Anime has recently seen a major surge in popularity in America, thanks largely to hit shows like "Attack on Titan" and "Sword ARt Online." While these shows are good, there are many better ones that you have likely not heard of before.
"Erased"
This anime revolves around Satoru Fujinuma, a 29-year-old who possesses a time-traveling ability called Revival. When he's wrongfully accused of murder, he's sent back to 1988, the time when a childhood friend had been abducted and killed. The story follows his mission to find out what exactly happened 18 years ago. This is a riveting mystery-thriller, with many twists and turns. While the ending leaves much to be desired, the journey is well worth it.
"A Silent Voice"
This anime movie focuses on Shouya Ishida, who, as a kid, mercilessly bullied deaf girl Shouko Nishimiya. Years later, he regrets his actions and sets out to redeem himself and be friends with Shouko. Heart-breakingly realistic, at its core, this movie is about redemption, and how a person can change for the better, no matter how horrible.
"Your Name"
This movie follows Mitsuha Miyamizu, a high school girl who wants to live in the city, and the strange occurrence of her switching bodies with Taki Tachibana, a boy who lives in Tokyo. The two must discover how to inhabit each other's bodies and live each other's lifestyles. This movie is both poignant and beautiful, with a shocking plot twist. The animation is gorgeous, and this movie became the most watched anime movie ever.
"Devilman Crybaby"
This show focuses on Akira Fudou, a naive boy who is thrust into the world of devils by his friend Ryou Asuka. When Ryou asks him to hunt devils with him, Akira is transformed into a devilman, a half-human, half-devil hybrid. This show is not for everyone, as there violence and sex scenes. Provocative and thoughtful, there are many religious undertones and societal remarks.
"Blood+"
Saya Otonashi is a normal high school girl, until she is attacked by a grotesque creature. She suddenly finds herself thrust into the role of slaying chiropterans, evil creatures that kill and suck the blood of humans. This 50 episode show is excellent, featuring music by Hans Zimmer and a sophisticated plot.
"Code Geass"
It's the year 2017, and in this universe, Japan is ruled and oppressed by Britannia, and empire that controls 1/3 of the country. Lelouch Lamperouge is a young boy who is given the power of Geass by a mysterious woman. This power allows him to control anyone and compel them to do anything he wishes. With the power of Geass, he plots to take down the Britannian Empire, no matter the cost.
"Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood "
Even if you don't watch anime, you have likely heard of "Fullmetal Alchemist." This 2008 reboot of the 2003 original follows the manga more precisely, and it's definitely worth watching. It's about young alchemist Edward Elric, and his brother Alphonse Elric, who's soul is tied to a suit of armor. It follows the brother's quest to find the philosopher's stone and regain their original bodies. Full of philosophical and political commentary, this show is definitely thought-provoking.
"Eden of the East"
Saki Morimi's life is forever changed when she is saved by Akira Takizawa. While cheerful, Akira suffers from amnesia and believes himself to be a terrorist. Akira must unravel the mystery and truth of his life, while Saki tries to find out who her savior is. While confusing and strange at times, Eden of the East is a surrealistic show full of bizarre characters and scenarios.
"Hunter x Hunter" (2011)
In the world of Hunter x Hunter, there exists Hunters.These Hunters are tasked with various responsibilities, from capturing dangerous criminals to hunting rare creatures. The show follows 12-year-old Gon Freecs, who sets out to be a Hunter in order to find his father. Along the way, he meets friends Kurapika, Leorio, and assassin Killua. Although 148 episodes, this show is well worth it, as it is one of the smartest shounens ever written, with an endearing cast of characters and unique power system.
"Kino: The Beautiful World"
This 12-episode show follows Kino, a young girl who travels to different countries with her talking motorcycle. Each country she visits has its own set of rules and philosophies, which she must navigate. This is a highly though-provoking show that raises important questions about philosophy and the state of the world. Well worth a watch.
"Made in Abyss"
In this world, the Abyss is a deep chasm that contains all different manner of creatures and dangers to the humans dwelling above it. In order to find her mother, Riko, along with a mysterious boy, descends into the Abyss. Awaiting her are many life-threatening dangers and challenges. Intriguing and beautifully animated, Made in Abyss is a surreal anime.
"Monster"
When Dr. Tenma saves the life of a young boy who's been shot in the head, he realizes years later that the boy has turned into a serial killer. Racing to clear his name of murder and catch the man who's been tormenting him, Dr. Tenma unravels mystery upon mystery, While certainly a slow burn, this 74-episode anime takes on unique concepts of morality, showing that no human is completely evil. Even the most heinous person has redeeming qualities, and Monster does a fantastic job of portraying the complex nature of humans.
I hope this list has given you anime recommendations that you will watch and enjoy. I tried to choose anime of all different genres that everyone could enjoy. Hopefully, this will show that anime can be just as serious as television shows.
