Top 19 Ranked Romance Anime Movies

Essential Insights

Romantic anime films explore profound emotional themes, including love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.
Notable titles like 5 Centimeters Per Second and Your Name are renowned for their breathtaking visuals and poignant storytelling.
The genre encompasses a diverse range of narratives, from realistic portrayals in Ocean Waves to fantasy elements in Weathering With You.

The fascination with romance anime films has surged in recent years, captivating audiences with their distinctive narrative techniques, vibrant animation, and relatable character arcs. While often lighthearted, these films delve into intricate themes such as heartbreak, personal sacrifice, and self-exploration.

These narratives forge a substantial emotional connection between viewers and the characters, making the experiences depicted feel even more impactful. Achieving a nuanced portrayal of love’s complexities is a challenge; however, many romance anime films skillfully blend various storytelling elements, maintaining viewer engagement throughout.

Updated on November 12, 2024, by Mark Sammut: The list of the best romance anime movies includes additional recommendations, ensuring a rich selection for fans.

19 Tamako Love Story

Navigating Love’s Complexities

Release Date: April 26, 2014
Director: Naoko Yamada
Studio: Kyoto Animation
MyAnimeList Score: 7.91

Serving as a sequel to Tamako Market, Tamako Love Story focuses on characters approaching adulthood, confronting life-altering changes. While the series subtly hints at the romance between Tamako and Mochizou, the film brings these dynamics to the forefront, compelling both characters to confront their emotions before potentially parting ways.

Interestingly, Tamako Love Story emphasizes love declarations over relationship exploration, focusing on the implications of feelings rather than just the romance itself.

18 Kaguya-sama: Love is War – The First Kiss Never Ends

The Aftermath of Confession

Release Date: December 17, 2022
Director: Mamoru Hatakeyama
Studio: A-1 Pictures
MyAnimeList Score: 8.76
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll

Spoiler Alert: This section contains spoilers for Kaguya-sama: Love is War – Ultra Romantic.

Kaguya-sama: Love is War is celebrated for its blend of humor and romance, culminating in a dramatic kiss between Kaguya and Miyuki. This pivotal moment, years in the making, reveals deep emotional currents beneath their playful rivalry.

Instead of concluding here, the film delves into the aftermath of their kiss, exploring how their relationship evolves amid both excitement and paranoia. A reflective look at both their pasts and futures emerges, allowing secondary characters like Ishigami to shine as well.

Despite its strengths, The First Kiss That Never Ends might miss the mark for those unfamiliar with the series, as it feels more like extended episodes stitched together rather than a traditional standalone film.

17 Sasaki and Miyano: Graduation

A Brief, Enchanting Follow-Up

Release Date: February 17, 2023
Director: Shinji Ishihira
Studio: Studio Deen
MyAnimeList Score: 8.31
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll

Clocking in at just under an hour, Sasaki and Miyano: Graduation is more of a delightful extended episode than a full-length film. It follows two high school students as they transition their relationship from friendship to romance, intertwined with themes of BL manga.

The film centers on Sasaki’s graduation, enhancing rather than obstructing the couple’s bond, highlighting their endearing dynamic without unnecessary drama. Fun and engaging, the film is a continuation best viewed after the series.

16 Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl

An Excellent Sequel

Release Date: June 15, 2019
Director: Souichi Masui
Studio: CloverWorks
MyAnimeList Score: 8.59

Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is a captivating blend of genres, predominantly encompassing romance while maintaining elements of mystery and comedy. The chemistry between Sakuta and Mai forms the heart of the sequel, Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl, which delves into Sakuta’s past.

This film is not suited for newcomers as it connects directly to the earlier series, making it a poignant outing crafted for fans who cherish character-driven narratives.

15 5 Centimeters Per Second

Visually Stunning and Emotionally Resonant

Release Date: June 25th, 2007
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Studio: CoMix Wave Inc.
MyAnimeList Score: 7.57

5 Centimeters Per Second is a landmark romance drama that unfolds in three parts, chronicling the lives of Takaki and Akari as their paths diverge and love fades. The film beautifully portrays the poignant truths of romantic relationships through breathtaking visuals.

Ultimately, its tragic ending serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of love and connection, resonating deeply with audiences.

14 The Garden of Words

A Complicated Yet Beautiful Tale

Release Date: July 6th, 2013
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Studio: CoMix Wave Inc.
MyAnimeList Score: 7.88

Hyper-realistic visuals characterize The Garden of Words, while the storyline follows a high school student, Takao, and an older woman, Yukino, forging a connection during rainy day meetings in a tranquil garden.

Their relationship evolves against the backdrop of personal struggles and societal expectations, enriching the narrative’s complexity and depth.

13 Given Movie

An Engaging Continuation

Release Date: August 22, 2020
Director: Hikaru Yamaguchi
Studio: Lerche
MyAnimeList Score: 8.12
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll

Given stands as a milestone in the Boys Love genre, showcasing mature relationships and personal growth. The film extends the series’ narrative, focusing on secondary characters and the overarching theme of healing through connection.

The poignant portrayal of moving on resonates well within the context of Haruki’s journey and serves as a perfect complement to the original series.

12 The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

Unforgettable Time-Traveling Romance

Release Date: November 19th, 2006
Director: Mamoru Hosoda
Studio: Madhouse
MyAnimeList Score: 8.10
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time intertwines time travel with the complexities of teenage emotion, as Makoto discovers her ability to rewind moments. Though initially a tool for self-improvement, her actions lead to unforeseen consequences that affect the lives around her, particularly with Chiaki.

This dynamic exploration of time and its impact on relationships culminates in a heartbreaking yet meaningful narrative.

11 The Wind Rises

A Tender Tale with a Heart-Wrenching Conclusion

Release Date: July 20th, 2013
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Studio: Studio Ghibli
MyAnimeList Score: 8.12
Where to Stream: Max

Inspired by the life of aviation designer Jiro Horikoshi, The Wind Rises captures the beauty and brevity of love and life. Jiro’s romance with Nahoko is sweet yet bittersweet, culminating in a poignant narrative of love, loss, and the struggle against fate.

Through breathtaking animation, Ghibli crafts a heartfelt story that stays with audiences long after the credits roll.

10 A Silent Voice

An Emotionally Powerful and Beautiful Narrative

Release Date: October 20th, 2017
Director: Naoko Yamada
Studio: Kyoto Animation
MyAnimeList Score: 8.93

A Silent Voice poignantly tackles themes of bullying, redemption, and connection. It follows Shoya Ishida, who seeks forgiveness from Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he once tormented. This emotional journey unearths deep truths about empathy and understanding.

The film’s stunning animation, combined with a powerful soundtrack, makes it a heartwarming experience that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.

9 Teasing Master Takagi-san: The Movie

A Delightfully Charming Experience

Release Date: June 10, 2022
Director: Hiroaki Akagi
Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
MyAnimeList Score: 8.44

While it can stand alone, Teasing Master Takagi-san: The Movie is a culmination of previous seasons, showcasing the tender relationship between Takagi and Nishikata as they navigate the challenges of teenage love.

With its engaging animation and endearing characters, the film perfectly captures the essence of their playful love story, offering a satisfying conclusion to their journey.

8 Whisper of the Heart

An Endearing Story of Aspirations and Love

Release Date: March 7th, 2006
Director: Yoshifumi Kondo
Studio: Studio Ghibli
MyAnimeList Score: 8.22
Where to Stream: Max

Whisper of the Heart is a beautifully crafted love story that revolves around Shizuku, a young aspiring writer, and Seiji, a violin maker. Their shared passions bring them together in a heartwarming tale set in the bustling city of Tokyo.

Though seemingly simple, the film delves into deeper themes of ambition and connection, culminating in a heartfelt and rewarding viewing experience.

7 Doukyusei: Classmates

A Touching Boys Love Narrative

Release Date: February 20th, 2016
Director: Shouko Nakamura
Studio: A-1 Pictures
MyAnimeList Score: 8.28

With its straightforward narrative and relatable characters, Doukyusei: Classmates offers an engaging glimpse into the lives of two high school boys, Kusakabe and Sajou, who bond over a shared interest in music. The movie gracefully navigates the landscape of high school romance while challenging stereotypes within the Boys Love genre.

The film’s soft animation and genuine portrayal of their relationship present a lovely entry point for those new to the genre.

6 Weathering With You

A Captivating Romantic Adventure

Release Date: January 17th, 2020
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Studio: CoMix Wave Inc.
MyAnimeList Score: 8.27
Where to Stream: Max, Hoopla

Weathering With You tells the enchanting tale of Hodaka, who escapes his mundane life to encounter Hina, a girl with the extraordinary ability to manipulate weather. Their relationship develops amidst fantastical elements and moral dilemmas, forcing them to confront the implications of Hina’s powers.

Makoto Shinkai delivers another visually stunning film that emphasizes the intersection of love and sacrifice, making it essential viewing for fans.

5 Howl’s Moving Castle

An Enchanting Masterpiece from Studio Ghibli

Release Date: June 17th, 2005
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Studio: Studio Ghibli
MyAnimeList Score: 8.66
Where to Stream: Max

Howl’s Moving Castle intertwines romance, magic, and adventure, following the journey of Sophie, a young woman cursed to age prematurely. Her growth intermingles with the enchantment of Howl and his mystical castle, fostering a love story that develops amidst war and adversity.

Notably, the film emphasizes the importance of inner beauty and the enduring nature of true love, solidifying its status as one of Ghibli’s outstanding films.

4 Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light

A Heart-Wrenching Fantasy Tale

Release Date: September 17th, 2011
Director: Takahiro Omori
Studio: Brain’s Base
MyAnimeList Score: 8.27

Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light (or Hotarubi no Mori e) delivers a poignant exploration of a budding friendship between a human girl and a spirit. Their relationship deepens as they confront limitations and heart-wrenching truths, anchoring the narrative in emotional realism.

The film culminates in a powerful climax that captures the essence of bittersweet love and loss.

3 Your Name

A Visual and Emotional Masterpiece

Release Date: April 7th, 2017
Director: Makoto Shinkai
Studio: CoMix Wave Inc.
MyAnimeList Score: 8.83
Where to Stream: AppleTV, Crunchyroll, Vudu

Your Name has dramatically influenced the anime film landscape, weaving a captivating story of two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, who mysteriously switch bodies. Their attempts to navigate their lives while forming a bond set against stunning animation redefine romance in film.

The intricate plot twists and emotional resonance elevate Your Name to a modern classic among romance anime films.

2 Josee, The Tiger And The Fish

Grounded Lessons Through Romance

Release Date: July 12th, 2021
Director: Kotaro Tamura
Studio: Bones
MyAnimeList Score: 8.39
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll

Josee, The Tiger and the Fish offers a touching narrative centered around Tsuneo, a university student who finds himself caring for Josee, a girl with a physical disability. As they navigate their lives, the film beautifully illustrates themes of resilience, dreams, and companionship.

Through vivid animation and a heartfelt storyline, the film delivers meaningful lessons about overcoming challenges and maintaining one’s aspirations irrespective of limitations.

1 I Want to Eat Your Pancreas

A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Life and Love

Release Date: October 29th, 2019
Director: Shin’ichiro Ushijima
Studio: Studio VOLN
MyAnimeList Score: 8.55

I Want to Eat Your Pancreas presents an emotionally charged narrative revolving around Sakura, a terminally ill girl, and her relationship with Haruki, a classmate. As they engage in a journey of shared experiences, the film explores themes of love, mortality, and the beauty of living in the present.

Its poignant storytelling and heartbreaking conclusion challenge viewers to appreciate life’s fleeting moments, making it a deeply powerful experience.

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