Anime has emerged as a major force in global cinema, with its films earning record-breaking revenues while captivating audiences across the world. The unique blend of powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and breathtaking visuals has allowed anime to transcend cultural boundaries, making it a beloved genre for both dedicated fans and newcomers alike. These movies not only dominate the box office but also shape the future of cinematic art and popular culture. Below, we take a look at the top five highest-grossing anime films that have made history in global cinema.
1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train
Total Gross: Over $500 million
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train” is an extension of the popular anime series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Directed by Haruo Sotozaki and produced by Ufotable, the film follows Tanjiro and his companions as they battle a powerful demon aboard the Mugen Train. Its success was nothing short of historic, earning more than $500 million worldwide. This feat made it not only the highest-grossing anime film but also the top-grossing Japanese film of all time. Audiences were enthralled by the film’s intense action, emotional storytelling, and outstanding animation.
2. Spirited Away
Total Gross: Over $385 million
Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away, a timeless fantasy film produced by Studio Ghibli, tells the enchanting story of Chihiro, a young girl who becomes trapped in a world of spirits. As she embarks on a mission to save her parents, who have been transformed into pigs, Chihiro must navigate this otherworldly realm filled with strange creatures and magical challenges. Released in 2001, Spirited Away grossed over $385 million worldwide and held the title of the highest-grossing anime film for nearly two decades. It also won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003, cementing its status as a global classic.
3. Suzume
Total Gross: Over $318 million
Makoto Shinkai’s Suzume focuses on a young girl’s mission to close mysterious doors that appear across Japan, preventing natural disasters from occurring. With its breathtaking visuals and exploration of profound themes like loss and recovery, the film resonated with global audiences, grossing over $318 million worldwide. Shinkai’s masterful direction and storytelling earned him praise as a leading voice in modern anime, further solidifying his reputation with Suzume.
4. Your Name
Total Gross: Over $361 million
Another masterpiece by Makoto Shinkai, Your Name is a romantic fantasy that became a worldwide phenomenon. The film follows two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously switch bodies and lives. As they search for one another, they uncover a connection that transcends time and space. With stunning animation and a deeply emotional plot, Your Name grossed $361 million globally, receiving critical acclaim for its visual beauty and heartfelt narrative. The film remains one of the most iconic anime films of the modern era.
5. The First Slam Dunk
Total Gross: Over $279 million
Based on the beloved basketball manga Slam Dunk, The First Slam Dunk revisits the story of the Shohoku High School basketball team, highlighting their challenges and triumphs on the court. Directed by Takehiko Inoue, the creator of the original manga, the film touches on themes of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance. The First Slam Dunk found massive success in Japan and Asia, grossing over $279 million worldwide. The film’s nostalgic yet revitalized take on a classic sports series struck a chord with both longtime fans and new audiences.
These five anime films not only shattered box office records but also expanded the global reach and influence of anime, inspiring future generations of filmmakers and animators to push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
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