Anime, a dynamic form of Japanese visual storytelling, has captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide with its captivating narratives, stunning artistry, and unforgettable characters. In this exploration, we delve into the financial successes of anime films, revealing the top 10 highest-grossing anime movies of all time.
1. Spirited Away (2001) by Hayao Miyazaki
A young girl named Chihiro steps into a magical world filled with spirits and must find her way back home in this enchanting tale by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. Spirited Away, released in 2001, holds the record for the highest-grossing anime film both domestically and internationally.
2. Your Name (2016) by Makoto Shinkai
In an unexpected encounter, two high school students swap bodies and embark on a mission to restore their lives. Your Name, directed by Makoto Shinkai in 2016, is the highest-grossing anime movie in Japan’s history with a domestic box office revenue of approximately $357 million.
3. Attack on Titan: The Final Season – Part 2 (2019)
As humanity braces for the final battle against the colossal Titans, Mikasa, Eren, and their companions fight to protect their homeland in this thrilling conclusion to Attack on Titan. Released in 2019, this anime movie grossed approximately $337 million worldwide.
4. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train (2020) by Hiroshi Sato
Tanjiro Kamado and his companions embark on a mission to protect passengers from a demon aboard the famous Mugen Train in this action-packed anime movie.
Directed by Hiroshi Sato, Demon Slayer:
Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train grossed an impressive $318 million worldwide as of February 2021.
5. One Piece: Strong World (2012) by Monkey Punch
Luffy and his crew search for the ultimate power to save their home in this epic adventure based on the world-renowned One Piece manga series. One Piece: Strong World, released in 2012, grossed approximately $305 million worldwide.
6.
Pokémon:
I Choose You!
(2017) by Kunihiko Yuyama
In this heartwarming tale, a young boy named Satoshi meets the legendary Pokemon, Pikachu, and embarks on an incredible journey to become a Pokemon Master.
Pokémon:
I Choose You!
grossed approximately $238 million worldwide when it was released in 2017.
7. Naruto Shippuden:
The Movie (2015) by Masashi Kishimoto
Naruto Uzumaki and his team must stop a powerful enemy from obtaining a forbidden power in this thrilling anime movie adaptation of the popular manga series. Naruto Shippuden: The Movie grossed approximately $234 million worldwide.
8. Death Note: The Last Name (2006) by Shinsuke Sato
Light Yagami and L continue their battle of wits as they race to uncover the identity of each other in this suspenseful anime movie based on the best-selling manga series. Death Note: The Last Name grossed approximately $185 million worldwide when it was released in 2006.
9. Akira (1988) by Katsuhiro Otomo
Set in a dystopian future, the story follows Tetsuo as he gains incredible psychic abilities and wreaks havoc on the city of Neo-Tokyo in this groundbreaking anime masterpiece. Akira, released in 1988, grossed approximately $130 million worldwide.
10. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004) by Hayao Miyazaki
In this magical tale, a young girl named Sophie is transformed into an old woman and enlists the help of a wizard to restore her youth. Howl’s Moving Castle, directed by Hayao Miyazaki in 2004, grossed approximately $125 million worldwide.
**Conclusion:**
From heartwarming tales and epic adventures to suspenseful mysteries and dystopian futures, these top 10 highest-grossing anime movies showcase the diverse range of stories that have captivated audiences worldwide. These financial successes are a testament to the enduring appeal of anime and its ability to transport viewers into captivating worlds filled with adventure, intrigue, and unforgettable characters.