7 best anime films and shows for those who have no idea about the genre
If you don't want to commit to the genre and just test the waters, then this fantasy film is the perfect pick for you. It is about a boy in Tokyo and a girl in a small town who start waking up in each other's bodies. It's weird, magical, and strangely emotional.If you think anime is just robots and screaming, 'Your Name' will change your mind. It's beautifully animated, romantic without being cheesy, and packed with emotion. The kind that leaves you staring at the ceiling afterwards, wondering about time, fate, and if you'd recognise your soulmate in another body. It calls out the inner hopeless romantic in you. 2. Kiki's Delivery Service (Film)This is a cult classic. Kiki is a young witch who moves to a seaside town and starts a delivery service with her flying broomstick.It is perfect for beginners because it's gentle, charming and full of wholesome vibes. Made by Studio Ghibli (basically the Disney of Japan), it's a lovely little comfort film with stunning hand-drawn animation. There's no fighting, no shouting - just a sweet coming-of-age story that makes you feel warm inside. 3. A Whisker Away (Film)If you're looking for something cute, then 'A Whisker Away' is for you. In this film, a teenage girl turns into a cat to get closer to the boy she likes. But it gets deeper than you'd expect.It's weird in the best way. It explores teen feelings, identity, and loneliness, but with magical cat masks and dreamy visuals. If you want a film that feels like a hug and makes you question your entire teenage diary, this one's it. 4. Death Note (Series)In this series, a high school student finds a mysterious notebook that lets him kill anyone just by writing their name. This is for thriller lovers. If you're into clever plot twists, cat-and-mouse mind games, and moral grey areas, this one's addictive. You'll find yourself torn between cheering for the genius protagonist and wondering if he's slowly losing the plot. Plus, it's only 37 episodes. Easy to binge. advertisement5. Naruto (Series)If you're wondering where it all started, and by it, I mean the cult, then I have only one word for you: 'Naruto'. It is a series about a boy named Naruto who is a loud, hyper ninja kid with a mysterious beast sealed inside him. He just wants people to notice him. Also, he dreams of becoming the strongest ninja in the village. This one's for anyone who loves epic underdog stories. It's packed with action, character growth, and emotional arcs that'll sneak up on you. Yes, it's long, but it's also one of the most iconic anime ever made. You'll start with the ninja fights and stay for the friendships and surprisingly deep lessons.6. Spy X Family (Series)It is a fairly recent anime where a spy, an assassin, and a telepath pretend to be a normal family. None of them know the others' secrets. Chaos obviously follows.It's funny, stylish, and surprisingly heartwarming. The little girl (Anya) is a fan favourite, she reads minds and says the most hilarious things. This anime balances action with comedy and family feels, making it super easy to get into, even if you've never watched anime before. advertisement7. Jujutsu Kaisen (Series)Another cult-classic is 'Jujutsu Kaisen' where a high schooler swallows a cursed finger (don't ask) and ends up becoming the host of a terrifying demon. Now he fights curses with other sorcerers to protect people.This one is for those who love fast-paced action and a bit of horror. The fight scenes? Gorgeous. The characters? Endearing. The humour? Sharp. Jujutsu Kaisen is a modern favourite and an exciting ride from episode one. Bonus: It's got some pretty quotable moments. Think of this list as your anime starter pack, a mix of heart, humour, action, and magic to ease you in. You don't need to know every cultural reference or understand Japanese to enjoy these stories. You just need a bit of curiosity and maybe a cosy blanket.Once you watch your first anime and get hooked (because you will), you'll see it's not just 'cartoons', it's storytelling at its most creative. Some of these will make you laugh out loud, others might hit a little too close to home. But that's the magic of anime: it sneaks up on you. Bonus tip: Watch with subtitles (not dub) for the best experience. Trust me.- EndsMust Watch
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