Animefilms based on established series often carry the emotional and narrative weight that long-time fans look forward to. With familiar characters and expanded lore, these films go beyond expectations with stunning visuals and create something both unique and memorable. Critics and fans alike see these films as opportunities to explore deeper themes, characters, or story arcs.
Rotten Tomatoeshas a wide range of critic and audience reviews that reflect the broader appeal of anime films. The ratings on the platform highlight which anime movies have successfully pleased fans and earned recognition outside the anime community. Critical reception and audience feedback help determine which films leave a lasting impact and expand their respective franchises.
One Pieceis one of themost popular and longest-running shōnen anime, packed with high-stakes action, strong friendships, and epic adventures. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates as they sail across the Grand Line in search of the legendary treasure, the One Piece.
Film: Redfits nicely intoOne Piece’stimeline without disputing the canon. The story takes place during a music festival thrown by Uta, a world-famous singer and childhood friend of Luffy. The filmoffers a well-crafted emotional backstory while providing fans with a fresh visual experience, and although it’s not a necessary story arc, it adds depth to Luffy’s past.
The film leans heavily into its musical premise and is filled with energy and vibrant performances. It earned a strong 97% Tomatometer and a 94% Popcornmeter rating from fans, who responded enthusiastically. It resonates deeply withOne Piecefans and brings something new to the franchise through its heartfelt and inventive direction.
Set in a postwar world,Violet Evergardenfollows a former child soldier as she learns to adapt to civilian life by becoming an Auto Memories Doll, a ghostwriter for others. Through letters, Violet gradually learns about and understands emotions and the meaning behind the final words spoken to her by someone she held dear.
The film serves as a direct continuation of the series, resolving lingering questions while deepening Violet’s emotional character arc.It is not a side story that can be skipped over, as it ties Violet’s journey together with grace and finality.Violet Evergarden: The Movieis as breathtaking as the series and made with equal heart, making it one of the most unforgettable anime films.
Receiving a perfect 100% Tomatometer rating and a 99% from audiences, the film stands as a masterful production. Its deliberate pacing and strong themes make it a touching and memorable farewell to the franchise, cementing its place among memorable anime films.
Sailor Moonis one of themost popular anime series, known for redefining the magical girl genre and breaking ground for representation and female empowerment. The story centers on Usagi Tsukino and the Sailor Guardians as they work together to protect the world from dark forces. It explores themes of self-discovery, love, friendship, and self-expression.
Eternal adapts the Dream arc, also known as the Dead Moon Arc, and acts as a direct continuation ofSailor Moon Crystal. Split across two feature-length parts,the film is celebrated for its visuals and deeper exploration of the series’ core themes.
The film earned a perfect 100% Tomatometer score and has a 91% audience rating on Popcornmeter. It received high praise from both fans and critics for its animation, pacing, and faithfulness to the original manga.Eternal’sratings show that even years after the series’ debut, its legacy and fan base remain strong.
Dragon Ballhas been one of the most influential anime for decades, evolving from a lighthearted and comedic martial arts adventure to high-stakes battles and jaw-dropping transformations. With the addition ofDragon Ball Super, the series expanded its story further, introducing multiversal stakes and godlike power levels.
Its 2018 film,Dragon Ball Super: Broly, reintroduces the legendary Super Saiyan from theDragon Ball Zmovies in a story that officially integrates him into the main continuity. Rather than being a standalone special,the film fleshes out Saiyan history, including the animated introduction of Goku’s mother, Gine, and reimagines Broly with much more depth.
The film connects the past and present of the series while laying the groundwork for the future. The battles are well-choreographed, and the narrative is well-paced. The film earned an 84% Tomatometer rating and a 92% rating from audiences. Fans praised the emotional depth added to Broly’s character, along with the dynamic between Goku and Vegeta.
My Hero Academiais set in a world where almost everyone has superpowers known as quirks, and being a hero is a career. The story follows Izuku Midoriya, a quirkless boy who inherits a powerful ability from Japan’s top hero. As he aims to achieve his dream of becoming the greatest hero, he faces strong enemies that threaten the world’s peace.
Its second film focuses on a mission to protect a remote island from a dangerous villain. The film fits into the series timeline but also offers fans a standalone story that explores teamwork, sacrifice, and heroism. It strengthens character bonds while providing high-stakes action that fans love.
The animation impresses with stunning fight scenes, making each battle impactful and visually spectacular. The film received a 92% Tomatometer score from critics,who praised it for delivering a thrilling adventure that ends with a beautifully animated climax and a satisfying conclusion.
Fans responded even more enthusiastically, giving the film a 98% Popcornmeter score. Audiences appreciated the series for its heartfelt storytelling and exciting sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.Heroes Rising’sfilm stands as a strong extension ofMy Hero Academiaand is arguably the best film in the franchise.
Demon Slayerfollows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered and his only surviving sibling is turned into a demon. The series is packed with intense sword fights, emotional depth, and stunning visuals, propelling it into global acclaim and turning it into a modern classic. The story explores themes of family, loss, and resilience.
Like the series, the movie excels in its animation quality, delivering breathtaking scenes and atmospheric settings.
Mugen Trainpicks up immediately after the first season, adapting the popular Mugen Train arc from the manga. The film continues Tanjiro and his companions’ mission aboard a train where a powerful demon threatens many lives. Released in 2020, it becameone of the best anime films to date.
Like the series, the movie excels in its animation quality, delivering breathtaking scenes and atmospheric settings. Critics gave the film a 98% Tomatometer rating, praising its visuals, action, and heartfelt story. Audiences overwhelmingly agreed, awarding it a 99% Popcornmeter rating,making it an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0is a prequel toJujutsu Kaisenand focuses on Yuta Okkotsu, a boy haunted by a dangerous curse linked to a lost childhood friend. The film deepens the lore and emotional stakes while also standing on its own as a compelling origin story. It introduces key characters who shape the events of the main story.
The animation quality of the film is nothing short of breathtaking, with MAPPA’s work shining through in brilliant fight scenes, detailed backgrounds, and smooth choreography.The movie builds tension with high-stakes battles and emotional moments.Jujutsu Kaisen 0has a 98% Tomatometer rating from critics, who praise its thrilling adventure.
Audiences agree, as reflected in the 98% Popcornmeter score. Fans appreciated the strong character development, heartfelt storytelling, and the film’s ability to stand on its own.Jujutsu Kaisen 0expands the franchise’s appeal and ranks among some of the highest-rated anime movies to date.
The First Slam Dunkrevisits the beloved story started inSlam Dunk,one of the most popular manga titlesever created. The story follows Ryota Miyagi instead of the manga and anime’s original protagonist, Hanamichi Sakuragi, and explores Ryota’s backstory along with his struggles to live up to his sibling’s legacy.
The Film stands as a celebration of passion, perseverance, and a powerful story of self-discovery.With themes of grief and loss, teamwork, and never giving up, the film effectively cements its reputation as one of the most outstanding anime films ever made.
The First Slam Dunkis praised for its animation quality, emotional subplots, soundtrack, and character development. Critics awarded it a perfect 100% rating for its artistry and exciting narrative. Audience reactions were nearly just as high, with a Popcornmeter score of 99%.
