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Image Credit: Matt Lief Anderson With his music serving as a staple of Adult Swim’s ambiance, Flying Lotus, the producer name of Steven Ellison, was very likely the soundtrack of many fans’ formative anime years. For those who may not have heard his music while sneaking late night episodes of Trigun and Cowboy Bebop , you may have heard his works featured in series such as Carole & Tuesday and Yasuke , or felt his musical genius on Kendrick Lamar’s seminal release To Pimp a Butterfly amongst his many solo and collaborative releases. Ellison is so much more than a musician though. His directorial talents can be seen in music videos, short films, and feature length productions, with the latest of these being his sci-fi horror drama, Ash , for which he also did the music. He is not one to shy away from showcasing his love of anime, and that bled...

The best anime has to offer comes in many different formats — including feature films, which tell some of the medium’s most potent and highly acclaimed stories in a concise, dynamic manner. An incredible way to enjoy a spectacular narrative without excessive time commitments, anime movies also avoid many of the pitfalls longer series run into much more often.

A feature length film doesn’t have the luxury to include sprawling stories or narrative detours, resulting in every scene in the best anime movies being deliberate and serving the purpose of elevating the plot. Representative of many genres — and, sometimes, even entire franchises — the best anime films are faultless from beginning to end, not losing their audience’s attention even for a second.

Perfect Blue Contains Impactful Details in Every Frame Stream Perfect Blue on Apple TV

One of the most esteemed directors in the medium’s history, Satoshi Kon...

A prolific medium with titles to suit whichever form of entertainment the viewers desire, anime has no shortage of wide-ranging epics one could spend months catching up to, short and sweet one-cour shows to watch over the weekend, and multi-seasonal series perfect to enjoy at one’s own pace. An equally multifaceted category, anime movies offer self-contained, impactful narratives with minimal time commitment required.

Embarking on a completely new adventure and losing oneself in a novel, gripping story every day is entirely possible with anime films, leaping from imaginative high fantasy to grounded drama to thought-provoking science fiction. Some of the medium’s most acclaimed, trailblazing exemplars come as feature films, and, in today’s age of streaming, most of them are readily available to enjoy from the comfort of one’s home. With these incredible anime films, all a part of Crunchyroll’s expansive catalog, an entire week of riveting ventures awaits.

In the world of anime filmmaking, two names stand as titans for their craft: Hayao Miyazaki and Satoshi Kon. Though their creations are as varied as they can be in terms of tone, theme, and style, they share an undeniable mastery of storytelling that has left a lasting impact on both Japanese and international anime fans.

A still from Spirited Away. | Credit: Studio Ghibli

Miyazaki is famous for his whimsical, dreamlike tales that most often revolve around adventure, childhood, and environmental themes. Whereas Kon established a niche for grown-up, psychological fiction that blur the line between fantasy and reality. In many ways, Satoshi Kon was the perfect parallel to Hayao Miyazaki, a peer force whose brilliance existed in striking contrast to the Ghibli master’s warmth and accessibility.

Satoshi Kon and Hayao Miyazaki: Two masters of different dreams

Hayao Miyazaki is often regarded as an escapist filmmaker. His movies allows...

The strength of an anime series’ writing can sometimes be determined at first glance — be it in the context of series famous for their stellar narratives, like Neon Genesis Evangelion or Attack on Titan, or titles tied to acclaimed creators, like Satoshi Kon’s Paranoia Agent. However, not every anime’s merits are as easily discernible from the get-go, and some of the medium’s most narratively compelling exemplars end up being overlooked due to deceiving first impressions.

Powerful writing, nuanced characterization, and evocative thematic substance can sometimes hide in anime series that, to the casual eye, don’t stand out as particularly intelligent or competently written. These anime might not strike viewers as thought-provoking masterpieces initially, yet reward those who give them a shot with some of the most riveting writing in the medium.

Related10 Shows to Avoid If You're Just Getting Into Anime

From Berserk to The Promised Neverland,...

While he is celebrated as Edward Cullen, Robert Pattinson’s filmography as an actor is manifold. This is true for his roles in The King and Good Time where he nailed the accents and mannerisms. The same goes for his upcoming movie which is promising in terms of its premise and its inspiration.

Robert Pattinson in a still from Mickey 17 | Credit: A-24

Pattinson, in an interview, opened up about the influences behind the upcoming movie Mickey 17. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, the film draws influences and quirks from anime as revealed by the actor. This also, ties in well with the Japanese animation industry’s impact on Hollywood.

Robert Pattinson’s inspiration for Mickey 17

Robert Pattinson is a seasoned actor known for his roles in Twilight and Batman. Yet, the actor has a diverse roster of filmography that showcases his versatility. The Lighthouse and The Devil All The Time...

A boundless, multifaceted medium with a rich past and exhilarating present, anime is a diverse world of storytelling even the most ambitious and devoted of fans could hardly explore in its entirety. Nowadays, anime has gotten popular enough that most people have seen at least a few of the medium's greatest hits.

For some, however, anime represents much more than a casual deviation from familiar entertainment to enjoy from time to time — it’s a beloved hobby and a passion they explore with purpose. Completing 100 anime series is the first major milestone fans hit on their path from a casual viewer to a proper fan. This milestone, though, is still only scratching the surface of all the incredible narratives the anime medium offers. It’s an impressive accomplishment that signifies a person’s level of dedication and experience. With the expanded watchlist come telltale signs that one’s interest in...

A diverse and uniquely appealing medium with countless devoted fans, anime has long since established its niche in mainstream pop culture. What has been considered an obscure and commonly misunderstood hobby in the past has now evolved into a booming worldwide cultural phenomenon acclaimed by general audiences and critics alike.

However, even if anime is more internationally accepted now than ever, plenty of people - even those deeply engrossed in other visual storytelling mediums, like film and TV - are still prejudiced against it, not recognizing anime as worthwhile. Be it due to the intrinsic mischaracterization of animation as “childish,” the lingering negative stereotypes, or the simple lack of exposure; many refuse to give anime a fair chance. Thankfully, these incredible anime films could help even the most skeptical movie buffs change their outlook on the medium.

Related10 Most Rewatchable Anime Films of All Time

Some anime films are so compelling they demand multiple viewings,...

This week on The Anime Effect: Leah and LeAlec chat with comic book artist Joe Eisma about why comic fans should read manga, the inspiration he's gotten from Naoki Urasawa and more! In our audio-exclusive episode we fill you in on the latest news in the anime world including Yu-Gi-Oh! games coming soon and a Sanrio collaboration, when you can watch Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- in the United States , and more! Episode 49 of The Anime Effect is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and anywhere else you listen to your podcasts! If you're waiting to watch the video episode, it'll be live on Crunchyroll and YouTube at 7 p.m. Et. Listen or Watch on: Episode 49 Summary In this week's news episode, LeAlec, Leah and Alex discuss the live-action Solo Leveling adaptation announcement , Kaiju No. 8 getting the Fortnite treatment, among other updates. Plus, we talk to Joe Eisma about...

Tubi has become a dark horse giant in terms of anime streaming, with several classic anime shows and movies available on the free platform. This is now set to include two cinematic gems by the legendary Satoshi Kon.

Satoshi Kon is known for his influence on and creation of multiple iconic anime works, with two of his best now headed to Tubi. Among these is an acclaimed and somewhat experimental movie that's synonymous with the themes seen in much of his work. Heading to Tubi in just a few days, these round out a growing catalog of must-watch and even exclusive anime available to stream.

Related February 1 Will Be a Great Day for Naruto Fans

Several new dub episode releases of both Naruto Shippuden and Boruto: Naruto Next Generations are set to hit a major streaming service next month.

Two of Satoshi Kon's Best Anime Movies Are Heading to Tubi...

Everyone in the anime community hails Hayao Miyazaki as the one director who writes women well. The female protagonists of Studio Ghibli films are role models for anime fans who are longing for great representation without any s*xualization.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind was one of Miyazaki’s earliest films directed and written by him. Even the original manga was all his brilliant mind. The titular protagonist of the film is one of his most beloved too.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. [Credit: Toei Company]

The portrayal of Nausicaä isn’t black and white, she’s incredibly complex and seeks understanding rather than violence, despite living in a dangerous world. She values all living beings and her sense of adventure attracts the audience.

On the subject of Nausicaä’s appearance, Hayao Miyazaki talked about the distaste he has for the way Japanese...

Quick Links The Case for 'Paprika' Inspiring 'Inception' The Case Against 'Paprika' Inspiring 'Inception' 'Paprika' and 'Inception' are Similar, But Equally Great

Almost everybody’s seen Inception. While The Dark Knight was the film that gave Christopher Nolan the auteur license he still holds to this day, it was arguably Inception that ensured his status as a household name. Nolan has spoken openly about how it was his passion project since almost the start of his career and how he was only able to bring it to life once he had the experience and prestige under his belt to make it happen. Even 15 years later, it remains one of his most startlingly visionary achievements.

Yet many have noticed more than a few similarities between Inception and anime legend Satoshi Kon’s final film (and one of his best), Paprika. That movie also focused on dream worlds and figures with the...

Amid the announcement of Christopher Nolan's next magnum opus, an adaptation of Homer's The Odyssey starring Matt Damon, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, and Charlize Theron, two of his most talked-about movies made their way to Netflix. On January 1, the streaming platform added Inception and Interstellar to its streaming library, a nice little New Year's gift for its subscribers as 2025 rolled in.

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio as professional dream thief Dom Cobb, Inception was what the internet liked to call a complete mind-fuck when it first came out in 2010. For many viewers, it did not make a lot of sense up until a second or third watch, yours truly along them. But several five-star reviews, millions at the box office, and eight Oscar nominations later, it became evident that Nolan had broken new ground in Hollywood.

However, Inception was definitely not the first sci-fi movie to...

The world of cinema has often blurred the lines between homage, inspiration, and imitation. For instance, Christopher Nolan’s 2010-released movie, Inception took the world by storm with its mind-bending narrative, stunning visuals, and intricate exploration of dreams. Yet, this blockbuster bears a striking resemblance to a fascinating work by a veteran anime filmmaker: Satoshi Kon’s Paprika.

Leonardo Dicaprio as Dominick Cobb from Inception | Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Was Inception inspired by, or even a direct copy of, Satoshi Kon’s 2006 anime masterpiece, Paprika? Released four years prior to Nolan’s blockbuster, Paprika explores the convergence of dreams and reality through advanced technology and psychological intrigue. While some argue that Inception was borrowed heavily from Paprika‘s core premise, others see it as a coincidence or an homage.

Uncanny parallels between Paprika and Inception

Paprika, which was released in 2006, was Satoshi Kon‘s last film before his untimely death...

Tokyo Godfathers is considered the all-time best Christmas anime watch. The creator, Satoshi Kon, has experimented with mind-bending themes before, but Tokyo Godfathers went way beyond his usual specialty. Yet, fans accepted it with open arms, mainly due to its wholesomeness.

Satoshi Kon is also the creator of Perfect Blue, Paprika, Millenium Actress, and other critically acclaimed movies. All of them have been one megahit after another, bringing home tons of praise. But it was Tokyo Godfathers that proved just how wide of a range the director and animator has.

Satoshi Kon didn’t want things to get redundant with Tokyo Godfathers Tokyo Godfathers by Satoshi Kon | Credits: Madhouse

Tokyo Godfathers is admittedly a huge departure from the type of movies Satoshi Kon had done till then. Before this wholesome movie, he directed Perfect Blue and Millenium Actress, both of which blended reality with dreamlike elements. Both are also fairly in the psychological genre.

Tite Kubo’s Bleach features a lot of strong and powerful characters, but very few of them can stand up to the might of Kuchiki Byakuya. He is not only the 28th head of the Kuchiki Clan but is also the captain of the 6th Division in the Gotei 13. He is a fan-favorite character who is known for his calm and egotistic personality that has helped in many ways.

Byakuya Kuchiki from Bleach | Credit: Studio Pierrot

Being the captain of a Gotei 13 Division, Byakuya is bound to have an insane amount of strength in the form of his Zanpakuto and his Bankai. His Bankai is called Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, and it is probably the only Bankai that was able to match the power level of Ichigo’s Zangetsu. And it was only possible because of his most dangerous attack called Shukei: Hakuteiken.

Shukei: Hakuteiken’s is one of the strongest attacks ever seen in Bleach,...

Of all the Bankai in Bleach, Byakuya Kuchiki’s Senbonzakura Kageyoshi tops the chart. Be it aesthetics or formidability, his ability is top-tier in terms of its lethal nature. It is also one of the most powerful bankai in the series.

But most importantly, it truly lives up to its nature. The Senbonzakura is a complete visual treat in every aspect. And while it’s enchanting for the most part, its skills are fatal in more ways than one.

Senbonzakura Kageyoshi in a still from the anime | Credit: Studio Pierrot

One of its key abilities that stands iconic to this date is the Shukei Hakuteiken. The 6th Division captain was able to incapacitate Ichigo through this very ability.

Barring the aesthetics, Tite Kubo gave the character one of the most lethal abilities in the series. While it is a powerful weapon, its lethality, and daunting nature isn’t explored to...

Ever since Bleach started, the one title that Ichigo Kurosaki has held permanently is the Substitute Shinigami because of him being part human. A Substitute Shinigami is a rare occurrence in Bleach, and the only two Substitute Shinigamis that Tite Kubo has featured in the narrative are Ichigo and Kugo Ginjo, the leader of the Fullbringer organization, Xcution.

Bleach anime | Credit: Studio Pierrot

Bleach fans might not know this, but all the Substitute Shinigamis are given a special Shinigami badge that serves a lot of purposes. Initially, it was portrayed as a reliable tool that helped Ichigo in many different ways. However, as the story progressed, it was revealed that the Shinigami badge actually suppressed Ichigo’s reiatsu (spiritual pressure).

Thus, in a way, the Shinigami badge actually limited Ichigo’s true power in many different aspects. If Ichigo had had access to his entire reiatsu from the start of Bleach,...

Hayao Miyazaki is one of the most celebrated storytellers of our time, founding Studio Ghibli, home to iconic films like Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, The Boy and the Heron, and more. The Studio Ghibli co-founder is regarded as a legendary director and animator whose entire filmography is exceptional.

Hayao Miyazaki | Image by 文部科学省ホームページ, licensed under Cc By-sa 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

While fans admire Miyazaki-sensei’s storytelling, the animation studio’s ability to craft breathtaking scenery never fails to leave them in awe. Miyazaki, known for his cynicism, has often expressed disdain for many practices in the anime industry.

He once shared his harsh views on the hugely popular Pokémon series and criticized the negative influence the industry has on today’s youth.

Hayao Miyazaki’s harsh views on the globally beloved Pokémon series

Hayao Miyazaki and his Studio Ghibli have been often considered to be the greatest duo in the anime industry.

The recent revelation about Shanks having a twin who is a member of the God Knights is one that One Piece fans have anticipated for a long time. Ever since Shanks has been portrayed in a contentious situation where he met the Five Elders, fans have been hoping for an explanation that would justify all of this, and Shanks’ twin is the perfect answer for it.

Shanks meets the Five Elders in One Piece | Credit: Toei Animation

However, the official introduction of Shanks’ twin begs another question about whether he is his brother, and if so, does this mean that Shanks is a Celestial Dragon himself? Eiichiro Oda has yet to reveal more details about the Twin Shanks, and till then, fans have been devising multiple theories about who this mysterious character is.

According to a One Piece theory, the Twin Shanks is not Shanks’ real brother but a clone with super soldier strength.

Beneath the vibrant art style and engaging narratives of anime and manga lies a darker side: the pervasive over-sexualization of female characters. Among them, the legendary Studio Ghibli co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki strays away from this trope by creating grounded, realistic, and self-reliant female characters. However, Miyazaki is not the only exemplary one, several others have fought against the irritating trope, and one of them is none other than Satoshi Kon.

Satoshi Kon’s Paprika | Credit: Studio Madhouse

The late filmmaker has challenged these conventions with his groundbreaking films, offering complex portrayals of women that transcend harmful stereotypes. Yet, as the anime industry grew, series like One Piece and Bleach amplified the very tropes these visionaries sought to critique, perpetuating fan service that often undermines character depth.

Anime visionaries’ challenging stereotypes with harsh realities

Anime’s treatment of women has long been a point of heated debate, both within and outside the fandom.

When thinking about the best Christmas movies, it comes to mind the blockbusters that remain classics to this day, such as Home Alone and Jingle All the Way, while among the animated options, hits such as The Nightmare Before Christmas and Klaus stand out. However, what many viewers don’t know is that although there aren’t many anime movies or series related to these holidays, there is a fun and heartwarming film to enjoy at Christmas directed by none other than the acclaimed director Satoshi Kon and by the same writer of Cowboy Bebop.

Far from the psychological approach of his acclaimed films Perfect Blue and Millennium Actress, Satoshi Kon created his more realistic and underrated work Tokyo Godfathers more than 20 years ago. The film is not only full of the holiday spirit with a touch of magical realism, but also has become the Japanese equivalent of Home Alone,...

Uzumaki is one of the finest horror masterpieces by Junji Ito as the terror of being trapped in a world of spirals comes to life. Naturally, several fans were excited about the dark horror series with the black-and-white depiction of the narrative.

The horrifying cannibalism scene in a still from Junji Ito’s anime | Credit: Adult Swim

Junji Ito’s work has been adapted to both film and anime television series, highlighting the mangaka’s influence in the community. Although fans finally got their anime adaptation, it inevitably led to huge disappointment. Amid controversies and criticism, fans left unsatisfied with Uzumaki should revisit a classic 1997 horror title that remains one of the scariest series ever.

Disappointed Uzumaki fans should watch this 1997 horror classic to lift their spirits

In the world of horror manga, few names evoke as much admiration and fear as Junji Ito, widely regarded as the most influential horror manga artist.

It is not often that we come across a film so endearing that it’d give us food for thought. Such is the case with Tokyo Godfathers, a classic that stands undisputed in terms of its visuals and unique plot.

Compared to Satoshi Kon’s previous movies, this Christmas classic is a warm hug on a winter’s day. Mainly because of its portrayal of the festival along with realism and fantasy. Above all, it toppled cancel culture in its unique way.

Hana, Miyuki, and Gin in a still from the movie | Credit: Madhouse

It weaves lives and narratives into a sonder symphony. Be it Gin or Miyuki, Kon left no stone unturned in his portrayal of complexities. But most of all, it was his representation of transwomen that eclipses other films.

Interestingly, his take on parenthood and complex relationships is what makes the film stand out in most aspects.

When it comes to Christmas classics, images of snowy landscapes, heartwarming reunions, and festive miracles often come to mind. While Western audiences often treasure films like It’s a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Carol, the world of anime has its own unsung masterpiece in Satoshi Kon’s Tokyo Godfathers, which was released in 2003.

Tokyo Godfathers | Credit: Studio Madhouse

Set on the premise of Christmas Eve in Tokyo, this film goes beyond conventional holiday storytelling. Unlike the fantastical works of Hayao Miyazaki, which often transport viewers to magical realms, Tokyo Godfathers is grounded in the raw reality of urban life and human struggle. But still, it stands out as an essential Christmas classic; not because of its dazzling animation or whimsical worlds, but due to its deep exploration of family, redemption, and the human spirit.

Tokyo Godfathers: Subverting and reinventing Christmas themes

Set on the theme of Christmas Eve, Tokyo Godfathers...

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, so in between present wrapping and chestnut roasting why not watch some anime? Despite Christmas having a markedly different cultural role in Japan compared to many Western countries there are a lot of shows that use it as a jumping off point. It’s a good opportunity for some heartwarming character moments, be they romance or friendship, and maybe a few antics involving presents or Santa costumes. So, for the twelve days of Christmas here are 12(ish) episodes from that are fun little additions to the season.

This is just Christmas episodes of anime series. This is because we all know that the ultimate Christmas anime movie is Satoshi Kon’s Tokyo Godfathers which should be immediately watched if not seen.

1. Aggretsuko (2018) “We Wish You a Metal Christmas”

Everyone’s favourite anime about adulting, this was a special episode taking place...

Over the last 40 years, Japanese animation has begun to dominate world cinema, spreading from outside of its original market to become one of the most popular subgenres of film and television in the world. The 1990s was a boom era for the medium, when anime films and series started to cross over and gain more critical attention by proving that the style was not just dominated by children's television series like Dragonball and Sailor Moon but by more adult-focused works like Cowboy Bebop and Porco Rosso.

Emerging out of the boom of adult-focused anime films, director Satoshi Kon became one of the most dominant voices in the medium during the late 1990s and 2000s, with his films and television series further proving that anime was not limited to the confines of traditional Western animation. And while his movies like Millenium Actress, Tokyo Godfathers and Paprika are all excellent, his most...

Movies play a pivotal role in many families' Christmas and holiday celebrations. To some people, it isn't truly Christmas until they've watched The Muppet Christmas Carol, Miracle on 34th Street, or It's a Wonderful Life with their family. However, there is one anime Christmas film that, despite being heavily praised by both critics and viewers, has failed to join the pantheon of quintessential Christmas films despite the film being a modern take on many of the themes found in popular Christmas classics.

Arriving on screens in 2003, Tokyo Godfathers has an all-star production team featuring many of the biggest names in the anime industry. It was directed and co-written by the legendary Satoshi Kon, who also wrote and directed modern classics like Millennium Actress and Paprika and directed the critically acclaimed Perfect Blue. The film's other writer was Keiko Nobumoto, who wrote the screenplay for Cowboy Bebop and its big-screen follow-up,...

Following the theatrical screening in September 2023 , the 4K remaster edition of the late Satoshi Kon's 1997 anime film Perfect Blue will get its ultra HD Blu-ray release in Japan on February 28, 2025. The official X (formerly Twitter) for Kon's Stone , a company that manages the anime and manga works of Kon, announced the news today. As the first feature film work by Kon, the anime film adaptation of Yoshikazu Takeuchi's Perfect Blue: Complete Metamorphosis psychological thriller novel released in Japan on February 28, 1998. The original character design was by acclaimed manga artist and illustrator Hisashi Eguchi ( Stop!! Hibari-kun! ). As well as his following works, including Millennium Actress (2002), Tokyo Godfathers (2003), Paranoia Agent (2004) and Paprika (2006), Madhouse worked on anime production. After its release, the film was well received at film festivals around the world, winning awards at the Fantasia International Film Festival in Canada and the Porto International Film Festival in Portugal.

Anime is no longer a niche industry due to its increasing popularity over the past few decades. The global rise of anime has redefined the boundaries of storytelling and artistry, leading to an era where animated films hold equal weight as mainstream cinema. Among the contributors to the worldwide success of anime films, Hayao Miyazaki’s name first comes to mind.

Spirited Away | Credit: Studio Ghibli

As his masterpiece Spirited Away secured an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003, it marks a monumental achievement both for him and the industry in general. However, anime is far from a one-man show. The medium has a rich tapestry of directors whose unique visions could challenge the Oscars’ norms. Here are four anime directors who could, much like Hayao Miyazaki, carve entirely new paths in the global cinematic landscape.

4. Mamoru Hosoda

Mamoru Hosoda is no stranger to the Oscars, having earned a...

I didn’t start seeing a therapist until my mid-20s. I’d been at odds with my mental health at the time and always tried to not let it bother me until I could convince myself that that sense of unease would go away. After all, ignoring the pressure and muscling through the pain I was feeling got me through my lonely high school years, my arduous college years, and my first two decades of living as a straight cis male. Aside from that, I never truly believed that my issues were severe enough that I would have deserved a therapist. It wasn’t that I didn’t understand the value of therapy, but I long held myself to an impossible standard wherein I did not feel entitled to one. But as I got older, I started to see the difference between having a professional to consult about my...

Satoshi Kon is one of the most prolific and acclaimed film directors in the annals of anime, even if his name isn't exactly mainstream. The same goes for some of his films, with movies like Perfect Blue becoming beloved classics while others have fallen under the radar. The latter is definitely the case for an anime Christmas movie classic which goes in a different direction than most holiday films.

Tokyo Godfathers isn't exactly the cheeriest or brightest film to watch during the holiday season, but it is one centered around the concept of family. When combined with Satoshi Kon's usual film artistry, it makes for an anime masterpiece that's been overlooked for far too long. To this day, Tokyo Godfathers is a must-see for viewers who want to experience the Christmas spirit in a much different way than usual, and it's an excellent entry in its director's filmography.

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Even before knowing the difference between what’s categorized as animation and what’s considered anime, I was watching anime movies and shows like Pokemon, Digimon, Beyblade, and Dragon Ball on Cartoon Network. Thanks to Animax, my mind was exposed to Captain Tsubasa, Cardcaptor Sakura, Detective School Q, Inuyasha, and Yu-Gi-Oh! As much as I’d like to claim that I grew up with the works of Hayao Miyazaki, Satoshi Kon, Katsuhiro Otomo, Mamoru Oshii, and Hideaki Anno, that’s not the case at all, as I came around to their masterpieces later in my life. In addition to that, I’m aware of all the popular stuff like One Punch Man, Death Note, One Piece, Attack on Titan, etc. So, I guess I can say that I am pretty familiar with the medium and the genres that exist within its boundaries. And yet, when I saw Kenji Nakamura’s Mononoke,...

One Shot invites close readings of the basic unit of film grammar.Paprika.More than a decade ago, Satoshi Kon’s premature death left a vacuum in the animation world. Not many directors so intuitively understood how the form could convey cinematic subjectivity, or were as imaginative in their experimentation. He used character designs that were unusually realistic for anime, then found ways to fray that realism. Think of a man vomiting scrawled katakana in Paranoia Agent (2004), or a nighttime chase in which a murderous specter appears to sail across rooftops in Perfect Blue (1997). In Kon’s cinema, the boundaries between reality, dreams, imagination, and memory are in constant flux.The lead character of Kon’s final completed feature, Paprika (2006), is a psychiatrist who treats patients with an experimental device that lets her enter their minds as they sleep; the title refers to the mischievous persona she assumes within that headspace.

Digimon Adventure: Last Evolution Kizuna was released in Japan on February 21st, 2020. The anime movie serves as both a finale for Digimon Adventure and Digimon Adventure tri., as well as a precursor to 2023's Digimon Adventure 02: The Beginning. While Last Evolution Kizuna was originally slated for a North American release in 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic prevented this. After four years, the movie was finally and officially screened in America for the first time on October 16th, 2024, in celebration of Digimon's 25th anniversary.

Last Evolution Kizuna follows a college-aged Tai Kamiya and Matt Ishida as they confront the reality that they're growing up, and face the threat of being separated from their lifelong Digimon partners, Agumon and Gabumon, forever. At the same time, they and the other original DigiDestined are forced to team up with the American genius Menoa Bellucci to stop the mysterious Eosmon from robbing every DigiDestined of their consciousness.

Quick Links Serial Experiments Lain Predicted Social Media Paranoia Agent Feels More Relevant Than Ever These Two Classic Anime Work Best Due to a Lack of the Supernatural

When it comes to psychological thrillers, anime isn't always seen as a source for the genre. Nevertheless, there have been several great psychological terrors in the medium, namely involving the works of Satoshi Kon. One such example was the TV series Paranoia Agent, which is seen as a gem in the genre. In terms of being the best, however, its direct competition is a similar hit from a few years earlier.

Serial Experiments Lain was a strange yet now acclaimed anime series that combined cyberpunk with prescient transhumanism, and it explored concepts that seemingly paved the way for social media. On the other hand, Paranoia Agent is a show that feels just as timely due to how it handles media hysteria and modern urban legends.

Hayao Miyazaki, the director and storyteller behind several beloved Studio Ghibli films, has always had a preference for female protagonists and treated them with care. He realistically portrays them for who they are and doesn’t necessarily prioritize their appearance for the male gaze. He gives them a nuanced personality with well-written and natural character development. Miyazaki keeps to his word and consistently writes them with a human touch. However, in modern anime, female characters are overly sexualized and the Big Three might be the worst offenders.

Nausicaä from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. [Credit: Toei Company]

One Piece, Naruto and Bleach might be the top-rated anime for decades now but there is one aspect they have in common. The female characters are mostly there for eye candy or don’t serve a purpose anymore, mostly due to the mangaka either not being able to write women properly or...

Paprika and Inception are two fantastic movies with a relatively similar premise, yet the 2006 Satoshi Kon film accomplishes something that Christopher Nolans 2010 blockbuster did not. Following the massive success of The Dark Knight, Nolan was finally able to make his Inception script into the movie he wanted. Nolan has talked about how, before making Inception as a studio movie, you have to make The Dark Knight. Fortunately, the director had all the resources and creative freedom to pull off Inception, which remains one of the best Christopher Nolan movies 14 years later.

From the trailers to whether Cobbs top stopped spinning, Inception was a pop culture phenomenon in 2010. It was the first time Nolan directed an action-packed blockbuster outside of the Batman films and proved that the filmmakers original movies could be as successful as his Dark Knight trilogy entries. However, as much as love Inception, my favorite film about the...

Ghosts usually come with a fair bit of baggage in the movies: A tragic romance leading to an even more tragic suicide, maybe, or a howl for justice from a murder victim from beyond the grave. The protagonist of “Dead Talents Society” has no such tale attached to her untimely (and embarrassing) death, and this is where her problems begin. John Hsu’s frightfully entertaining Taiwanese horror-comedy imagines a world where the dead are just as beholden to the pressures of fame as the living, and an industry has grown around ambitious apparitions building their personal brands. Urban legends live forever, and forgotten ghosts literally disappear — so get out there and scare ‘em good, kid!

There’s obvious potential for media satire baked into the concept, and co-writer and director Hsu includes scenes of talk shows, ceremonies, and gala events where the undead stars come out to celebrate the afterlife awards season.

Satoshi Kon was always known for pushing the boundaries of animation, blending reality and dreams in ways that have inspired filmmakers worldwide. Recognized for masterpieces like Perfect Blue and Paprika, this Japanese director explored the complexities of the human mind, subconsciousness, and memory. However, one of Kon’s unrealized dreams had the potential to reshape the landscape of cinema and animation forever — combining the two mediums in a single film.

Atsuko Chiba’s alter ego Paprika | Credit: Madhouse Studio

Though he never get the chance to bring this vision to life, Satoshi Kon’s dream continues to influence discussions on what’s possible in film, leaving a permanent mark on both fans and creators.

Satoshi Kon’s Mastery of Dreams and Reality

Before diving into Satoshi Kon’s vision, it’s important to understand his work’s core themes. In a French interview via DVDrama in 2006, Kon expressed his deep...

A connoisseur of the psychological thriller genre, Satoshi Kon, only brought the best in the game. His 2006 film, Paprika, is a unique blend of science fiction and the surrealistic genre into a thriller. It was also the director’s fourth and final film before his passing in 2010. His films continue his legacy as one of the best filmmakers of the 21st century.

Paprika by Satoshi Kon. [Credit: Madhouse]

The film was adapted from Yasutaka Tsutsui’s novel published in 1993. Kon knew he wanted to make Paprika after Perfect Blue, another psychological thriller film, but something held him back. Despite the idea’s inception in 1998, the director waited to meet Tsutsui personally and actually get his blessing to make the film. It’s like an honorable way to pass the baton to someone.

Paprika Was Still a Personal Commitment to Him Paprika by Satoshi Kon. [Credit: Madhouse]

For Satoshi Kon, Paprika was more than...

Satoshi Kon is one of the most ambitious directors in the film and anime industry. He knows how to instil fear into the hearts of viewers through psychological elements a bit too well. From Paprika to Perfect Blue, the director has an incredible body of work that makes him one of the best in the psychological thriller genre. But one of his lesser-known works and an anime, Paranoia Agent, is much more disturbing than any of his feature films.

Lil’ Slugger in Paranoia Agent by Satoshi Kon. [Credit: Madhouse]

Paranoia Agent has many layers to its narrative. It blends Kon’s signature narrative style of questioning what is reality and when the mind is playing tricks on you. However, it deals with completely different themes than Perfect Blue does. The ending of the anime also left viewers baffled and questioning what really happened. It’s time to dive into it.

A Darker,...

The late, great anime director Satoshi Kon was famed for pushing the boundaries of storytelling in animation, and no work exemplifies this better than Perfect Blue. Arguably one of the darkest and most mature anime films of all time, Perfect Blue was a twisted and disturbing psychological thriller that explored the dark side of all things polished, glossy, beautiful and perfect. Among such gorgeous, shiny things included the Japanese entertainment industry, idols and pop stars, and most importantly, the fledgling phenomenon known as the World Wide Web. Released in August 1997, Perfect Blue didn't just expose the burgeoning fears of a society grappling with a new technology and worrying industry it eerily and accurately predicted the bleak future of the modern Dark Web, making it one of the most disturbingly timeless and relevant films ever made.

Mima Kirigoe is a part of the cute and bubbly idol trio Cham!, and enjoys fame and fandom.

Satoshi Kon has marked his place in the world of psychological horror and mystery in the film industry. With just four films in his portfolio before his passing, the late director’s arguably best film, Perfect Blue, is still a hot topic of several debates. Fans love to analyze and pick the film apart.

In an interview with Kon, he mentioned that the film might have also worked with a male protagonist. According to him, it would have been relevant to the Japanese climate but to the taste of the Japanese animation audience, a younger girl was kept at the protagonist. Now, why was Perfect Blue (literally) perfect with the female main character in ways more convincing than a male main character would’ve been? Let’s dive into why Mima Kirigoe is irreplaceable.

Mima Kirigoe’s Story Embodies What’s Wrong with Parasocial Idol-Fan Culture Mima’s performance in Satoshi Kon’s Perfect Blue.

Iconic Events Releasing, in collaboration with Bandai/Namco, has announced the addition of several Mobile Suit Gundam films to the Ax Cinema Nights 2024/2025 lineup.

The screenings will include the three compilation movies of the original Mobile Suit Gundam series, and Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack. All four films are a part of Gundam’s Universal Century timeline, and form the backbone of the series which has spawned multiple spin-offs and Au narratives. Check out the watch order for Gundam below!

Related:

Gundam Watch Order: The Complete & Easy Guide To Watch The Mecha Anime Series!

These films will be presented in their original Japanese language with English subtitles and will begin screening this October, continuing into April 2025.

Check out the screening details below:

1. Mobile Suit Gundam (Toho)

Screening Dates: Oct 2, 2024 (sub), Oct 6, 2024 (encore screening)

In Universal Century year 0078, the space colony Side 3 declares itself the Principality of Zeon and launches a...

Animation film director Satoshi Kon , who passed away in August 2010 at the age of 46, was born on October 12, 1963 in Hokkaido, Japan. Ikebukuro Humax Cinemas, operated by Humax Entertainment, will hold a special screening event of the director's works as “Satoshi Kon Birthday Celebration" from October 11, 2024. In conjunction with the screening, there will be special bonus gifts for visitors, original drinks, and merchandise for sale that can only be available there. Ticket prices and sales dates will be announced shortly. Screening Schedule: October 11 (Fri) - 17 (Thu) “Tokyo Godfathers” (2003), “Paprika” (2006) October 12 (Sat / Satoshi Kon's Birthday) “Perfect Blue" (1997) October 18 (Fri) - 24(Thu) “Millennium Actress" (2002) October 18 (Fri) “Paranoia Agents” (2004) - all-night screening on Blu-ray Tokyo Godfathers and Paprika will receive their first Dcp (Digital Cinema Package) screenings in Japan, and the system will allow for very high resolution images to be displayed and high quality, clear sound to be enjoyed. Additionally, the two main...

Satoshi Kon is a legendary Japanese filmmaker, known for his iconic movies like Paprika, Tokyo Godfathers, and Perfect Blue, which would leave a mark on the world of cinema. The 1997 Perfect Blue, in particular, has garnered critical acclaim and attention for its mind-bending film and intricate plot. The film was one of a kind. However, it wasn’t long before elements of this groundbreaking film began to seep into the world of Hollywood—and Kon wasn’t pleased.

The most notable example of Hollywood getting inspired by Kon’s work is in Requiem for a Dream and Black Swan, both directed by Darren Aronofsky. The films were successful on their own but there was always something Perfect Blue-esque about both of those films. However, Satoshi Kon wasn’t impressed or found it flattering that the director would pay homage to him in this method.

The Case of Aronofsky – How...

Anime, as a form of entertainment, is often celebrated for its peak creativity and distinguished storytelling. The narrative can be diverse, from heartwarming tales to intense sagas full of intense action sequences. As a result, ever since trailblazer series such as Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, Cowboy Bebop, and many more, the art form has become infectiously popular around the world.

A still from Dragon Ball Z. Credits: Toei Animation)

Despite being such a mainstream form of entertainment and making the audience get infectiously addicted to it, creativity can be a boon and a bane at the same time. Well, because sometimes this pushes the boundary of creativity and makes the series get a little too wild for its own good.

Even though there is a fragile boundary between pushing the narrative and being controversial, some countries have felt the need to ban the series because it can clash with their...

Cowboy Bebop is easily one of the most popular anime franchises of all time, with the title well-known for its mature themes, iconic characters and jazzy soundtrack. Now, the movie is set to be part of a special series of anime screenings taking place across the U.S. and Canada in over 500 theaters.

Part of the Anime Expo Cinema Nights in conjunction with Iconic Events Releasing, Cowboy Bebop: The Movie is just one of numerous classics heading to the big screen throughout North America. Now over 20 years old, the movie is itself a great addition to the show's canon. While it won't be coming back out until 2025, fans can count down the days with other great anime movies in the meantime.

Related One of the Most Controversial Anime of the '90s Gets New International Release

An infamous yet highly influential 1998 anime title that helped inspire works such as Kill Bill...

Paranoia Agent is a 2004 anime created by industry legend Satoshi Kon, about the mind-bending fallout of a peculiar crime spree. Tsukiko Sagi is a character designer suddenly thrust into the spotlight after creating an immensely popular cartoon dog. Facing debilitating burnout, and under the pressure of her manager to create a bigger success, she walks home alone at night. She's stressed out, her dazed and anxious state already causing several accidents. After breaking down in a parking lot, discarded drafts are strewn about... Klunk! A bent, gold softball bat clobbers the poor woman. At the hospital, she describes the assailant to the detectives: a small boy wearing shorts and a baseball bat, shredding across the city streets on golden inline skates. A figure the panicked city calls Shnen Batto, or Lil' Slugger.