Last Updated on May 13, 2023 by April
In storytelling, anime has always been exceptional in conveying various emotions and experiences. Among these, one particular category that often leaves a deep and lasting impact on viewers is that of sad anime movies.
Compelling and thought-provoking, such movies explore themes like loss, love, and the human spirit, enabling us to connect on a personal level. In this article, I will walk you through 20 unforgettable sad anime movies that will certainly tug at your heartstrings.
Top 20 Iconic Sad Anime Movies
From classics like A Silent Voice and Grave of the Fireflies to hidden gems like Colorful and In This Corner of the World, here you will find an extensive list of unforgettable, poignant, and heart-wrenching films.
As I share my thoughts on these titles, I hope you find solace, inspiration, and a greater appreciation for the beauty of sad anime movies.
Grave of the Fireflies
Grave of the Fireflies is a 1988 Japanese-animated war tragedy film directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli. The story follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, who struggle to survive during the final months of World War II in Japan after their mother is killed in an air raid. The film depicts the harsh realities of war, including hunger, disease, and death, and its impact on innocent civilians.
The film has been praised for its emotional storytelling, beautiful animation, and powerful anti-war message. It is based on the semi-autobiographical short story of the same name by Akiyuki Nosaka and has been recognized as a masterpiece of Japanese animation.
Despite its critical acclaim, the film was initially a commercial failure in Japan, but has since gained a cult following and is widely regarded as one of the greatest war films ever made.
I Want to Eat Your Pancreas
I Want to Eat Your Pancreas is a 2018 Japanese-animated romantic drama film directed by Shin’ichirō Ushijima and produced by Studio VOLN. The story follows a high school student named Sakura Yamauchi, who is suffering from a terminal pancreatic illness, and her classmate, an introverted boy named Haruki Shiga, who discovers her secret.
As they spend time together, they develop a deep bond and learn to appreciate the preciousness of life. The film has been praised for its emotional storytelling, beautiful animation, and exploration of love, friendship, and mortality themes.
It is based on the novel of the same name by Yoru Sumino and has been adapted into various forms of media, including a manga series and a live-action film. It was released in Japan in 2018 and later internationally and has since gained a dedicated fan base.
Perfect Blue
Perfect Blue is a 1997 Japanese-animated psychological thriller film directed by Satoshi Kon and produced by Madhouse. The story follows Mima Kirigoe, a former pop idol who decides to pursue a career in acting but finds herself haunted by her past and stalked by an obsessive fan.
As Mima’s grip on reality begins to slip, she struggles to distinguish between what is real and what is not, and must confront the dark side of the entertainment industry.
The film has been praised for its intense storytelling, complex characters, and innovative use of animation to explore themes such as identity, fame, and mental health. It is based on the novel Perfect Blue: Complete Metamorphosis by Yoshikazu Takeuchi and has been recognized as a landmark in the anime industry.
It was released in Japan in 1997 and later internationally, and has since gained a cult following and influenced numerous other works of animation and film.
Wolf Children
Wolf Children is a 2012 Japanese-animated drama film directed by Mamoru Hosoda and produced by Studio Chizu. The story follows a young woman named Hana who falls in love with a man who can transform into a wolf. They have two children, Yuki and Ame, who inherit their father’s ability to transform into wolves.
After their father dies, Hana decides to move to the countryside to raise her children away from society and teach them how to live as both humans and wolves.
The film explores themes such as family, identity, and the struggle to fit in. It has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and unique portrayal of the supernatural. The film was released in Japan in 2012 and later internationally, and has won several awards including the Animation of the Year award at the 36th Japan Academy Prize.
Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms
Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms is a 2018 Japanese-animated fantasy drama film directed by Mari Okada and produced by P.A. Works. The story follows a young girl named Maquia, who is a member of a special race called the Iorph, mystical beings who can live for hundreds of years. While escaping a war, she finds a lone surviving infant and decides to raise him as her son.
As the boy, named Ariel, grows up, Maquia must confront the challenges of motherhood and the inevitability of change. The film explores themes such as love, loss, and the passage of time. It has been praised for its emotional storytelling, beautiful animation, and unique portrayal of the bond between mother and child.
The film was released in Japan in 2018 and later internationally, and has won several awards including the Best Animated Feature Film award at the 12th Asia Pacific Screen Awards.
A Silent Voice
A Silent Voice is a 2016 Japanese-animated drama film directed by Naoko Yamada and produced by Kyoto Animation. The story follows a young man named Shoya Ishida, who is haunted by his past as a bully who tormented a deaf classmate named Shoko Nishimiya. Years later, he seeks to make amends and befriend Shoko, who has since moved away.
The film explores themes such as redemption, forgiveness, and the struggle to connect with others. It has been praised for its emotional storytelling, beautiful animation, and sensitive portrayal of disability. The film is based on the manga of the same name by Yoshitoki Oima and has been adapted into various forms of media, including a light novel and a manga spin-off.
It was released in Japan in 2016 and later internationally, and has won several awards including the Best Animation award at the 71st Mainichi Film Awards.
5 Centimeters per Second
5 Centimeters per Second is a 2007 Japanese-animated romantic drama film written and directed by Makoto Shinkai. The story follows a young boy named Takaki Tono and his childhood friend, Akari Shinohara, who are separated when Akari moves away.
The film explores the themes of distance, time, and the bittersweet nature of love. It is divided into three parts, each showing a different stage in Takaki’s life and his attempts to reconnect with Akari.
The film has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and poignant portrayal of the complexities of human relationships. It is also notable for its use of symbolism, particularly the motif of cherry blossom petals falling at a rate of 5 centimeters per second.
The film was released in Japan in 2007 and later internationally, and has since gained a cult following and been recognized as a masterpiece of Japanese animation.
Your Name
Your Name is a 2016 Japanese-animated romantic fantasy film written and directed by Makoto Shinkai and produced by CoMix Wave Films. The story follows two teenagers, a high school boy named Taki Tachibana and a high school girl named Mitsuha Miyamizu, who suddenly and inexplicably begin to swap bodies. As they navigate each other’s lives, they begin to develop a deep connection and set out to meet each other in person.
However, they soon discover that their lives are connected in ways they never imagined. The film explores themes such as fate, love, and the power of memory. It has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and innovative use of the body-swapping trope.
The film was released in Japan in 2016 and later internationally, and has become a massive commercial and critical success. It has won numerous awards, including the Best Animated Feature Film award at the 71st Mainichi Film Awards and the 40th Japan Academy Prize.
Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is a 2014 Japanese-animated romantic drama series directed by Kyōhei Ishiguro and produced by A-1 Pictures. The story follows a former child prodigy pianist named Kōsei Arima, who has lost his ability to hear the sound of his own piano after the death of his abusive mother.
He meets a free-spirited violinist named Kaori Miyazono, who helps him rediscover his passion for music and life. The series explores themes such as grief, trauma, and the power of friendship.
It has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and powerful musical performances. The series is based on the manga of the same name by Naoshi Arakawa and has been adapted into various forms of media, including a live-action film and a light novel.
It was released in Japan in 2014 and later internationally, and has since gained a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
To the Forest of Firefly Lights
To the Forest of Firefly Lights, also known as Hotarubi no Mori e, is a 2011 Japanese-animated romantic fantasy film directed by Takahiro Omori and produced by Aniplex.
The story follows a young girl named Hotaru Takegawa, who gets lost in a forest and meets a spirit named Gin, who is unable to touch humans without disappearing. Despite this, they form a close friendship and continue to meet every summer.
The film explores themes such as love, loss, and the fleeting nature of life. It has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and poignant portrayal of the relationship between humans and spirits.
The film is based on the one-shot shōjo manga of the same name by Yuki Midorikawa and has been adapted into a stage play and an audio drama. It was released in Japan in 2011 and later internationally, and has gained a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a 2006 Japanese-animated science fiction romance film directed by Mamoru Hosoda and written by Satoko Okudera. The story revolves around a high-school girl named Makoto who acquires the power to travel back in time and decides to use it for her own personal benefits.
However, she soon realizes that her actions are affecting the lives of others just as much as her own. The film is a beautifully told story about a girl who gains the ability to time travel and uses it to its full extent through the course of her high school life.
The film has been widely praised for its storytelling, animation, and music, and has won several awards including the Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year.
Weathering With You
Weathering With You is a 2019 Japanese-animated romantic fantasy film directed by Makoto Shinkai and produced by CoMix Wave Films. The story follows a high-school boy named Hodaka who runs away from his home on a remote island to Tokyo, where he meets a girl named Hina who has the ability to control the weather.
As Hodaka starts working for Hina to help her with her business of clearing the skies for events, they both face the consequences of Hina’s powers and the impact they have on the world. The film has been praised for its stunning animation, beautiful music, and emotional storytelling.
It was released in Japan in 2019 and later in the United States in 2020, where it received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike.
In This Corner of the World
In This Corner of the World is a 2016 Japanese-animated historical drama film directed by Sunao Katabuchi and produced by MAPPA. The film is based on a manga series of the same name by Fumiyo Kouno and follows the life of Suzu Urano, a young bride living on the outskirts of Kure City during World War II.
The story depicts the struggles and challenges faced by Suzu and her family during the war, including air raids, food shortages, and the loss of loved ones.
The film has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and historical accuracy. It was released in Japan in 2016 and later internationally in 2017, and has won several awards including the Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year.
The Garden of Words
The Garden of Words is a 2013 Japanese-animated romantic drama film written, directed, and edited by Makoto Shinkai and produced by CoMix Wave Films. The story follows a 15-year-old boy named Takao Akizuki who dreams of becoming a shoemaker and a mysterious 27-year-old woman named Yukari Yukino whom he meets at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden on rainy mornings.
As they continue to meet, they develop a strong bond and begin to understand each other’s struggles and aspirations. The film has been praised for its stunning animation, beautiful soundtrack, and emotional depth.
It was released in Japan in 2013 and later internationally in 2014, and has won several awards including the Kobe Theatrical Film Award and the Animation of the Year award at the 37th Japan Academy Prize.
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is a 2013 Japanese-animated historical fantasy film directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli. The movie is based on the Japanese folktale “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter” and tells the story of a tiny girl named Kaguya who is discovered inside a shining stalk of bamboo by an old bamboo cutter and his wife.
As Kaguya grows rapidly into an exquisite young lady, she enthralls all who encounter her, but ultimately must confront her fate and the punishment for her crime. The film has been praised for its beautiful hand-drawn animation, emotional storytelling, and unique portrayal of the folktale.
It was released in Japan in 2013 and later internationally in 2014, and has won several awards including the Animation of the Year award at the 38th Japan Academy Prize.
Josee, the Tiger, and the Fish
Josee, the Tiger, and the Fish is a 2020 Japanese-animated romantic comedy-drama film directed by Kôtarô Tamura and produced by Bones. The movie is based on the short story “Josee, the Tiger and the Fish” by Seiko Tanabe and follows a college student named Tsuneo who meets a disabled girl named Josee who has rarely gone out of the house by herself due to her being unable to walk.
As they spend time together, they develop a deep bond and learn to navigate their own personal struggles. The film has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and unique portrayal of the characters.
It was released in Japan in 2020 and later internationally in 2021, and has won several awards including the Audience Award at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival.
The Wind Rises
The Wind Rises is a 2013 Japanese-animated historical drama film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film is a fictionalized biopic of Jiro Horikoshi, the chief engineer of many Japanese fighter planes during World War II. The story follows Jiro’s life from his childhood dreams of designing airplanes to his work on the A6M Zero fighter plane and his relationship with a girl named Nahoko.
The film has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and historical accuracy. However, it has also been criticized for its portrayal of Horikoshi and its handling of Japan’s role in World War II.
It was released in Japan in 2013 and later internationally in 2014, and has won several awards including the Animation of the Year award at the 37th Japan Academy Prize.
Plastic Memories
Plastic Memories is a 2015 Japanese-animated science fiction romance series produced by Doga Kobo and directed by Yoshiyuki Fujiwara. The story follows a young man named Tsukasa Mizugaki, who is hired by the SAI Corporation to work in their Terminal Service Department, which is responsible for retrieving androids known as “Giftias” at the end of their service life.
Tsukasa is partnered with a Giftia named Isla, who is nearing the end of her own lifespan. As they work together to collect other Giftias, they begin to develop a deep bond and navigate the ethical and emotional complexities of their work.
The series has been praised for its emotional storytelling, beautiful animation, and thought-provoking exploration of the nature of humanity and artificial intelligence. It was aired in Japan from April to June 2015 and has since gained a dedicated fan base.
Whisper of the Heart
Whisper of the Heart is a 1995 Japanese-animated romantic drama film directed by Yoshifumi Kondō and produced by Studio Ghibli. The story follows a 14-year-old girl named Shizuku who loves reading and writing, but feels uncertain about her future. One day, she discovers that all the books she has checked out of the library have also been checked out by a boy named Seiji.
As they begin to develop a friendship, Shizuku is inspired to pursue her own dreams and passions. The film has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and realistic portrayal of adolescence. It is also notable for its connection to the real-life locations of Tokyo and the music of John Denver, which play a significant role in the story.
It was released in Japan in 1995 and later internationally, and has since become a beloved classic among fans of anime and Studio Ghibli.
When Marnie Was There
When Marnie Was There is a 2014 Japanese-animated psychological drama film directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi and produced by Studio Ghibli. The story follows a 12-year-old girl named Anna Sasaki who is sent to the countryside to stay with relatives for the summer due to her asthma. While there, she discovers an abandoned mansion across the marsh and meets a mysterious girl named Marnie who becomes her friend.
As Anna learns more about Marnie’s past, she begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding the mansion and her own family. The film has been praised for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and exploration of themes such as loneliness, memory, and identity.
It is based on the novel of the same name by Joan G. Robinson and was released in Japan in 2014 and later internationally. It has won several awards including the Animation of the Year award at the 38th Japan Academy Prize.
Exploring the Emotional Depth of Sad Anime Movies
Why Sad Anime Resonates with Audiences
When I watch anime, I often come across certain movies and shows that evoke a myriad of complex emotions within me. As a viewer, I’m always captivated by how effortlessly sad anime manages to stir up feelings of empathy, pain, and even catharsis. One might wonder, what is it about sad anime that resonates so strongly with audiences?
I think a key aspect lies in the way anime portray human emotions. In sad anime, emotions are conveyed with a nuance and emphasis that can be difficult to find in other mediums. These emotions are oftentimes accentuated by the visually stunning art and animation, as well as the evocative soundtracks that accompany these stories.
Not only is sad anime emotionally resonant, but it also delves deeply into themes of drama and tragedy. These stories do not shy away from difficult or controversial topics. Rather, they bring to light aspects of life that we all experience, but may not always openly discuss, such as loss, grief, and hardship.
Some examples of heart-wrenching sad anime movies and shows include:
- Grave of the Fireflies
- Wolf Children
- Orange: Mirai
- The Wind Rises
- Spirited Away
These sad anime movies showcase a wide array of stories and characters that allow us to immerse ourselves in their world, engage with their grief, and journey alongside them through their struggles.
In conclusion, sad anime resonates with audiences because it unearths an emotional depth that is often difficult to grasp in our everyday lives. By delving into complex human emotions, tackling dramatic subjects, and highlighting the beauty and pain of the human experience, sad anime truly has the power to move us deeply.
The Impact of Studio Ghibli on Sad Anime Movies
Hayao Miyazaki’s Contributions
As a fan of the anime genre, I can confidently say that Studio Ghibli has had a significant impact on sad anime movies, particularly through director Hayao Miyazaki’s contributions. Miyazaki, a co-founder of Studio Ghibli, has been a driving force in creating poignant and emotional anime films, tackling complex themes such as loss, war, and grief.
One example is his film “The Wind Rises” (2013), which tells the touching story of an aviation engineer and his struggles during World War II. This movie showcases his incredible storytelling capabilities, and its emotional impact made me shed tears.
Other Studio Ghibli Films
Although Miyazaki is an essential figure in the realm of sad anime movies, Studio Ghibli has released various emotional films, even from other directors. Here are some examples that showcase Studio Ghibli’s contributions to sad anime:
- Grave of the Fireflies (1988): Directed by Isao Takahata, this film is often considered one of the saddest anime movies of all time. It follows the story of two siblings who struggle to survive in Japan during World War II. This film offers a heart-wrenching portrayal of the realities faced by civilians during the war.
- When Marnie Was There (2014): This movie, directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, tells the story of a young girl named Anna who forms a mysterious friendship with a girl named Marnie while staying in the countryside. The film explores themes of loneliness and the importance of friendship, making it an emotional watch.
In conclusion, Studio Ghibli has significantly impacted the world of sad anime movies, thanks to not only Hayao Miyazaki’s powerful storytelling but also the emotional depth of various films directed by other talented filmmakers. As a fan, I am grateful for the unforgettable experiences these movies provide and the lasting impression they leave on viewers.
Notable Sad Anime Movie Directors
Makoto Shinkai
Makoto Shinkai is a renowned anime director, known for his emotionally-charged films. His signature style involves beautiful, detailed backgrounds and intricate storytelling, focusing on themes of distance, love, and loss.
One of Shinkai’s most notable films is “5 Centimeters per Second” (2007), which narrates the heart-wrenching story of lost love and the pain of growing apart. The film consists of three short stories, each with its own unique emotional impact.
Another well-received film by Shinkai is “Your Name” (2016). This visually stunning masterpiece tells the tale of a high school boy and girl who magically switch bodies, only to be drawn together by a deep, emotional connection. The film delves into themes of longing, fate, and the power of love.
Mamoru Hosoda
Mamoru Hosoda is another celebrated anime director, with a diverse range of films that explore the depths of human emotion. His movies often focus on themes like family, friendship, and personal growth.
One of Hosoda’s most critically acclaimed films is “Wolf Children” (2012). The movie follows a young mother who must raise her half-human, half-wolf children in a society that does not understand or accept them. The film poignantly captures the struggles of parenthood and the unconditional love between a mother and her children.
Hosoda’s “Summer Wars” (2009) is another outstanding film that blends heartrending family drama with dazzling action. The story revolves around a young boy who accidentally unleashes an AI that threatens the online world, which impacts the real world too. The film showcases family bonds, personal responsibility, and the strength derived from unity.
In conclusion, both Makoto Shinkai and Mamoru Hosoda have made significant contributions to the world of anime by creating emotionally powerful films that connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. Their works are undoubtedly some of the best anime movie offerings available today.
The Role of Music in Sad Anime Movies
Original Soundtracks
In my experience watching sad anime movies, I have noticed that one key element that heightens their emotional impact is the original soundtrack (OST). The OST often captures the emotions of the characters and events in a way that mere visuals cannot express on their own.
For instance, in the anime series “Your Lie in April,” the beautiful piano and violin compositions have a profound effect on the atmosphere and mood of the story. These melodies stir emotions within the audience, making the sad moments even more heart-wrenching.
Another example is “Angel Beats!” whose OST features a mix of diverse musical styles, including rock, techno, and heartfelt piano pieces. This anime uses music not only to enhance the overall mood but also to drive the story forward. The emotionally intense original songs carry weight in the plot, adding depth to the characters and their struggles.
Iconic Musical Themes
Some sad anime movies have iconic musical themes that remain memorable long after watching them. These themes often capture the essence of the story and its emotional core, becoming synonymous with the movie itself.
In “Your Lie in April,” the opening song “Hikarunara” is an iconic theme that poignantly represents the beauty and tragedy of the intertwining lives of the main characters. This piece is immediately recognizable by fans and serves as a reminder of the emotional journey they experienced while watching the anime.
In the case of “Angel Beats!”, the main theme “My Soul, Your Beats!” not only sets the tone for the series but also highlights the importance of music as a connecting theme throughout the plot. The opening piano notes evoke both hope and sadness, setting the stage for the rollercoaster of emotions that the characters undergo.
Overall, the role of music in sad anime movies can never be understated. As an audience, I find that original soundtracks and iconic musical themes are essential elements that greatly enhance the emotional experience of watching these films. They not only compliment the visuals and storytelling but also leave a lasting impression on the fans who cherish these movies.
Final Thoughts
As a fan of the genre, I’ve discovered that each sad movie carries its own unique message, whether it touches upon the complexities of human relationships or highlights societal issues.
These movies captivate us with their intricate plotlines, relatable characters, and stunning visuals, effectively weaving a tapestry of emotions that stay with us long after the credits roll. So grab your tissues and immerse yourself in the world of heartfelt and melancholic stories that these masterpieces have to offer.
