If you’re on the hunt for great anime films, Crunchyroll takes the crown—especially if you want to dive into some highly-acclaimed titles. I recently signed up for a subscription and have been binge-watching late into the night. To my surprise, I got immersed in a wide array of anime genres, many of which tugged at my heartstrings. Thanks to Crunchyroll’s recommendations, I stumbled upon hidden gems like King of Thorn and Josee, the Tiger and the Fish. Each movie not only justifies the monthly fee but also makes it easy to introduce the world of anime to friends.
King of Thorn
Watch King of Thorn on Crunchyroll
The story of Medusa has always intrigued me, so when I discovered that King of Thorn features a "Medusa" virus turning people into stone, I was instantly hooked. The film follows a group of survivors who awaken from cryogenic sleep to find their reality overrun with bizarre vines and creepy creatures.
What sets King of Thorn apart from typical horror is its strong focus on the human condition. Among just 160 survivors, tensions run high, particularly with characters like the mysterious Marco. The film delves into the past of shy Kasumi, whose flashbacks reveal twists that deepen the narrative. The constant threat and the fear of mortality create a gripping atmosphere throughout the film.
Josee, the Tiger and the Fish
Watch Josee, the Tiger and the Fish on Crunchyroll
From its opening scenes, Josee, the Tiger and the Fish captures your heart through the unique chemistry of its two leads. Tsuneo saves Josee in a pivotal moment, leading to an endearing journey of love that’s fraught with challenges.
Josee faces numerous personal obstacles, from mourning her grandmother to redefining her career path, yet she retains an air of whimsy. The dynamics between the characters mirror reality-like live-action romances, where love sneaks up on them. If you’re a fan of heartfelt love stories, this film will surely tug at your emotions.
Suzume
Watch Suzume on Crunchyroll
Suzume had been languishing on my Netflix watchlist for ages, but I finally dove in once I spotted it on Crunchyroll. I’d heard whispers about Makoto Shinkai’s impressive works, and Suzume captivated me from the start. It blends fantasy with deep emotional undertones, reminiscent of Spirited Away, though it strikes out on its unique path.
The titular character, Suzume, is resolute in her quest to protect her loved ones against catastrophic forces, like a giant worm causing earthquakes. Her journey unfolds against a beautifully crafted backdrop, filled with vibrant colors that heighten the sense of adventure.
Sword of the Stranger
Watch Sword of the Stranger on Crunchyroll
Sword of the Stranger stands out due to its straightforward yet profound narrative, focusing mainly on the characters Nanashi (aka "No Name") and a young boy named Kotaro. It explores themes of identity, morality, and redemption.
As a wandering ronin, Nanashi unexpectedly becomes entangled with Kotaro, who is fleeing from menacing Chinese warriors. Despite his reluctance, Nanashi’s protective instincts awaken as he tries to save Kotaro and his loyal dog, Tobimaru. The film balances its gripping action with profound character development, providing a satisfying experience for viewers unafraid of some bloodshed.
Akira
Watch Akira on Crunchyroll
Set in the dystopian world of Neo-Tokyo, Akira weaves a tale of government corruption and the dark side of human experimentation. The story revolves around Tetsuo, a member of a troubled bike gang who unexpectedly gains telekinetic powers.
The film dives deep into complex themes like divinity, trust, and betrayal, all while featuring stellar animation that remains a visual treat, even today. Although it doesn’t completely adapt the original manga, the artistic merit and action sequences make it a must-watch for any fan of the medium.
Crunchyroll’s Treasure Trove
I feel like I’m just scratching the surface of Crunchyroll’s impressive library of anime films. Whether it’s the thrilling action in Sword of the Stranger or the emotional depth found in Josee, the Tiger and the Fish and Suzume, there’s something for everyone. Dive in and discover these cinematic treasures for yourself!
