The success of anime is evident from the impressive box office revenues. Some of the most successful anime films have even managed to surpass major Hollywood blockbusters.
Anime is gaining popularity worldwide, with Studio Ghibli’s works achieving cult status both in Japan and internationally. Several of their films make it into the list of top-grossing anime films. Here’s a look at other titles that have taken the cinemas by storm.
10. Weathering with You (2019)
Makoto Shinkai’s visually stunning anime drama Weathering with You takes the tenth spot, earning €178.1 million globally. The story follows high school student Hodaka, who meets a girl capable of controlling the weather.
9. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (2021)
Though Jujutsu Kaisen 0 serves as a prequel to the series, it managed to gross €180.5 million worldwide. The story centers on Yuuta Okkotsu, who is haunted by a powerful cursed spirit. To protect those around him, he joins the Jujutsu Academy to become a curse hunter.
8. Ponyo (2008)
Five-year-old Sosuke befriends Ponyo, a goldfish princess who wishes to become human. The film, produced by Studio Ghibli, grossed €188.2 million and remains one of the most successful anime films.
7. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
Another masterpiece from Studio Ghibli, Howl’s Moving Castle earned approximately €218.3 million worldwide. The story follows Sophie, who is cursed into an old woman’s body and embarks on an adventurous journey to change her fate.
6. One Piece: Film Red (2022)
In One Piece: Film Red, Luffy and his crew meet Uta, a singer holding her first concert on the music island of Elegia, though she hides a dark secret. The film earned an impressive €226.6 million globally, making it the most successful One Piece movie to date.
5. The First Slam Dunk (2022)
After his brother’s death, teenager Ryota Miyagi grapples with questions of self-worth and purpose, dedicating himself to basketball. The film grossed around €242 million worldwide, delivering a powerful story.
4. Suzume (2022)
Makoto Shinkai’s latest film Suzume grossed €279.9 million globally. As expected from Shinkai, the movie captivates with breathtaking visuals and an emotionally rich storyline.
3. Your Name (2016)
The coming-of-age adventure Your Name tells the story of two teenagers who switch bodies every night but are never able to meet in person. With box office earnings of €351.2 million, it once topped the anime charts and now takes the bronze medal.
2. Spirited Away (2001)
Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, remains the only anime film to win an Oscar. The phenomenal fantasy classic grossed €363.5 million worldwide and tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl who finds herself in a magical world filled with strange creatures.
1. Demon Slayer – The Movie: Mugen Train (2020)
At the top spot is Demon Slayer – The Movie: Mugen Train, following Tanjiro and his demon sister Nezuko as they board the infamous train, where they must face terrifying demons. Continuing the Demon Slayer series, the film claimed first place in the ranking with €466 million in box office revenue.