The most impactful and unique anime films of 2024 will be fondly remembered for years to come, their lineup consisting of exceptional original films, stellar adaptations, and film sequels that exceeded fan expectations. While fewer in number than the series released in 2024, each of the year's most memorable anime films showcased the industry's full capabilities—visually, emotionally, and narratively. And with the first anime releases of 2025 just around the corner, there's no better time to look back at the best anime films of the past year.
The Best Anime Movies – Top 10
10. Blue Lock: Nagi
Retelling the events of the first season from Seishirou Nagi's perspective, the film was both an excellent recap and prepared fans for the series' return. A blend of soccer action, heartbreaking comedy, and drama that explored the complicated bond between Nagi and Reo, Episode Nagi masterfully captured everything great about the franchise.
09. Trapezium
While it may never become as popular as some other anime subgenres, the idol theme will always find its niche within the community. Furthermore, its gems can be enjoyed by even those who aren't into the genre. One such work is Trapezium, a tender and dramatic idol film about four ambitious girls' journey to musical stardom.
08. Solo Leveling: ReAwakening
On the other hand, in recent years, anime has been expanding its horizons by adapting some of the best stories found in Korean web novels and manhwas. One such example is Solo Leveling from 2024. In short, Solo Leveling follows the story of Sung Jinwoo, a low-ranked Hunter chosen by this world's System to level up beyond his limitations.
07. Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction
Renowned manga artist Inio Asano's works have always been considered difficult to adapt into anime due to his detailed style and narration. However, 2024's Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction proves that, in the right hands, Asano's masterpieces can come to life!
06. Bocchi the Rock!
When it comes to recap films, it's hard for such compilations to stand out unless they add something remarkable to the source material. However, the 2024 Bocchi the Rock! film duology is an exception to the rule, being an astronomical box office success and a unique experience that even fans who have seen the series can appreciate for what it is.
The Best Anime Movies – Top 5
05. Uma Musume Pretty Derby: Beginning of a New Era
Uma Musume is a quirky franchise even by anime standards—the series' central gimmick is that its heroines are adorable horse girls passionately pursuing their racing ambitions. However, while its concept may be difficult to take seriously at first glance, Uma Musume has become a captivating and serious multimedia franchise since its debut in 2018.
04. The Colors Within
Anime has always excelled at telling gentle, intimate stories that, while not attempting to convey any specific message at first glance, manage to deeply affect viewers. Famous for her work at Kyoto Animation on projects like A Silent Voice and K-On!, director Naoko Yamada is a virtuoso of this gentle form of storytelling, her latest film— The Colors Within— being another excellent addition to her distinguished filmography.
The best anime movies – Top 03
03. Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain
Spinoffs and sequels to older anime franchises, especially those with such a strong classic following as Mononoke , can be tricky to pull off. However, to the relief of all fans of this old-school horror classic, Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain is a stellar addition to the original series, capturing the series' iconic charm while elevating it through today's advanced technology.
02. Haikyuu!! Movie: The Dumpster Battle
Haikyuu!! Movie: The Dumpster Battle is an explosive return to form for the franchise, packed with intense action moments, the series' signature dramatic storytelling, and stellar animation. The decisive showdown between the protagonists' team, Karasuno, and their old rivals, Nekoma, was worth the wait, now paving the way for the story's climax, which fans can only anticipate in the final film—which, hopefully, won't be released for too long.
01. Look Back
Finally, based on a one-shot by Tatsuki Fujimoto , the Look Back was highly anticipated by the mangaka's fanbase. Produced by a fledgling studio with very complicated source material to adapt, Look Back, however, exceeded all expectations, becoming one of the biggest anime film highlights of 2024.
So, what did you guys think of the list? Did we have any good releases last year? Anyway, leave a comment and see you next time.
