatsu, Haruhito Yamazaki |
| Cinematography | Susumu Fukushi |
| Editing | Hiroaki Itabe |
| Distributor | Shochiku |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy |
| Conclusion to Anime Series | Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) |
| Setting | Mainly in 1923 Germany, featuring Reole, Central, and the Underground City |
| English Distribution | Aniplex of America |
Fullmetal Alchemist: Conqueror of Shamballa is an anime movie franchise of the popular anime series Fullmetal Alchemist. The context of this film is two years since the main character Edward Elric had to leave his relatives and friends when he was dragged to a parallel world called Earth. Here, he teamed up with the young Alphonse Heiderich to research and build rockets to find a way to return to his world one day.
10. Noragami
Noragami focuses on the main character Yato, a boy with dreams of being worshiped by many. However, he is not a famous god, thus living an ordinary life and doing various trivial tasks. Yato’s life is forever changed when he meets a middle school girl named Hiyori Iki.
11. Bleach
| Bleach | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Bleach |
| Author | Tite Kubo |
| Genres | Shonen manga, Action, Supernatural, Adventure |
| Main Protagonist | Ichigo Kurosaki |
| Main Antagonist | Sosuke Aizen |
| Studio | Studio Pierrot |
| Summary | Bleach is a popular anime series based on the manga created by Tite Kubo. It follows the journey of Ichigo Kurosaki, the main protagonist, as he becomes a Soul Reaper and battles against various supernatural threats. The main antagonist of the series is Sosuke Aizen. Bleach gained a significant fan following due to its compelling characters, intense action sequences, and intricate plotlines. |
| Manga Volumes | 74 |
| Awards | Shogakukan Manga Award, American Anime Awards, Seiun Award |
| Popularity | One of the most popular and influential shonen anime series |
| Cultural Impact | Contributed to the spread of anime and manga internationally |
Bleach is a shounen action anime series, with the story revolving around the main character Ichigo Kurosaki after he gains the powers of a Soul Reaper. This anime is very successful and has repeatedly entered the top XNUMX from the Japan Television Charts.
12. A Silent Voice
| A Silent Voice | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | A Silent Voice |
| Kanji | 聲の形 (Koe no Katachi) |
| Revised Hepburn | Koe no Katachi |
| Directed by | Naoko Yamada |
| Screenplay by | Reiko Yoshida |
| Based on | A Silent Voice by Yoshitoki Ōima |
| Produced by | Kyoto Animation |
| Starring | Miyu Irino, Saori Hayami, Aoi Yūki, Kenshō Ono, Yūki Kaneko, Yui Ishikawa, Megumi Han, Toshiyuki Toyonaga, Mayu Matsuoka |
| Cinematography | Kazuya Takao |
| Edited by | Kengo Shigemura |
| Music by | Kensuke Ushio |
| Production Company | Kyoto Animation |
| Distributed by | Shochiku |
| Release Date | September 17, 2016 (Japan) |
| Running Time | 130 minutes |
| Country | Japan |
| Language | Japanese |
| Box Office | $31.6 million |
| Genres | Drama, Coming-of-age, Psychological, Friendship |
| Themes | Bullying, Disability, Forgiveness, Mental Health, Suicide |
A Silent Voice is one of those anime that has brought tears to many viewers. The anime is successful because of the touching plot, and the images and sounds are beautiful. The film’s drawings are pure and lovely, with simple but realistic movements. The movie has moved viewers with friendship, camaraderie, and even the wounded souls’ voices.
13. Sword Art Online
| Sword Art Online | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Sword Art Online |
| Author | Reki Kawahara |
| Illustrator | abec |
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Game, Romance |
| Production Studio | Aniplex, A-1 Pictures |
| Director | Tomohiko Ito |
| Music | Yuki Kajiura |
| First Season Airing | July 8, 2012 – December 23, 2012 |
| Second Season Airing | July 5, 2014 – December 20, 2014 |
| Third Season Airing | October 7, 2018 – July 12, 2020 (Alicization: October 7, 2018 – March 31, 2019; War of Underworld: October 13, 2019 – July 12, 2020) |
| Number of Episodes | 96 |
| English Dub Airing | Adult Swim’s Toonami (Seasons 2, 3) |
| Streaming Platforms | Crunchyroll, Hulu |
| Light Novel Adaptation | Sword Art Online |
Sword Art Online is an anime that is not only extremely popular in Japan but also famous around the world. First released in 2012, the anime series is set in a near-future world in which Virtual Reality technology has achieved incredible achievements. The main events revolve around the virtual world of online role-playing game titles and the applications, benefits, and implications behind the technology.
14. Haikyuu
| Haikyuu | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Haikyuu |
| Author | Haruichi Furudate |
| Genres | Sports, Drama, Comedy |
| Studio | Production I.G |
| Original Run | April 2014 – December 2021 |
| Episodes | 85 (across all seasons) |
| Movies | 4 movies and 5 OVAs |
| Licensed | Sentai Filmworks (United States) |
| English Dubbed | Seasons 1-4 |
| Home Video Release | Available on DVD and Blu-ray |
| Awards | – Best Male Character (Shoyo Hinata, 2015, 2016) |
| North American Release | – Season 1: Acquired by Sentai Filmworks in 2014 |
Haikyuu!! always rated as the best sports anime. The anime tells the story of Shoyo Hinata, a high school boy determined to become a great passer who is undaunted by his short height. Shoyo and Karasuno’s volleyball team teamed to make their team the best in Japan.
15. Cowboy Bebop
| Cowboy Bebop | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Cowboy Bebop |
| Japanese Title | カウボーイビバップ |
| Genre | Neo-noir, Space Western |
| Creator | Hajime Yatate |
| Animation Studio | Sunrise |
| Director | Shinichirō Watanabe |
| Screenwriter | Keiko Nobumoto |
| Composer | Yoko Kanno |
| Original Network | TV Tokyo, Wowow |
| Original Run | 1998-1999 |
| Episodes | 26 |
| Main Themes | Existential boredom, loneliness, inability to escape one’s past |
| English Dub | Animaze, ZRO Limit Productions |
| English Publisher | Bandai Entertainment (formerly), Crunchyroll |
| Critical Acclaim | Hailed as one of the greatest animated TV series of all time |
| International Success | Popular in Japanese and international markets, credited with introducing anime to Western viewers |
| Protagonists | Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Edward, Ein |
| Main Story Arc | Spike’s deadly rivalry with Vicious and his past |
| Themes Explored | Existentialism, existential boredom, loneliness, effect of the past, environmentalism, capitalism |
| Musical Style | Diverse range of genres and musical references, emphasized in episode titles |
| Characterization | Deep sense of loneliness, outlaws unable to fit into society |
| Setting | Year 2071, Solar System colonization, bounty-hunting crew aboard the spaceship Bebop |
Cowboy Bebop is a classic anime series that greatly influenced Japanese popular culture. The anime is set in the future when humanity has conquered the universe, and criminal gangs begin to appear rampant throughout the galaxy. Bounty hunter team Cowboy Bebop, including Spike Spiegel, Jet Black and Faye Valentine, are willing to risk their lives to chase dangerous criminals. The anime was so successful that Netflix adapted it into a live-action film and released it in 2021.
16. Howl’s Moving Castle
| Howl s Moving Castle | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Howl’s Moving Castle |
| Kanji | ハウルの動く城 |
| Rōmaji | Hauru no Ugoku Shiro |
| Directed by | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Produced by | Toshio Suzuki |
| Screenplay by | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Based on | Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones |
| Starring | Chieko Baisho, Takuya Kimura, Akihiro Miwa |
| Music by | Joe Hisaishi |
| Cinematography | Atsushi Okui |
| Studio | Studio Ghibli |
| Release date | 5 September 2004 (Venice), 20 November 2004 (Japan) |
| Running time | 119 minutes |
| Box office | ¥23.2 billion, USD$235.1 million (worldwide) |
| Author | Diana Wynne Jones |
| Genre | Fantasy, Adventure, Romance |
| Language | Japanese |
| Theme Song | “The Promise of the World” |
| Awards | Academy Award nomination, Tokyo Anime Awards, Nebula Award |
| Plot Summary | Howl’s Moving Castle follows the story of Sophie, a young milliner who is transformed into an old woman by a witch. She encounters Howl, a mysterious wizard, and enters his moving castle. Together with the enchanted fire demon Calcifer and Howl’s apprentice Markl, Sophie embarks on a journey to break the curse and confront the forces of war. |
| Reception | Howl’s Moving Castle received critical acclaim for its stunning visuals, compelling storytelling, and thematic depth. It achieved significant financial success and became one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time. |
| Notable Characters | – Sophie: A young milliner transformed into an old woman. – Howl: A mysterious wizard who lives in a moving castle. – Calcifer: An enchanted fire demon who powers the castle. – Markl: Howl’s young apprentice. – Witch of the Waste: A powerful witch and antagonist of the story. |
| Themes | – Identity and self-discovery – Love and sacrifice – Consequences of war – Appearance versus reality – The power of friendship and loyalty |
Based on the novel by writer Diana Wynne Jones, legendary director Hayao Miyazaki has breathed new life into the Howl’s Moving Castle anime. This film was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 78th Academy Awards. Howl’s Moving Castle has successfully conveyed many meaningful messages, creating an extremely attractive and memorable film. The film has left many deep impressions in the hearts of viewers, thereby bringing the work into the ranks of the classic films of Studio Ghibli.
17. Ponyo
| Ponyo | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Ponyo |
| Japanese Name | 崖の上のポニョ (Gake no Ue no Ponyo) |
| Director | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Writer | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Production Company | Studio Ghibli |
| Distributor | Toho |
| Release Date | July 19, 2008 |
| Running Time | 101 minutes |
| Country | Japan |
| Language | Japanese |
| Budget | ¥3.4 billion (US$34 million) |
| Box Office | US$204.8 million |
| Main Characters | Ponyo, Sōsuke, Fujimoto |
| Genre | Fantasy, Adventure, Family |
| Theme Song | “Gake no Ue no Ponyo” |
| Reception | Critical acclaim, commercial success, eighth-highest-grossing anime film of all time |
| English Release | August 14, 2009 |
| English Distributor | Walt Disney Pictures |
Ponyo is a lighthearted but happy anime film from Studio Ghibli. Many children around the world have loved the film because of its cute images and meaningful story. The story is about the little girl Ponyo, who has two bloodlines of magic: she has a human father and a Goddess of the Ocean mother. She has thousands of siblings who are also goldfish. By chance, she meets a kind boy, Sousuke, five years old. She has always had a special affection for Sousuke and gave up the ocean to transform into a human form to stay by Sousuke’s side.
18. Sailor Moon
| Sailor Moon | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Sailor Moon |
| Original Creator | Naoko Takeuchi |
| Airing Period | March 7, 1992 – February 8, 1997 |
| Total Episodes | 200 (original series) |
| Main Characters | Usagi Tsukino (Sailor Moon), Ami Mizuno (Sailor Mercury), |
| Genre | Magical girl, Romance, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Opening Theme | “Moonlight Densetsu” |
| Legacy | Helped popularize the magical girl genre, influenced |
| New Adaptations | Sailor Moon Eternal (2021), Sailor Moon Eternal (2022), |
| Sailor Moon Crystal | A reboot of the original series with updated animation |
| Sailor Moon Eternal | Two movies covering the Dream arc of the manga |
Sailor Moon is one of the most known anime in the world. The manga version of this anime series has been released in Japanese, English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Vietnamese, Dutch, Portuguese, Swedish, and many other countries worldwide. That’s why its anime adaptation is also viral.
19. Tokyo Ghoul
| Tokyo Ghoul | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Tokyo Ghoul |
| Author | Sui Ishida |
| Genres | Dark fantasy, Horror, Supernatural |
| Adaptation | Manga |
| Studio | Studio Pierrot |
| Main Protagonist | Ken Kaneki |
| Setting | Tokyo, Japan |
| Plot Summary | Tokyo Ghoul is a dark fantasy anime series based on the manga by Sui Ishida. It follows Ken Kaneki, a college student who becomes a half-ghoul after a near-fatal encounter with a ghoul. As Ken navigates the world of ghouls and humans, he grapples with his newfound identity and the conflicts between the two species. The anime explores themes of identity, morality, and the blurred lines between good and evil. |
| Reception | Tokyo Ghoul has garnered a significant fan following for its dark atmosphere, intricate storytelling, and complex characters. The anime received praise for its visuals, voice acting, and intense action sequences. Despite some mixed reception, Tokyo Ghoul remains a popular and influential series within the dark fantasy genre. |
| Opening Theme Songs | “Unravel” by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure, “Munou” by österreich, “Asphyxia” by Cö shu Nie, “Katharsis” by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure |
| Ending Theme Songs | “Seijatachi” by People in the Box, “Kisetsu wa Tsugitsugi Shindeiku” by Amazarashi, “Half” by Ziyoou-Vachi, “Rakuen no Kimi” by österreich, “Departure” by Amazarashi |
Tokyo Ghoul revolves around the story of Ken Kaneki, an ordinary university student living in Tokyo. Kaneki has a crush on a girl named Rize Kamishiro, and he asks her out on a date. But something terrible happened when Rize tried to eat Kaneki because she was a ghoul. Although saved, Kaneki turned into a demon and had to fight against his ghoul and hide from humans.
20. Black Clover
| Black Clover | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Black Clover |
| Author | Yuki Tabata |
| Genres | Shonen, Action, Comedy, Fantasy |
| Adaptation | Manga |
| Studio | Studio Pierrot |
| Original Run | October 3, 2017 – March 30, 2021 |
| Episodes | 170 |
| Main Characters | Asta, Yuno, Noelle Silva, Finral Roulacase, etc. |
| Plot Summary | Black Clover follows the story of Asta, a young |
| Opening Theme Songs | “Haruka Mirai” by Kankaku Piero |
| Ending Theme Songs | “Aoi Honoo” by Itowokashi |
| English Dub | Funimation |
| Streaming Platforms | Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu, Netflix |
| Awards and Recognition | Crunchyroll Anime Awards: Best Fight Scene (2019) |
Black Clover is set in the kingdom of Clover 500 years after the original Sorcerer King used all of his power to stop evil from destroying the country. In a small village called Hage, the two main characters of the anime, Asta and Yuno, were born. These two characters are close friends and rivals simultaneously, trying to overcome each other to cherish the dream of becoming a Magic King.
21. Your Lie in April
| Your Lie in April | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Your Lie in April |
| Adapted From | Manga series by Naoshi Arakawa |
| Protagonist | Kōsei Arima |
| Main Heroine | Kaori Miyazono |
| Director | Kyōhei Ishiguro |
| Studio | A-1 Pictures |
| Written by | Takao Yoshioka |
| Character Designs | Yukiko Aikei |
| Music | Masaru Yokoyama |
| Original Network | Fuji TV’s Noitamina block |
| Original Release | October 9, 2014 – March 19, 2015 |
| Theme Songs | Opening: “Hikaru Nara” by Goose house and “Nanairo Symphony” by Coalamode Ending: “Kirameki” by wacci and “Orange” by 7!! (Seven Oops) |
| Japanese Release | Blu-ray and DVD released by Aniplex on February 25, 2015 |
| North American License | Licensed by Aniplex of America, available on various streaming platforms |
| Awards | Winner of the 2016 Crunchyroll Anime Awards for Best Drama |
| Impact and Legacy | “Your Lie in April” continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its heartfelt story, stunning animation, and powerful portrayal of music. It has left a lasting impression, solidifying its place as a beloved and influential anime series. |
Your Lie In April is a 22-episode anime adapted from the famous manga of the same name by artist Naoshi Arakawa. The anime has received a warm reception from the audience. Your Lie In April entertained the audience with a sumptuous acoustic feast from classics Chopin’s piano masterpieces to Saint Saens’ violin sounds, with extraordinary masterpieces from Beethoven and contemporary works by Japanese musicians.
22. Dr. Stone
| Dr Stone | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Dr. Stone (Anime) |
| Director | Shinya Iino |
| Script Writer | Yuichiro Kido |
| Character Designer(s) | Yuko Iwasa |
| Composer | Hiroaki Tsutsumi, and Yuki Kanesaka |
| Original Run | July 5, 2019 – December 13, 2019 (Season 1) |
| Episodes | 24 (Season 1) |
| Timeslot | New subbed episodes on Fridays at 10:30 AM EDT |
| Main Protagonist | Senku Ishigami |
| Other Key Characters | Taiju Oki, Yuzuriha Ogawa, Tsukasa Shishio, Kohaku, Chrome, |
| Opening Themes | (To be added) |
| Ending Themes | (To be added) |
At the time of its release, the anime series Dr. Stone had attracted many viewers worldwide and received showers of compliments. Dr. Stone is set in a fantasy world, telling the story of the restoration of civilization by two characters, Senku and Taiju. Right from the time of preparation, Dr. Stone has attracted a lot of attention for lovers of the science fiction genre because the anime has extremely creative details, closely following the history of human civilization.
23. Death Note
| Death Note | Information |
|---|---|
| Original title | DEATH NOTE |
| Katakana | デスノート (Desu Nōto) |
| English title | Death Note |
| Directed by | Tetsurō Araki |
| Produced by | Toshio Nakatani, Manabu Tamura, Masao Maruyama |
| Written by | Tsugumi Ohba, Toshiki Inoue (Screenplay) |
| Music by | Yoshihisa Hirano, Hideki Taniuchi |
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Licensed by | (AUS) Madman Entertainment, (NA) VIZ Media, (UK) Manga Entertainment |
| Original networks | NTV, STV, YTV, CTV, FBS, HTV, SDT, FCT |
| First aired | October 3, 2006 |
| Episodes | 37 (List of Episodes) |
| Genre | Psychological thriller, Supernatural, Mystery |
| Manga | Written by Tsugumi Ohba, Illustrated by Takeshi Obata |
| Published | December 2003 – May 2006 (Serialized) |
| Volumes | 12 |
| Anime adaptation | Directed by Tetsurō Araki, Produced by Madhouse |
| Main characters | Light Yagami, L, Ryuk, Misa Amane |
| Plot summary | Death Note follows Light Yagami, a high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone by writing their name in it. Light decides to use the notebook to create a utopia by eliminating criminals but attracts the attention of a genius detective, L, who vows to stop him and bring justice. The battle of wits between Light and L forms the central conflict of the series. |
Death Note is one of the brightest names in the list of the best detective anime of all time. This anime is a highly satisfying anime with a creative, engaging, and addictive plot. The plot of Death Note is extraordinarily creative and excellent. It has created an addictive psychological detective anime for the audience from the beginning to the end.
24. Fate/Zero
If you are a true otaku, you definitely cannot ignore Fate/Zero. This anime captivates the audience with its eye-catching visuals, catchy soundtrack, and dramatic, deep plot alongside a cast of unique characters. Fate/Zero is an anime that deserves to be listed among the rare Japanese animation masterpieces that reach perfection.
25. One Piece
| One Piece | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | One Piece |
| Author | Eiichiro Oda |
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Drama |
| Original Run | October 20, 1999 – Ongoing |
| Episodes | Over 1000 episodes |
| Production Company | Toei Animation |
| Original Network | Fuji Television |
| Main Protagonist | Monkey D. Luffy |
| Plot Summary | One Piece follows Monkey D. Luffy, a 17-year-old boy, and his crew in search of the ultimate treasure, One Piece. They face adventures, mysteries, and powerful enemies as they strive to become the Pirate King. |
| Faithfulness to Manga | The One Piece anime is extensively faithful to its source material, adapting nearly all of the manga’s story content with minimal contradiction. |
| Popularity | One Piece has achieved immense popularity worldwide, inspiring a dedicated fanbase and being exported to over 30 countries. It has influenced merchandise, films, TV specials, and OVAs. |
| English Dub | Funimation Entertainment produces English dubbed episodes, which have been aired on Cartoon Network’s Toonami and Adult Swim blocks. Fansubs also provide access to the series. |
One Piece is another household name for the fan community of Japanese anime. The story revolves around the long journey of the boy Luffy and his teammates in search of the treasure of the pirate King Roger. One Piêc belonging to the action and adventure genre, with novel developments accompanied by many funny cases, the anime conveniently conquers followers of many ages.
26. Super Dragon Ball Heroes
| After the defeat | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Super Dragon Ball Heroes |
| Studio | Toei Animation |
| Director | Mitsuo Hashimoto, Rie Koga (Season 2) |
| Based on | Super Dragon Ball Heroes video game |
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy |
| Main Characters | Goku, Vegeta, Future Trunks, Fu, Hearts, Goku Black, Xeno Goku, Xeno Vegeta |
| Plot Summary | Super Dragon Ball Heroes is a promotional non-televised anime web series based on the Dragon Ball Heroes video game. The story follows Goku and his allies as they battle powerful opponents from different planets and eras. With its unique storyline and blend of characters from various Dragon Ball series, the anime offers an action-packed and entertaining experience for fans of the franchise. |
| Reception | The anime has received mixed reviews, with some fans praising its enjoyable moments while others criticizing its varying quality and lack of a cohesive identity. Despite being primarily a promotional series, many fans, particularly those overseas, expressed a desire for a stronger initial premise. Nonetheless, Super Dragon Ball Heroes continues to attract a dedicated following. |
| Manga Series | Multiple manga series authored by Yoshitaka Nagayama are being published alongside the anime. |
| Pre-screening | The anime was pre-screened for the first time at AEON LakeTown and streamed live online. It does not follow a regular broadcast television schedule, but a monthly upload schedule was implemented in summer 2020. |
| Story Progression | For Dragon Ball Super characters, the events occur after the Universe Survival Saga. For “Xeno” characters, the events take place after the Dark King Mechikabura Saga. |
| Prison Planet | The Prison Planet is an experimental area created by Fu, where Goku and Vegeta are lured after Future Trunks’ kidnapping. They must collect the seven Special Dragon Balls to escape. |
| Super Space-Time Tournament | After the defeat of Fu, warriors from different space-time gather to participate in the Super Space-Time Tournament organized by Aeos, the former Supreme Kai of Time. Goku and his allies face formidable opponents. |
Super Dragon Ball Heroes is a spin-off of the popular anime series Dragon Ball. This part of the series promises to bring back old heroes and powerful villains to give the audience top-notch battles full of eyes. Super Dragon Ball Heroes kicked things off on a larger scale by creating a whole new universe within the Dragon Ball universe.
27. Spirited Away
| Spirited Away | Information |
|---|---|
| Kanji | 千と千尋の神隠し |
| Rōmaji | Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi |
| Directed by | Hayao MiyazakiKirk Wise (English) |
| Produced by | Toshio Suzuki |
| Written by | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Starring | Rumi HiiragiMiyu IrinoMari NatsukiYumi TamaiTakeshi NaitoYasuko SawaguchiTsunehiko KamijōTakehiko OnoBunta Sugawara |
| Music by | Joe Hisaishi |
| Cinematography | Atsushi Okui |
| Art Directed by | Yoji Takeshige |
| Editing by | Takeshi Seyama |
| Studio | Studio Ghibli |
| Production | Tokuma ShotenNippon Television NetworkDentsuWalt Disney International Japan/Buena Vista Home EntertainmentTohokushinsha FilmMitsubishi |
| Distributed by | Toho |
| Release date(s) | July 20, 2001 (Japan) |
| Running time | 124 minutes |
| Budget | ¥1.9 billion($15–19 million) |
| Box office | ¥30.4 billion($289.1 million) |
| Premise | Spirited Away (千と千尋の神隠し) follows the story of Chihiro, a young girl who enters the world of gods and spirits after her parents are turned into pigs by the witch Yubaba. |
| Inspiration | The film was inspired by the ten-year-old daughter of Hayao Miyazaki’s personal friend, director Seiji Okuda, who became the model for the protagonist, Chihiro. |
| Awards | Spirited Away received numerous accolades, including the Golden Bear Award at the 52nd Berlin International Film Festival and the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, making it the first anime film to win an Oscar in that category. |
| Animation Style | Studio Ghibli’s distinctive animation style is showcased in Spirited Away, complemented by its atmospheric visuals and a captivating soundtrack composed by Joe Hisaishi. |
Spirited Away is an anime movie that premiered in 2001 and became the most successful animated feature film in history, grossing over $347 million worldwide. This anime was successful in all aspects and received many positive comments about the film’s content, details, and meanings.
28. Your Name
| Your Name | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Your Name |
| Japanese Title | 君の名は。 (Kimi no Na wa.) |
| English Title | Your Name. |
| Director | Makoto Shinkai |
| Script | Makoto Shinkai |
| Producer | Noritaka Kawaguchi, Genki Kawamura |
| Animation | Masashi Ando |
| Character Design | Masayoshi Tanaka |
| Music | Radwimps |
| Release Date (Japan) | August 26, 2016 |
| Release Date (International) | April 7, 2017 (Funimation), 2023 (GKIDS) |
| Genre | Romance, Drama, Fantasy |
| Running Time | 106 minutes |
| Language | Japanese |
| Studio | CoMix Wave Films |
| Box Office | $358 million |
| Awards | Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year, Best Animated Film at 49th Sitges Film Festival, and more |
Your Name is an anime movie of the romance, fantasy, and fantasy genre directed by Shinkai Makoto. The film tells the story of a high school girl Mitsuha and a beautiful love story with a young man Taki. In addition to excellent content, the film’s success is also thanks to the good soundtrack and beautiful graphics. The audience always considers your Name one of the best-animated movie titles of 2017.
29. My Neighbor Totoro
| My Neighbor Totoro | Information |
|---|---|
| Title (Japanese) | となりのトトロ |
| Title (Romaji) | Tonari no Totoro |
| Director | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Producer | Toru Hara |
| Writer | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Studio | Studio Ghibli |
| Release Date | April 16, 1988 |
| Running Time | 100 minutes |
| Box Office | ¥588 million |
| Music | Joe Hisaishi |
| Narrated by | Lisa Michelson (Streamline), Dakota Fanning (Disney) |
| Main Voice Cast | Chika Sakamoto, Noriko Hidaka, Hitoshi Takagi |
| Original Story | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Screenplay | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Character Design | Yoshiharu Sato |
| Art Direction | Kazuo Oga |
| Sound Direction | Shigeharu Shiba |
| Theme Song | “Tonari no Totoro” by Azumi Inoue |
| Animation Production Company | Studio Ghibli |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Language | Japanese |
| Aspect Ratio | 1.85:1 |
| Sound Mix | Dolby Stereo |
| Budget | ¥500 million |
My Neighbor Totoro is an anime film associated with the childhood of many people. This movie brings back fond childhood memories for viewers of any age. The film is about the Kusakabe family’s family move to the countryside. There, they met a giant beast named Totoro. Totoro can bring about miracles like in fairy tales, which can make any child feel happy when they see it.
30. Blood Lad
| Blood Lad | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Blood Lad |
| Author | Yuuki Kodama |
| Genres | Shonen manga, Supernatural, Action, Comedy |
| Original Run | July 7, 2013 – September 8, 2013 |
| Studio | Brain’s Base |
| Licensed by | Viz Media (North America) |
| Manga | Blood Lad |
| Manga Author | Yuuki Kodama |
| Manga Published | September 4, 2009 – September 3, 2016 |
| Volumes | 17 |
| Anime Adaptation | Yes |
| Opening Theme Song | “ViViD” by May’n |
| Ending Theme Song | “BLOODY HOLIC” by Yuuka Nanri |
| Character Designer | Kenji Fujisaki |
| Music Composer | Yuuki Hayashi |
| Main Protagonist | Staz Charlie Blood |
| Main Female Protagonist | Fuyumi Yanagi |
| Setting | Demon World |
| Plot Summary | Blood Lad follows the story of Staz Charlie Blood, |
Blood Lad is a Vampire named Staz, an otaku who is a massive fan of manga and anime. One day, a human girl named Yanagi Fuyumi was lost in the Demon World in the territory where Staz was the boss. Blood Lad’s adventures begin when Fuyumi becomes a ghost, and Staz vows to revive her.
31. Snow White with the Red Hair
| Snow White with | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Snow White with the Red Hair |
| Japanese Title | 赤髪の白雪姫 (Akagami no Shirayukihime) |
| Genre | Shōjo, Fantasy, Romance |
| Author | Sorata Akizuki |
| Manga Published by | Hakusensha |
| Original Run | August 10, 2006 – Present |
| Volumes | 26 (Ongoing) |
| Anime TV Series | Warner Bros., Hakusensha, Showgate, The Klockworx, Hakuhodo DY Media Partners, Docomo Anime Store, BS Fuji, Bones |
| Original Run (Anime) | July 6, 2015 – March 28, 2016 |
| Episodes | 24 + OVA (List of episodes) |
| Director | Masahiro Andō |
| Screenplay | Deko Akao |
| Music | Michiru Ōshima |
| Animation Studio | Bones |
| Licensed by | Funimation (North America), Anime Limited (UK), Madman Entertainment (Australia) |
| Opening Theme | “Yasashii Kibou” by Saori Hayami (Season 1), “Sono Koe ga Chizu ni Naru” by Saori Hayami (Season 2) |
| Ending Theme | “Kizuna ni Nosete” by Eyelis (Season 1), “Page Kimi to Tsuzuru Monogatari” by Eyelis (Season 2) |
| Manga Sales | Over 8 million copies sold (as of July 2023) |
| Anime Film | Snow White with the Red Hair: Nandemonai Takaramono Kazeyomi-hen |
| Film Release | October 8, 2016 |
| Film Runtime | 24 minutes |
Snow White with the Red Hair is a shojo anime series revolving around Shirayuki, a beautiful girl who works at a village infirmary. After being noticed and pursued by the kingdom’s prince, she flees and meets Zen, the prince of a neighboring country. She admires Zen’s courage and decides to stay by his side as a doctor.
32. InuYasha
| InuYasha | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | InuYasha |
| Author | Rumiko Takahashi |
| Genres | Shonen, Action, Adventure, Romance, Fantasy |
| Original Run | October 2000 – September 2004 |
| Studio | Sunrise |
| Main Characters | InuYasha, Kagome, Miroku, Sango, Shippo, Sesshomaru |
| Plot | InuYasha follows the adventures of Kagome Higurashi, a modern-day teenager who falls into a well and is transported to ancient Japan. Together, they embark on a quest to recover the scattered shards of the powerful Shikon Jewel, encountering various allies and enemies along the way. The series combines action, fantasy, romance, and folklore in a captivating storyline. |
| Legacy | InuYasha has gained a significant following and remains popular even after its initial run. It has spawned movies and a sequel series, InuYasha: The Final Act, concluding the story. The anime has also inspired spin-off manga and merchandise, continuing to resonate with fans worldwide. |
| English Adaptation | InuYasha was licensed for an English adaptation by Viz Media, airing on Adult Swim and released on DVD and Blu-ray. The English voice cast includes notable actors such as Richard Ian Cox as InuYasha and Kelly Sheridan as Sango. |
| Cultural References | InuYasha incorporates Japanese folklore and mythology, referencing historical figures like the priestess Kikyo and the demon Naraku. It explores themes of friendship, redemption, and the struggle between good and evil. |
| Impact | InuYasha’s compelling characters, intricate plot, and blend of genres have contributed to its enduring popularity. It has influenced subsequent anime and manga series and introduced international viewers to Japanese folklore and culture. |
The anime series InuYasha is adapted from the manga of the same name, a famous Japanese animation work by female author Takahashi Rumiko. The story follows InuYasha’s quest to find the Shikon no Tama jewel, a treasure that can increase his power. This is a popular anime series with the international otaku community.
33. Spice and Wolf
| Spice and Wolf | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | 狼と香辛料, Ōkami to Kōshinryō |
| Animation Work | Imagin (Season 1), Brain’s Base, Marvy Jack (Season 2) |
| Original Run | January 9, 2008 – September 24, 2009 |
| Episodes | 13 (Season 1), 13 (Season 2) |
| Genre | Drama, Romance |
| Director | Yoshiaki Iwasaki |
| Scriptwriter | Michiko Itō |
| Character Designer | Haruko Iizuka |
| Music Composer | Megumi Ōhashi |
| Licensed by | Funimation Entertainment |
| Streaming Platform | Funimation |
| Total Episodes | 26 episodes (including two specials) |
Spice and Wolf is adapted from the famous light novel series of the same name. The anime’s content is set in medieval Europe and revolves around the main character, the young merchant Kraft Lawrence. He traveled all over the world doing business to open his shop. On his journey, he accidentally meets a wolf god named Holo. Kraft and Holo start an adventure together and help each other to overcome difficulties.
34. Angel Beats
| Angel Beats | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Angel Beats! |
| Genres | Drama, Supernatural, Comedy, Action |
| Main Protagonist | Yuzuru Otonashi |
| Main Antagonist | Angel/Kanade Tachibana |
| Director | Seiji Kishi |
| Studio | P.A. Works |
| Original Run | April 3, 2010 – June 26, 2010 |
| Episodes | 13 |
| Manga Adaptation | Yes |
| Prequel | Mini-novel |
| Original Concept | Jun Maeda |
| Screenplay | Jun Maeda |
| Original Character Design | Na-Ga |
| Notable Characters | Yuri Nakamura, Hideki Hinata, Ayato Naoi, Yui, and more |
| Themes | Life, Death, Regrets, Rebellion against God |
| Music | Opening Theme: “My Soul, Your Beats!” |
If anyone is a fan of anime romance – comedy, surely you can’t help but know Angel Beats! This is a really different series, with incredible plot twists and unexpected twists and turns. Angel Beats! brought a lot of emotions and touched the hearts of every viewer.
35. Yona of the Dawn
| Yona of the Dawn | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Yona of the Dawn |
| Japanese Title | 暁のヨナ (Akatsuki no Yona) |
| Genre | Adventure, Epic fantasy, Romance |
| Manga | Written and illustrated by Mizuho Kusanagi |
| Published by | Hakusensha |
| English Publisher | Viz Media |
| Original run | August 5, 2009 – present |
| Volumes | 41 (As of May 2023) |
| Anime Television Series | Produced by Pierrot |
| Directed by | Kazuhiro Yoneda |
| Written by | Shinichi Inotsume |
| Music by | Kunihiko Ryo |
| Studio | Pierrot |
| Licensed by | Funimation (North America) |
| Original Network | AT-X, Tokyo MX, Sun TV, TV Aichi, RKK, BS11 |
| Original run (Anime) | October 7, 2014 – March 24, 2015 |
| Episodes | 24 episodes + 3 OVAs |
| Opening Theme | “Akatsuki no Yona” by Kunihiko Ryo |
| Ending Theme | “Yoru” by Vistlip (First ending), “Akatsuki no Hana” by Cyntia (Second ending) |
| Original Video Animations | Three OVAs bundled with manga’s limited edition volumes |
| OVA Release Dates | September 18, 2015 (1st OVA), August 19, 2016 (2nd OVA), December 20, 2016 (3rd OVA) |
The plot of Yona of the Dawn follows a country called Kouka, discovered by the Crimson Dragon God. He restored power and prosperity in Kouka with the help of the four Dragon warriors. But after his death, the four Dragon Warriors went their separate ways and founded five different tribes in the kingdom.
36. Violet Evergarden
| Violet Evergarden | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Violet Evergarden |
| Author | Kana Akatsuki |
| Genres | Drama, Fantasy |
| Studio | Kyoto Animation |
| Director | Taichi Ishidate |
| Main Character | Violet Evergarden |
| Plot | Violet Evergarden, a former soldier, becomes an Auto Memory Doll—a ghostwriter who translates people’s thoughts and emotions into heartfelt letters. As she interacts with various clients, Violet embarks on a journey of self-discovery, understanding human emotions, and healing from her own traumatic past. |
| Awards | Best Animation at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2019, Anime of the Year at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2019, Grand Prize in the Animation Division at the Japan Media Arts Festival Awards 2019, Best Drama at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival 2019 |
| Additional Facts | Light Novel Release: May 25, 2015, English Publisher: Viz Media, Netflix Streaming Availability: Yes, English Dub: Yes, Movie Release: Violet Evergarden: The Movie (September 18, 2020), Sequel Film: Violet Evergarden: The Movie 2 (TBA), Spin-off Anime Series: Violet Evergarden Gaiden: Eien to Jidou Shuki Ningyou (2019), Spin-off Anime Film: Violet Evergarden Side Story: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll (2019) |
Violet Evergarden is considered a blockbuster in the anime world. The anime series with the most elaborate preparation and promotion of the famous Kyoto Animation studio. What makes this anime so successful is the beautiful and perfect graphics to the smallest detail. The film is full of scenery and fanciful colors and is carefully invested.
37. Kiki’s Delivery Service
| Kikis Delivery Service | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Kiki’s Delivery Service |
| Kanji | 魔女の宅急便 |
| Rōmaji | Majo No Takkyūbin |
| Directed by | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Produced by | Studio Ghibli |
| Screenplay by | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Based on | “Kiki’s Delivery Service” by Eiko Kadono |
| Music by | Joe Hisaishi |
| Cinematography | Shigeo Sugimura |
| Studio | Studio Ghibli |
| Release date | July 29, 1989 |
| Running time | 102 minutes |
| Budget | ¥800 million (estimated) (US$6.9 million) |
| Box office | ¥2.2 billion (estimated) (US$18 million) |
| Genre | Fantasy, Adventure, Coming-of-Age |
| Theme Song | “Rouge no Dengon” by Yumi Matsutoya |
Kiki’s Delivery Service is an exciting anime about the first independent life of an apprentice witch named Kiki. This is an anime that brought home many awards for Studio Ghibli. Kiki’s Delivery Service had the highest box office grossing of 1989 in Japan with over 2 million spectators. Walt Disney Pictures provided an English dub for the film in 1997, and it premiered in the United States during the 1998 Seattle International Film Festival.
38. Princess Mononoke
| Princess Mononoke | Information |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Hayao Miyazaki |
| Produced by | Toshio Suzuki |
| Written by | Hayao Miyazaki (original dub) Neil Gaiman (English Dub) |
| Music by | Joe Hisaishi |
| Cinematography by | Atsushi Okui |
| Editor(s) | Takeshi Seyama |
| Studio(s) | Tokuma Shoten Studio Ghibli Nippon Television Network Dentsu |
| Distributor | Toho (Japan) Miramax Films (International) |
| Released | July 12, 1997 (Japan) October 29, 1999 (United States) |
| Running time | 133 minutes |
| Language | Japanese |
| Preceded by | Whisper of the Heart |
| Followed by | My Neighbors the Yamadas |
| Anime Genre | Epic, Historical, Fantasy, Adventure |
| Setting | Late Muromachi period of Japan |
| Main Characters | Ashitaka, San, Lady Eboshi, Moro, Forest Spirit |
| Animation Studio | Studio Ghibli |
| Box Office | ¥15.5 billion (Japan) $159.4 million (Worldwide) |
| Awards | Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year Blue Ribbon Award for Best Film |
| Cultural Impact | Contributed to the international success of Studio Ghibli |
| Themes | Conflict between nature and industrialization, preservation of the environment |
| Artistic Style | Hand-drawn animation with computer-generated and digital paint elements |
| Notable Technique | Extensive personal involvement of Hayao Miyazaki in the animation process |
| English Voice Cast | Claire Danes, Billy Crudup, Minnie Driver, Billy Bob Thornton |
Princess Mononoke is one of the best cartoons of all time. This is a classic fantasy epic animated work by legendary director Hayao Miyazaki. Not only successful thanks to the meaningful message behind the film’s story, but Princess Mononoke is also known for its diverse and unique character system. Moreover, the movie’s music also contributed to this anime’s great success.
39. Black Butler
| Black Butler | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Black Butler |
| Author | Yana Toboso |
| Genre | Dark comedy, Dark fantasy, Supernatural |
| Setting | Victorian-era London |
| Main Characters | Ciel Phantomhive, Sebastian Michaelis |
| Plot | Ciel seeks revenge with the help of demon butler Sebastian |
| Manga Volumes | 32 (as of July 2023) |
| Anime TV Series | Aired from October 2008 to September 2010 |
Black Butler is an anime series of the comedy shounen genre. This anime is set in the 19th-century Victorian era, with a classic and mysterious twist. The content revolves around a contract between an evil butler, Sebastian Michaelis, and a boy, Ciel Phantomhive. The audience loves the film for its extremely attractive characters and plot.
40. Date A Live
| Date A Live | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Date A Live |
| Author | Kōshi Tachibana |
| Illustrator | Tsunako |
| Genres | Romance, Harem, Supernatural |
| Original Run | April 6, 2013 – June 22, 2013 |
| Studio | AIC Plus+ |
| Episodes | 12 |
| Adapted From | Light novel series by Kōshi Tachibana |
| Main Protagonist | Shido Itsuka |
| Supporting Characters | Yamai sisters, Miku Izayoi, Ellen Mira Mathers, Isaac Westcott, Kaguya Yamai, Yuzuru Yamai |
| Director (Season 1) | Keitaro Motonaga |
| Production Studio (Season 1) | AIC Plus+ |
| Opening Theme (Season 1) | “Date A Live” by Sweet ARMS |
| Ending Theme (Season 1) | “Hatsukoi Winding Road” (Episode 1), “Save The World” (Episode 2 and onwards) |
| Director (Season 2) | Keitaro Motonaga |
| Production Studio (Season 2) | Production IMS |
| Opening Theme (Season 2) | “Trust in you” by sweet ARMS |
| Ending Theme (Season 2) | “Day to Story” by Kaori Sadohara |
| Production Studio (Season 3) | JC Staff |
| Opening Theme (Season 3) | “I Swear” by sweet ARMS |
| Ending Theme (Season 3) | “Last Promise” by Eri Yamazaki |
| Director (Season 4) | Jun Nakagawa |
| Production Studio (Season 4) | Geek Toys |
| Opening Theme (Season 4) | “OveR” by Miyu Tomita |
| Ending Theme (Season 4) | “S.O.S” by sweet ARMS |
| Fifth Season | “Date A Live V” or “Date A Live 5” |
| Movie | Date A Live: Mayuri Judgement |
| Blu-ray and DVD Release Date | February 26, 2016 |
Date A Live is adapted from one of Japan’s best-selling light novel series. The anime’s plot follows the turning point in the life of the main character, Shidou, after he meets a mysterious girl. Date A Live is unique because the anime version premiered in its entirety before the final volume of the original light novel was published.
41. Guilty Crown
| Guilty Crown | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | ギルティクラウン |
| Rating | 7.6/10 |
| Genre | Sci-Fi, Super Power, Action |
| Release | October 13, 2011 |
| Platform | Anime |
| Main Characters | Shu Ouma, Inori Yuzuriha, Gai Tsutsugami |
| Plot Summary | Guilty Crown is a 2011 Japanese anime set in a dystopian future where Japan is plagued by the “Apocalypse Virus.” The story follows Shu Ouma, a high school student who gains the power to extract weapons from people’s hearts. He becomes involved with the resistance group “Funeral Parlor” and their mission to free Japan from the oppressive GHQ organization. Shu must confront his own inner demons and make difficult choices to determine the fate of the country. |
| Staff | Directed by Tetsuro Araki and supervised by Hiroyuki Yoshino, Guilty Crown features original character designs by Redjuice and character designs by Hiromi Katō. The music is composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, with the opening theme “My Dearest” performed by Koeda and the ending theme “Departures あなたにおくるアイの歌” performed by Egoist. |
| Manga Adaptation | Guilty Crown has a manga adaptation serialized in Gangan Comics’ Monthly Shōnen Gangan. |
| Spin-off Visual Novel | A spin-off visual novel titled “Guilty Crown: Lost Christmas” is being developed by Nitroplus. |
| Setting | The anime is set in 2039, ten years after the “Lost Christmas” chaos caused by the “Apocalypse Virus.” Japan is under martial law by the GHQ, and Shu Ouma joins Funeral Parlor to restore Japan’s independence. |
| Premiere and Simulcast | Guilty Crown premiered at the New York Anime Festival and was simulcasted by Funimation Entertainment. |
| Music | The anime’s music is composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, with Supercell providing the opening theme and Egoist performing the ending theme. |
| Reception | Guilty Crown has a rating of 7.6/10 and received mixed reviews, praised for its animation and music but criticized for its pacing and character development. It remains popular among fans of sci-fi and action anime. |
Guilty Crown is an anime television series of the action and adventure genre. This series combines beautiful graphics, fascinating character personalities, and a compelling main story. Everything about Guilty Crown is impressive, from the supporting characters and the background to the epic action scenes.
42. Deadman Wonderland
| Deadman Wonderland | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Deadman Wonderland |
| Author | Jinsei Kataoka, Kazuma Kondou |
| Genres | Action, Horror, Science fiction, Psychological thriller |
| Studio | Manglobe |
| Director | Koichi Hatsumi |
| Music | NARASAKI |
| Licensed by | Funimation |
| Original run | April 17, 2011 – July 3, 2011 |
| Main Characters | Ganta Igarashi, Shiro, Yo Takami, Nagi Kengamine |
| Plot | Deadman Wonderland follows the story of Ganta Igarashi, a young boy falsely accused and sent to a privatized prison where inmates must participate in dangerous games to survive. Ganta discovers his ability to manipulate his own blood as a weapon. As he seeks the truth behind his wrongful conviction, he uncovers the secrets of Deadman Wonderland. |
| Reception | Deadman Wonderland received mixed reviews, praised for its dark atmosphere and intriguing premise. It gained a cult following among psychological thriller fans. |
| Merchandise | Various merchandise available, including Blu-ray, DVD, soundtracks, and official merchandise featuring the characters and artwork from the series. |
| Conclusion | Deadman Wonderland is a thrilling anime series exploring survival, injustice, and the human psyche. It captivates a dedicated fan base with its unique setting and captivating storyline. |
Deadman Wonderland is about a 14-year-old student, Ganta Igarashi. Ganta was among those who escaped death in the rubble after the Great Tokyo Earthquake. Deadman Wonderland is a sad and tragic anime, with emotions overflowing in every scene. Although the content is very realistic and somewhat cruel, this is definitely an anime worth watching.
43. The Promised Neverland
| The Promised Neverland | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | The Promised Neverland |
| Director | Mamoru Kanbe |
| Script Writer | Toshiya Ono |
| Character Designer | Kazuaki Shimada |
| Composer | Takahiro Obata |
| Studio | CloverWorks |
| Genre | Mystery, Thriller, Psychological, Drama |
| Original Run | Season 1: January 11 – March 29, 2019 Season 2: January 8 – March 26, 2021 |
| Episodes | Season 1: 12 episodes Season 2: 11 episodes |
| Timeslot | Fuji TV (Noitamina) (JP) Adult Swim (Toonami) (US) |
| Streaming Platforms | Netflix, FunimationNow, Hulu, Crunchyroll, HIDIVE (Subtitled) |
| Opening Theme | “Touch Off” by UVERworld |
| Ending Theme | “Zettai Zetsumei” by Cö shu Nie |
| Main Characters | Emma, Norman, Ray, Isabella |
| Plot Summary | The story follows a group of orphans living in Grace Field House, an apparently idyllic orphanage. |
The Promised Neverland is an anime title with a super brain-hacking plot and is extremely attractive to anime fans worldwide. The Promised Neverland has unexpected episodes, breathtakingly tense situations, and unpredictable episodes that appear denser and denser.
44. Hellsing
| Hellsing | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Hellsing |
| First released (Japanese) | October 10, 2001 |
| First released (English) | October 4, 2003 |
| Director(s) | Umanosuke Iida (chief), Yasunori Urata |
| Writer(s) | Chiaki J. Konaka, Yuuji Hosono |
| Character Designer(s) | Toshiharu Murata |
| Composer(s) | Yasushi Ishii |
| Studio | Gonzo |
| Episodes | 13 |
| Original Run | October 10, 2001 – January 16, 2002 |
| English Network | Starz’s Encore Action |
| Main Characters | Alucard, Seras Victoria, Integra Hellsing, Walter C. Dornez |
| Genres | Action, Horror, Supernatural, Vampire |
| Plot Summary | Hellsing follows the secret organization known as the Hellsing Organization, led by Sir Integral Wingates Hellsing, in their mission to protect England from supernatural threats. The organization’s most formidable weapon is Alucard, a powerful vampire. Together with Seras Victoria, a former police officer turned vampire, and other members of Hellsing, they confront supernatural creatures and organizations seeking to bring chaos and destruction. The anime explores themes of darkness, power, and morality. |
The vampire is a prevalent theme in anime series, but there are only a few that impress, one of which is Hellsing. The story is set in England, where vampires and zombies still exist. The Hellsing Organization silently carries out a noble and dangerous mission: to destroy the evil Vampires that harm humans and ghouls.
45. Black Lagoon
| Black Lagoon | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Black Lagoon |
| Director | Sunao Katabuchi |
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Crime, Drama |
| Source Material | Manga |
| Manga Author | Rei Hiroe |
| Licensed by | Funimation |
| Main Characters | Rokurou “Rock” Okajima, Revy “Two Hands”, Dutch “The Boss”, Benny “The Hacker” |
| Setting | Roanapur, Thailand |
| Plot Summary | Follows the adventures of a crew of mercenaries |
| English Voice Cast | Brad Swaile (Rock), Maryke Hendrikse (Revy), Dean Redman (Dutch), Brian Drummond (Benny) |
| Japanese Voice Cast | Daisuke Namikawa (Rock), Megumi Toyoguchi (Revy), Tsutomu Isobe (Dutch), Hiroaki Hirata (Benny) |
| Music Composer | Edison |
Black Lagoon is an anime series about the underworld, full of crime, alcohol, guns, and the killing of people worldwide. Although the film is bloody and violent, Black Lagoon is still worthy of a good anime about action and crime.
46. Psycho-Pass
| Psycho Pass | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Psycho-Pass |
| Director | Naoyoshi Shiotani |
| Writer | Gen Urobuchi |
| Studio | Production I.G |
| Original Run | October 2012 – March 2013 |
| Protagonist | Akane Tsunemori |
| Setting | Futuristic Japan |
| Plot Summary | In a society where a person’s mental state can be quantified and |
| Reception | Psycho-Pass received critical acclaim for its compelling storyline |
| Awards | – Newtype Anime Awards: Best Director |
| Music | Opening Theme: “abnormalize” by Ling Tosite Sigure |
| Season 2 | Director: Kiyotaka Suzuki |
| Movie | Title: Psycho-Pass: The Movie |
Psycho-Pass is an anime of the detective, criminal, and mystery genres. The anime’s content is about the struggle between good and evil, reflecting on the social reality of human control. This is an intense character-building anime series with a plot that attracts viewers until the last minute.
47. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
| Ghost in the | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex |
| Kanji | 攻殻機動隊 STAND ALONE COMPLEX |
| Romaji | Kōkaku Kidōtai Sutando Arōn Konpurekkusu |
| Other | Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Cidade Assombrada (Portuguese), Призрак в доспехах: Синдром одиночки (Russian), 攻殼機動隊 STAND ALONE COMPLEX (Chinese (Taiwan)) |
| Director | Kenji Kamiyama |
| Writer | Dai Sato, Jun’ichi Fujisaku, Kenji Kamiyama, Nobuhisa Terado, Shōtarō Suga, Yoshiki Sakurai |
| Studio | Production I.G |
| Duration | 25 min/episode |
| Episodes | 26 Episodes |
| Rating | R – 17+ (violence & profanity) |
| Composer | Yoko Kanno |
| Opening Theme | Inner Universe |
| Closing Theme | Lithium Flower |
| Sequel | Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG |
| Compilation | S.A.C: The Laughing Man |
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a popular anime series debuting in 2002. The story is set in a future world where the line between living in the digital world and real life is slowly blurred.
48. The Ancient Magus’ Bride
| The Ancient Magus | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | The Ancient Magus’ Bride |
| Author | Kore Yamazaki |
| Genres | Fantasy, Romance, Supernatural |
| Studio | Wit Studio |
| Director | Norihiro Naganuma |
| Main Protagonist | Chise Hatori |
| Setting | England |
| Synopsis | The story follows Chise Hatori, a young girl who is bought at an auction by Elias Ainsworth, a powerful mage with a skull-like head. Elias takes Chise as his apprentice and makes her his bride, embarking on a journey into the world of magic and supernatural creatures. Together, they unravel the mysteries of the magical realm while exploring their deepening bond. |
| Reception | The Ancient Magus’ Bride received critical acclaim for its stunning animation, atmospheric storytelling, and complex characters. It was praised for its emotional depth and exploration of themes such as love, identity, and acceptance. The anime was well-received by both fans and critics, gaining a dedicated following and earning several awards and nominations. |
| Source Material | The Ancient Magus’ Bride is an anime adaptation of the manga series written and illustrated by Kore Yamazaki. The manga was serialized in Monthly Comic Blade and has gained a strong fan base for its captivating story and beautiful artwork. The anime faithfully adapts the source material, bringing its rich world and characters to life on the screen. |
| Opening Theme Song | “Here” by JUNNA |
| Ending Theme Song | “Clockwork Quick and Lightning Slow” by Bump of Chicken |
| English Publisher | Seven Seas Entertainment |
| Available Streaming Platforms | Crunchyroll, Funimation, VRV, HIDIVE, Amazon Prime Video |
| DVD Release Date | July 4, 2018 (English Release) |
| Blu-ray Release Date | July 4, 2018 (English Release) |
The Ancient Magus’ Bride is a well-received anime series by many fans. The anime follows Chise Hatori and her fateful meeting with a man named Magus. He is a wizard with strange great powers. The unique thing is that he has the he ad of an animal. Magus announced that Chise would become his apprentice and bride.
49. Darker than Black
| Darker than Black | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Darker than Black |
| Creator | Tensai Okamura |
| Studio | Bones |
| Original Run | April 5, 2007 – September 28, 2007 |
| Episodes | 25 |
| Genre | Action, Science Fiction, Mystery |
| Main Characters | Hei, Yin, Huang, Misaki Kirihara |
| Plot | Darker than Black is set in a world where an abnormal territory called Hell’s Gate appeared in Tokyo, altering the sky and granting special abilities to individuals known as Contractors. These Contractors, used as spies and assassins, can kill without remorse. The story follows Hei, the Black Reaper, and his team as they navigate the world of Contractors, secret organizations, and the mysteries surrounding Hell’s Gate. |
| Reception | Darker than Black received positive reviews for its complex storyline, well-developed characters, and stylish animation. It was praised for its dark atmosphere and intriguing blend of action, mystery, and supernatural elements. |
| Legacy | Darker than Black has had a lasting impact on the anime community and has inspired various spin-off manga and light novels. It remains a beloved series known for its unique concept and captivating storytelling. |
Darker than Black has a storyline throughout assassination missions and brain battles for rights between organizations. This is a good anime and very worth watching. Darker than Black won the Best Original Anime of The Year award, voted by GoGoplex.
50. Trinity Seven
| Trinity Seven | Information |
|---|---|
| Anime Name | Trinity Seven (トリニティセブン) |
| Manga Adaptation | Yes |
| Light Novel Adaptation | No |
| Director | Hiroshi Nishikiori |
| Composer | Technoboys Pulcraft Green-Fund |
| Studio | Seven Arcs |
| Episodes | 12 + 1 OVA |
| Duration | 24 minutes per episode |
| Broadcast Network | TV Tokyo |
| Streaming Service (English Sub) | Crunchyroll |
| Home Release (North America) | Sentai Filmworks |
| Genre | Action, Comedy, Ecchi, Harem, Magic, Romance, School, Supernatural |
| Main Protagonist | Arata Kasuga |
| Main Heroines | Lilith Asami, Arin Kannazuki, Levi Kazama, Mira Yamana, Akio Fudō, Yui Kurata, Lieselotte Sherlock |
| Plot Summary | Trinity Seven is a captivating anime series set in a magical school where protagonist Arata Kasuga enrolls to save his cousin Hijiri. The story revolves around the “Collapse Phenomenon” and Arata’s encounters with the Trinity Seven, a group of powerful magic users representing the seven deadly sins. Together, they navigate a world filled with action, comedy, and romance while unraveling the mysteries behind the phenomenon. With a total of 12 episodes and one OVA, Trinity Seven offers 24 minutes of excitement per episode, enchanting viewers with its vibrant animation and memorable characters. |
Trinity Seven is a fantasy romance anime series adapted from the manga of the same name by author Ken Nao. The anime plot follows Arata Kasuga and his admission to the Royal Biblia Academy, a private magician school. Here Arata meets the Trinity Seven – seven powerful mages at the top of their respective fields who will help him in his goal of becoming a powerful mage.