#46. The Night is Short, Walk on Girl (2017, Science Saru)

A bold university student sets out in search of alcohol, which somehow leads to one wild and memorable night in Kyoto. Meanwhile, her senior attempts to overcome various obstacles in an effort to find her and win her heart.

Set in the same universe as The Tatami Galaxy, The Night is Short, Walk on Girl is an imaginative romantic comedy with colourful characters, outlandish events, and a lesson about taking chances and not leaving everything to fate.

#47. The Case of Hana and Alice (2015, Rockwell Eyes inc., STEVE N’ STEVEN)

After moving to a new home, Arisugawa Tetsuko finds herself involved in a bizarre school mystery that leads to her crossing paths with the reclusive Hana Arai. Together, they set off in search of answers. A rotoscoped prequel to a 2004 live-action movie, The Case of Hana and Alice is a charming film.

Though the girls never get into any real danger, you will still be engaged by their misadventures.

#48. My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU TOO! (2015, Feel)

Cynical loner Hachiman Hikigaya’s self-sacrificial and imperfect problem-solving approach is the focus of this sequel, which also examines his methods’ effect on his relationships, along with other subjects.

More serious than the equally-great first season, My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU TOO! can be tricky to comprehend at times. However, it’s that complexity that makes the show so engrossing.

The often-heavy atmosphere is balanced by sufficient humour, and also Hachiman’s entertaining interactions with the sly Iroha Isshiki.

#49.Run with the Wind (2018, Production I.G.)

Charismatic university student Haiji Kiyose has one goal: to participate in the Hakone Ekiden marathon relay. Unfortunately for the residents of the Chikusei-sou apartment, including new arrival and former runner Kakeru Kurahara, they will have to be involved as well.

Featuring sublime running animation, Run with the Wind steadily builds towards its climactic event, using the time to acquaint us with its underdogs and get us cheering for them. It succeeds in doing so.

#50.Liz and the Blue Bird (2018, Kyoto Animation)

A standalone “side-quel” to the Hibike! Euphonium series, Liz and the Blue Bird centres on friendship, post-school futures, and the question of whether a person should be willing to let go of the ones they love most.

It’s a simple story, but the direction and storyboarding transform the movie into something special. Some of its best moments, like the beautiful orchestra scene near the end, are the ones with little or no dialogue. 

Back To #1