Top 40 Best 90s Anime Movies To Watch
Do you long for a comprehensive list of the finest anime from the 90s? All right, now it's happening! Don't waste your time since this is a compilation of the best anime movies of the '90s.
The Best 90s Anime Movies
The 90s Anime Movies marked a turning point for the anime world. A plethora of innovative processes and designs appeared on the market.
Note: This post was only edited by Cody Perez, not originally written by Cody. This may not necessarily reflect his views.
In fact, some of the most influential works in the history of anime were produced in this decade, laying the groundwork for the fascinating medium we know today.
Moreover, 90s Anime Movies are said to be part of the classics, so every fan should try them at least once.
So, let's dive deep into the golden past of anime and see what makes these films so great!
1. Digimon Adventure
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | – |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | July 8, 2000 |
| Duration | 20 minutes |
Part of the Digimon franchise, the Digimon Adventure movie is the first installment that later serves as the prologue to the later anime television series. This movie is based on the typical Digimon storyline but goes back to explore the past of where it all began.
The story is about Taichi, who first obtains an egg that belongs to the digital world. Even though he's cautioned not to, he raises the Digimon from the egg and rapidly realizes that it's a lot more difficult undertaking than he expected.
The movie is full of humor and heartwarming moments as we see how Taichi's Digimon grows up and becomes a powerful ally! Surely Worth a Watch!
2. Only Yesterday
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Drama |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | July 20, 1991 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 58 minutes |
Only Yesterday is an anime movie that tells the story of a man who is tired of his monotonous lifestyle. He decides to take a trip to the countryside to refresh himself, and this trip brings back his originality within him.
He is now dedicated to his life and has a new outlook on his status. The story rings true in so many ways!
3. Sailor Moon S: The Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Anime, adventure, fantasy |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | December 4, 1994 |
| Duration | 1 hour |
Sailor Moon S: The Movie is one of the best and most popular anime movies from the 90s. In it, Luna falls in love with scientist Oozora Kakeru.
However, she soon discovers that he has been kidnapped by Princess Kaguya, who plans to freeze the planet out of rage and aggression. Luna must take care of Princess Kaguya before things get too out of hand. The movie follows their journey and how things eventually work out between them.
4. Ushiro No Shoumen Daare
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Drama |
| Source | Novel |
| Original Run | February 3, 1991 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 30 minutes |
The movie Ushiro no Shoumen Daare narrates the story of a young girl, Kayoko, who wishes to become a war nurse and protect her uncle, who is fighting in the military.
The movie focuses on depicting the severe nature of the bombing that took place in Japan during World War II, and it follows Kayoko as she grows old and eventually realizes her dream.
5. New Kimagure Orange Road: Summer's Beginning
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, adventure, comedy |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | November 2, 1996 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 35 minutes |
New Kimagure Orange Road: Summer's Beginning is a drama anime film that was released in 1996.
The narration follows a young man who gets involved in a near-death traffic accident and goes forward three years into the future.
In this alternate future, he is considered missing, and everyone thinks he's dead, but he wants to find his way back to his proper time and stay faithful to the girl he loves.
6. Slayers: The Motion Picture
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Film score; orchestral; J-pop |
| Source | Light Novel |
| Original Run | July 29, 1995 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 6 minutes |
Slayers: The Motion Picture is a classic anime film that follows the story of two young girls, Nata and Lina, as they search for Mipross Island.
This island is said to be home to some of the most absurd creatures in the world, and it's been inaccessible for almost a year.
However, as time passes by, will they get the opportunity to finally reach it? And what sorts of challenges and obstacles will they find along the way? Well, You should definitely find out now!
7. Zeno: Kagirinaki AI NI
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Drama |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | May 15, 1999 |
| Duration | 1 hr.12 minutes |
An account of the life and service of Brother Zenon Zebrowski is what Zeno: Kagirinaki Ai ni is all about.
Zeno Zebrowski was a Polish missionary who was known for his selfless deeds and for helping those in need. He used his skills to help the poor and worked tirelessly to improve their living conditions.
8. Nintama Rantarou Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Anime, coloring cartoon |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | June 29, 1996 |
| Duration | 45 minutes |
The 1996 film Nintama Rantarou was adapted from the long-running manga and anime of the same name.
It follows the stereotypical premise of the show, which is a group of young ninja students who are trying to learn and pass their final exams.
The movie is aimed at the Shounen demographic and has features like Comedy, a Ninja theme, and family-friendly.
9. Lupin III: Farewell to Nostradamus
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action, science fiction, comedy, adventure |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | April 22, 1995 |
| Duration | 1 hr.40 minutes |
Lupin III: Farewell to Nostradamus is an exciting and entertaining movie. The story revolves around Lupin and his buddy Jigen and their mission to get their hands on some diamonds.
However, they realize that Fujiko is after a young girl for the sake of a book, and the book seems to be quite important. Things start happening, and now Lupin has to get his hands on the book and get away with it while saving the other girl.
This anime is quite a package of action, adventure, and comedy anime; definitely worth your time.
10. Tenchi the Movie: Tenchi Muyo! In Love
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Anime, horror, science fiction |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | April 20, 1996 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 35 minutes |
Tenchi The Movie: Tenchi Muyo! In Love is the story of Tenchi Masaki, a young man who accidentally travels through time. When he arrives in the future, he discovers that his mother is in danger and sets out to save her.
Along the way, he must deal with the consequences of his travel and the drama that follows him.
11. Slam Dunk: Zenkoku Seiha Da! Sakuragi Hanamichi
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Drama, animation, comedy |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | July 9, 1994 |
| Duration | 45 minutes |
Slam Dunk is a popular anime series that was released in the early 1990s. The series is known for its over-the-top and intense basketball action.
Keeping up with its plotline, this sports anime movie follows the Shohoku team as they take on Tsukubu in a heated match. This clash of acquaintances pits former teachers against students, as well as friends against friends.
Sakuragi must also deal with the presence of Nango, Tsukubu's center, who vies for Haruko's attention. Overall, Slam Dunk: Zenkoku Seiha da! Sakuragi Hanamichi is quite an interesting watch!
12. Ranma 1/2: The Movie 2 – Nihao My Concubine
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, action, adventure, comedy, fantasy, romance |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | May 7, 1999 |
| Duration | 1 hour |
Ranma 1/2: The Movie 2 – Nihao My Concubine is a movie based on the popular manga and anime series Ranma 1/2. In this movie, Ranka becomes a hero again and saves the crew from danger.
However, this time it is a lot more serious and extreme from a narrative standpoint. Basically, the narrative talks about the team visiting an island for the sake of some fun. However, they soon realize why visiting this place is a bad idea.
13. You're Under Arrest! The Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, action, comedy |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | April 29, 1999 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 29 minutes |
You're Under Arrest! The Movie is a Japanese animated narrative that was released in 1997. It is based on the popular anime series of the same name.
The movie follows the story of Miyuki and Natsumi, two police officers determined to take care of any case brought to them.
However, the first case they encounter right after meeting again may be more challenging than they expected – they find a car with a ton of weapons in it, and now they have to take care of the weapons before anything bad happens.
14. Slayers Gorgeous
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Comedy, fantasy, anime |
| Source | Light Novel |
| Original Run | August 1, 1998 |
| Duration | 1 hour |
Do we have a squeal here? Well, for one, the duo is definitely back again!
Basically, Slayers Gorgeous is a movie from the Slayers anime franchise. The plot is full of twists and turns, as Lina Inverse must face off against an opponent with strength revolving around dragons. The experience is full of unique disputes that Lina must make it out of without any major problems.
15. Ninja Scroll
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action, martial arts, fantasy, adventure |
| Source | Original |
| Original Run | June 5, 1993 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 34 minutes |
Ninja Scroll is a 1993 Japanese animated film about Jubei, a ninja who must protect Japan from a cult of supernatural warriors; because if the cult were to take over Japan, it would be a very different place with few people enjoying it!
Moreover, the fight scenes are extremely well done. This anime also features some of the strongest anime characters that are quite thrilling to watch!
16. Tistou Midori No Oyayubi
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | March 24, 1990 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 15 minutes |
Tistou Midori no Oyayubi is a Japanese anime movie that was released in 1996. The film tells the story of Tistou, a young girl with the unique ability to touch anything and turn it into a beautiful plant.
The movie follows her journey as she explores the real world and learns about the different people and places she encounters.
Honestly, Tistou is worthy of being on this list because of the amount of content it offers- there is something for everyone who watches it.
17. Slayers Great
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Anime, comedy, adventure |
| Source | Light Novel |
| Original Run | August 2, 1997 |
| Duration | 59 minutes |
The next on the list is Slayers Great. It is a movie about Lina Inverse, a powerful sorceress, and her partner Naga the White Serpent. They come across a city where the battle between Golems seems to be a really important deal.
However, something even more important is the father and son duo in the show. When competition regarding Golems occurs within the geographical domain, they find each other on the opposite side.
But wait, things won't go nearly as simple as they sound here in the synopsis of the movie. You certainly need to explore this!
18. Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Fantasy, adventure, anime |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | August 21, 1999 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 21 minutes |
Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie is a great film that tells the story of Sakura and Tomoya. Sakura's father gives them a trip to Hong Kong, but things take a turn for the worse when they get there.
It is soon revealed that an evil force is behind all of the chaos, and Sakura must use her magic and strength to stop it. The movie is captivating for its narrative and also showcases Sakura's elegance and strength.
19. Macross Plus Movie Edition
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action, animation, drama |
| Source | Original |
| Original Run | October 7, 1995 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 55 minutes |
Macross Plus Movie Edition is a movie that was released in 1994 and is based on the Macross Plus anime series. The movie has a lot of romance, drama, mecha, sci-fi, aliens, aviation, idols, love triangles, and military tags under its belt.
It is a fascinating watch altogether and talks about a group that included Myung, Isamu, and Guld, who were quite good friends in their childhood. Unfortunately, everything is not going to be all sunshine for them.
20. Rurouni Kenshin Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, action, drama |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | December 20, 1997 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 31 minutes |
Rurouni Kenshin is a movie that was produced as part of the Rurouni Kenshin franchise. It is an excellent example of the series and tells the story of Kenshin meeting Takimi Shigure, who has been carrying the weight of his dead friend for a while.
Although Takimi didn't kill his friend, he still has regret for his role in his death and revenge in his eyes. However, revenge will only lead to regret and nothing fruitful, so Takimi must realize this and reject it.
21. Chibi Maruko-Chan: Watashi No Suki NA UTA
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | December 19, 1992 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 33 minutes |
Chibi Maruko-chan: Watashi no Suki na Uta is a heartwarming story about two young girls who share a love for art. The film follows their journey as they learn to become artists and find happiness in their creations.
This film is an excellent way for girls to be encouraged to pursue their artistic dreams, and it is also a fun way to learn about the art process. The story is simple and easy to follow, making it ideal for younger viewers.
22. Sailor Moon R: The Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Superhero fantasy |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | December 5, 1993 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 1 minute |
Maybe it's not that shocking to find yet another Sailor Moon movie here.
Sailor Moon R: The Movie is about a promise that turns out to be more complex and diversified than what was initially thought.
The sailor group realizes the sinister activities of Fiore and takes control in order to fulfill the promise. While it may seem virtuous at first, the promise is not as pure as it seems.
23. Dragon Ball Z Movie 8: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Science fiction, martial arts |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | March 6, 1993 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 16 minutes |
I can bet you are not surprised to see this work from the Dragon Ball Franchise here!
Dragon Ball Z Movie 8 is a movie that was released in 1993. It is the eighth movie in the Dragon Ball Z series.
The movie focuses on a child named Broly who was excluded from his planet because of his unreal potential and threat to the world. Broly was saved by his father and, later on, raised to become the beast that he was supposed to be.
However, his strength was not placed in a civilized format, so he has become more dangerous than ever!
Now how will Goku and Vegeta deal with that? Discover the Thrill!
24. Slam Dunk Movie 4
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Comedy, animation, drama |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | July 15, 1995 |
| Duration | 40 minutes |
The Slam Dunk 4: Roar!! Basket Man Spirit is a classic anime film that is filled with high-octane sports, action, and drama. In case you are looking for an exciting basketball anime movie to watch, then the Slam Dunk movie is a great option for you.
However, please keep in mind that this movie may also unfold events you might not be prepared for!
25. Dragon Ball Z Movie 12: Fusion Reborn
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, fantasy, martial arts |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | March 4, 1995 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 2 minutes |
Here we go again.
Dragon Ball Z Movie 12: Fusion Reborn is one of the most important movies in the Dragon Ball series. It was the movie that introduced Gogeta, a fusion of Goku and Vegeta.
Moreover, Gogeta is incredibly powerful and is able to take care of Janemba with ease. This movie was an important part of the series because it helped to expand on mythology and gave birth to one of the most popular characters.
26. Porco Rosso
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Japanese animated, adventure-fantasy |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | July 18, 1992 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 33 minutes |
Porco Rosso is a 1992 anime movie written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The plotline narrates the story of a cursed WWI fighter pilot who has been transformed into a pig. The movie follows his life as he tries to come to terms with the curse and live as normally as possible.
The show is an incredible portrayal of a remarkable pilot's life and highlights his skills and abilities in the face of great difficulty.
27. Detective Conan Movie 3: The Last Magician of the Century
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animated, feature film |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | April 17, 1999 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 40 minutes |
Detective Conan Movie 3: The Last Magician of the Century is the third movie in a popular Detective Conan movie trilogy. In this movie, Kaito Kid gets his hands on an egg and is possessed by something sinister.
The Scorpion, a rival thief, seems to be after the egg as well and is after anyone who is getting engaged in the case. Conan has to learn the truth about the battle, and the mystery might have a surprising answer for everyone in the show.
28. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Military science fiction |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | August 1, 1998 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 30 minutes |
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz is a movie set in the future, after a time when Earth and other space colonies seem to be living in peace with each other.
However, a girl named Relena decides to snatch this peace away, and things quickly start to spiral out of control. War may brew between nations as a result of her actions, and it's all because things shouldn't have happened the way they regularly do.
29. POM Poko
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animated fantasy |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | July 16, 1994 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 59 minutes |
Pom Poko is a classic Studio Ghibli film about the Tanuki trying to protect their forest. The story follows the shapeshifting Tanuki as they try to save their home from destruction. The film is a comedy and has been highly rated by critics.
30. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animated, apocalyptic, psychological drama |
| Source | Original |
| Original Run | July 19, 1997 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 27 minutes |
Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion is a psychological thriller that is well worth watching. It messes with your brain in a way that makes it memorable. If you are looking for a movie to challenge your mind, then this is the one for you.
31. Legend of the Galactic Heroes: Overture to a New War
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, action, drama |
| Source | Novel |
| Original Run | December 18, 1993 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 30 minutes |
Next on the list is Legend of the Galactic Heroes: Overture to a New War
It is a movie that was released in 1990 and is based on the popular Legend of the Galactic Heroes franchise. The movie tells the story of a clash between two powerful commanders, Reinhard von Lohengramm and Wen-Li Yang.
Reinhard is rising through the ranks rapidly, and his higher-ups decide to send him to a battle he can't win in order to allow them to take some restful breaths.
While the story does have its share of action and violence, there might also be a factor of love in it, as well as new shapes to the overall narrative.
32. Perfect Blue
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animated, psychological thriller film |
| Source | Novel |
| Original Run | February 28, 1998 |
| Duration | 1hr. 21 minutes |
Here is another psychological thriller for you!
Perfect Blue is an anime movie that was released in 1997 and directed by Satoshi Kon. It has won numerous awards and is hailed as one of the greatest anime movies ever created.
It follows an idol named Mima, who decides to leave her singing career behind to pursue acting. However, as she starts her new job, strange things begin happening, and it seems as if someone is stalking her.
The stalker gradually begins to take over Mima's life, and she soon realizes that she might not be able to escape him.
If you're a fan of the genre, make sure to watch it.
33. Ghost in the Shell
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Adult animated, neo-noir, cyberpunk, thriller film |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | November 18, 1995 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 22 minutes |
Ghost in the Shell is a movie set in the future where human limbs can be replaced by robotic parts; imagine that!
The movie follows the story of a man named Puppet Master who is on a killing spree, and somebody needs to stop him. Whoever that person is, they must be excellent at their work because the Puppet Master has no mercy. This is anime, a great watch in the cyberpunk anime category; highly recommended!
34. Raiyantsuuri No UTA
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Drama |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | July 21, 1994 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 30 minutes |
Raiyantsuuri no Uta is a Japanese animated film that was released in 1990. The movie is captivating and fascinating, with a gripping narrative and fascinating animation.
The story follows a Chinese laborer who is brought to Japan during world war two and manages to escape his captors. However, the end of the movie is quite horrifying!
35. Whisper of the Heart
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Musical, coming-of-age, romantic, drama |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | July 15, 1995 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 51 minutes |
Moving on, Whisper of the Heart is a 1995 Japanese animated coming-of-age film directed by Yoshifumi Kondō and written by Hayao Miyazaki.
The movie tells the story of a 14-year-old girl who aspires to be a writer. She takes a summer job at her school's newspaper, where she meets an older boy who has just moved back to Japan after living in Italy for several years. The two fall in love, but she discovers that he is moving away! What next now?
36. Princess Mononoke
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Epic, historical, fantasy |
| Source | Original |
| Original Run | July 12, 1997 |
| Duration | 2hr. 13 minutes |
Princess Mononoke is a critically acclaimed and award-winning 1997 anime movie written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
The movie is significant because it speaks about the impact of humans on nature and how to have a sweet spot in between where both can live in peace and harmony. In fact, the movie had a real-life impact on nature conservation in Japan!
37. Slayers Return
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | comedy, fantasy, anime |
| Source | Light Novel |
| Original Run | August 3, 1996 |
| Duration | 1-hour |
Slayers Return is a 1992 Japanese animated film. A well-received piece of art, it was also made into a manga by Kanzaka and Shoko Yoshinaka.
Moreover, this part is the second film released in the Slayers saga, following Slayers.
The narrative follows the wicked wizard looking for a mythical treasure that might be an indestructible magical weapon vital in his goal of world conquest, and the mercenary heroes Lina Inverse and Naga the Serpent have been recruited to rescue a village girl from him.
38. Mobile Police Patlabor 2: The Movie
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | August 7, 1993 |
| Duration | 1 hr. 53 minutes |
Mobile Police Patlabor 2: The Movie is a thriller set in the near future about a terrorist organization that works from within the military to cause civil unrest throughout Japan. The Patlabor team works to unravel the growing plot and discovers a familiar face as the mastermind.
And therefore, the Patlabor team must use all of its skills to stop the terrorist organization before it causes much more damage.
39. Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action political thriller |
| Source | Manga |
| Original Run | November 17, 1999 |
| Duration | 1 hr 42 minutes |
Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade is an anime movie that was released in 1999. It unfolds the story of Kazuki Fuse, a member of a special police unit set during an alternate history of Japanese riots.
Following his disobedience of an order to kill a terrified little girl, he encounters Kei, the victim's sister, who does not blame him for her death. The film was well-received and has been released on home video.
40. Ranma 1/2 Ova: Chou Musabetsu Kessen! Ranma Team vs Densetsu No Houou
| Things to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation |
| Source | Unknown |
| Original Run | August 20, 1994 |
| Duration | 31 minutes |
The Ranma 1/2 OVA: Chou Musabetsu Kessen! Ranma Team VS Densetsu no Houou is a great movie to watch, especially if you are a fan of the series.
The story revolves around Kuno, a rival of Ranma's, and his attempt to get a phoenix and use its power to defeat Ranma.
However, things don't go as planned, and now a monster attached to Kuno's head is causing havoc in the city. It is now up to our main characters to take care of Kuno and the beast that he has unleashed. The theme of demon anime is quite compelling; you should surely check this one out.
Conclusion
Undeniably, the '90s were a golden age for anime, producing so many groundbreaking masterpieces. I hope you enjoy exploring some of these best 90s oldies!
