As a premier destination for anime enthusiasts, Crunchyroll has been instrumental in introducing countless fans to the vibrant world of anime. With its user-friendly platform and diverse content library, it’s no wonder that many fans regard it as their first step into anime culture. While primarily recognized for its extensive series offerings, Crunchyroll also hosts a remarkable variety of feature-length anime films that cater to those looking to explore beyond the standard episodic format.
In this article, we will delve into some of the best anime films on Crunchyroll. From timeless classics to hidden gems, the service has much to offer. Note that the availability of specific titles may vary depending on your location, particularly in North America.
Updated December 28, 2024, by Mark Sammut: Recently, Crunchyroll expanded its cinematic offerings, introducing a highly esteemed trilogy. Read on to discover the best films currently streaming.
Quick Links
- Fate/stay night [Heaven’s Feel]
- King of Thorn
- Goblin Slayer: Goblin’s Crown
- City Hunter Movies
- Sword Art Online The Movie -Ordinal Scale-
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Movie – Conqueror Of Shamballa
- Urusei Yatsura Movie 2: Beautiful Dreamer
- The Stranger By The Shore
- Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple
- Robot Carnival
- My Hero Academia: Two Heroes
- Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade
- Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Re;surrection
- Black Jack: The Movie
- Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz
- Trigun: Badlands Rumble
- The Boy And The Beast
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly
- Saga Of Tanya The Evil: The Movie
- Fruits Basket -Prelude-
- Black Butler: Book Of The Atlantic
41. King Of Thorn
MyAnimeList: 6.88
Japanese Title | Ibara no Or |
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Genre | Sci-Fi, Horror |
Studio | Sunrise |
Adapted from a critically acclaimed seinen manga, ‘King of Thorn’ compresses significant narrative elements into a swift runtime of under two hours. This ambitious undertaking may not do full justice to the source material’s character depth, yet it remains a compelling standalone film.
The plot centers on a group of individuals chosen to be cryogenically frozen in a bid to escape a dangerous disease turning people to stone. Unfortunately, upon awakening, they find themselves in a perilous world filled with monstrous creatures and overgrown thorny vegetation. As they fight for survival, they uncover hidden truths that challenge their understanding of the situation.
40. Goblin Slayer: Goblin’s Crown
MyAnimeList: 7.26
Japanese Title | Goblin Slayer: Goblin’s Crown |
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Genre | Action, Fantasy |
Studio | White Fox |
While it received its share of critiques, ‘Goblin Slayer’ is ultimately a dark fantasy with a charismatic cast. ‘Goblin’s Crown’ presents a pivotal arc from the light novel series, fitting neatly between the two seasons, albeit starting with an elaborate recap of the first season. This pacing choice brings viewers up to speed before diving into new content.
The storyline follows our main heroes as they confront their traumatic pasts while battling goblin hordes. This installment brings to light themes of survival guilt and post-traumatic stress disorder, enriching the narrative beyond typical action tropes.
39. City Hunter Movies
MyAnimeList: 7.34 (Bay City Wars)
Japanese Title | City Hunter |
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Genre | Action, Comedy |
Studio | Sunrise |
A hallmark of late ’80s and early ’90s anime, ‘City Hunter’ remains a beloved series. The service encompasses not only the complete TV series but also all the films, offering a nostalgic trip for returning viewers.
Focusing on Ryo Saeba, a sharp-shooting private detective with a knack for falling in love, these films maintain a balance of comedic and action-packed storytelling. While they can stand alone, familiarity with the characters enhances the overall experience.
38. Sword Art Online The Movie -Ordinal Scale-
MyAnimeList: 7.56
Japanese Title | Sword Art Online Movie: Ordinal Scale |
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Genre | Mecha |
Studio | Sunrise |
This thrilling adventure intertwines past and present relationships while introducing a formidable antagonist, Eiji, linking back to the original SAO VR universe. The film features stunning animation and an intriguing storyline.
37. Fullmetal Alchemist: The Movie – Conqueror Of Shamballa
MyAnimeList: 7.51
Japanese Title | Fullmetal Alchemist: The Conqueror of Shamballa |
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Genre | Action, Shonen |
Studio | Bones |
While ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ often overshadows it, the 2003 series boasts unique storytelling and captivating narrative arcs. ‘Conqueror of Shamballa’ serves as a sequel that offers closure to the alternate timeline, elevating it above its counterpart in terms of story resolution and character depth.
The film remains in tune with the series’ bittersweet themes, exploring the characters’ lives as they navigate a world transformed by their actions and choices.
36. Urusei Yatsura Movie 2: Beautiful Dreamer
MyAnimeList: 7.85
Japanese Title | Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer |
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Genre | Drama, Sci-Fi, Mystery, Comedy |
Studio | Pierrot |
Although Crunchyroll lacks the original ‘Urusei Yatsura’ series, it provides access to all six films, including ‘Beautiful Dreamer.’ The movie, directed by notable filmmaker Mamoru Oshii, is often cited as a landmark of the franchise.
Unlike the typical episodic humor of the show, ‘Beautiful Dreamer’ delves into a more complex narrative, exploring themes of reality and memory as the characters relive the same day in a bizarre setting. The cerebral approach adds depth to a series mainly recognized for its comedic elements.
35. The Stranger By The Shore
MyAnimeList: 7.86
Japanese Title | Umibe no Stranger |
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Genre | Romance |
Studio | Studio Hibari |
‘The Stranger By The Shore’ tells a heartfelt story of love and connection. During a chance meeting on a beach, two characters—Mio Chibana and Shun Hashimoto—discover a rapid connection, despite initial hesitations. Their subsequent re-encounter after three years serves as the film’s emotional core, highlighting themes of growth and acceptance.
This concise yet impactful film, lasting less than an hour, delivers a powerful exploration of relationships, with beautiful animation that captures the essence of their surroundings and feelings.
34. Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple
MyAnimeList: 7.92
Japanese Title | Bungou Stray Dogs: Dead Apple |
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Genre | Action, Supernatural |
Studio | Bones |
‘Dead Apple’ expands on the ‘Bungo Stray Dogs’ universe, following the characters from the Armed Detective Agency as they face a new menace that creates chaos in Yokohama. Set after the second season, the film emphasizes character growth, particularly for Atsushi, whose past confrontations shape the storyline.
33. Robot Carnival
MyAnimeList: 7.24
Japanese Title | Robot Carnival |
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Genre | Sci-Fi |
Studio | APP |
‘Robot Carnival’ exemplifies the creativity of 1980s anime with its anthology format. Featuring nine unique shorts, each explores different animation styles and narratives, all centered around the theme of robots. The diversity in storytelling showcases the artistic breadth of the time, making this film a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts.
The segments are memorable for their distinctive approaches, encompassing thrilling adventures and thought-provoking stories, securing ‘Robot Carnival’ its place among the best anime movies on Crunchyroll.
32. My Hero Academia: Two Heroes
MyAnimeList: 7.53
Japanese Title | Boku no Hero Academia the Movie 1: Futari no Hero |
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Genre | Action, Superhero |
Studio | Bones |
Set on a unique island and featuring a young All-Might, the film serves as a tribute to the series while remaining engaging for both new and returning fans.
31. Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade
MyAnimeList: 7.78
Japanese Title | Jin-Rou |
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Genre | Thriller |
Studio | Production I.G |
Set in an alternate reality where Germany emerged victorious in World War II, ‘Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade’ explores philosophical themes of humanity and obedience. The film’s slow pacing allows for an atmospheric experience punctuated by tense moments, demonstrating the stark dichotomy between order and chaos.
While some may find the pacing cumbersome, it’s rich with symbolism and thought-provoking character exploration.
30. Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Re;surrection
MyAnimeList: 7.91
Japanese Title | Code Geass: Fate/Zero |
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Genre | Sci-Fi |
Studio | Sunrise |
‘Code Geass’ has left a significant mark in the anime community, and while the original conclusion is profound, the film ‘Lelouch of the Re;surrection’ presents an alternate take that may divide fans. It explores themes of resurrection and conflict while providing distinct character moments.
Although the plot may not carry the weight of the series’ finale, it still offers an exciting adventure packed with action and emotional nuances.
29. Black Jack: The Movie
MyAnimeList: 7.32
Japanese Title | Black Jack the Movie |
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Genre | Drama |
Studio | Tezuka Productions |
Osamu Tezuka’s ‘Black Jack’ has inspired numerous adaptations, including anime films and series. The 1996 film serves as an excellent introduction, effectively portraying the titular character’s motivations and ethical dilemmas in a captivating manner.
Through a variety of cases that blend medical ethics with human emotion, the film engages both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise.
28. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz
MyAnimeList: 7.78
Japanese Title | Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz Special |
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Genre | Mecha |
Studio | Sunrise |
‘Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz’ continues building on the story established in the original series, posing new threats in a postwar setting. Initially released as a three-part OVA, it was later compiled into a feature-length film.
Fans of mecha anime will be enthralled by the grand battles and intricate designs, making this anime classic a standout in the genre.
27. Trigun: Badlands Rumble
MyAnimeList: 7.91
Japanese Title | Trigun: Badlands Rumble |
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Genre | Action, Sci-Fi |
Studio | Madhouse |
‘Trigun’ retains a cult following for its unique blend of action and humor, and ‘Badlands Rumble’ allows fans to rejoin the world of Vash the Stampede. While the film is largely seen as a filler story, it remains an entertaining watch for hardcore fans, despite its lack of deep narrative significance.
Viewers unfamiliar with the series may find the pacing excessive due to its chaotic nature, but die-hards will appreciate the revisit to familiar territory.
26. The Boy And The Beast
MyAnimeList: 8.24
Japanese Title | Bakemono no Ko |
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Genre | Action, Drama |
Studio | Studio Chizu |
While it exhibits commendable animation quality, the film occasionally grapples with pacing issues, particularly in the latter half. However, the attention to character growth during pivotal moments resonates powerfully with audiences.
25. Dragon Ball Super: Broly
MyAnimeList: 8.17
Japanese Title | Dragon Ball Super: Broly |
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Genre | Action |
Studio | Toei Animation |
‘Dragon Ball Super: Broly’ reinvigorated the franchise with a well-crafted storyline focusing on the enigmatic Broly, showcasing his origin while maintaining all the fan-favorite elements that make the series shine. The battles are grand and exhilarating, and the film’s clear dedication to animation quality elevates the viewing experience to cinematic heights.
Highlighting Broly’s sympathetic portrayal reinforces the emotional conspiracies of his motivations, making this film a must-watch for both newcomers and long-time fans.
24. Saga Of Tanya The Evil: The Movie
MyAnimeList: 8.23
Japanese Title | Youjo Senki Movie |
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Genre | Isekai, Military |
Studio | Nut |
Renowned for redefining the isekai genre, ‘Saga of Tanya the Evil’ offers a unique perspective through its military-centric narrative. The film follows Tanya, who continues her pursuit of power in a world stricken with war, introducing new character dynamics and conflicts that further develop the series’ overarching themes.
Combining spectacular visuals with well-choreographed action sequences, this film fortifies its presence as a significant chapter in the ‘Saga of Tanya the Evil’ narrative.
23. Fruits Basket -Prelude-
MyAnimeList: 8.42
Genre
Romance
Studio
TMS Entertainment
Rooted in Natsuki Takaya’s beloved manga, ‘Fruits Basket’ transcends typical romance narratives by exploring themes of trauma and self-acceptance. The ‘Prelude’ movie acts as an emotional epilogue, delving into the backstory of Tohru’s parents and enriching the overall narrative.
While it offers valuable context for fans familiar with the original series, those unfamiliar with the characters may find themselves less engaged.
22. Black Butler: Book Of The Atlantic
MyAnimeList: 8.25
Japanese Title | Kuroshitsuji Movie: Book of the Atlantic |
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Genre | Fantasy, Action, Mystery |
Studio | A-1 Pictures |
‘Black Butler’ strikes a unique balance between humor and gravitas, setting the stage for ‘Book of the Atlantic,’ where Ciel and Sebastian embark on a perilous sea adventure to unravel a necromancy mystery. This film masterfully builds on previous arcs while introducing fresh challenges.
With enhanced production quality, the storytelling and visual presentation reach new heights, making it a tantalizing treat for fans of the series seeking a deeper dive into its plot.
For additional insights and a complete list of featured titles, check out the source.
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