Must-Watch Anime Movies Streaming on Max this August 2023!
Discover the ultimate anime movie collection on Max! Immerse yourself in breathtaking tales like Castle In The Sky, My Neighbor Totoro, and Spirited Away Prepare for an unforgettable journey through fantastical worlds and captivating characters Don't miss out on these must-stream masterpieces!
Formerly known as HBO Max, Warner Bros' Max has cemented itself as one of the leading streaming options in the United States. After a period of ups and downs, the platform underwent a rebranding in May 2023. Despite a decrease in its library, it still offers a wide range of top-tier movies and shows. Fans of live-action films will find an extensive selection of Western blockbusters and timeless classics, spanning various genres from modern horror like Evil Dead Rise and Hereditary to iconic masterpieces like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Gone with the Wind.
In addition to American movies, Max boasts an impressive collection of foreign releases. For live-action enthusiasts, films such as M, The Seventh Seal, and Diabolique come highly recommended. It's no surprise that this reach also extends to anime, although the platform's selection of anime series is somewhat limited. However, Max compensates for this with an exceptional assortment of anime movies, some of which are considered among the best creations in the industry. These movies alone make a one-month subscription to Max worthwhile.
Every Anime Movie On Max
As Max does not possess an excessive abundance of anime movies, the subsequent table will encompass each feature accessible on the streaming platform, encompassing their Rotten Tomatoes scores and links to their Max pages.
Movie | Release Year | Rotten Tomatoes Score | HBO Max Link |
|---|---|---|---|
Batman Ninja | 2018 | 82% | |
Belle | 2021 | 95% | |
Castle In The Sky | 1986 | 96% | |
The Cat Returns | 2002 | 88% | |
Earwig and the Witch | 2020 | 29% | |
From Up On Poppy Hill | 2011 | 87% | |
Howl's Moving Castle | 2004 | 87% | |
Kiki's Delivery Service | 1989 | 98% | |
My Neighbors The Yamadas | 1999 | 78% | |
My Neighbor Totoro | 1988 | 93% | |
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind | 1984 | 89% | |
The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl | 2017 | 90% | |
Only Yesterday | 1991 | 100% | |
Pom Poko | 1994 | 86% | |
Ponyo | 2008 | 91% | |
Porco Rosso | 1992 | 95% | |
Princess Mononoke | 1997 | 93% | |
Promare | 2019 | 97% | |
Ride Your Wave | 2019 | 93% | |
The Secret World of Arrietty | 2010 | 94% | |
Spirited Away | 2001 | 97% | |
The Tale of The Princess Kaguya | 2013 | 100% | |
Tales from Earthsea | 2006 | 40% | |
Weathering With You | 2019 | 92% | |
The Wind Rises | 2013 | 88% | |
When Marnie Was There | 2014 | 92% | |
Whisper of the Heart | 1996 | 94% |
Castle In The Sky
Japanese Title | Tenkuu no Shiro Laputa |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Sci-Fi Fantasy |
The narrative of Castle In The Sky revolves around Pazu and Sheeta, a pair of adolescents. Pazu hails from a mining township and becomes the fortuitous rescuer of Sheeta when she plunges from the heavens. It is soon unveiled that Sheeta is pursued by both pirates and the government, who covet her valuable crystal necklace acquired from the ethereal city of Laputa. Together, they embark on a perilous expedition to discover Laputa and elude their pursuers.
Ride Your Wave
Castle in the Sky is an early masterpiece by Hayao Miyazaki, captivating its audience with a thrilling and enchanting adventure. The characters are incredibly endearing, making it impossible not to fall in love with them. Additionally, the captivating world depicted in the movie is so intriguing that one wishes it could be further explored and enjoyed for a longer duration.
Japanese Title | Kimi to, Nami ni Noretara |
|---|---|
Studio | Science SARU |
Genre | Supernatural Romance |
Released in 2019, Ride Your Wave is an underrated anime film that revolves around the love story of Hinako, a college surfer from a coastal town, and Minato, a heroic firefighter. Tragically, their blossoming love comes to an abrupt end when Minato loses his life in a water-related accident. However, Hinako discovers a unique ability - the power to summon Minato from any body of water by singing.
With its relatable characters, stunning animation, and a powerful message of self-discovery, Ride Your Wave is a captivating cinematic experience.
My Neighbor Totoro
Japanese Title | Tonari no Totoro |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Fantasy Slice Of Life |
My Neighbor Totoro revolves around the enchanting encounters between mystical creatures and two young girls, Satsuki, aged 10, and Mei, aged 4, as well as their heartwarming interactions with the Totoros. These sisters embark on delightful escapades alongside these magical beings within the confines of the nearby forest. Moreover, the narrative progresses further with the siblings and their father relocating to the countryside, aiming to be nearer to their mother, who is currently receiving medical care in the hospital.
Promare
Studio Ghibli's defining film is My Neighbor Totoro. It stands out from Miyazaki's other works as a slice of life anime without much tension. This film beautifully showcases the director's whimsical and mature style.
Japanese Title | Promare |
|---|---|
Studio | Trigger |
Genre | Action |
Set thirty years after the arrival of the Burnish, a group of mutant beings gifted with fire abilities that laid waste to the world, Promare introduces a new pack of mutant beings who engage in an epic clash. These powerful beings, known as Promare, bring their firefighting skills and mechs into the battle.
Promare delivers everything fans have come to expect from a Trigger production: captivating music, exceptional action sequences, and awe-inspiring animation. It is a movie that thrives on building excitement, delivering one thrilling moment after another. Although it is ideally suited for a packed theater, where Trigger fans can revel in every reference and explode with joy, Promare remains an enjoyable watch on Max and offers a solid introduction to the studio's remarkable work.
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Japanese Title | Kaze no Tani no Nausicaä |
|---|---|
Studio | Topcraft |
Genre | Fantasy |
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, although preceded by the entertaining The Castle of Cagliostro, is regarded as Hayao Miyazaki's first true masterpiece. This 1984 classic showcases the ideas and themes that would become synonymous with the acclaimed director's illustrious career. While Studio Ghibli's filmography dominates the list of top anime movies on Max, it is worth noting that this film was released prior to the establishment of the studio. Thankfully, it is still available for streaming on the platform.
Belle
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind transports viewers to a world where nature's rebellion against humanity's authority takes center stage. This captivating masterpiece follows the journey of a remarkable protagonist, known as the "chosen one," as she fearlessly battles to safeguard her kingdom. With its grand ambitions, mesmerizing animation, and captivating storytelling, this movie effortlessly mesmerizes viewers and leaves them longing for more, even though its runtime of two hours might be considered its only flaw.
Japanese Title | Ryuu to Sobakasu no Hime |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Chizu |
Genre | Fantasy, Drama |
Mamoru Hosoda has established an impressive body of work in the past twenty years, including notable films such as the unique One Piece movie, Madhouse's The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and Summer Wars, and the highly-acclaimed Wolf Children. His latest cinematic endeavor, 2021's Belle, pays homage to Beauty and the Beast in the digital era. While it may not reach the pinnacle of Hosoda's finest anime creations, the film captivates viewers with its stunning animation and a compelling story that delves into the themes of identity and insecurity.
In the real world, Suzu battles with a deep sense of discomfort within herself. She feels isolated and lonely, consistently overshadowed by her own perceived insignificance. However, she discovers solace by immersing herself in U, a virtual world where she can embody her ideal self. As Belle, Suzu attains an unprecedented level of virtual stardom, typically only achieved by the most successful idols. Naturally, unforeseen events cause a shift in her circumstances.
When Marnie Was There
Japanese Title | Omoide no Marnie |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Mystery |
When Marnie Was There revolves around the story of Anna, a 12-year-old girl who forms a friendship with a mysterious girl named Marnie. The setting takes place in the serene Japanese countryside, where Anna finds solace in her solitary sketching sessions. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes apparent that Marnie is not merely a stranger to Anna, but holds a deeper connection to her.
Princess Mononoke
When Marnie Was There possesses an enchanting allure. The mesmerizing anime captivates with its compelling central mystery, driven solely by emotions. Ultimately, it delivers a satisfying final act that fulfills the characters' journeys and meets the audience's expectations. Presently, this 2014 release stands as the most recent outstanding Studio Ghibli film, although this status may change once Hayao Miyazaki's How Do You Live? is released.
Japanese Title | Mononoke Hime |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Action Adventure |
The story of Princess Mononoke follows Ashitaka as he embarks on a journey to find a cure for a curse inflicted upon him by a demon while defending his village. Along the way, he encounters Lady Eboshi, the leader of a human clan, and Princess Mononoke, a woman raised by wolves in the forest. The film explores the escalating conflict between humans and the forest creatures.
Miyazaki's films often convey an environmental message, yet the director skillfully avoids sounding preachy. Princess Mononoke stands as a prime example of this, as it presents a nuanced and complex storyline without demonizing any character.
Only Yesterday
Japanese Title | Omoide Poroporo |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Fantasy |
Only Yesterday is often overshadowed by Studio Ghibli's more popular films, but it provides a remarkable display of Isao Takahata's distinctive vision and talent. This early '90s drama follows Taeko Okajima, a woman in her mid-20s, as she embarks on a journey from Tokyo to a rural town to visit her family. Along the way, Taeko reflects on her childhood, whether through repressed memories or long-forgotten dreams.
The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya
Only Yesterday revolves around profound human emotions—ones that are both relatable and intricate. The protagonist, Taeko, embarks on a journey of self-reflection and exploration, where she confronts harsh realities. This film is an excellent choice for those seeking an anime movie that delves into the depths of human experience, departing from the typical fantastical themes found in most films on Max.
Japanese Title | Kaguya-hime no Monogatari |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Fantasy |
Isao Takahata's final film, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, depicts a classic Japanese tale of a couple stumbling upon a girl inside a bamboo shoot. This visually stunning masterpiece evokes deep emotions, despite its minimalistic art style. The film's simplicity complements its enchanting fairy tale origins.
With a runtime of over two hours, Princess Kaguya provides ample time for each story beat to unfold, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the anime's captivating world. Towards the end of the film, an awe-inspiring burst of animation emerges, standing as one of Studio Ghibli's most remarkable moments. In fact, it may be considered their greatest accomplishment.
The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl
Japanese Title | Yoru wa Mijikashi Arukeyo Otome |
|---|---|
Studio | Science SARU |
Genre | Comedy |
Senpai has developed feelings for an enigmatic girl with dark hair; however, his attempts to coincidentally encounter her have proven fruitless. The female protagonist firmly believes in the notion that every event unfolds with purpose, a belief Senpai desires to exploit in order to intertwine their destinies.
Directed by Masaaki Yuasa, known for his work on Ping Pong The Animation, Devilman Crybaby, and The Tatami Galaxy, The Night is Short, Walk on Girl is a surreal comedy featuring unconventional visuals, a loosely structured yet coherent storyline, and distinctive animation. This anime offers a one-of-a-kind journey that can be exclusively experienced on Max.
Spirited Away
Japanese Title | Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Fantasy |
Spirited Away is a captivating story about Chihiro, a 10-year-old girl who finds herself immersed in a hidden world after her parents undergo a strange transformation. In this mysterious realm, Chihiro encounters extraordinary spirits and creatures, including the malevolent sorceress Yubaba and a enigmatic boy named Haku. To save herself and her parents, Chihiro must toil at Yubaba's enchanting bathhouse, under the watchful eye of Haku.
Regarded as Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece, Spirited Away stands alone as the only anime film to have won the prestigious Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The film, released in 2001, is an enchanting fusion of imagination and heartfelt storytelling, crafting a truly magical experience that speaks to both the fantastical and the human.
Weathering With You
Japanese Title | Tenki no Ko |
|---|---|
Studio | CoMix Wave Films |
Genre | Fantasy Romance |
Weathering With You depicts a dystopian scenario where ceaseless rain engulfs the world. In a bid to escape this relentless downpour, Hodaka, a young adolescent, flees from rural Japan to seek solace in the bustling city of Tokyo. Along his journey, he crosses paths with Hina, an orphan girl endowed with the extraordinary ability to manipulate weather patterns. However, the utilization of her powers comes at a steep cost, prompting Hodaka to go to great lengths in his attempt to prevent such consequences from befalling her.
The Secret World Of Arrietty
Weathering With You, while slightly overshadowed by Makoto Shinkai's previous film, Your Name, explores similar themes such as star-crossed lovers and climate change. Similar to Your Name, this breathtaking piece of art captivates with its stunning imagery, lovable characters, and an abundance of rain.
Japanese Title | Karigurashi no Arrietty |
|---|---|
Studio | Studio Ghibli |
Genre | Fantasy |
Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, The Secret World of Arrietty could be considered Studio Ghibli's most aesthetically pleasing film, a claim that is not made lightly. The studio has a reputation for creating immersive fantasy realms, and Arrietty takes a similar yet unique approach. The narrative revolves around a young boy named Shou who encounters the titular Arrietty, a girl who happens to be a Borrower. These diminutive individuals live beneath the stairs or within the walls of houses, constantly striving to remain concealed from humans.
While the anime's storyline and characters are remarkably well-crafted, the standout aspect of Arrietty lies in its world-building. The film submerges viewers into the Borrowers' dwelling, delving into a society that exists just beyond familiar comprehension. It offers enough insights into the Borrowers' way of life to establish their existence within this particular universe, while simultaneously preserving an air of mystery by leaving certain questions unanswered. This balance contributes to the enchanting allure of the content.
