Mature anime films, made by extremely passionate filmmakers with an extraordinary penchant for detail and atmosphere, are a class apart. Let's take a look. (Curated by Sajin Shrijith)
Directed by Studio Ghibli co-founder Isao Takahata, it takes us on a trip with the protagonist and her childhood memories. It's ultimate comfort viewing, with a mood and pace reminiscent of Yasujiro Ozu films.
Speaking of creativity, the visionary Oshii's five films, 'Ghost in the Shell', 'Patlabor' (Parts 1 & 2), 'Angel's Egg', 'Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade', are unparalleled. Loaded with big, thought-provoking themes, these films boast stunningly evocative imagery and music.
Surreal, stylish entertainment. A cross between James Bond and John Wick, 'Golgo 13' is alive with the spirit of the '60s and '80s, with its use of split screens and a rock-and-jazz background score.
An exceptionally imaginative filmmaker who was unafraid of exploring some of the wildest ideas, Kawajiri's 'Wicked City' and 'Ninja Scroll' are essential viewing, followed by 'Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust' and 'Demon City Shinjuku'.
Nolan's 'Inception' has been unfairly accused by some folks of "ripping off" Satoshi Kon's 'Paprika'. Despite a few commonalities, specifically the application of dream sequences, these are two distinct films with unique identities.
In fact, we can include most of Makoto Shinkai's work here: 'The Garden of Words', '5 Centimetres per Second', and 'Weathering With You' — poignant films that make us reflect on the beauty of fleeting moments.
The anime film that made cyberpunk cool, along with 'Blade Runner', and like some of the movies mentioned earlier, is a showcase for crazy imagination of the good kind, combined with a hypnotic background score.
Another quirky adventure from Satoshi Kon, but unlike 'Paprika', this one's relatively more accessible, with a moving story revolving around a baby and a quest to seek the identities of its parents.