While Pixar and Disney continue to dominate much of the American consumer market for animated films, many movie lovers are missing out on other gems they may not find in mainstream theaters or childhood collections. In particular, Japanese animated films (also known as anime films) hold some of the greatest tear-jerking, heart-stirring, and laugh-inducing masterpieces in the animated world, but are frequently overlooked by many American audiences. Many have likely at least heard of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli -- several of whose movies I have included in my recommendations -- but there are others that may surprise you. With spring break and summer just around the corner, or maybe just a relaxing weekend evening coming up, any one of these 11 phenomenal films is bound to be added to your favorites list.

1. "Princess Mononoke" (1997)

Arguably Hayao Miyazaki's most prestigious film, "Princess Mononoke" utilizes a harmonious mixture of Japanese mythology, fantasy elements, and anti-war and pro-environment themes. The films main leads, Ashitaka and San become involved in a deadly conflict involving warring forest spirits and the humans that are destroying the environment in which they live in. Their journey is a true testament to the struggle of survival and bridging the bond between humans and nature. Heart-pumping and emotion-stirring, this film is an intense, but life-changing ride.

2. "Ghost in the Shell" (1995)

An institution in the sci-fi genre, "Ghost in the Shell" is a chilling masterpiece that follows lead protagonist Major Makoto and public-security agency Section 9 as they track down an illusive hacker, the Puppet Master, who has illegally been controlling the "ghosts," or souls of other individuals. Set in a highly futuristic and automized society where humans can become entirely robotized, this film raises questions about what it truly means to be human in a world of seemingly limitless technology. If you're looking for an existential crisis and want your mind to be blown, this is definitely the right film for you.

3. "Akira" (1985)

Considered a milestone in Japanese animation, "Akira" is a dystopian thriller set in the post World War III city of Neo-Tokyo and involves psychic powers, biker gangs, government corruption, and violent revolution. Though quite graphic and gruesome in its depiction, this film will undoubtedly leave you jaw-dropped, especially in its concluding 20 minutes. Never short of action, the film explores the limits of friendship, the struggle for power and the aftermath of war and imperialism. It's a great watch for sci-fi and adrenaline junkies alike.

4. "Howl's Moving Castle" (2004)

Another excellent Hayao Miyazaki film, "Howl's Moving Castle" is a stunning tale of magic, war, self-discovery and love. When protagonist and tailor, Sophie Hatter is turned into an elderly woman by the Wicked Witch of the Wastes, she becomes involved in the life of the illustrious wizard, Howl, as a war between her nation and a neighboring one unfolds. Filled with humor, spectacular friendships and a touch of tragedy, this film brings viewers close to a wonderful and magical world.

5. "Wolf Children" (2012)

Don't be fooled by the innocent and happy smiles above, "Wolf Children" is a tearful union of misfortune, resilience, motherhood, and love. If you were particularly moved by the first few minute sequence of Pixar's "Up," be warned about the first 15 minutes of this film. Despite its undeniable sadness, this beautifully articulated film artfully explores themes of family, otherness, and maturity. The film's protagonist, Hana, mother of two human-wolf hybrid children, truly exemplifies strength in the face of all odds. This is a great film for those who don't mind tears.

6. "Spirited Away" (2001)

Probably one of Hayao Miyazaki's most well-recognized film, "Spirited Away" is a wonderful coming-of-age story that involves 10-year-old Chihiro accidentally traveling to the spirit world during a pit-stop while moving to a new town. With her parents turned into pigs by the witch Yubaba, Chihiro must figure out how to rescue her parents and escape from the spirit world. Her journey of self-discovery and overall character development is quite remarkable. Not only are the friendships and characters incredibly lovable, but the film's soundtrack is one of the finest out there. With a mix of wonder and adventure, "Spirited Away" is a timeless tale for all.

7. "Summer Wars" (2009)

With spectacular animation and amazingly developed themes of family, "Summer Wars" is an excellent action-packed sci-fi film filled with humor, combat, teamwork, and a highly developed virtual world. When a rampant artificial intelligence virus is accidentally released into the web, the main protagonists Kenji, a genius math student, and Natsuki, a classmate who invites him to pretend to be her boyfriend a incredibly large family reunion, work together with Natsuki's family in order to stop the virus before it causes more damage. This film is exciting and humorous, with an added touch of tragedy, but an excellent watch that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

8. '"Paprika (2006)

If you're a big fan of Christopher Nolan's "Inception," you'll definitely love this sci-fi thriller that involves research psychologist, Atsuko, entering the dreams of her patients as her alter-ego 'Paprika,' using a commonplace device called the "DC Mini." With superb animation, vivid colors, and flamboyant designs, "Paprika" blurs the divisions of dream and reality. With a complex adventure filled with a variety of distortions and disturbances, this film is great for viewers that really want to take their minds for a spin.

9. "When Marnie Was There" (2014)

As Studio Ghibli's most recent and potentially final film, "When Marnie Was There" is a touching and emotional powerhouse that delves into the power, beauty, and complexity of female friendships. While living with relatives in a small rural town after a recent move, Anna Sasaki finds an abandoned mansion and discovers Marnie, a girl whom she intensely bonds with. Struggling with the her family and foster care, Anna undergoes a stunning character transformation during her experiences with Marnie. This film bridges past and present and delves into the importance of family and self-discovery. A stellar film, "When Marnie Was There" packs an emotional punch filled with unexpected twists.

10. "Whisper of the Heart" (1995)

Perhaps the most simplistic and tame film of my recommendations, "Whisper of the Heart" is a slice-of-life romantic drama about junior high school student, Shizuku as she befriends a boy, Seiji, the unexpected grandson of antique shop owner that she discovers. At its core, the film centers around discovering and pursuing one's passion in life and is surprisingly resonating at a high school and college level age where questions of the future are looming. It's a simple, hopeful film that is sweet to watch and surprisingly touching in its content.

11. "Grave of the Fireflies" (1988)

I don't recommend this film for the faint of heart. "Grave of the Fireflies" is undoubtedly one of the most emotionally draining films I've ever watched. Centered around the siblings, Seita and Setsuko and their journey of survival in the last stretch of World War II, this historical war drama is absolutely devastating to watch. As their lives spiral downwards, the duo's bond of companionship is tested and wrangled. This film is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a good cry (I cried a solid 15 minutes the last time I watched it) and major heartbreak.

Happy watching!