Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, is a timeless coming-of-age masterpiece, showcasing the studio's unparalleled storytelling and world-building.
Katsuhiro Otomo's Akira remains a visually stunning cyberpunk classic, nearly 40 years old, with its intricate hand-drawn animation setting a legendary standard.
Satoshi Kon's debut, Perfect Blue, is a prescient psychological thriller exploring fractured identity and obsession, influencing major Western films with its creative storytelling.
Makoto Shinkai's Your Name is a heartwarming rom-com, often called one of the best anime movies even for those new to the genre.