25 Highest-Grossing Anime Movies of All Time, Ranked

Widely known as “anime,” Japanese animation’s worldwide popularity has increased significantly over time, making its way to the Western world during the early 1990s. Through the years, it has become even more of a hit among global audiences, with various anime series like Naruto and One Piece ascending in prominence and becoming two of the most beloved animated shows.

In the film strand, Studio Ghibli has conquered the hearts of thousands, proving that Japanese animation is some of the most visually stunning and emotionally charged in the industry. Ghibli has paved the way for more Japanese directors to translate their fantastic stories to the big screen for international audiences to cherish; naturally, this could only have incredible results, as seen in the impressive worldwide earnings of the following films. From One Piece Film: Red to Spirited Away, these are the highest-grossing anime movies of all time.

25 ‘Sword Art Online the Movie: Ordinal Scale’ (2017)

Worldwide Earnings: $29,322,339

Appealing to fans and newcomers alike, Sword Art Online the Movie is an action-adventure following Kirito, who uncovers a conspiracy within Ordinal Scale, a popular AR game developed for a new system called The Augma. The film takes place in a fictional 2022 setting and blends futuristic technology with action, drama, and an emotionally engaging narrative.

Sword Art Online the Movie‘s stunning animation dazzles audiences and fully elevates its narrative, including its action sequences. Beyond its thrilling battles, the film introduces fresh faces to fans of the franchise while also providing further character development for well-known ones. Part of what sets it apart, though, is how it doesn’t just focus on high-tech action, but also delves into themes of trust, love, and redemption. For all these reasons, Sword Art Online has been propelled to financial success around the world.

Watch on Hulu

24 ‘Mirai’ (2018)

Worldwide Earnings: $30,430,147

Also known as Mirai no Mirai, this visually stunning anime film by Mamoru Hosoda is a heartwarming watch that follows a young boy struggling with jealousy and insecurity after the birth of his baby sister. After encountering a magical garden that enables him to travel through time, he meets relatives from different eras, with guidance from his younger sibling from the future.

Audiences who enjoy heartwarming anime dramas featuring strong character development — the case for Mirai, whose primary strength lies in Kun’s growth — may want to watch Hosoda’s entertaining film. At its core, Mirai examines family bonds and the struggles of growing up, resonating with audiences of all ages while also captivating viewers with its visuals. The Academy Award-nominated animated film has grossed over $30 million at the box office, which is impressive for a small-scale anime production.

Release Date

July 20, 2018

Director

Mamoru Hosoda

Runtime

98 Minutes

23 ‘Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods’ (2013)

Worldwide Earnings: $50,461,371

Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods, also by director Mashiro Hosoda, sees the God of destruction surprised to learn that Frieza was defeated by the saiyajin Goku after sleeping for 39 years. Upon finding him, Goku is excited to face him but soon realizes that his powers are negligible compared to Beerus.

Battle of Gods is a triumphant revival of the franchise, considering that it was released after years of its absence, and thus played a crucial role in setting the stage for future installments. For these same reasons, it is not the least surprising that the beloved film was successful financially, earning over $50 million. The engaging and high-stakes Dragon Ball Z was lauded for capturing the essence and magic of its source material and offering viewers a nostalgic experience while also breathing new life into the franchise by introducing new elements.

Release Date

March 30, 2013

Director

Masahiro Hosoda

Cast

Masako Nozawa , Laura Bailey , John Burgmeier , Chris Cason , Shigeru Chiba , Colleen Clinkenbeard

Runtime

85 minutes

Watch on Crunchyroll

22 ‘From Up On Poppy Hill’ (2011)

Worldwide Earnings: $61,459,425

A beautiful coming-of-age story by Studio Ghibli, even if an underrated one when compared to other more iconic films by the studio, From Up On Poppy Hill sees a group of Yokohama teenagers looking to save their school’s clubhouse from the wrecking ball in preparation for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Directed by Gorô Miyazaki.

This heartwarming and nostalgic watch not directed by Hayao Miyazaki, invites viewers to delve into the magical world of Ghibli, featuring visually stunning animation and detailed depictions of 1960s Japan. Like many other films by the studio, From Up On Poppy Hill is quiet and introspective, but never dull or underwhelming; its coming-of-age narrative — focusing on the journey of discovering where you come from to where you’re going — makes it a resonating watch that has drawn audiences to theaters in droves.

Release Date

July 16, 2011

Cast

Masami Nagasawa , Junichi Okada , Keiko Takeshita , Yuriko Ishida , Rumi Hîragi , Jun Fubuki

Runtime

91 minutes

21 ‘Tales from Earthsea’ (2006)

Worldwide Earnings: $68,625,104

Although Tales from Earthsea has received mixed feedback from critics and was met with disappointment by fans, it is still one of the highest-grossing Studio Ghibli features, grossing over $60 million. The Japanese anime epic follows a young boy and a man who investigate a series of unusual occurrences in a mythical land.

This divisive adaptation of Ursula K. Le Guin‘s renowned Earthsea series blends the signature Ghibli animation with a thoughtful exploration of life, death, and equilibrium. Although it tackles interesting themes, the movie ultimately fails to live up to high expectations, with many — including K. Le Guin herself — criticizing its plot and describing it as incoherent. Despite not reaching the milestones of other iconic films, Tales from Earthsea remains a point of interest for Ghibli enthusiasts thanks to its striking visuals and atmosphere.

Release Date

July 29, 2006

Cast

Junichi Okada , Aoi Teshima , Bunta Sugawara , Yûko Tanaka , Teruyuki Kagawa , Jun Fubuki

Runtime

115

20 ‘Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time’ (2021)

Worldwide Earnings: $93,882,453

The fourth and final film in the Rebuild of Evangelion series was the highest-grossing of the bunch. It reimagines the original 1995 show Neon Genesis Evangelion, picking up from where Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo left off: the world is devastated and humanity is on the brink of extinction, with Shinki, along with his friends, attempting to prevent the Fourth Impact.

Although hardly the most popular anime movie to ever grace the big screen, 3.0+1.0 benefits from strong animation and visual effects, with the soundtrack by Shiro Sagisu also playing a big role in the film’s storytelling. It is overall a nice closure to the series, featuring complex character arcs and delving into universal themes of human connection and trauma. Considering that it was a very much anticipated concluding chapter, it makes sense that this anime film was a hit.

Release Date

December 6, 2022

Director

Hideaki Anno , Mahiro Maeda , Kazuya Tsurumaki , Katsuichi Nakayama

Cast

Megumi Ogata , Yûko Miyamura , Maaya Sakamoto , Megumi Hayashibara , Kotono Mitsuishi , Yuriko Yamaguchi , Tomokazu Seki , Tetsuya Iwanaga

Runtime

155 Minutes

19 ‘Detective Conan: Zero the Enforcer’ (2018)

Worldwide Earnings: $101,860,359

Filled with action and suspense, Detective Conan: Zero the Enforcer keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as it follows the lead and titular character investigating an explosion that happened on the opening day of a large Tokyo resort and convention center. It explores Zero’s background and adds depth to the three-dimensional character while also delivering high-quality visuals.

This high-grossing Detective Conan film was successful upon its release, taking home more than one hundred million dollars. Not only does this have to do with its incredibly engaging, intricate storyline filled with twists and turns, stunning high-quality animation, evocative soundtrack, and overall production, but also given to its huge fanbase that has certainly lent a helping hand in making it such a popular film.

Release Date

April 13, 2018

Director

Yuzuru Tachikawa

Cast

Minami Takayama , Kappei Yamaguchi , Wakana Yamazaki , Yukiko Iwai , Ken’ichi Ogata , Rikiya Koyama , Megumi Hayashibara , Tôru Furuya

Runtime

115 Minutes

Rent on Apple TV

18 ‘Dragon Ball Super: Broly’ (2018)

Worldwide Earnings: $115,750,445

Following the story of a powerful Saiyan warrior exiled to a distant planet due to its great potential, Dragon Ball Super: Broly is a must-see for fans of its source material. On Earth and in the present day, Goku and Vegeta continue their training while Frieza’s forces find Broly and his father and bring them to Earth to use Broley’s strength against the two of them, originating an epic, intense battle.

It’s not surprising that Broly is a successful film, as its dedicated fanbase is huge. Balancing a profound character study with incredible combat sequences, the movie benefits from the return of some popular characters (and the huge reintroduction of Broly), overall animation quality, and action-packed scenes that have become some of the most epic battles. All these elements help cement this Dragon Ball movie as an anime fan-favorite, which is reflected in its box office: Broly has earned over 115 million dollars worldwide.

Release Date

December 14, 2018

Director

Tatsuya Nagamine

Cast

Sean Schemmel , Christopher Sabat , Vic Mignogna , Chris Ayres , Sonny Strait , Emily Neves

Runtime

80

Watch on Hulu

17 ‘Pokémon the Movie 2000’ (1999)

Worldwide Earnings: $133,949,270

Centering around Ash Ketchum, Pikachu, and their friends’ journey as they travel to Orange Islands, Pokémon the Movie 2000 depicts collector Lawrence III and his quest to capture Pokémon Moltres, Zapdos, and Articuno to summon Lugia, with disastrous, chaotic consequences. When Ash is chosen as the “Chosen One” by an ancient prophecy, he must team up with Lugia to restore balance and save the world.

The beloved return of the Pokémon characters and the movie’s engaging narrative, featuring a handful of epic action scenes, dragged fans to the movie theater, entertaining both adult and younger audiences. With stunning animation that helps bring its compelling world to life, Pokémon the Movie 2000 has earned over 130 million at the worldwide box office, proving that its impact is undeniable and that its universe remains as relevant as ever.

Release Date

July 17, 1999

Director

Kunihiko Yuyama

Cast

Veronica Taylor , Rica Matsumoto , Ikue Ôtani , Unshô Ishizuka , Mayumi Izuka , Satomi Kôrogi , Tomokazu Seki , Megumi Hayashibara

Runtime

99 Minutes

Watch on Hoopla

16 ‘The Wind Rises’ (2013)

Worldwide Earnings: $136,864,780

The first Studio Ghibli film to make it to this list is The Wind Rises, a touching and powerful tale about pursuing one’s dreams. The fictionalized biographical movie follows the life of aeronautical engineer Jiro Horkioshi, the designer of fighter aircraft for the Japanese military during WWII. The story illustrates the character as a kid dreaming about becoming a pilot and growing up to face the ethical challenges that come with his career.

All in all, the gentle yet tragic The Wind Rises is an excellent Studio Ghibli picture, even if arguably not the best in the studio’s catalog. Exploring internal conflict and ethics as well as responsibility and sacrifice, Hayao Miyazaki’s thought-provoking and beautifully animated movie (meticulously crafted with the filmmaker’s distinct signature touch) has captured the attention of many following its release thanks to its emotionally rich and deep narrative, which reminds audiences of the complexities of life. It has gathered over 136 million dollars at the worldwide box office.

Release Date

July 20, 2013

Cast

Hideaki Anno , Hidetoshi Nishijima , Masahiko Nishimura , Keiko Takeshita , Jun Kunimura

Runtime

126 minutes

15 ‘The Secret World of Arrietty’ (2010)

Worldwide Earnings: $151,496,097

A simple yet magical story built upon limitless imagination and creativity, The Secret World of Arrietty continued Studio Ghibli’s dominance both critically and financially when it came to anime films. Based on the classic English novel, the film follows the story of a family of miniature people who are secretly living in the walls and floors of an everyday home, borrowing items from humans to survive. This family’s secret life is soon put at risk when Arrietty, the young daughter of the family, is discovered by a human boy.

The Secret World of Arrietty combines the signature charm and wonder of Studio Ghibli films with the creativity and timelessness of the original story to create a cinematic match made in heaven. The film expands upon the concepts and characters of the original novel in a deeply compelling and interesting way, helping the film maintain an audience and great deals of success worldwide. It was also successful at the domestic box office, as Ghibli collaborated with Disney to distribute the film in the U.S. it was an even bigger hit when it hit the home video market. – Robert Lee

Release Date

February 17, 2012

Director

Hiromasa Yonebayashi

Cast

Bridgit Mendler , Amy Poehler , Will Arnett , Mirai Shida , Ryûnosuke Kamiki , Tatsuya Fujiwara , Tomokazu Miura , Shinobu Otake

Runtime

94 Minutes

Watch on Max

14 ‘Princess Mononoke’ (1997)

Worldwide Earnings: $159,414,369

One of many masterful films under the banner of Studio Ghibli and visionary director Hayao Miyazaki, Princess Mononoke is a beautifully animated epic whose themes, messages, and action still hold up almost 30 years later. The film follows the story of Ashitaka, a prince who, after being cursed by a demonized boar god, is forced to travel to the West to find a cure for his ailment. On his journey, he finds himself at the center of an ongoing power struggle between the creatures of the forest and a growing community of humans looking to extend their influence.

Princess Mononoke was a massive critical and financial hit within Japan upon its release, even managing to hold the box office record for Japan’s domestic films. The film can be largely attributed to introducing many audiences worldwide not only to Studio Ghibli and their excellent catalog of movies, but cinematic anime filmmaking as a whole. However, the majority of its influence in the US was in the home video market, as Princess Mononoke was notoriously set up for failure at the US box office, and one can only wonder how much money it would have grossed if this were not the case. – Robert Lee

Release Date

July 12, 1997

Cast

Yôji Matsuda , Yuriko Ishida , Yûko Tanaka , Kaoru Kobayashi , Masahiko Nishimura , Tsunehiko Kamijô , Akihiro Miwa , Mitsuko Mori , Hisaya Morishige

Runtime

133 Minutes

13 ‘Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back’ (1999)

Worldwide Earnings: $163,644,662

The first and most successful in what would become a long line of beloved and iconic films in the Pokémon franchise, Pokémon: The First Movie saw Ash and his friends invited to a mysterious island alongside a group of other outstanding trainers. When they arrive, they soon learn that the host is Mewtwo, the deadly and powerful genetic Pokémon who was created in a lab and harbors hatred toward humanity. It becomes up to Ash and all the other trainers to take down Mewtwo before he can enact his plan to take over the world with his genetic clone Pokémon.

It’s difficult to understate just how much Pokémon took the world by storm in the ’90s, with the games, anime series, and trading card game all becoming massive hits that were simply unavoidable. Pokémon: The First Movie acted as the near culmination of this “Poke-mania,” with children around the world wanting to go and see all their favorites on the big screen, as well as the monumental anime debut of Mewtwo, one of the most powerful Pokémon of all time. – Robert Lee

Watch on Hoopla

12 ‘One Piece Film: Red’ (2022)

Worldwide Earnings: $171,319,579

One Piece being one of the most treasured and watched anime of all time, it only makes sense that one of its 15 feature films — which is also the most recent — is one of the highest-grossing of all time. Red depicts beloved, often described as “otherworldly” singer Uta’s (Kaori Nazuka) revelation to the world as she appears in public for the first time at a live concert. What viewers may not expect is that Uta is, in fact, the daughter of a well-known pirate.

With the release of a new film and new television series — Netflix’s live-action hit show, which premiered in 2023 — it is safe to say that the early 2020s were great years for fans of the series. Red did not disappoint; it features incredible artwork and an engaging story that adds to the fictional universe. With over $171 million at the box office, this One Piece film earned a place among the highest-grossing anime films of all time. While it is often said to have grossed $247 million, that actually refers to the total amount of earnings that Japanese studio Toei gathered in 2022.

Watch on Amazon Prime

11 ‘Stand by Me Doraemon’ (2014)

Worldwide Earnings: $183,442,714

Acting as the quintessential next chapter for one of the biggest and most successful animated film franchises of all time, Stand by Me Doraemon adapts and brings to life the biggest moments of the Doraemon series in beautiful stylized 3D animation. The film follows Doraemon, a robot cat from the 22nd century who has traveled back in time to help young Nobita Nobi in his day-to-day life. The film chronicles their expansive and iconic friendship throughout the series, beginning with their first time meeting and ending with the emotional wedding.

In the same vein that films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse and The Peanuts Movie were able to beautifully translate 2D characters into a 3D space, Stand by Me Doraemon proved the same was possible for anime and manga characters. The film built upon the already massively successful and consistent audience for the Doraemon films to create a powerful and emotionally resonating love letter to the decades-long series, becoming the highest-grossing film in the franchise in the process. – Robert Lee

Watch on Netflix

10 ‘Weathering With You’ (2020)

Worldwide Earnings: $192,822,685

From the mind of Makoto Shinkai, Weathering With You is an absorbing fantasy anime movie set during a period of rainy weather and centering around high-school boy Hodaka Morishima’s (Kotaro Daigo) adventure as he runs away from his rural home and heads to Tokyo, where he befriends an orphan girl, Hina Amano (Nana Mori), who can manipulate the weather.

With a worldwide gross of over $181 million, Weathering With You is one of the filmmaker’s most successful features. As expected, it is equally heartwarming and emotional, features two likable protagonists at its center, top-notch animation, and a story that speaks volumes about the effect of natural disasters upon Japanese people, family, and sacrifice. Furthermore, the 2020 anime movie is undoubtedly essential viewing for fans of Shinkai’s visually striking and beautifully scored work.

Watch on Max

9 ‘Jujutsu Kaisen 0’ (2021)

Worldwide Earnings: $196,308,703

This prequel to the Jujutsu Kaisen manga series introduces audiences to a high school student who has a powerful cursed spirit attached to him. The film illustrates Yuta Okkotsu’s (Megumi Ogata) learning journey as he meets teacher Gogo Satoru (Yūichi Nakamura) in 2016 and is taught how to control the haunting being that torments him in the Tokyo Prefectural Jujutsu High School by Jujutsu Sorcerers.

An overall impeccable film that carries on the legacy of the franchise, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is understandably among the highest-grossing anime movies to date, gathering $196,308,703 under its belt. One of the best parts about it is that one doesn’t need to see the series before watching the film (though it is a must for catching references and easter eggs), as it is a well-crafted prequel that serves as a proper introduction to the world of Jujutsu Kaisen, which has arguably surpassed the big three anime shows quality-wise.

Watch on Netflix

8 ‘Ponyo’ (2008)

Worldwide Earnings: $205,162,666

Given their massive popularity, Studio Ghibli movies often have audiences queuing up at the theaters, and for good reason. Ponyo is a true gem and arguably one of the Japanese studio’s best. The movie follows a five-year-old boy who develops a relationship with a young goldfish princess named Ponyo. After falling for him, she longs to become a human.

Delightfully stunning and incredibly touching, Ponyo is a powerful meditation about the environment and an immediate call to action (like many other Ghibli features, such as the beloved Princess Mononoke). No doubt, Miyakazi’s work is a must-see animated Japanese feature. Plus, the American version features a superb voice cast, with names like Cate Blanchett, Liam Neeson, and Matt Damon thrown into the mix. It grossed over $205 million at the worldwide box office.

Release Date

February 4, 2010

Runtime

111minutes

Watch on Max

7 ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ (2004)

Worldwide Earnings: $237,814,327

In the utterly absorbing Howl’s Moving Castle, an insecure young woman (Chieko Baishô) is cursed with an old body by a jealous witch. Her chance of breaking the spell is reaching out to a self-indulgent young wizard (Takuya Kimura) and his companions in a walking castle with legs.

Hayao Miyazaki’s incredible film is a magical watch throughout, and possibly among the studio’s most bewitching, as it completely immerses audiences and has them under its spell. Additionally, Howl’s Moving Castle, which is the second highest-grossing Studio Ghibli movie so far, is the perfect pick for both younger and older audiences, as it provides a poignant message about the value of compassion and chosen family.

Release Date

November 20, 2004

Cast

Chieko Baisho , Takuya Kimura , Akihiro Miwa , Tatsuya Gashûin , Ryûnosuke Kamiki , Mitsunori Isaki

Runtime

119minutes

6 ‘The First Slam Dunk’ (2023)

Worldwide Earnings: $279,892,281

Earning more than $279 million at the box office, The First Slam Dunk is easily among the best Japanese movies of 2023 (though it was released in Japan in 2022). The Takehiko Inoue film centers around 17-year-old Ryota Miyagi (Shugo Nakamura) as he attempts to accomplish his late elder brother’s life-long dream of becoming a top-notch basketball player.

With plenty of intense, action-packed scenes, this near-flawless animated feature is guaranteed to have viewers — especially basketball enthusiasts — invested throughout, moved by its strong narrative, and awed by its 3D visuals. The First Slam Dunk quickly cemented itself as one of the best and most refreshing anime movies ever made, as well as one of 2023’s most underrated movies, according to many.

Watch on Netflix

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