Sure, a feel good romcom can always uplift your spirits. However, watching a romantic anime movie is something else. Not only do these movies boast vibrancy and diversity in each character, but the immersive storytelling is what takes the cake. These films are also hella relatable and involve complex themes that make for a great plot. So, if you’re wondering which movie to watch with your loved one, we’ve got just the thing for you. Our comprehensive list has tons of options that you’ll absolutely love.
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Best Romance Anime Movies List
You can never go wrong with a romantic anime movie. While many are under the assumption that these movies are only for children, this cannot be further from the truth! Anime movies are loaded with raw and real characters, vibrant background visuals, and endless possibilities, making them the perfect choice for any and every age. So, whether you’re a young adult just discovering love or way past your teenage years, there’s a romance anime watch that’s waiting for you. Take a look at our list of the best animated movies and get started!
A Whisker Away
This anime film will sweep you off your feet and we’re sure of it! Written by Mari Okada, this Japanese romance anime watch chronicles the story of Miyo, who transforms into a cat to get closer to her crush, Kento. Trouble arises when the line between human and animal begins to blur. Will she transform back into a human? Will she succeed in getting Kento’s attention? Well, you’ll have to watch this movie that’s currently streaming on Netflix to find out.
After The Rain
This anime romantic film revolves around the taboo topic of adult relationships and its effects on independence. Akira Tachibana, a high school student working part-time at a family restaurant, finds herself falling for her manager. This film series is on Amazon Prime Video and has been inspired by the Japanese comic (manga) that is written and illustrated by Jun Mayuzuki.
5 Centimeters Per Second
We’ve all been through the heartbreak of losing a friend due to distance, haven’t we? Well, this highly-acclaimed, sad romantic anime movie essays the same storyline. Takaki and Akari have been best friends since elementary school. Their friendship is put to the test when one of them has to relocate. Perfect for when you need a good cry, you can binge watch this movie on Netflix.
Flavors Of Youth
This 2018 Netflix film is definitely worth watching due its captivating visuals that will leave you hooked to your screen. Directed by Li Haoling, Jiaoshou Yi Xiaoxing, and Yoshitaka Takeuchi, this romantic drama comprises three make-you-weak-in-the-knees stories. It takes you on a journey through the memories locked in a bowl of noodles, talks about a fading beauty discovering her way, and also revolves around a bittersweet first love.
Whisper Of The Heart
This anime musical has managed to acquire a cult status due to its inventively picturesque visuals and totally romantic storyline. This HBO Max film follows the life of a young girl who decides to find the young boy who seems to share her passion for reading. The story will have you rooting for the two main leads and this light-hearted watch will also provide you with several LOL moments.
Weathering With You
Director and writer Makoto Shinkai will take you on a rollercoaster journey with this heartfelt tale. It talks about a runaway young boy who suddenly finds himself in inexplicable torrential rain. Thankfully, he manages to befriend an orphaned girl who has the power to control the weather. But, of course, help comes at a steep cost. Dealing with themes of young romance and environmentalism, we’re convinced this Netflix flick will make it to your list of best Hollywood family movies.
Your Name
If there’s anything HBO Max does consistently right, it’s having the best collection of top romance anime movies. Your Name, written once again by Makoto Shinkai, has a gripping story about two teenagers who have the ability to swap bodies with each other. With several interesting twists and turns and a heartwarming love story at its core, this film will have you feeling tons of fuzzy emotions.
The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya
This Netflix film creates magic onscreen with its watercolor visuals that wonderfully complements its dream-like aesthetic. Grab a box of tissues by your side because this romantic family drama will have you weeping like a baby. The story is beautifully written by Isao Takahata, and talks about a girl who is courted by five men. These men have to complete hard tasks to win her hand.
I Want To Eat Your Pancreas
Yes, the title may seem creepy, but hey–don’t judge the tale by its name! An endearing love story, this one is about a boy who learns that his friend, Sakura is suffering from a fatal pancreatic illness. While helping her tick off all the must-do experiences she has on her bucket list, he learns about friendship and true love. Can’t wait to binge on this adorable love tale? Well, head over to Netflix to watch it right away.
The Garden Of Words
Once again directed by the master of romantic anime movies, Makoto Shinkai, this Netflix movie depicts the romance and relationship between a 15-year-old and a 27-year-old. With the use of minimal words, they escape the mundane nature of everyday life with their frequent encounters in a garden.
Howl’s Moving Castle
Do you want to enter into a world full of magic? If yes, grab a packet of popcorn and be intrigued by this fantasy story that is streaming on Netflix. Director Hayao Miyazaki will immerse you into this storyline of a young woman named Sophia who ages prematurely due to the curse of an evil witch. Howl, the brave wizard jumps through many hurdles to prove his love to Sophia. Hella adorable, isn’t it?
Josee, The Tiger, And The Fish
Truly refreshing story that tugs at your heartstrings at every step, this one is a must-watch for all romantics. It is a simple yet relatable story of a differently-abled girl, Josee, and Tsuneo, a University student. Cuddle up to this Amazon Prime Video movie over a romantic weekend with your partner. We’re sure you won’t be disappointed.
Doukyusei
What happens when two young men who study in the same class catch feelings for each other? Well, we’re not giving you any spoilers, so you’ll have to go over to Amazon Prime Video to witness this romantic, bite-sized tale.
The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl
If you’re in need of a hearty laugh, then we suggest watching this flick that is definitely one of the best love anime movies of all time. It’s about a young girl who interacts with eccentric characters on a long night of partying. Reminding us to not take ourselves too seriously, this Amazon Prime Video film directed by Masaaki Yuasa, is perfect for any day!
Voices Of A Distant Star
Talk about challenging long-distance relationships! This Netflix film follows the lives of two friends, who get separated once one of them is sent into space to fight in a war. Will their friendship and new-found love survive the wrath of no physical communication?
Tamako Love Story
Ah, the pain of unrequited love. This is a sweet tale that everyone can sympathize with, making it a great add-on to your watch list. The storyline is about Tamako and how his life changed forever when her best friend confesses his love for her. You can stream this fun watch on both Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
If you’re new to the world of anime, this is the ideal gateway film. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a scientific rom-com written by Satoko Okudera and will appeal to everyone regardless of their age. Time-travel, a cute love story, and tons of drama–it’s got all of it! So, if you want to watch this film, you can simply stream it on Netflix!
From Up On Poppy Hill
This tale is about a budding romance between characters Shun and Umi. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the two have to find ways to help each other shake off the country’s current troubled history while figuring out their feelings for each other. Written by Goro Miyazaki, you and your loved one can watch this one on Netflix.
The Anthem Of The Heart
Our words have consequences and this movie treats this theme carefully and accurately. The story is about a girl who has her voice magically taken away so that she would never hurt people. She then realises the meaning of them when she encounters music and a new-found friendship.
A Silent Voice
Our romance anime movies list isn’t complete without this addition. Written by Reiko Yoshida, it dwells with topics that are often considered taboo in mainstream anime. Sensitively dealing with topics such as bullying, social anxiety, depression, and suicide, this is for the days when you want to just cry. Besides the intense and heartbreaking storyline, the moving soundtrack will also have you in tears.
So, have you decided which romantic anime movie you’ll watch first?
