If you’re a fan of stunning animation, captivating storylines, and unforgettable characters, Netflix offers a treasure trove of Japanese anime films that are sure to captivate any viewer. From action-packed adventures to heartfelt dramas, there’s a wide variety of genres that showcase the unique artistry and storytelling of Japan’s best.

In this list, we’ve rounded up the top 20 Japanese anime and animation movies on Netflix, each bringing its own magic to the screen. Whether you’re a long-time anime fan or a newcomer to the genre, these films are a must-watch!

1. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)

Director: Makoto Shinkai

Writer: Makoto Shinkai (Original Story)

Studio: CoMix Wave Films

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Ryunosuke Kamiki (Taki Tachibana), Mone Kamishiraishi (Mitsuha Miyamizu), Aoi Yuki (Sayaka Natori)

Genre: Romance, Drama, Supernatural

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: August 26, 2016

Box Office Performance: “Your Name” was a major box office success, grossing over $400 million worldwide. It became one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time, praised for its beautiful animation, emotional story, and complex themes.

Synopsis:  Mitsuha, a high school girl from rural Japan, and Taki, a boy living in Tokyo, mysteriously begin to swap bodies every few days. Though initially confused and disoriented, they begin to communicate and form a deep bond. As they uncover the truth behind their connection, they realize that Mitsuha’s town was destroyed by a comet three years ago, and their fate is tied to a moment in time that might alter their lives forever. “Your Name” is a beautifully crafted tale of love, loss, and time, capturing the longing to connect across distance and time.

Trivia: The film became a massive international hit, with Shinkai receiving worldwide recognition, and it was also nominated for the Best Animated Feature at the Golden Globes.

2. Demon Slayer: Mugen Train

Director: Haruo Sotozaki

Writer: Koyoharu Gotouge (Original Creator), Ufotable (Script)

Studio: Ufotable

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro Kamado), Akari Kito (Nezuko Kamado), Hiro Shimono (Zenitsu Agatsuma)

Genre: Action, Supernatural, Dark Fantasy

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: October 16, 2020

Box Office Performance: “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train” became the highest-grossing anime film of all time, grossing over $500 million globally. It was a critical and commercial success, especially in Japan.

Synopsis:  After the events of the first season, Tanjiro Kamado and his companions embark on a mission aboard the Mugen Train to investigate a series of disappearances. They are joined by the powerful Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku, who aids them in their fight against a demon that has taken control of the train. As they face off against powerful enemies, Tanjiro uncovers more about the demons and their tragic origins. The film is a poignant continuation of the story, featuring stunning visuals and emotionally charged moments that deepen the characters’ bonds.

Trivia: The film became a cultural phenomenon and was recognized as a turning point for anime’s global influence.

3. A Whisker Away

Director: Junichi Sato, Tomotaka Shibayama

Writer: Mari Okada (Screenplay)

Studio: Studio Colorido

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Mirai Shida (Miyo Sasaki), Natsuki Hanae (Kento Hinode), Hiroaki Hirata (Sasuke)

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama

Network/Streamer: Netflix (Streaming)

Date of Release: June 18, 2020

Box Office Performance: The film was well-received on Netflix, despite some mixed reviews, with praise directed at its unique premise and visual style.

Synopsis:  Miyo Sasaki, a high school girl, is struggling to express her feelings to her crush, Kento Hinode. In a desperate attempt to win his attention, she buys a magical mask that allows her to transform into a cat. As Miyo spends more time as a cat, she begins to form deeper connections with the people around her, especially Kento. However, as she loses her human form for longer periods, Miyo faces challenges in reconciling her dual lives and understanding what she truly wants. The film explores themes of identity, self-expression, and the complexities of love.

Trivia: The film’s art and animation are praised for their charming and colorful aesthetic, and the film was produced by the team behind “Penguin Highway.”

4. The Garden of Words

Director: Makoto Shinkai

Writer: Makoto Shinkai (Original Story)

Studio: CoMix Wave Films

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Jun Matsumoto (Takao Akizuki), Kanae Itou (Yukari Yukino)

Genre: Romance, Drama, Slice of Life

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: May 31, 2013

Box Office Performance: While it was not a massive box office hit compared to “Your Name,” the film received critical acclaim for its emotional depth, stunning animation, and evocative storytelling.

Synopsis:  Takao Akizuki, a 15-year-old high school student aspiring to become a shoemaker, meets a mysterious woman named Yukari Yukino in a garden on rainy days. Takao begins to skip school to meet her and spend time in the garden, as they share quiet conversations about their lives. As Takao becomes emotionally attached to Yukari, he discovers that she is dealing with her own personal struggles. “The Garden of Words” is a delicate exploration of youth, longing, and the passage of time, all set against the backdrop of beautiful rain-soaked Tokyo landscapes.

Trivia: The film features stunning visual sequences of rain, which are a hallmark of Shinkai’s style, and it showcases a poignant connection between two people facing emotional isolation.

5. Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway

Director: Shuko Murase

Writer: Yasuyuki Muto (Screenplay)

Studio: Sunrise

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Kensho Ono (Hathaway Noa), Keiichi Noda (Gigi Andalucia), Takahiro Sakurai (Kenneth Sleg)

Number of episodes: 1 (Movie, Part 1 of Trilogy)

Genre: Mecha, Science Fiction, Drama

Network/Streamer: Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: June 11, 2021

Box Office Performance: The movie saw moderate success in Japan and performed decently in international markets, receiving praise for its more mature tone and connection to the original “Mobile Suit Gundam” series.

Synopsis:  Set in the Universal Century timeline of the Gundam series, “Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway” follows Hathaway Noa, the son of a famous Federation officer. Hathaway becomes involved with the Anti-Earth Union Group, a faction fighting against the corrupt Earth Federation. As political tensions rise, Hathaway faces a moral dilemma regarding his role in the conflict. The movie explores themes of idealism, rebellion, and the consequences of war, with Hathaway grappling with his father’s legacy and his own quest for justice. It offers a more mature and complex take on the Gundam universe.

Trivia: The film is based on the “Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash” novels by Yoshiyuki Tomino and serves as a continuation of the Gundam saga, highlighting a new generation’s struggle.

6. A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi)

Director: Naoko Yamada

Writer: Reiko Yoshida (Screenplay)

Studio: Kyoto Animation

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Miyu Irino (Shoya Ishida), Saori Hayami (Shoko Nishimiya), Aoi Koga (Miki Kawai)

Genre: Drama, Romance

Network/Streamer: Shochiku (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: September 17, 2016

Box Office Performance: The movie grossed over ¥2.3 billion in Japan and received international acclaim for its sensitive treatment of bullying, disability, and redemption.

Synopsis:  “A Silent Voice” follows Shoya Ishida, a high school student who once bullied his deaf classmate, Shoko Nishimiya. After Shoko transfers to another school, Shoya becomes an outcast, struggling with feelings of guilt and isolation. Years later, he attempts to reconnect with Shoko and make amends for his past actions. The film explores themes of redemption, self-acceptance, and the challenges of communication. Through the journey of healing and friendship, both characters learn to overcome their painful histories, offering a poignant message about the importance of empathy and kindness.

Trivia: The movie is based on the manga of the same name by Yoshitoki Oima and won several awards, including the Tokyo Anime Award and the Crunchyroll Anime Awards.

7. One Piece: Stampede

Director: Takashi Otsuka

Writer: Eiichiro Oda (Original Creator), Atsuhiro Tomioka (Screenplay)

Studio: Toei Animation

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Mayumi Tanaka (Monkey D. Luffy), Kazuya Nakai (Roronoa Zoro), Akemi Okamura (Nami)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy

Network/Streamer: Toei Animation (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: August 9, 2019

Box Office Performance: “One Piece: Stampede” grossed over ¥10 billion worldwide, becoming one of the highest-grossing One Piece films. It was widely anticipated and celebrated by fans.

Synopsis:  The Straw Hat Pirates are invited to the Pirate Expo, a grand event that brings together pirates from all over the world. However, the expo is interrupted by the arrival of a mysterious figure, Bullet, a former pirate who has become a powerful and dangerous force. With the world’s greatest treasure on the line, Luffy and his crew team up with other pirates to stop Bullet and his plans. The film is a high-energy adventure filled with epic battles, humor, and nostalgic moments celebrating the One Piece series.

Trivia: “One Piece: Stampede” was made to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the anime series and features appearances from several popular characters in the franchise.

8. Josee, the Tiger and the Fish

Director: Kotaro Tamura

Writer: Sayaka Kuwamura

Studio: Bones

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Tsuneo Suzukawa, Kumiko “Josee” Yamamura, Mai Ninomiya, Hayato Matsūra, Kana Kishimoto, Chizu Yamamura

Number of Episodes: This is a standalone film with a runtime of 98 minutes.

Genre: Romance, Drama

Network/Streamer: Distributed by Shochiku Animation and Kadokawa Animation. Availability on streaming platforms may vary by region.

Date of Release: December 25, 2020, in Japan.

Box Office Performance: The film opened in 9th place at the Japanese box office during its initial week of release.

Synopsis: Tsuneo, a university student studying marine biology, becomes the caretaker for Josee, a young woman who uses a wheelchair and has led a sheltered life. As they spend time together, they help each other navigate personal challenges and aspirations, leading to a transformative journey for both.

Trivia: The film is based on a short story by Seiko Tanabe. The character designs were created by Nao Emoto, with animation character designs by Haruko Iizuka. The music for the film was composed by Evan Call. The film received positive reviews and was nominated for several awards, including Best Animation Film at the 75th Mainichi Film Awards.

9. The Wind Rises (Kaze Tachinu)

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

Writer: Hayao Miyazaki (Screenplay), Tatsuo Hori (Original Story)

Studio: Studio Ghibli

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Hideaki Anno (Jiro Horikoshi), Miori Takimoto (Naoko Satomi), Hidetoshi Nishijima (Kurokawa)

Genre: Drama, Historical, Romance, Biography

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: July 20, 2013

Box Office Performance: “The Wind Rises” grossed ¥120 billion worldwide, becoming one of Studio Ghibli’s highest-grossing films. It was critically acclaimed and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.

Synopsis:  “The Wind Rises” tells the story of Jiro Horikoshi, the brilliant engineer who designed Japan’s iconic Zero fighter plane used in World War II. The film traces his life from his childhood dreams of becoming a pilot to his work as an aircraft designer. Along the way, Jiro faces personal and professional challenges, including his love for Naoko, a woman suffering from tuberculosis. The film delves into the conflicts of creativity and war, as Jiro struggles with the moral implications of his work while remaining devoted to his dream of flight.

Trivia: “The Wind Rises” was Hayao Miyazaki’s final film before his announced retirement (though he returned to work on later projects).

10. Sailor Moon Eternal

Director: Chiaki Kon

Writer: Naoko Takeuchi (Original Creator), Kazuko Tadano (Screenplay)

Studio: Toei Animation

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Kotono Mitsuishi (Usagi Tsukino / Sailor Moon), Hisako Kanemoto (Ami Mizuno / Sailor Mercury), Rika Fukami (Rei Hino / Sailor Mars)

Number of episodes: 2 (Movie)

Genre: Magical Girl, Action, Fantasy

Network/Streamer: Toei Animation (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming)

Date of Release: January 8, 2021

Box Office Performance: The movie was highly anticipated by Sailor Moon fans, though it had a mixed reception. It was well-received in Japan and brought nostalgia to long-time fans of the franchise.

Synopsis:  “Sailor Moon Eternal” is a two-part movie that continues the story of Usagi Tsukino and the Sailor Guardians as they face a new enemy. The team must battle the Dead Moon Circus, led by the villainous Queen Nehelenia, who seeks to take over the world by manipulating the dreams of the citizens. As Usagi transforms into Sailor Moon, she and the Guardians must protect the Earth from the impending doom of eternal darkness. The movie delves deeper into the characters’ relationships and the cosmic battle between good and evil.

Trivia: “Sailor Moon Eternal” is based on the manga’s “Dream Arc” and marks the 25th anniversary of the “Sailor Moon” franchise.

11. Mirai

Director: Mamoru Hosoda

Writer: Mamoru Hosoda (Screenplay), Yuji Honda (Screenplay)

Studio: Studio Chizu

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Moka Kamishiraishi (Kun), Haru Kuroki (Mirai), Gen Hoshino (Yuta)

Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Family

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: July 20, 2018

Box Office Performance: “Mirai” grossed approximately ¥4.4 billion worldwide and was well-received for its heartwarming story, earning Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Animated Feature.

Synopsis:  “Mirai” follows Kun, a 4-year-old boy who struggles to adjust to life after the birth of his younger sister, Mirai. Feeling ignored and jealous, Kun embarks on a fantastical adventure, encountering his family members at different ages, including a grown-up Mirai. As he travels through time, he learns valuable lessons about relationships, family, and growing up. The film blends realistic emotional moments with magical elements, capturing the trials of childhood and the changes within a family in a tender, imaginative way.

Trivia: The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and was Mamoru Hosoda’s third feature to receive such recognition.

12. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

Writer: Hayao Miyazaki (Screenplay), based on his manga

Studio: Studio Ghibli

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Sumi Shimamoto (Nausicaä), Mahito Tsujimura (Lord Yupa), Hisako Kyouda (Ruth)

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction

Network/Streamer: Tokuma Shoten (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: March 11, 1984

Box Office Performance: Although it wasn’t a huge box office success initially, “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” is now considered a cult classic and has earned widespread acclaim, contributing significantly to the formation of Studio Ghibli.

Synopsis:  “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where toxic forests, home to dangerous creatures, threaten humanity’s survival. The story follows Nausicaä, the compassionate princess of the Valley of the Wind, who is determined to understand the mysterious Toxic Jungle and its creatures. When war breaks out between the kingdoms, Nausicaä must navigate her role as a mediator and protect the planet’s fragile balance. The film explores themes of environmentalism, peace, and the connection between humans and nature, becoming one of Miyazaki’s most influential works.

Trivia: The film’s success helped establish Studio Ghibli, and it remains one of the studio’s signature works. It was adapted from Miyazaki’s own manga.

13. Cowboy Bebop: The Movie (Cowboy Bebop: Tengoku no Tobira)

Director: Shinichiro Watanabe

Writer: Keiko Nobumoto (Screenplay)

Studio: Sunrise

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Kazuya Nakai (Spike Spiegel), Steve Blum (Spike Spiegel, English), Wendee Lee (Faye Valentine, English)

Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Adventure, Space Opera

Network/Streamer: Sunrise (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: September 1, 2001

Box Office Performance: “Cowboy Bebop: The Movie” grossed over ¥2 billion and was a commercial success worldwide, receiving praise for its faithful adaptation of the anime’s style, humor, and themes.

Synopsis:  In “Cowboy Bebop: The Movie,” the crew of the Bebop—Spike, Jet, Faye, and Ed—pursue a terrorist known as Vincent, who is planning to release a deadly gas on Mars. As they investigate, they uncover Vincent’s tragic past, and the film explores themes of loss, redemption, and the search for meaning. With exhilarating action sequences, humor, and a jazz-infused soundtrack, the film extends the narrative of the beloved anime series while maintaining its noir aesthetic and complex character development.

Trivia: The movie takes place between episodes 22 and 23 of the “Cowboy Bebop” anime series and was one of the first anime films to be released in theaters in the U.S.

14. Blue Exorcist: The Movie

Director: Atsushi Takahashi

Writer: Reiko Yoshida (Screenplay)

Studio: A-1 Pictures

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Nobuhiko Okamoto (Rin Okumura), Kazuya Nakai (Mephisto Pheles), Kana Hanazawa (Shiemi Moriyama)

Genre: Action, Supernatural, Fantasy

Network/Streamer: Aniplex (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: December 28, 2012

Box Office Performance: “Blue Exorcist: The Movie” grossed approximately ¥1.4 billion and became a commercial success, gaining popularity among fans of the original anime series.

Synopsis:  “Blue Exorcist: The Movie” centers on Rin Okumura, the son of Satan, as he battles to control his demonic powers while working as an exorcist. The film explores his relationship with his brother Yukio and their shared destiny. When Rin and his friends are sent on a mission to investigate a dangerous artifact, they uncover a deeper conspiracy that threatens their world. The film blends action-packed sequences with emotional growth, offering an exciting addition to the “Blue Exorcist” series that delves further into Rin’s struggle with his demonic heritage.

Trivia: The movie is set during the time between the anime’s first and second seasons and is not directly based on the manga.

15. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya

Director: Isao Takahata

Writer: Isao Takahata, Riko Sakaguchi (Screenplay), based on “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter”

Studio: Studio Ghibli

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Chloë Grace Moretz (English Voice for Kaguya), James Caan (English Voice for the King), Mary Steenburgen (English Voice for the Queen)

Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Historical

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: November 23, 2013

Box Office Performance: “The Tale of the Princess Kaguya” grossed approximately ¥5.4 billion and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Synopsis:  Based on the classic Japanese folktale “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter,” the film tells the story of Kaguya, a mysterious girl found inside a bamboo stalk. As she grows into a woman of extraordinary beauty, suitors come to seek her hand in marriage, but she is troubled by the constraints of her royal life. The story explores themes of identity, longing, and the search for true happiness. The film’s unique art style, which resembles hand-drawn sketches, brings a delicate and emotional depth to this timeless tale.

Trivia: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and won several other awards, including Best Animated Feature at the Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards.

16. Howl's Moving Castle

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

Writer: Hayao Miyazaki (Screenplay), based on the novel by Diana Wynne Jones

Studio: Studio Ghibli

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Chieko Baishô (Sophie Hatter), Takuya Kimura (Howl), Akihiro Miwa (Witch of the Waste)

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Drama

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: November 20, 2004

Box Office Performance: “Howl’s Moving Castle” grossed over ¥23 billion worldwide and became one of Studio Ghibli’s most successful films. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Synopsis:  Sophie, a young woman turned into an elderly lady by a curse, seeks refuge in a magical, walking castle owned by the mysterious wizard Howl. As they journey through a war-torn land, Sophie uncovers Howl’s secrets and learns to confront her own fears. The film explores themes of love, transformation, and self-discovery, with breathtaking animation and a unique mix of magic and emotional depth. Howl’s struggle with his own identity and the horrors of war become central to the story as Sophie and Howl forge an unexpected bond.

Trivia: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and won the Berlin International Film Festival’s “Audience Award.”

17. Weathering with You

Director: Makoto Shinkai

Writer: Makoto Shinkai (Screenplay)

Studio: CoMix Wave Films

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Kotaro Daigo (Hodaka Morishima), Nana Mori (Hina Amano), Shun Oguri (Keisuke Suga)

Genre: Drama, Romance, Supernatural

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: July 19, 2019

Box Office Performance: “Weathering with You” grossed over ¥14 billion in Japan and became one of the highest-grossing films in Japan for 2019. It received widespread acclaim for its animation and storytelling.

Synopsis:  The film follows Hodaka, a runaway teenager who moves to Tokyo and meets Hina, a girl with the power to control the weather. As Tokyo experiences endless rain, Hina becomes a symbol of hope for the city by offering sunshine on demand. As their relationship grows, Hodaka learns the costs of using such power. The story blends romance with supernatural elements, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of tampering with nature’s balance.

Trivia: “Weathering with You” became the highest-grossing film of 2019 in Japan and was selected as Japan’s entry for Best International Feature at the Academy Awards.

18. Tokyo Godfathers

Director: Satoshi Kon

Writer: Satoshi Kon (Screenplay), Keiko Nobumoto (Story)

Studio: Madhouse

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Tōru Emori (Gin), Yoshiaki Umegaki (Hana), Aya Okamoto (Miyuki)

Genre: Drama, Comedy, Christmas

Network/Streamer: Sony Pictures Classics (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: November 8, 2003

Box Office Performance: “Tokyo Godfathers” grossed over ¥1.6 billion in Japan and became a beloved holiday classic worldwide. The film is widely regarded as one of Satoshi Kon’s best works.

Synopsis:  “Tokyo Godfathers” follows three homeless individuals in Tokyo—Gin, Hana, and Miyuki—who find an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve. As they embark on a journey to reunite the baby with its parents, they reflect on their own troubled pasts. The film masterfully combines humor with profound emotional depth, offering a poignant narrative about redemption, family, and the meaning of Christmas. It’s a heartwarming and unique take on the holiday season, filled with twists and touching moments.

Trivia: The film was directed by Satoshi Kon, famous for his work on “Perfect Blue” and “Paprika,” and is known for blending reality with surreal elements.

19. Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll

Director: Haruka Fujita

Writer: Reiko Yoshida (Screenplay), based on the light novel by Kana Akatsuki

Studio: Kyoto Animation

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Daisuke Kikuta (Cattelya Baudelaire), Yui Ishikawa (Violet Evergarden), Koki Uchiyama (Gilbert Bougainvillea)

Genre: Drama, Romance

Network/Streamer: Kyoto Animation (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming worldwide)

Date of Release: September 6, 2019

Box Office Performance: The film grossed over ¥1.3 billion in Japan and gained a positive reception from fans of the original series for its emotional storytelling and stunning animation.

Synopsis:  In “Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll,” Violet, now a skilled Auto Memory Doll, is sent on a mission to assist a young woman named Cattelya in her search for a person from her past. As Violet writes letters for her, she reflects on her own journey of healing and self-discovery. The film delves deeper into Violet’s personal growth, focusing on themes of love, loss, and the power of written words to convey emotions. The film’s gorgeous animation complements its emotional depth, providing a touching conclusion to Violet’s story.

Trivia: The film is set between episodes of the “Violet Evergarden” TV series and was released after the main series concluded.

20. The Secret World of Arrietty

Director: Hiromasa Yonebayashi

Writer: Hayao Miyazaki (Screenplay), based on the novel “The Borrowers” by Mary Norton

Studio: Studio Ghibli

Main Cast (Voice Actors): Bridgit Mendler (Arrietty), Tom Holland (Shô), Amy Poehler (Homily)

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Family

Network/Streamer: Toho (Theatrical Release), Netflix (Streaming in some regions)

Date of Release: July 17, 2010

Box Office Performance: The film grossed over ¥8 billion globally and was a commercial success for Studio Ghibli, despite being less popular than some of their other films.

Synopsis:  “The Secret World of Arrietty” tells the story of Arrietty, a tiny girl who lives secretly beneath the floorboards of a house, borrowing small items to survive. When a human boy named Shô discovers her, it sets off a chain of events that threatens Arrietty’s family’s secret existence. The film explores themes of bravery, independence, and the importance of family, all while showcasing Studio Ghibli’s signature blend of magical realism and heartwarming storytelling.

Trivia: The film is based on the novel “The Borrowers” by Mary Norton and is one of the few Ghibli films not directed by Hayao Miyazaki.

These 20 Japanese anime films available on Netflix offer a window into the diverse and imaginative world of Japanese cinema. Whether you’re looking to dive into high-stakes battles, emotional journeys, or whimsical adventures, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab some popcorn, get comfy, and enjoy the unforgettable experiences these films have to offer.