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 peak capabilities – visually, emotionally, and narratively. And, with the first anime premieres of 2025 on the horizon, there's no better time to reminisce about 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 to prepare fans for the series' return. A blend of soccer action, hilarious comedy, and drama that explored the complicated bond between Nagi and Reo, Episode Nagi masterfully captured everything good about the franchise.
9. Trapezium
Although it never became as popular as some other anime subgenres, the idol theme will always have its niche within the community. Furthermore, even those who don't usually like the genre can appreciate its gems. One such work is Trapezium, a tender and dramatic idol film about the journey of four ambitious girls 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. This is the case with Solo Leveling from 2024. In short, Solo Leveling follows the story of Sung Jinwoo, a low-rank hunter chosen by the System of this world to level up beyond its limitations.
07. Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction
The works of renowned manga artist Inio Asano have always been considered difficult to adapt into anime due to the author's 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 difficult for such compilations to stand out unless they add something noteworthy 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 peculiar franchise even by anime standards – the series' central gimmick makes its heroines adorable horse-girls who passionately pursue their racing ambitions. However, while its concept might be hard 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
From the outset, anime has always excelled at telling gentle and intimate stories that, while not attempting to convey any specific message at first glance, manage to deeply affect viewers. Thus, renowned for her work at Kyoto Animation on projects such as A Silent Voice and K-On!, director Naoko Yamada is a virtuoso of this gentle storytelling style, her latest film – The Colors Within – being another excellent addition to her distinguished filmography.
The best anime movies – Top 3
03. Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain
Spinoffs and sequels of older anime franchises, especially those with classic followings as strong as Mononoke , can be difficult to get right. 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 show, 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, the series' signature dramatic storytelling, and stellar animation sequences. The decisive showdown between the protagonists' team, Karasuno, and their former rivals, Nekoma, was worth the wait, now opening the door to the story's climax that fans have to anticipate in the final film – which, hopefully, won't take so long to be released.
01. Look Back
Finally, based on a one-shot by Tatsuki Fujimoto of Chainsaw Man fame, the film Look Back was highly anticipated by the mangaka's fanbase. Produced by a newcomer studio with a very complicated source material to adapt, Look Back nevertheless exceeded all expectations, becoming one of the biggest anime film highlights of 2024.
So, folks, what did you think of the list? Did we have any good releases last year? Anyway, leave a comment below and see you next time.
