If you're a fan of anime films, you've probably heard of Makoto Shinkai , the master behind visually stunning works and heartwarming stories. Known for hits like Your Name and Suzume , Shinkai has conquered the world with his unique style, blending romance, fantasy, and breathtaking landscapes. In this post, we've compiled 10 of Makoto Shinkai's best anime films for you to watch and be moved by. Get your popcorn (and tissues!) ready, because these animations promise to transport you to other worlds – literally.
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Makoto Shinkai's Best Anime Films – Top 10
10. Dareka no Manazashi
- MyAnimeList: 7,31
- Year: 2013
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 6 minutes
First, at just over six minutes, Dareka no Manazashi is a short animation that proves it doesn't take much time to touch your heart. In short, the story follows the relationship between an independent young woman and her widowed father, showing how time, distance, and maturation affect family bonds.
Despite its simplicity, the film is profound and moving, perfect for those who want a quick but memorable experience. Visually enchanting and full of emotion, it's an excellent gateway into Shinkai's sensitive universe.
09. She and Her Cat
- MyAnimeList: 7,25
- Year: 2002
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 4 min
This black and white short film marks Makoto Shinkai's directorial debut and already showcases his unique sensitivity. She and Her Cat tells the story of a lonely young woman's daily life through the eyes of her cat, in a simple yet profoundly poetic narrative.
Thus, even with modest animation, the short film is full of meaning and offers a melancholic perspective on loneliness and companionship. A gem for those who appreciate introspective stories and want to see where it all began for the creator of Your Name .
08. The Place Promised in Our Early Days
- MyAnimeList: 7,42
- Year: 2004
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes
In this film, Shinkai ventures into science fiction with a political and melancholic touch. Thus, The Place Promised in Our Early Days explores an alternate Japan divided after World War II, while following three teenagers and the promise that binds them.
It is one of the most dense films in his filmography, dealing with themes of memory, loss, and destiny. The slow, yet beautiful narrative is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack and the stunning landscapes that have become the director's trademark.
07. Children Who Chase Lost Voices
- MyAnimeList: 7,50
- Year: 2011
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 1 hour 56 minutes
Initially known as Shinkai's most "Ghibli" film, Children Who Chase Lost Voices delves into a universe of fantasy and mythology. The protagonist is a young girl who embarks on a journey to a mysterious underground world, where she grapples with loss and coming of age.
With action scenes, fantastic creatures, and richly detailed visuals, this film stands out for its grandeur and adventure. It's ideal for those seeking something beyond romance and wanting to see a different side of the director.
06. Voices of a Distant Star
- MyAnimeList: 7,09
- Year: 2002
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 24 min
Therefore, one of Shinkai's early successes, Voices of a Distant Star , is a science fiction short film that combines long-distance love with space travel. The story follows two young people separated by light-years, trying to stay in touch through messages as the distance between them grows.
Thus, what is most impressive is that Shinkai produced almost everything himself, from the script to the animation. It is a minimalist masterpiece that moves the viewer with its simplicity and the universal theme of longing.
Makoto Shinkai's Best Anime Films – Top 5
05. The Garden of Words
- MyAnimeList: 7,86
- Year: 2013
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 46 min
On the other hand, visually mesmerizing, The Garden of Words is a true painting in motion. The plot revolves around the encounter between a student and a mysterious woman, both trying to deal with their own conflicts amidst the beauty of Tokyo's gardens during the rain.
It's a short film, but with an intense emotional charge, exploring loneliness, connection, and maturity with great subtlety. For many, it's one of Shinkai's most poetic and visually stunning works.
04. 5 Centimeters per Second
- MyAnimeList: 7,55
- Year: 2007
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 3 episodes of 22 minutes each
Thus, one of Shinkai's most melancholic films, 5 Centimeters per Second, tells the story of a love interrupted by time and distance. Moreover, divided into three chapters, the film follows the unresolved feelings of two young people over the years.
With a contemplative pace and scenes that resemble paintings, this film is a true love letter to nostalgia. Ideal for those who have experienced a love that is in the past, but still resonates in the present.
Makoto Shinkai's Best Anime Films – Top 3
03. Suzume
- MyAnimeList: 8,26
- Year: 2022
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 2 hours 01 minute
On the other hand, Shinkai's latest success, Suzume, blends fantasy, action, and drama with a strong emotional backdrop. Thus, the protagonist embarks on a journey to close portals that threaten Japan with disaster, confronting grief and rediscovering her purpose.
Furthermore, with vibrant scenes, charismatic characters, and a memorable soundtrack, Suzume showcases the director's maturity in balancing entertainment and emotional depth. It's a thrilling adventure that also serves as a metaphor for overcoming challenges.
02. Weathering With You
- MyAnimeList: 8,27
- Year: 2019
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 1 hour 52 minutes
In this film, Shinkai combines romance with environmental and social issues. Initially, Weathering With You follows a young runaway who meets a girl with the power to control the weather, amidst a rainy and chaotic Tokyo.
Full of symbolism, breathtaking visual effects, and an immersive soundtrack, the film addresses themes such as sacrifice, choices, and the search for belonging. It's an intense and magical experience for those who loved Your Name .
01. Your Name
- MyAnimeList: 8,83
- Year: 2016
- Studio : CoMix Wave Films
- Duration : 1 hour 46 minutes
Finally, Makoto Shinkai's greatest success to date, Your Name, captivated the world with its engaging and original story. In short, the film follows two young people who mysteriously switch bodies and develop a deep connection, even without ever having met in person.
Thus, with a captivating narrative, thrilling plot twists, and spectacular visuals, Your Name is a true emotional rollercoaster. It's no wonder it became a global phenomenon—it's the kind of film that stays with you long after the end credits roll.
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