If you are a fan of anime movies, you've probably heard of Makoto Shinkai , the master behind stunning visual works and heart stories. Known for hits such as Your Name and Suzume , Shinkai conquered the world with his unique style, mixing romance, fantasy and breathtaking landscapes. In this post, we have separated the top 10 Makoto Shinkai anime movies for you to watch and get emotional. Prepare the popcorn (and the handkerchiefs!), Because these animations promise to transport you to other worlds - literally.
Best Makoto Shinkai Anime Movies - Top 10
10. Dareka in Manazashi
- MyAnimeList: 7,31
- Year: 2013
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 06min
First, with just over six minutes, Dareka in Manazashi is a short animation that proves that it doesn't take much time to touch the heart. In short, history follows the relationship between an independent young woman and her widowed father, showing how time, distance and maturity affect family ties.
Despite its simplicity, the movie is deep and exciting, perfect for those who want a quick but striking experience. Visually charming and emotion -laden, it is an excellent gateway to Shinkai's sensitive universe.
09. She and her cat
- MyAnimeList: 7,25
- Year: 2002
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 04 min
This black and white short film is Makoto Shinkai's debut as director and already shows his unique sensitivity. She and Her Cat tells the daily life of a lonely young woman under the eyes of her cat in a simple but deeply poetic narrative.
Thus, even with a modest animation, the short is full of meaning and offers a melancholy perspective on loneliness and company. A jewelry for those who appreciate introspective stories and want to see where it all started for the creator of Your Name .
08. The Place Promissed in Our Early Days
- MyAnimeList: 7,42
- Year: 2004
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 1h 30min
In this movie, Shinkai ventures into science fiction with a political and melancholy touch. Thus, The Place Promissed in Our Early Days explores an alternative Japan divided after World War II, while following three teenagers and the promise that unites them.
It is one of the most dense filmography films, with memory themes, loss and destination. The slow but beautiful narrative is accompanied by an engaging soundtrack and stunning landscapes that are already trademark of the director.
07. Children Who Chase Lost Voices
- MyAnimeList: 7,50
- Year: 2011
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 1h 56min
At first, known as Shinkai's “Ghibli” movie, Children Who Chase Lost Voices plunges into a universe of fantasy and mythology. Thus, the protagonist is a young woman who embarks on a journey to a mysterious underground world, where she deals with loss and maturity.
With action scenes, fantastic creatures and a look rich in detail, this feature stands out for its grandeur and adventure. It is ideal for those looking for something beyond the romance and wants to see a different facet of the director.
06. Voices of a Distant Star
- MyAnimeList: 7,09
- Year: 2002
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 24 min
Therefore, one of the first hits of Shinkai, Voices of A Distant Star is a science fiction short that combines love for distance with space travel. The story follows two young people separated by light years, trying to keep in touch through messages as the distance between them grows.
Thus, the most impressive is that Shinkai produced almost everything alone, from script to animation. It is a minimalist masterpiece that thrills for the simplicity and the universal theme of longing.
Best Makoto Shinkai Anime Movies - Top 05
05. The Garden of Words
- MyAnimeList: 7,86
- Year: 2013
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 46min
On the other hand, visually hypnotizing, The Garden of Words is a real moving painting. The plot revolves around the meeting between a student and a mysterious woman, both trying to deal with their own conflicts amid the beauty of Tokyo's gardens during the rain.
It is a short movie, but with an intense emotional charge, exploring loneliness, connection and maturity very subtlety. For many, it is one of the most poetic and visually impressive works of Shinkai.
04. 5 Centimeters per Second
- MyAnimeList: 7,55
- Year: 2007
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 3 EPS of 22min
Thus, one of Shinkai's most melancholy films, 5 Centimeters Per Second narrates the story of a love interrupted by time and distance. In fact, it is divided into three chapters, the film follows the unresolved feelings of two young people over the years.
With a contemplative rhythm and scenes that look like paintings, this feature is a true love letter to nostalgia. Ideal for those who have lived a love that was in the past, but still echoes in the present.
Best Makoto Shinkai Anime Movies - Top 03
03. Suzume
- MyAnimeList: 8,26
- Year: 2022
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 2h 01min
On the other hand, Shinkai's latest success, Suzume mixes fantasy, action and drama with a strong emotional background. Thus, the protagonist embarks on a journey to close gates that threaten Japan with disasters, facing mourning and rediscovering his purpose.
In addition, with vibrant scenes, charismatic characters and a striking soundtrack, Suzume shows the director's maturity to balance entertainment and emotional depth. It is an exciting adventure that also works as a metaphor for overcoming.
02. Weathering With You
- MyAnimeList: 8,27
- Year: 2019
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 1h 52min
In this movie, Shinkai combines romance with environmental and social issues. At first, Weathering With You follows a young fugitive who meets a girl with the power to control time, amid a rainy and chaotic Tokyo.
Filled with symbolism, visual effects of breathtaking and an engaging trail, the film addresses topics such as sacrifice, choices and the search for belonging. It is an intense and magical experience for those who loved your name .
01. Your Name
- MyAnimeList: 8,83
- Year: 2016
- Studio : Comix Wave Films
- Duration : 1h 46min
Anyway, Makoto Shinkai's biggest hit to this day, Your Name has won the world with its surrounding and original story. In short, the film follows two young people who mysteriously change bodies and develop a deep connection, even without knowing themselves.
Thus, with a captivating narrative, exciting and spectacular visual twists, Your Name is a true roller coaster of feelings. No wonder it has become a global phenomenon - it's that kind of movie that is with you a long time after the final credits.
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