Top 38 Best 90s Anime Movies To Watch

 

The 90’s era was something different. Fluid animation, memorable soundtrack, and legendary stories are some of the many features that this generation had to offer.

 

And amongst the wide variety of works that took place in this time frame, some of them shook the fans from the core.

 

Especially movies. Movies from the ’90s were an experience of their own.

 

And this is why people can’t help but look back at the great pieces that they once enjoyed.

 

Therefore, I decided to list down the Best 90’s Anime Movies.

 

These films are said to be part of the classics and so, every fan should give them a try at least once.

 

So make sure that you have your nostalgia glasses on and let’s dive deep into the golden past of anime.

 

 

 

1. Princess Mononoke

 

 

 

In 1995, Hayao Miyazaki, under Studio Ghibli’s direction, crafted the mesmerizing Japanese animated film, ‘Princess Mononoke.’

 

Set in the late Muromachi period (1336 to 1573 AD), this fantasy epic unfolds as young Emishi prince Ashitaka grapples with a curse inflicted by a demon boar god.

 

His quest for a cure leads him westward, entwining him in a conflict between forest gods and humans exploiting its resources.

 

Imbued with Shinto and environmentalist themes, the film didn’t soar at the box office but became a cultural milestone.

 

‘Princess Mononoke’ is now hailed as a pinnacle in anime and science-fiction cinema, emblematic of Studio Ghibli’s global impact.

 

 

 

2. Whisper of the Heart

 

 

 

Being a Ghibli movie, this one was bound to get a lot of appreciation.

 

The movie talks about a girl named Shizuku who gets into some magical stuff in her seemingly normal life.

 

She came across a cat who was beside her. And as she followed it, she ended up in a shop with a golden statue.

 

This golden statue had a unique backstory that fascinated Shizuku.

 

And the son of the Shopkeeper might have caught her eyes as well.

 

Soon enough, this little girl will have frequent visits to this magical place.

 

And this wholesome story will bring tears and smiles to all the eyes that are fixated on it.

 

 

 

3. Detective Conan Movie 3: The Last Magician of the Century

 

 

 

This movie from Detective Conan gained massive traction from fans all around the globe.

 

That’s why it is ranked so high on this list.

 

It talks about Kaito Kid who got his hands on an egg.

 

And he seems to be possessed by something to not let go of the egg at all.

 

He strived his best to make sure that he gets a hold of this egg for long.

 

However, Scorpion seems to have different plans.

 

He is after the egg as well. And it seems that he is also after anyone who is getting themselves engaged in this case.

 

Therefore, it is up to Conan now, to get a hold of this situation and learn the truth about this battle.

 

And the mystery might have a surprising answer for everyone in the show.

 

 

 

4. Ghost in the Shell

 

 

 

Jump into the future with Ghost in the Shell! It’s 2029 in Japan, and we’re tagging along with Motoko Kusanagi, a super-agent cyborg, as she chases down a mysterious hacker called the Puppet Master.

 

But hold on, this isn’t your typical detective tale. Here, human brains can surf the internet directly!

 

The movie goes deep, asking big questions about who we are in a world where tech and humanity mix and mingle.

 

And let’s talk about the soundtrack—classical Japanese vocals that’ll tickle your eardrums. Get ready for a cyberpunk thrill ride with Ghost in the Shell!

 

 

5. Legend of the Galactic Heroes: Overture to a New War

 

 

 

This series is one of the classics from the 90s. And this movie is a staple from that era.

 

It talks about a clash between Reinhard and Wen-Li. The deal here is simple.

 

Reinhard is rising the rank extremely fast.

 

Therefore, his higher-ups decided to send him to a battle he can’t win.

 

And this will eventually allow them to take some restful breaths.

 

On the other hand, Wen is going to have his issues piled up which will eventually change the course of the series for good.

 

There might be a factor of love in the story as well.

 

And that will give some new shapes to the overall narrative.

 

If you are a fan of the Legend Of The Galactic Heroes franchise, then this movie is for you.

 

 

6. Perfect Blue

 

 

 

This movie will give you nightmares. Some very dark ones.

 

The show talks about an idol named Mima who decided to step back from her group and take a new turn in her life.

 

This decision had mixed reactions from fans all around the globe.

 

However, things seemed to have taken good shape for Mima.

 

However, something interesting might be happening from the background.

 

It seems as if there’s a stalker in her life who is ruining her presence overall.

 

And things have started to take some unrealistic turns in her life.

 

Without a doubt, this movie will give you a completely new eye on the life of a celebrity and their privacy.

 

Make sure to watch it.

 

 

7. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion

 

 

 

The Evangelion franchise has always been a classic when it comes to psychological series.

 

And this is why it deserves more love and respect from people.

 

This movie talks about the efforts of NERV as they try to take on the angels.

 

And in the process, they will be having a lot of hurdles that can’t be overcome without tough mental decisions.

 

This will lead to a predicament for the pilots at NERV. And Shinji is one of the affected ones in the show.

 

However, what makes this movie so good is the fact that it messes up your brain as effectively as it is supposed to.

 

And once that happens, this will become a memorable experience for everyone present here.

 

 

8. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz Movie

 

 

The Gundam series has always been a revolutionary franchise for every mecha anime fan, ever.

 

And this movie from the 90s solidifies this love even more.

 

It talks about a time when Earth and other space colonies seem to be at peace with each other.

 

Nothing is going in the wrong direction and tranquility is omnipresent.

 

Therefore, Gundam pilots decide to destroy their mechs to continue the peaceful route.

 

However, the problem stood in the fact a girl decided to snatch this peace away.

 

And as she did, things started to get out of hand. Soon enough, a war may start to brew between nations.

 

And that isn’t something that should have happened regularly.

 

 

9. Porco Rosso

 

 

 

This movie was incredible. And the summary itself will tell you what’s amazing about it.

 

The show talks about a remarkable pilot named Marco Paggot whose skills were beyond incredible.

 

However, a curse changed his life forever. How? Well, that curse shifted his face structure to match that of a pig.

 

And once that happens, this guy had his life take some serious turns. Soon enough, he gets into a cold dispute with someone.

 

And now it is all up to him to assert his dominance and portray what he is capable of.

 

As an elite pilot, he was the ruler of the skies and his presence shook a lot of hands in the realm of pilots.

 

Let’s see how his face change affects his life.

 

 

10. The Dog of Flanders Movie

 

 

This movie will give you a new perspective on all the pets you have had in your life.

 

It talks about the life of a duo named Nello and Patarash, who may not seem anything remarkable at first.

 

However, they are the physical reincarnation of an incredible bond that can’t be overcome.

 

The show talks about the hardships that this duo faces in their life.

 

And the way they deal with it is also quite interesting. However, the best part is the relationship that Nello and Patarash have.

 

They happened to have a sense of fascination with each other. And this fascination makes them an amazing duo overall.

 

Without a doubt, one of the best groups we can see in all of anime.

 

 

11. Rurouni Kenshin Movie

 

 

 

This movie is from the Rurouni Kenshin franchise.

 

And if you know anything about the show, you will know how fascinating this entire franchise is.

 

It is stunning, to say the least. It talks about Kenshin Homura meeting a guy on his venture whose name is said to be Takimi Shigure.

 

He seems to have been carrying the weight of his dead friend for a while now.

 

Although it wasn’t Takimi who killed him, he is still filled with regret because his actions led his friend to get killed.

 

He has revenge in his eyes for the one who imposed death on his friend.

 

However, he must realize that revenge will lead to nothing fruitful. And regret is too heavy to be born by a man.

 

 

12. Raiyantsuuri no Uta

 

 

 

This movie is one of the lost gems from the files of the 90s.

 

The movie has a captivating story and fascinating animation.

 

And that’s what makes it so engaging in the first place.

 

As for the narrative, it was pretty simple. The anime focused on the life of a Chinese laborer who was brought to Japan.

 

And here, he was working in coal mines during world war 2.

 

However, he manages to escape his captors and runs away to a place so far from human civilization that he doesn’t even realize that the war has ended.

 

And the end is just as horrifying as someone would expect. This narrative was written by Yoichi Takashi.

 

And let’s just say that it will be quite emotional for us to watch this movie.

 

 

13. Macross Plus Movie Edition

 

 

 

This story has romance, drama, mecha, sci-fi, aliens, aviation, idols, love triangles, and military tags under its belt.

 

And all of these make it a fascinating watch altogether.

 

It talks about a group that included Myung, Isamu, and Guld who were quite good friends in their childhood.

 

Unfortunately, an accident took place, and now they are all separated.

 

Myung is now an idol whose popularity is off the charts whereas Isamu and Guld are military pilots.

 

Eventually, when they all meet again, Isamu and Guld’s popularity begins again.

 

However, a bigger problem seems to be appearing in the background.

 

After all, the government doesn’t seem to have all the good plans for our group.

 

 

14. Chibi Maruko-chan: Watashi no Suki na Uta

 

 

 

This is a simple yet fascinating story of a little girl who wishes to draw.

 

And the way she draws will change the course of her life positively.

 

It talks about Sakura Momoko who got an assignment in school.

 

It’s nothing difficult. All she has to do is draw a portrait based on her favorite song.

 

That’s it. And recently, Momoka seems to have developed a liking for a certain song she heard in her music class.

 

Therefore, she decides to draw a portrait of that song. Soon enough, she gets along with Shouko who also wants to participate in an art contest.

 

And both of them are going to motivate each other to draw art in one way or another.

 

This is going to be quite fun. It is just a light-hearted show to watch and relax. There is not a major storyline to follow. Each episode has its own different story surrounding the main characters. 

 

 

15. Tistou Midori no Oyayubi

 

 

This is the story of a girl named Tistou whose skills are none like others.

 

Why? Because she can touch anything and turn them into beautiful plants.

 

After her father decided to educate her differently, Tistou got into learning a lot of new things about the real world.

 

And in the process, she also finds out that her thumbs can turn anything she touches into gorgeous greenery.

 

This entire movie is a slice-of-life story about a little girl who looks at the world from a very innocent perspective.

 

And as she gets along with everyone, she realizes the reality of this world as well.

 

Quite a lot of stuff to offer isn’t it. Therefore, Tistou is worthy of being on this list.

 

 

16. Dragon Ball Z Movie 12: Fusion Reborn

 

 

This movie was one of those bangers that gained recognition without breaking a sweat.

 

Why? Because this was the movie that gave birth to Gogeta.

 

The movie focuses on a villain named Janemba whose strength is immeasurable.

 

He is beyond anything our heroes have faced so far.

 

And that explains why he managed to defeat both Goku and Vegeta without breaking a sweat.

 

However, this predicament where no one can save the planet has led to the creation of the mightiest warrior, Gogeta.

 

He is not a single person. He is a fusion of two. And so, his strengths are also a fusion of two.

 

This beast will take care of Janemba.

 

 

17. Slam Dunk Movie 4

 

 

 

This movie was filled with high-octane sports action and drama. Therefore, you can give it a try if you want to.

 

The Slam Dunk movie talks about a guy named Ichiro Mizusawa who has faced disaster now.

 

He has been diagnosed with a leg condition that will end his basketball career forever.

 

And our boy has even accepted what Fate had kept in store for him.

 

However, the one thing that he still wishes to accomplish is a final match with Rukawa.

 

And our boy Hanamichi has decided to help him out with his dream. This will be an experience of his life.

 

And remember, not everyone will be able to handle the loss of an incredible player like Ichiro.

 

 

18. Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie

 

 

 

This movie is quite captivating for its narrative. And this is why it gained so much traction in the 90s.

 

It talks about Sakura and Tomoya getting a trip to Hong Kong.

 

And although this may sound like the work of luck, in reality, it was the task of evil.

 

The series then continues to portray Sakura and her elegance in the show.

 

However, she must stay away from Water because this trap is staged surrounding that.

 

There is someone who wants to put an end to the Cardcaptor.

 

And if things go according to his plan, the world won’t be cheering as it does right now.

 

This is going to be quite a journey. And a great experience overall. It is such a great anime movie to watch.

 

Full of adorable characters but also has a decent story for those who love a good anime plot. 

 

 

19. Ranma 1/2 OVA: Chou Musabetsu Kessen! Ranma Team VS Densetsu no Houou

 

 

 

This piece focuses on a fun and engaging episode of the series. And it talks about Ranma’s rival.

 

The movie focuses on a guy named Kuno who decided to hatch the mysterious egg he found in hopes of getting a phoenix from it.

 

If he would have gotten a phoenix from that, he would have been able to defeat Ranma, once and for all.

 

This could have been the final defeat hammer that he needed.

 

However, things didn’t go as planned and now a monster attached to Kuno’s head is causing havoc in the city.

 

It is now up to our main characters to take care of Kuno and the beast that he has unleashed.

 

Otherwise, things won’t be looking good for the city.

 

 

20. Dragon Ball Z Movie 8: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan

 

 

 

This movie took the entire world by storm.

 

Because this was the first time when the franchise openly admitted the existence of a Saiyan stronger than Goku.

 

The movie focuses on a child named Broly who was excluded from his planet because of his unreal potential and threat to the world.

 

However, Broly was saved by his father and later on, raised to become the beast that he was supposed to be.

 

However, his strength was not placed in a civilized format and so, he has become more of a danger than ever.

 

It is all for Goku and Vegeta now to make sure that this beast is taken back in control.

 

And maybe make him a friend as well. Let’s see how it goes for all of them in this movie.

 

 

21. Sailor Moon R: The Movie

 

 

 

This movie is about a promise that may not be as virtuous as it sounds.

 

The show talks about a guy named Fiore who claims that he has a promise to fulfill with regards to Fiore.

 

Needless to say, things are not as straightforward and soon enough, something weird starts to surface.

 

Therefore, the sailor group decides to take control of the situation. And it was then that they realized the sinister activities of Fiore.

 

This promise that he has with Mamoru is not the reason why this being appeared here.

 

It is a lot more complex and diversified than that.

 

 

22. Slayers Return

 

 

 

The duo of Lina and Naga will be going up against slavery.

 

The show talks about a town where a bunch of people are being gathered and worked through hell by an administration.

 

Luckily, a girl managed to escape and reached out to our duo.

 

Since there will be a prize in this situation, the duo decided to help out the citizens.

 

And thus begins the adventures of Naga and Lina as they take care of this hideous act that is taking place.

 

However, there might be more to the situation than what meets the eye.

 

And this is why you must watch this anime as soon as possible.

 

 

23. Slam Dunk Movie 3

 

 

 

Slam Dunk is on our list with a Banger Movie. This time, it’s the third.

 

The series talks about Sakuragi who is trying his best to reach the next level when it comes to basketball.

 

However, after his defeat against Kainan, things aren’t looking too good for him. He is now supposed to work harder than ever before.

 

And it is because of this insane hard work that he will be able to capture his opponents next time.

 

This may sound simple at first. However, the way it is portrayed in the movie, makes it a fine experience for everyone.

 

And that’s why this movie is ranked so high on our list. If you are into Slam Dunk, don’t miss this piece.

 

 

24. Ninja Scroll

 

 

 

This movie focuses on combat. More specifically, incredible sword combat. it talks about a guy named Jubei who had no problems with anyone.

 

He was just dealing with himself, minding his own business when he ended up getting in some big trouble.

 

He encounters the horrifying Devils. These Devils are known as the Devils of Kimon.

 

And their skills are beyond incredible when it comes to swordsmanship.

 

Now, it is all up to Jubei to take care of this cult and make sure that they can’t infiltrate the beautiful Japan that he knows and loves.

 

Because if they did, then the world would become a completely different place. One which won’t be liked by many. 

 

The amazing fighting scenes in this anime are renowned for redefining the perception of action anime.

 

 

25. Slayers Gorgeous

 

 

 

The story focuses on Lina. 

 

She seems to have come across an opponent whose strength revolves around dragons. On the outside, this is no big deal.

 

However, soon enough, Lina realizes that her opponent is associated with the King.

 

And so, she decides to join hands for the sake of personal profit.

 

However, this isn’t going to be an easy process. The King’s family has a ton of disputes within itself.

 

So there’s no denying that the experience is going to be one-of-a-kind.

 

However, Lina must make it out without any major problems.

 

Or else, this journey can end up way more badly than you would have imagined.

 

 

26. Slayers Great

 

 

 

This story is about a girl named Lina and her partner Naga.

 

They come across a city where the battle between Golems seems to be a really important deal.

 

However, something even more important is the father and son duo in the show.

 

It talks about both of them being against each other when it comes to Golem’s creation.

 

So when competition regarding Golems takes place within the geographical domain, both of them find each other on the opposite side.

 

And now it is up to our lead girls to help both of these men deal with the Golems issue in the most potent way possible.

 

However, things won’t go nearly as simple as they sound here in the synopsis of the movie.

 

 

27. You’re Under Arrest! The Movie

 

 

 

This anime is about a police duo who are going to take care of any case that is brought in front of them.

 

And their skills are going to be honed for the best.

 

The show talks about a duo named Miyuki and Natsumi who spent a ton of time alone to refine their skills and become incredible cops.

 

However, the first case that they encounter right after meeting again may challenge them to use their full potential.

 

The crew ends up finding a car with a ton of weapons in it. And now, the only thing they can do is take care of the weapons.

 

However, suddenly the police station is attacked and chaos breaks out. How will our duo take a position in the predicament?

 

 

28. Tenchi The Movie: Tenchi Muyo! In Love

 

 

This movie talks about time travel and the drama that follows it. However, it is a lot deeper in its contents and values.

 

The movie talks about a guy named Tenchi Masaki who was in danger because of traveling through time.

 

Fortunately, in this frame, he manages to save his mother and eventually, helps her out.

 

However, time is not as simple as that. Just saving the life of one person will change the course of the world if it has to.

 

And so, there’s nothing else for Tenchi to do but to look after his responsibilities and realize that his opportunity may have some secondary drawbacks to them.

 

If he doesn’t take care of those drawbacks then this entire journey can be quite painful.

 

 

29. Ranma 1/2: The Movie 2 – Nihao My Concubine

 

 

This story involves Ranka becoming a hero again and saving the crew.

 

However, this time, it is a lot more serious and extreme from a narrative standpoint.

 

The show talks about the team visiting an island for the sake of some fun.

 

However, they soon realize why visiting this place was a bad idea.

 

Things start happening and before they know it, girls in the islands start to disappear.

 

It seems that they are being kidnapped. And as the show progresses, we come to know that the kidnapper is trying to create his harem on this island.

 

Luckily, Ranma will do all he can to stop this person. And soon enough, he will take care of anyone over him as well.

 

 

30. New Kimagure Orange Road: Summer’s Beginning

 

 

 

This anime talks about love, death, and time travel. So you can be certain, that it’s filled with a lot of content.

 

It talks about a car accident that happened and took care of a boy named Kyosuke.

 

He had his esper abilities gone for good. And now he is in the future.

 

This is where it gets interesting because he witnesses a similar experience even in this time frame.

 

And so, he starts to figure out a way to get back to his original timeline.

 

And in the process, he will also come across love in ten forms of Hikaru.

 

However, being with Hikaru can be cheating on Madoka. And managing his relationships is in the hands of Kyosuke.

 

This is why the anime is so good for anyone who wants some drama.

 

 

31. Prince of Light – The Legend of Ramayana

 

 

This series talks about the legendary story of Ramayana. Therefore, you can’t help but respect and appreciate it.

 

It talks about the original narrative of Ramayana which involves Rama being banished to the forest for 14 years.

 

And there, he will be spending his life with Sita and his brother Lakshmana.

 

Now, he has to face multiple consequences because of Ravana.

 

And Ravana is an absolute beast when it comes to intelligence. He plans on kidnapping Sita and taking her hostage.

 

However, Lord Rama will make sure that they save Sita and punish Ravana for his improper deeds.

 

This is the only way he will be able to attain solace in his afterlife.

 

And the excellence of Ramayana is portrayed in this show.

 

 

32. Slam Dunk Movie 2

 

 

The Slam Dunk anime series is known for being one of the most insane sports pieces to ever be created.

 

It talks about a man named Sakuragi who hated basketball at the start of the series.

 

However, after a series of events, he is part of the Basketball team and now he is aiming for the best.

 

This movie deals with the Shohoku vs Tsukubu. And this battle will change the lives of all those involved in it.

 

This is where the dunks will be serious. And losing just a single point can be deadly for the entire group.

 

I hope everyone who watches this movie, realizes the excellence of the series altogether. And soon enough, things will get better and better.

 

 

33. Lupin III: Farewell to Nostradamus

 

 

 

This Franchise is known for being incredibly entertaining. And this movie is no exception to it.

 

The series talks about Lupin and his buddy Jigen flying their way home after getting their hands on some diamonds.

 

However, suddenly they realize that Fujiko is going after a young girl for the sake of a book.

 

This book seems to be of quite a significance and happens to be quite important for everyone in the show.

 

Things happen and now Lupin is supposed to get his hands on the book and get away with it while also saving the other girl whose life might very well be in danger because of this incident.

 

Let’s see if our boy manages to pull that off very well.

 

 

34. Nintama Rantarou Movie

 

 

 

This movie focuses on the stereotypical Nintama Rantarou premise.

 

Just another day in the show that gives rise to all of our characters having fun.

 

However, this time, it will be prolonged fun with a ton of interesting action and drama taking place.

 

Moreover, the movie portrayed an incredible sense of understanding that the series has, and this made it a bit more attractive for a mature demographic.

 

It was released back in 1996 and was classified as an action-adventure series.

 

However, it caters to the Shounen demographic as well and has features like Comedy, Ninja theme, and family-friendly as well.

 

So if your childhood hand Rantarou in it, this movie is a must for you.

 

 

35. Pom Poko

 

 

As Tokyo expands, the balance between urban development and nature is disrupted, posing a threat to wildlife. Among the affected creatures are the Tanuki, a magical shapeshifting mammal community.

 

With their forest habitat at risk, the Tanuki face territorial disputes and dwindling options for survival. Led by the elder Tanuki, Oroku, they unite to protect their home. Utilizing their shapeshifting abilities, they aim to repel human encroachment and preserve their way of life.

 

However, their path is riddled with challenges and the potential for conflict. Will the Tanuki succeed in defending their forest and finding harmony, or will their struggle against humanity’s encroachment lead to division and destruction?

 

 

36. Sailor Moon S: The Movie

 

 

 

The Sailor Moon Franchise dominated the 90’s market. And so, a lot of Sailor Moon movies are also there on the list.

 

This one talks about Luna who seems to have fallen in love.

 

It focuses on a scientist named Oozora Kakeru whose prowess in Science is exceptional.

 

However, more importantly, he is amazing when it comes to his nature and personality.

 

And this is the reason why Luna seems to have found her love within him.

 

However, she must also make sure that she takes care of Princess Kaguya before she freezes the entire planet out of rage and aggression.

 

How will things work out between them? Watch the movie to find out. And make sure that you also enjoy the romance hidden.

 

 

37. Zeno: Kagirinaki Ai ni

 

 

 

This is one of the hidden gems of the anime industry. And so, it is difficult to get a hold of this movie.

 

However, if you do get your hands on it, make sure to give it a try.

 

It talks about the life and work of a certain someone in the realm. His name is Zenon Zebrowski.

 

And he is known for being a polish missionary. However, currently, he is residing and practicing in Japan.

 

It is said that this man was an angel for a ton of people.

 

And the reason for that was nothing other than the fact that he did save a lot of people.

 

Moreover, he used his excellent skills to help those in need and the poor. However, his mystery remains undisclosed.

 

 

38. Only Yesterday

 

 

 

This anime will give you a new outlook on your life and status. And the way it will do so is amazing.

 

It is about Taeko Okajima, a man done with his monotonous lifestyle.

 

He lives in Tokyo and happens to have the same schedule every day which involves him waking up, then going to his work, then coming back home to listen to his mother.

 

It is too boring now. However, soon enough, Taeko decides to reach out to the countryside that he loved just to feel a bit refreshed.

 

And this refreshment will bring back the originality within him as he realizes what matters to him the most in this world and how he is going to deal with his life from this point forward.

 

The man is now dedicated.