The 1980s were a golden era for anime, producing some of the most influential and iconic films that continue to resonate with fans today. This decade saw the rise of visionary directors, groundbreaking animation techniques, and stories that pushed the boundaries of the medium. If you're a fan of anime or simply curious about the roots of some of the most beloved classics, here are the top 10 anime movies from 1980 to 1989 that you should definitely add to your watchlist.
1. Akira (1988)
One cannot talk about anime in the 1980s without mentioning Akira. Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, this film revolutionized the anime landscape and remains a cornerstone of the genre. Set in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo, Akira follows the story of a biker gang member named Tetsuo who, after a strange encounter, develops immense psychic powers. These abilities begin to spiral out of control, threatening the city and its inhabitants.
The animation in Akira was groundbreaking for its time, featuring highly detailed environments, fluid motion, and a complex narrative that delved into themes of power, identity, and destruction. The film’s influence extends beyond anime, inspiring Hollywood films like The Matrix and Inception. It’s not just a visually stunning film but also a thought-provoking experience that explores the relationship between power and corruption. Akira is a must-watch for anyone interested in how anime can push storytelling boundaries.
2. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli, Grave of the Fireflies is one of the most emotionally devastating films ever made, not just in anime but in cinema as a whole. Set during the final months of World War II, the film tells the story of Seita and his younger sister Setsuko, two children struggling to survive amidst the chaos and destruction in Japan. Their journey is one of heartbreak, resilience, and the innocence lost to the horrors of war.
The film is often considered an anti-war masterpiece, highlighting the impact of war on civilians, especially children. It eschews action and violence in favor of a deeply personal and emotional narrative that will leave viewers reflecting on its themes long after the credits roll. Grave of the Fireflies is a sobering reminder of the human cost of war, making it one of the most profound anime films of the 1980s.
3. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
Though released before Studio Ghibli was officially founded, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is often considered one of the studio's earliest masterpieces. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the film is set in a post-apocalyptic world where toxic jungles have overtaken much of the planet. Nausicaä, the princess of a small valley, seeks to bring peace to warring factions while understanding and preserving the environment that others seek to destroy.
This film introduced many of the themes that would become staples in Miyazaki’s later works: environmentalism, pacifism, and the complex relationship between humans and nature. Nausicaä herself is a strong and compassionate protagonist, embodying hope and the possibility of coexistence in a world ravaged by conflict. With stunning animation and a thought-provoking story, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind remains a timeless classic that resonates with both anime fans and general audiences.
4. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Another Studio Ghibli gem from the 1980s, My Neighbor Totoro is a much lighter and more whimsical film compared to Grave of the Fireflies or Akira. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the movie follows two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside and discover that their new home is inhabited by magical creatures, including the gentle forest spirit Totoro.
Totoro has since become an iconic symbol of Studio Ghibli and anime as a whole. The film captures the innocence and wonder of childhood, balancing moments of quiet introspection with bursts of playful imagination. While My Neighbor Totoro might not have the grand, epic scale of other anime films from the 1980s, its charm lies in its simplicity and heartwarming narrative. It's a perfect introduction to anime for younger audiences and a beloved favorite for long-time fans.
5. Royal Space Force: The Wings of Honnêamise (1987)
A more obscure but equally significant film from the 1980s is Royal Space Force: The Wings of Honnêamise. Directed by Hiroyuki Yamaga, this film is a deep, philosophical exploration of humanity’s aspirations and the consequences of technological advancement. Set in a fictional world on the brink of space exploration, the story follows Shirotsugh Lhadatt, a young man who joins the Royal Space Force and trains to become the first astronaut of his nation.
The Wings of Honnêamise is renowned for its detailed world-building, mature storytelling, and beautiful animation. It tackles themes of political ambition, the morality of war, and the role of science in society. Although not as commercially successful as other films from the era, it has since gained a cult following and is respected for its ambitious narrative and artistic achievements.
6. Castle in the Sky (1986)
Hayao Miyazaki’s Castle in the Sky was the first official Studio Ghibli film and remains one of the studio's most beloved works. The film follows two young protagonists, Sheeta and Pazu, as they embark on a thrilling adventure to find the legendary floating city of Laputa. Along the way, they are pursued by pirates, government agents, and mysterious forces.
Castle in the Sky is a high-flying adventure filled with breathtaking visuals, memorable characters, and a powerful message about the dangers of unchecked technological power. The film’s steampunk aesthetic and fantastical elements have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. Its thrilling action sequences and heartfelt moments make it a timeless tale of friendship, exploration, and the pursuit of knowledge.
7. Macross: Do You Remember Love? (1984)
Macross: Do You Remember Love? is a film adaptation of the Super Dimension Fortress Macross anime series, directed by Shōji Kawamori. Set during an intergalactic war between humans and a race of giant aliens called the Zentradi, the film follows a group of space-faring humans aboard the spaceship Macross as they try to survive and find hope amidst the conflict.
The film is notable for its impressive animation, intense space battles, and its exploration of love and humanity's cultural impact on alien civilizations. Its influence extends into later anime, and its stunning visuals, combined with its emotional depth, have cemented its place as a classic of the 1980s.
8. Barefoot Gen (1983)
Based on Keiji Nakazawa’s semi-autobiographical manga, Barefoot Gen is a powerful and harrowing account of the Hiroshima bombing and its aftermath. Directed by Mori Masaki, the film follows a young boy named Gen as he witnesses the devastation caused by the atomic bomb and struggles to survive in the destroyed city.
Like Grave of the Fireflies, Barefoot Gen is a sobering anti-war film that doesn’t shy away from depicting the horrors of war. Its raw portrayal of the suffering endured by the survivors of the bombing is both heart-wrenching and enlightening, making it a must-watch for those interested in historical anime with a strong message.
9. Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer (1984)
Directed by Mamoru Oshii, Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer is a surreal and inventive film based on Rumiko Takahashi's popular Urusei Yatsura manga. The movie follows the chaotic life of high school student Ataru and his interactions with the alien princess Lum. However, this film takes a more philosophical turn, exploring the nature of dreams, reality, and existence.
Beautiful Dreamer stands out for its imaginative storytelling and its willingness to dive into deeper, more abstract themes. Its unique blend of comedy, romance, and existential musings has earned it a cult following, and it is regarded as one of the most creative anime films of the 1980s.
10. The Castle of Cagliostro (1979, but internationally known in the 80s)
Though technically released in 1979, The Castle of Cagliostro gained international fame in the 1980s and is one of Hayao Miyazaki’s earliest directorial works. This Lupin III adventure follows master thief Arsène Lupin III as he uncovers a counterfeiting operation in a small European country and attempts to rescue a kidnapped princess.
The film is beloved for its fast-paced action, clever heists, and charming characters. It showcases Miyazaki’s talent for crafting thrilling adventure stories and laid the groundwork for his future masterpieces. The Castle of Cagliostro remains a fan favorite and a classic example of anime's potential for fun, adventure-filled storytelling.
Conclusion
These ten anime films from the 1980s offer a diverse range of genres, themes, and storytelling techniques that showcase the versatility and creativity of the medium during this transformative decade. Whether you’re drawn to epic adventures, heartbreaking dramas, or philosophical explorations, these films have something for everyone and continue to inspire anime fans worldwide.