1988-1999: Anime Movies That Crushed It

Into the Weird's Guide to the Best (Late) 80s and 90s Anime Movies

The late 1980s and 1990s were a magical time for anime, producing some of the most iconic and influential films that still captivate many of us today. These movies didn’t just entertain; they pushed the boundaries of storytelling and animation, leaving a legacy that’s influenced countless creators. I’m still in awe of how these classics stand the test of time with their unique plots, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters.

Whether you’ve been a fan for years like me or are just dipping your toes into anime, you can’t go wrong with the best 80s and 90s anime films. So, let’s take a look at Into the Weird's top picks from this golden era of animation.

Akira (1988)

No list of classic anime films would be complete without Akira. Even though it came out in 1988, its impact on anime and pop culture exploded in the 90s. Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, Akira was a game-changer. It wasn’t just another anime film—it redefined the sci-fi genre and set the bar impossibly high for animated movies.

Set in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo, Akira follows Shotaro Kaneda, a biker gang leader, and his childhood friend, Tetsuo Shima, who suddenly develops psychic abilities after a freak accident. What begins as a personal story of friendship quickly spirals into chaos, rebellion, and existential dread, as Tetsuo’s powers threaten to destroy everything around him.

• Why Akira Blew Me Away:
  • Groundbreaking Animation: The level of detail in the animation is still jaw-dropping. With over 160,000 hand-drawn cells, the action feels fluid and immersive, making Neo-Tokyo feel like a living, breathing city.
  • Deep Themes: Akira explores power, corruption, and the fine line between order and chaos. These themes still feel relevant today, which is why I think this movie resonates with people even now.
  • Pop Culture Impact: From influencing The Matrix to appearing in Kanye West’s "Stronger" music video, Akira has left an undeniable mark on both anime and Hollywood.

Every time I watch Akira, I’m blown away all over again. It’s more than just a movie—it’s an experience, a visually stunning rollercoaster that challenges the way we think about storytelling in anime.

Ghost in the Shell (1995)

Next on my list is Ghost in the Shell, directed by Mamoru Oshii. This is one of those films that left me thinking for days after watching it. It’s not just a sci-fi action flick—it’s a philosophical deep dive into identity, consciousness, and what it means to be human.

The movie follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg working for Public Security Section 9. She’s on the trail of a mysterious hacker known as the "Puppet Master," who can manipulate people’s minds. But as the story unfolds, Major Kusanagi starts questioning her own reality and existence. Is she still human? Or is she just a machine with someone else’s memories?

• What I Love About Ghost in the Shell:
  • Stunning Visuals: The animation blends traditional hand-drawn techniques with early CGI, creating a cyberpunk world that’s visually stunning and incredibly detailed.
  • Philosophical Themes: It’s not often that an action-packed movie can also make you ponder the nature of consciousness, but Ghost in the Shell pulls it off.
  • Lasting Influence: I can’t help but notice how this movie has influenced so many others, from The Matrix to Ex Machina. Even James Cameron called it “a stunning work of speculative fiction.”

Whenever I want to revisit a movie that combines intense action with deep philosophical questions, Ghost in the Shell is my go-to. It’s a classic for a reason, and if you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out on one of anime’s finest achievements.

Princess Mononoke (1997)

Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke is one of those films that I can watch over and over again, and it never loses its magic. Released in 1997, it’s not just an anime—it’s a masterpiece that explores the fragile balance between humans and nature. What I love about this movie is how it presents both sides of the conflict without painting anyone as purely good or evil.

The story follows Ashitaka, a young prince who gets cursed by a demonic boar and embarks on a journey to find a cure. Along the way, he becomes embroiled in a war between forest gods and a human settlement that’s destroying the land for resources. It’s an environmental story, but it’s also so much more—it’s about the gray areas in conflicts and the complex relationships between people and nature.

• Why Princess Mononoke Is Timeless:
  • Environmental Themes: Miyazaki doesn’t shy away from showing the harm humans can do to nature, but he also doesn’t villainize them. It’s a nuanced take on the struggle between industrialization and environmental preservation.
  • Breathtaking Animation: Every frame of this movie is a work of art. The forest spirits, the landscapes, the character designs—they’re all stunning.
  • Critical Acclaim: The film was the highest-grossing movie in Japan until Titanic came along, and it still holds a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Princess Mononoke is a film that makes you think about your place in the world and the impact humanity has on the environment. It’s one of Miyazaki’s finest works, and if you haven’t watched it yet, you’re in for a treat.

Perfect Blue (1997)

Perfect Blue, directed by Satoshi Kon, is one of the most intense and thought-provoking films I’ve ever seen. This psychological thriller dives into the dark side of fame, identity, and mental breakdown. It’s unsettling, it’s gripping, and it left me questioning reality long after the credits rolled.

The movie follows Mima, a pop idol who decides to leave her singing career behind to become an actress. But as she transitions into this new role, things start to go horribly wrong. She receives strange fan letters, gets stalked, and begins experiencing hallucinations that blur the line between reality and fiction. Watching her descent into paranoia is both fascinating and terrifying.

• What Makes Perfect Blue So Haunting:
  • Psychological Depth: The film’s exploration of Mima’s mental breakdown is chilling, and it forces you to question what’s real and what’s a figment of her imagination.
  • Cinematic Influence: Darren Aronofsky loved this film so much that he bought the rights just to recreate a scene in Requiem for a Dream. You can also see its influence in Black Swan.
  • Critical Reception: With an 80% score on Rotten Tomatoes, Perfect Blue is often hailed as one of the best psychological thrillers in anime.

If you’re into psychological dramas or films that mess with your head, Perfect Blue is a must-watch. It’s unsettling in the best way possible, and it’s one of those movies that you’ll be thinking about for days.

Ninja Scroll (1993)

For those of you who love action-packed anime, Ninja Scroll is a must-see. Directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri, this samurai epic is filled with brutal fight scenes, supernatural enemies, and mature themes. It’s one of those films that grabs you by the throat from the first scene and doesn’t let go.

The story follows Jubei Kibagami, a wandering swordsman who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy involving demonic enemies and political intrigue. What I love about this movie is that it doesn’t shy away from showing the grittier, darker side of the samurai world. It’s raw, it’s brutal, and it’s visually stunning.

• What Stands Out in Ninja Scroll:
  • Incredible Fight Scenes: The hand-drawn fight sequences are some of the best I’ve seen in anime. They’re fast-paced, fluid, and often bloody.
  • Mature Themes: This isn’t just a simple action flick. It delves into themes of betrayal, survival, and the blurred line between good and evil.
  • Fan Favorite: With an 89% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s clear that Ninja Scroll has stood the test of time.

Whenever I’m in the mood for some high-stakes action with a bit of depth, Ninja Scroll is always at the top of my list. It’s a film that’s as visually stunning as it is intense.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Even though My Neighbor Totoro was released in 1988, its popularity really took off in the 90s, and it’s easy to see why. This Hayao Miyazaki classic is pure magic, a heartwarming story about two sisters who move to the countryside and discover a magical world filled with forest spirits, including the iconic Totoro.

There’s something so peaceful about Totoro. It doesn’t rely on action or intense drama to tell its story. Instead, it focuses on the simple joys of childhood and the wonder of discovering something magical in the everyday world.

• Why Totoro Will Always Have a Special Place in My Heart:
  • Heartwarming Simplicity: Unlike so many anime films that deal with complex themes or heavy action, My Neighbor Totoro celebrates the magic of everyday life. It’s a peaceful, feel-good movie that never fails to lift my spirits.
  • Iconic Characters: Totoro is more than just a character; he’s a symbol of Studio Ghibli. His gentle, magical presence makes him one of the most beloved figures in anime. Plus, who wouldn’t want to ride around in a giant, smiling cat-bus?
  • Cultural Phenomenon: Totoro became so popular that he essentially became the mascot for Studio Ghibli. There’s even a theme park dedicated to this magical world in Japan!

My Neighbor Totoro is a timeless classic that reminds me of the wonder and joy of childhood. It’s the kind of movie you can watch with anyone, at any age, and still feel that same sense of awe and comfort. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out on one of the most charming and magical films ever made.

Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion (1997)

The End of Evangelion is the epic conclusion to the Neon Genesis Evangelion series, and it’s one of the most mind-bending, philosophical anime films out there. Directed by Hideaki Anno, this movie dives deep into themes of human consciousness, existential dread, and the apocalyptic struggle for the survival of humanity.

I remember watching The End of Evangelion and feeling overwhelmed—not just by the intense action, but by the layers of psychological and philosophical questions that the film raises. It follows Shinji Ikari as he grapples with his role in the fate of humanity, and it’s a wild, often confusing ride that challenges viewers to really think about the nature of existence.

• Why The End of Evangelion Stands Out:
  • Philosophical Depth: This film doesn’t shy away from exploring some heavy themes—identity, isolation, the meaning of life. It’s not your typical anime, and it’s a film that demands your full attention.
  • Visually Stunning: The animation is incredible, especially during the apocalyptic battle scenes. But it’s the quieter, more introspective moments that really hit home for me.
  • A Cult Favorite: The End of Evangelion has developed a massive following over the years, and it’s easy to see why. Fans are still debating and dissecting its deeper meanings, even decades after its release.

If you’re into anime that challenges you intellectually and emotionally, this is one you can’t miss. The End of Evangelion is not just an ending—it’s a profound exploration of what it means to be human.

Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade (1999)

Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade is a bit different from the other films on this list, but it’s no less impactful. Set in an alternate history Japan, this political thriller is a dark and gritty look at societal control, power, and the inner turmoil of a man trapped in a brutal system. Directed by Hiroyuki Okiura and written by Mamoru Oshii, it’s one of those films that challenges your views on authority and rebellion.

The story follows Kazuki Fuse, a member of an elite police unit, as he struggles with his role in a corrupt government system. It’s a bleak film, but what I love about Jin-Roh is how it blends action with deep commentary on the nature of power and control.

• What Makes Jin-Roh Special:
  • Gritty Atmosphere: The film’s detailed animation perfectly captures its dystopian setting, creating a sense of unease that lingers throughout.
  • Complex Themes: Jin-Roh doesn’t offer easy answers. It’s a film that forces you to think about the relationship between power, control, and humanity.
  • Mature Storytelling: This isn’t a fast-paced action film, but rather a slow-burn thriller that builds tension through its characters and themes.

Jin-Roh is one of those anime films that sticks with you long after it’s over. It’s a powerful, thought-provoking experience that offers a unique take on the political thriller genre.

Memories (1995)

Memories is a unique anthology film that showcases the diversity and creativity of anime in the 90s. Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo and other prominent filmmakers, the film is made up of three distinct sci-fi stories: Magnetic Rose, Stink Bomb, and Cannon Fodder. Each of these stories explores different aspects of technology and human emotion, offering a wide range of tones and themes.

What I love about Memories is how it pushes the boundaries of what anime can be. Each segment feels like its own little masterpiece, and the variety keeps you engaged from start to finish.

• Why Memories Is Worth Watching:
  • Diverse Storytelling: The three stories are so different from each other, yet they all explore human emotion and the impact of technology in interesting ways.
  • Stunning Visuals: Whether it’s the haunting beauty of Magnetic Rose or the surreal chaos of Stink Bomb, the animation is absolutely breathtaking.
  • Creative Experimentation: This anthology format allows the filmmakers to experiment with different styles and genres, making Memories a true artistic showcase.

If you’re looking for something that feels fresh and different, Memories is a great pick. It’s a film that shows off the incredible versatility of anime as a medium.

Macross Plus (1994)

Macross Plus is another gem from the 90s, and it’s a must-watch for fans of mecha anime. Originally released as an OVA, Macross Plus was later compiled into a feature-length film that combines epic mecha action with an emotionally charged story about rivalry and artificial intelligence.

The film is set in the Macross universe and follows two test pilots, Isamu and Guld, who are competing to develop the next generation of transforming fighter planes. At the heart of the story is a love triangle involving their former friend, Myung, and the AI idol Sharon Apple.

• Why Macross Plus Stands Out:
  • Emotionally Driven Plot: While the mecha battles are exciting, it’s the emotional tension between the characters that really pulls you in.
  • Innovative Animation: The combination of hand-drawn animation and early CGI makes Macross Plus visually stunning, even by today’s standards.
  • Memorable Soundtrack: The music, composed by Yoko Kanno, is absolutely incredible and adds so much emotional depth to the film.

If you’re a fan of mecha anime or just looking for a great character-driven story, Macross Plus is a must-watch. It’s one of the best examples of the genre from the 90s.

Battle Angel (1993)

Battle Angel, also known as Battle Angel Alita, is based on Yukito Kishiro’s manga Gunnm, and it presents a gritty, cyberpunk vision of the future. Directed by Hiroshi Fukutomi, this film follows Gally, a cyborg with no memory of her past, as she navigates a dangerous world filled with corrupt figures and brutal combat.

I love Battle Angel for its raw energy and striking visuals. It’s a dark and intense film that tackles themes of identity, humanity, and survival in a world where nothing is as it seems.

• Why I’m Drawn to Battle Angel:
  • Cyberpunk Aesthetic: The film perfectly captures the dystopian, gritty feel of its source material with its dark, atmospheric animation.
  • Themes of Identity: Gally’s journey to discover who she really is resonates on a deeper level, as the film explores what it means to be human in a world filled with technology.
  • Action-Packed: The fight scenes are intense and visceral, showcasing Gally’s combat skills in stunning detail.

Battle Angel is a must-watch for anyone who loves cyberpunk and action-packed anime. It’s a visually striking film with a story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Wrapping It All Up

For me, the anime films of the late 80s and 90s represent more than just entertainment—they’re cultural touchstones that pushed the boundaries of what animation could achieve. Each of the films I’ve mentioned has left a lasting impression on me, whether it’s the mind-bending narrative of Akira, the emotional depth of Princess Mononoke, or the philosophical questions raised in Ghost in the Shell.

These films didn’t just define anime in their time; they continue to influence creators and enthrall legions of new fans. If you’re looking to plunge your brain into the nutrient vat that is this golden anime era, then this watchlist is a perfect starting point. So settle in and get ready to binge some 80s and 90s anime cinema—you won’t be disappointed.