Step into the enchanting world of Japanese animation, where love transcends boundaries and emotions paint vivid tales. Whether you’re a devoted anime enthusiast or simply seeking heartfelt cinematic experiences, our curated selection of the “7 Best Romantic Anime Films” will sweep you off your feet. From heartwarming comedies to profound love sagas, these films offer something for every romantic soul. As you embark on this journey, prepare to be captivated by the beauty of animation and the power of love. Join us as we explore these heartfelt stories, inviting you to indulge in the magic of romance streaming on OTT platforms.
7. A Whisker Away: A Tale of Love and Transformation
In the whimsical world of “A Whisker Away,” an unusual yet endearing girl embarks on an extraordinary journey to win the heart of her crush. However, her path to love takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a peculiar mask that allows her to transform into a feline. As the lines between human and animal blur, a heartfelt story unfolds, exploring the intricacies of identity and affection.
According to Box Office Mojo, the enchanting 2020 anime romantic fantasy, “A Whisker Away,” cast its spell worldwide, accumulating an impressive total of approximately $43.5 million in box office earnings1. The film, a collaborative creation of Studio Colorido, Toho Animation, and Twin Engine, came to life under the direction of the talented duo, Junichi Sato and Tomotaka Shibayama2. Originally slated for a Japanese theatrical debut on June 5, 2020, the film encountered a change in plans due to the unexpected challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, it found a new home with Netflix, where it made its digital premiere on June 18, 2023.
Key Information:
All Releases: Domestic, International, Worldwide
Genres: Adventure Animation Drama Family Fantasy Romance
Running Time: 1 hr 44 min
Where to watch: Netflix
6. Ageless Love: ‘After the Rain’
In the 2018 Japanese film “After the Rain,” the delicate balance of life’s transitions unfolds. Akira Tachibana, a dedicated high school student and track and field star, embarks on a part-time job at a cozy family restaurant. As she navigates the ins and outs of her new workplace, she unexpectedly finds herself drawn to Masami, the middle-aged restaurant manager who carries his own burdens, including a divorce and the responsibilities of fatherhood. With their paths converging, both Akira and Masami stand at a poignant crossroads in their lives, where love and longing intertwine with personal growth.
Directed by Ayumu Watanabe, this heartfelt tale invites us to explore the complexities of age, love, and self-discovery, offering a unique perspective on the universal themes that bind us all. “After the Rain” premiered on January 11, 2018, in Japan, promising a compelling narrative that transcends generational boundaries.
Key Information:
All Releases: Domestic, International ($5,403,417), Worldwide ($5,403,417)
Earliest Release Date:
- Japan: May 25, 2018, Opening $1,100,898 Gross $5,304,179
South Korea Feb 7, 2019, Opening $35,963 Gross $99,238 - Genres: Animation Drama Romance
Running Time: 22 min
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
5. Romantic Killer
Romantic Killer” is not just another romantic comedy; it has a unique journey from its origins to the anime adaptation. Originally, the manga began as a vertical scrolling series, captivating readers on platforms like LINE Manga Indies. Its success led to an official serialization on Shueisha’s Jump+ app in 2019, where it even claimed the 2nd Jump Vertical Scroll Manga Award, earning widespread acclaim. Although its fanbase started in Japan, Viz Media’s recent acquisition of English translation rights is opening the doors to a wider audience.
Aside from its unconventional plot, the anime boasts a talented crew. Directed by Kazuya Ichikawa, known for his work on “The World Ends With You,” and animated by Domerica, the same studio behind the successful anime adaptation. Hiroko Fukuda, a skilled anime scriptwriter responsible for series like “Noragami” and “Teasing Master Tagagi-san,” adds her expertise. With music composed by Ryou Kawasaki and the opening theme sung by YURiKA, known for “Beastars,” the anime promises a delightful and unforgettable experience. So, fasten your seatbelts for an extraordinary romantic rollercoaster in the year 2022.
Where To Watch: Netflix
4. A Silent Voice
“A Silent Voice: The Movie” delves deep into the complexities of human emotions and the journey to redemption. When a young man’s past actions lead to the ostracization of a deaf girl, it sets off a chain of events that reverberate through the years. This compelling tale explores the profound impact of bullying, redemption, and the power of reconciliation.
Key Information:
Release date: 17 September 2016 (Japan)
Director: Naoko Yamada
Story by: Yoshitoki Ōima
Distributed by: Shochiku
Adapted from: A Silent Voice
All Releases: Domestic (2.5%) $764,723, International (97.5%) $29,995,192, Whole world $30,759,915
Earliest Release Date: September 17, 2016 (Japan)
Running time: 2 hr 10 min
Genres: Animation Drama
Domestic Opening: $121,732
Where To Watch: Netflix
3. Your Name
“Your Name” (Kimi no Na wa) takes you on a mesmerizing journey through time, love, and the unexplainable. When two teenagers mysteriously swap bodies, their lives become intertwined in a magical connection. But as they delve deeper into this supernatural bond, they decide to meet in person, leading to a tale of destiny, romance, and the boundless mysteries of the universe. Directed by the renowned Makoto Shinkai, this anime film captivated audiences worldwide, earning acclaim not just for its captivating story but also its enchanting visuals and poignant music.
Key Information:
All releases: Domestic (1.3%) $5,017,246, International (98.7%) $377,220,935, Whole world $382,238,181
Domestic Distributor: FUNimation Entertainment
Domestic Opening: $1,813,781
Earliest Release Date: August 26, 2016 (Japan)
Running Time: 1 hr 46 min
Genres: Animation Drama Fantasy Romance
Where To Watch: Crunchyroll
2. Flavors Of Youth
“Flavors of Youth” (Shikioriori) serves as a cinematic feast, offering a trio of heartwarming tales centered on the beauty and complexities of youth. Spanning across different cities in China, these stories are like individual ingredients that blend into a rich and satisfying narrative: one story captures memories entwined with a bowl of steaming noodles, another follows the path of a fading beauty as she rediscovers her way, and the last is a poignant exploration of bittersweet first love. With a blend of Japanese, Cantonese, and Mandarin languages, this animated anthology beautifully showcases life’s diverse flavors and emotions through its unforgettable characters.
Key Information:
All releases: Domestic (-), International (100%) $408,244, Whole world $408,244
Earliest Release Date: August 4, 2018 (China)
Running Time: 1 hr 14 min
Genres: Animation Drama Romance
Distributed by: Netflix, StudioCanal, TOKYO THEATRES COMPANY, INCORPORATED
Where To Watch: Netflix
1. Howl’s Moving Castle
Hayao Miyazaki’s enchanting masterpiece, “Howl’s Moving Castle” whisks you away on a mesmerizing journey through a world of magic, love, and self-discovery. When the vengeful Witch of Waste curses Sophie, transforming her into an elderly woman, the young girl embarks on a quest to break the enchantment. Guided by the enigmatic wizard Howl’s friends, Calcifer and Markl, Sophie unravels the mysteries of her newfound age while discovering the true magic of the heart. This spellbinding animation is a timeless tale that transcends age, weaving together fantasy, love, and courage with the hallmark brilliance of Studio Ghibli.
Release date: 20 November 2004 (Japan)
Featured song: Sekai no Yakusoku
Story by: Diana Wynne Jones
Adapted from: Howl’s Moving Castle
Distributed by: Toho Co., Ltd., Walt Disney Pictures, StudioCanal UK, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Where To Watch: Netflix