Since its beginning, anime has had fans of all ages. Every year, new series pop up that entice seasoned viewers all over again while sometimes bringing a brand new generation of fans along the way. Along with these series comes a lineup of anime premiering on the big screen.
Anime movies have gained momentum in recent years, and they seem to be more and more impressive with each new release. While there are many films for mature audiences, there are plenty for the whole family too. Sometimes, however, anime films walk the thin line between mature and kid-friendly. These movies are wholesome, colorful, and fun but still deal with heavy subjects or feature frightening scenes many may find unsuitable for the little ones.
10 Wolf Children Is Innocent And Heartwarming But Covers Heavy Subjects
Wolf Children is the emotional tale of a young woman named Hana who falls in love with a wolfman. After his sudden death, Hana is left to raise their two half-wolf children all by herself. It is a sweet and touching story about family and finding one's true self. While it is overall a film the whole family can enjoy together, it touches on hard topics for kids to deal with, such as death, loss, and grief. However, it does so in a sensitive and careful way, so most younger fans are able to get through it.
9 A Letter To Momo May Scare Kids With Its Yokai Characters
A Letter to Momo is a breath of fresh air for many anime fans in the absence of Studio Ghibli. It has the same look and feel as many classics that are beloved by adults and kids alike. The story follows 11-year-old Momo who moves to a new town after the death of her father, the only thing remaining of him is an unfinished letter addressed to her. While she adjusts to her new life and copes with her grief, she discovers the presence of mischievous Yokai who cause trouble around town and turn her already complicated life upside-down. It is an enchanting movie that entertains kids with its elements of magic and fantasy while staying grounded in reality. While it is overall family-friendly, its subject of death and the creepy appearance of the Yokai may scare away some kids.
8 A Silent Voice Portrays Bullying At Its Worst
Many anime films have mature themes that even kids can relate to, and A Silent Voice is no different. The story begins with new student Shoko Nishimiya finding herself the target of severe bullying at the hands of her entire class. Years later, she reunites with one of her former bullies, Shoya Ishida, and the two reconcile and become close friends. It is a valuable lesson for both children and adults to learn and is relatable to many kids who have put up with similar treatment at school. Despite its appearance, the film gets rather heavy at times. It covers a range of subjects that younger fans may have trouble watching or understanding, such as depression and suicide.
7 Your Name Is An Emotional Spin On A Classic Trope
Body swapping is a common theme found throughout animation as a whole and is one that kids everywhere enjoy. It is normally portrayed in a comedic fashion, the swap leading to hilarious antics between the characters. Your Name is an exception to that rule.
The story centers around protagonists Mitsuha Miyamizu and Taki Tachibana, who switch bodies and ultimately discover themselves in this modern classic. The visuals and theme attract fans of all ages, but the more somber approach to the body swap trope may be a turn-off to young viewers. The film falls somewhere in between family-friendly and meant for mature audiences, leaving it up to viewers (and parents) to decide for themselves.
6 Children Of The Sea Is Whimsical But Confusing
Children of the Sea is a big hit with anime fans, featuring beautiful visuals from the acclaimed Studio 4°C. It depicts a magical tale of Ruka, who befriends two boys, Umi and Sora. The more she gets to know them, the further she delves into their mysterious world and the part she plays in it. It is charming and innocent fun for the entire family, depicting the beauty of underwater life. But as the story progresses, the plot becomes complex and could be too confusing for the kids tuning in. Even some adults have trouble piecing together the deeper meanings within the film.
5 Howl's Moving Castle Is A Slow-Paced Adventure
The works of Studio Ghibli are beloved by fans young and old. Their magical worlds and tales of whimsy captivate the audience with their beauty and subtle meanings. Like many other Ghibli films, Howl's Moving Castle slowly invites viewers into its realm. The colorful cast and innocent story are perfect for children, while the deeper subjects catch the interest of adults. The story is a bit slow-going in places, however. Though that isn't a problem for adult viewers, kids might get bored waiting for the action to start..
4 The Digimon Adventure Tri Films Show The Franchise Has Grown With Its Fans
The Digimon franchise is famous for its appeal to kids. The original series onward have all been directed towards a younger viewership, and each series stays family-friendly and mostly innocent. The Digimon Adventure Tri films keep that same spirit and are a great watch for the whole family. However, the film series appears to have older fans in mind this time. The original heroes are back, now older and attending high school. With the appearance of Digimon in their world, the original DigiDestined are pulled back into a world they thought they'd never see again. In Digimon Adventure Tri, the series has grown up along with the fans who have watched from the start. Though kids will find appeal from the name alone, they might not be as invested as older fans.
3 Promare Has Dazzling Visuals But The Story Might Be Too Much
Promare is one of the most visually gorgeous animated films to hit theaters in recent years, seeing massive amounts of success globally. It is action-packed and filled with endless amounts of color and style that fans of any age will love. It has more than enough going on to grab the attention of kids.
Meanwhile, adults can appreciate the characters, story, and beautiful animation. Though it looks like the perfect film to wow young fans, the film's themes on segregation and prejudice as well as its use of violence could be more than some kids can handle. For those who can, though, it is a beautiful movie with something in it for everyone.
2 Lupin III: The First Has A New Look For Young Fans
Lupin III is an old franchise that is well-established and loved dearly by anime fans. It is fun and action-packed, with something appealing for everyone, young or old. While kids and adults alike could enjoy this franchise, it mainly caters to an older audience. The more mature themes may not be suitable for the younger crowd, while the nostalgia draws in the adults who know and love the series. Lupin III: The First, however, brings a fresh, new look to an old story, which may be partially to draw in the kids. However, the CG animation may feel a bit alienating to older fans, who are more likely to tune in.
1 Spirited Away Has Many Frightening Moments
Throughout Studio Ghibli's long list of films, there is a story for everyone. Their subtle and emotional storytelling is perfect for kids and adults alike. Spirited Away is one of the most acclaimed films in the studio's collection and is adored by fans of all ages. The film is a perfect entry point for younger fans just getting their first taste of the Ghibli magic. Despite that, Spirited Away still has its fair share of dark themes and scary moments throughout the movie. The scene where Chihiro's parents are turned into pigs by the evil Yubaba is particularly frightening and has scared the younger viewers who expected a much more lighthearted adventure.