Top 15 Anime Movies Streaming on Netflix

If you’re an anime enthusiast with a Netflix subscription, your search ends here. Netflix boasts an impressive array of anime, including both TV series and movies. Today, our focus is solely on the latter. From the action-packed recent release, Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King, to classics like One Piece: Strong World and Gold, Netflix caters to all tastes. Dive into the captivating worlds of Ghibli Studios and Makoto Shinkai. Let’s delve into the finest anime movies available on Netflix without delay.

Disclaimer: Movie availability may vary by region. Please verify availability in your region before selecting your movie.

15. Maboroshi (2023)

Maboroshi, the latest creation from MAPPA Studios, known for JJK and AOT fame, emerged last year, captivating audiences with its unique plotline. An unexplained factory explosion halts the world clock, freezing time and unsettling the equilibrium. Two students encounter an enigmatic child, further disrupting the fragile balance.

Directed by the talent behind Toradora!, Fate/Stay Night, and more, this movie promises excellence. With outstanding animation by MAPPA and captivating music, it’s a cinematic treat. Despite a complex plot, the characters’ emotions are skillfully portrayed, making it a worthwhile experience.

• Japanese Title: Boku no Hero Academia the Movie 1: Futari no Hero, Boku no Hero Academia the Movie 2: Heroes: Rising & Boku no Hero Academia the Movie 3: World Heroes’ Mission
• Author: Kohei Horikoshi
• Studios: Bones
• Genre: Animation, Adventure, Action
• Duration: 1 hour 36 minutes
• IMDB/MAL: 7.3/7.6, 7.8/8.0 & 7.1/7.6

My Hero Academia, a Shonen anime, is cherished by fans for its action and engaging storyline, showcased in its three movies: Two Heroes (2018), Heroes Rising (2019), and World Heroes’ Mission (2021).

These non-canon movies offer genuine enjoyment, showcasing the fun and action-packed sides of our beloved MHA characters. Some action scenes within are truly insane and not to be missed.

13. One Piece Movies (2014)

• Japanese Title: One Piece Film: Red, One Piece: Stampede, One Piece Film: Strong World, One Piece Film: Gold
• Author: Eiichiro Oda
• Studios: Toei Animation
• Genre: Animation, Adventure, Action
• Duration: 1 hour 55 minutes, 1 hour 41 minutes, 1 hour 55 minutes, 2 hours
• IMDB/MAL: 6.7/7.83, 7.5/8.21, 7.5/8.07, 7.1/7.89

The world of One Piece expands with excellent canon and non-canon movies, a delight to watch. Netflix recently invested in One Piece (stocks) after the live-action’s success. Consequently, some of the best One Piece movies join Netflix’s anime library.

The One Piece movies on Netflix now include One Piece Film: Red, One Piece: Stampede, One Piece Film: Strong World, and One Piece Film: Gold.

Prior exposure to the anime or manga enhances the enjoyment of these films. For those unfamiliar, our definitive guide to starting One Piece is available. Specific episodes preceding these movies are outlined in our One Piece movies order guide. Nonetheless, the vibrant escapades of the Straw Hat Pirates continue in these films.

12. The Wind Rises (2013)

Ghibli ventures into biographical adaptation with this film, centering on the life of Jiro Horikoshi, creator of Japanese World War II fighter planes (A6M). Despite controversy, it remains a noteworthy addition to Ghibli’s repertoire.

Don’t worry; it will feature only serious dramas with a sprinkle of romance. If you’re a fan of dubs, you’ll have a great time with this movie as John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and more Hollywood stars have voiced it.

Explore The Wind Rises

11. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

Kiki’s Delivery Service is one of Ghibli’s most popular movies. It follows Kiki, a young witch, who moves to a coastal town with her cat Jiji. She starts a flying delivery business there and enjoys her solitary year, a village tradition.

As she doubts herself, her magical powers wane. Now, she must regain them by confronting her insecurities.

The plot of this film resonates with children due to its numerous themes. Considered one of the best children’s movies of all time, it offers yet another moving journey worth your time.

Explore Kiki’s Delivery Service

10. Violet Evergarden Movies (2019 & 2020)

• Japanese Title:Violet Evergarden Gaiden: Eien to Jidou Shuki Ningyou & Gekijouban Violet Evergarden
• Author: Kana Akatsuki
• Studios: Kyoto Animation
• Genre: Animation, Fantasy, Drama
• Duration: 1 hour 31 minutes & 2 hours 20 minutes
• IMDB/MAL: 7.4/8.4 & 8.3/8.9

One of the most exquisite anime you will ever watch is Violet Evergarden. Similar to the anime, its movies, namely Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll and Violet Evergarden: The Movie (2020), provide stunning visuals.

The anime tells diverse emotional tales, while the movies focus on two different stories in the Evergarden universe. You can still relate to Violet emotionally in these movies due to excellent characterization.

Violet’s trip aims to comprehend herself, the world, and her emotions—a thought-provoking journey for everyone. I highly recommend watching the anime first, then the movies. Grab some tissues.

9. Whisper of the Heart (1995)

Whisper of the Heart, a romance-fantasy drama from Studio Ghibli, captivates with its storyline. It follows Shizuku Tsukishima, a young bookworm, on her quest to find a potential soul mate after discovering that all the books she desires are already borrowed by a boy.

This blockbuster achieved the highest-grossing film of 1995 status in Japan, showcasing a beautiful romantic tale that appeals to every anime fan. Hayao Miyazaki consistently delivers satisfaction, doesn’t he?

Experience Whisper of the Heart today!

8. The Tale of Princess Kaguya (2013)

If you’re seeking a historical Ghibli film, consider adding Tale of The Princess Kaguya to your watchlist. The story unfolds when a bamboo cutter and his wife discover a tiny human inside a bamboo stalk. Raised as a lady, she remains an enigmatic figure.

What lies ahead for her? The movie primarily explores her confrontation with fate. Directed by the creator of the renowned “Grave of the Fireflies,” this film is another masterpiece.

Discover The Tale of Princess Kaguya

7. Castle in the Sky (1986)

Hayao Miyazaki presents a treasure hunt-esque story in the film Castle in the Sky. A young boy and girl team up to find a fabled floating castle, aided by a mafic crystal, evading pirates and others.

This movie’s adventure is evident, complemented by its magnificent visuals, compelling characters, and a soulful soundtrack, making it a memorable experience. Despite being released in the 80s, it remains one of Ghibli’s finest.

Explore Castle in the Sky.

6. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Howl’s Moving Castle, another Miyazaki masterpiece, remains celebrated. A witch curses a young woman to age prematurely, her only hope lies with a young wizard who traverses in a mobile castle.

The plot may initially amuse, yet this film offers a profoundly magical and surreal experience. Nominated for an Oscar and awarded Best Animation of the Year at the Tokyo International Anime Fair, Howl’s Moving Castle is a timeless classic.

Explore Howl’s Moving Castle.

5. Princess Mononoke (1997)

Princess Mononoke, an award-winning adventure from Studio Ghibli, has captivated audiences with its compelling characters and stunning visuals.

The story centers on Ashitaka, entangled in a conflict between a mining colony and forest gods while seeking a cure for a curse. Along his journey, he encounters Mononoke Hime, altering their destinies. This anime garnered numerous awards, notably the Best Picture at the 21st Japan Academy Awards.

Explore Princess Mononoke today.

4. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

My Neighbor Totoro exemplifies comfort films, remaining one of Ghibli’s best works. It follows two girls’ adventures with magical forest spirits as they move to the countryside to be near their dying mother.

Of all Ghibli movies I’ve seen, this one holds a special place in my heart. It’s calming and sweet, sure to keep you smiling throughout.

Explore My Neighbor Totoro today!

3. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End Of Evangelion (1997)

Neon Genesis Evangelion stands as one of anime’s greatest works. However, its ending faced severe backlash from fans, leading to death threats and abuse directed at creator Hideaki Anno.

In response, the team produced Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End Of Evangelion, presenting an alternate conclusion. It’s advised to view the anime before watching this movie, as it could otherwise detract from the overall experience.

Like the anime, this film offers a profound and thought-provoking experience following Shinji’s life. Anno, with this movie, pulled himself back after backlash and delivered a successful reply to toxic fans. I recommend starting the Neon Genesis Evangelion series to witness this true masterpiece.

Explore Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End Of Evangelion

2. A Silent Voice: The Movie (2016)

Considered one of the finest anime films ever made, A Silent Voice takes you on a roller coaster of emotions unlike any other. Wondering about the story of this soul-crushing movie? It depicts the lives of a boy who bullies Shouko Nishimiya, a classmate, and a deaf girl.

The movie’s central theme revolves around bullying and its aftermath. Shouko, a victim of bullying, decides to leave school. The perpetrator, Shouya Ishida, faces social isolation as a consequence. Later, he acknowledges his mistakes and seeks redemption. Will he achieve it?

This emotional film effectively portrays themes of sadness, bullying, guilt, and anxiety. I highly recommend streaming it on Netflix. Despite its predominantly sorrowful tone, the movie boasts exquisite animation and a captivating soundtrack. Its poignant finale leaves a lasting impact.

Experience A Silent Voice: The Movie

1. Spirited Away (2001)

Spirited Away, an Oscar-winning film by Studio Ghibli, stands as the highest-rated Ghibli movie of all time on IMDb and MAL. This cinematic masterpiece, crafted by the master Hayao Miyazaki, follows Chihiro, a young girl, on her journey through a fantastical realm ruled by spirits, witches, and gods.

Entering this realm, Chihiro discovers humans transformed into monstrous beings. Amidst the chaos, she endeavors to rescue her parents and find her way back home.

Before the Demon Slayer movie, Spirited Away held the record as Japan’s highest-grossing film from 2001 to 2020. It clinched the “Best Animated Feature” award at the 75th Academy Awards and numerous other accolades over the years, solidifying its status as a quintessential anime masterpiece.

Discover Spirited Away