8 Great Non-Japanese Films and Shows That Look and Feel Like Anime

Anime has a unique charm that pulls us in with its vivid visuals, emotional storytelling, and imaginative worlds. From sweeping fantasy epics to intimate coming-of-age tales, the style often feels like a blend of art and heart that’s hard to replicate.

But some non-Japanese films and shows manage to echo that anime magic, using bold animation, deep themes, or quirky narratives that feel like they could have come straight from a Tokyo studio. Here are eight that stand out for their anime-like spirit, even though they hail from outside Japan.

8. The Last Unicorn (1982)

This animated gem follows a unicorn searching for others of her kind, joined by a bumbling magician and a tough-talking woman. Its delicate art, with soft colors and flowing designs, mirrors the ethereal beauty of classic anime like ‘Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind’.

The story dives into themes of loss and identity, much like anime’s knack for blending whimsy with heavy emotions. Directed by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, with designs by Japanese studio Topcraft (a precursor to Studio Ghibli), it feels like a bridge between Western and Japanese animation.

7. Turning Red (2022)

Disney and Pixar’s ‘Turning Red’ follows Mei, a 13-year-old girl who transforms into a giant red panda when her emotions flare. The vibrant, exaggerated animation and focus on teenage struggles scream anime influences like ‘Sailor Moon’ or ‘Fruits Basket’.

Director Domee Shi openly drew from these shows, capturing their energy in Mei’s chaotic transformations and her tight-knit friend group. It’s a heartfelt story about family, identity, and growing up, with a visual pop that feels like it could fit in an anime festival.

6. The Iron Giant (1999)

Brad Bird’s ‘The Iron Giant’ tells the story of a boy befriending a massive alien robot in 1950s America. Its clean, expressive animation and emotional depth echo anime classics like ‘Astro Boy’ or ‘Mobile Suit Gundam’.

The film’s mix of action, friendship, and anti-war themes feels like something Hayao Miyazaki might craft. With heartfelt voice work from Vin Diesel as the giant, it’s a timeless tale that captures anime’s ability to make us care deeply about unlikely heroes.

5. Arcane (2021-2024)

This Netflix series, based on the ‘League of Legends’ game, dives into the steampunk world of Piltover and Zaun. Its painterly visuals and dynamic fight scenes rival the polish of anime like ‘Attack on Titan’ or ‘Demon Slayer’.

‘Arcane’ weaves complex characters and political drama with emotional stakes, much like anime’s best storytelling. With stunning work from French studio Fortiche, it’s a visual and narrative feast that feels like a cyberpunk anime brought to life.

4. Klaus (2019)

This holiday tale about a lazy postman and a toymaker in a snowy town boasts hand-drawn animation with a warm, textured look. Its style feels close to anime’s softer side, like ‘My Teen Romantic Comedy Yahari’.

Directed by Sergio Pablos, ‘Klaus’ blends humor and heart, focusing on kindness and community in a way that mirrors anime’s knack for finding magic in everyday moments. The voice cast, including Jason Schwartzman, adds charm to this cozy story.

3. The Animatrix (2003)

This anthology of animated shorts expands the world of ‘The Matrix’, with several segments crafted by Japanese directors like Shinichiro Watanabe of ‘Cowboy Bebop’ fame. The sleek, cyberpunk visuals scream anime influence.

Each story dives into philosophical themes, from human-machine conflict to existential dread, much like ‘Ghost in the Shell’. The mix of bold animation and deep ideas makes it feel like a true anime crossover, despite its Western roots.

2. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

This vibrant film follows Miles Morales as he becomes Spider-Man in a multiverse of web-slingers. Its comic-book-inspired animation, with dynamic colors and kinetic energy, feels like a living manga, akin to ‘My Hero Academia’.

The story’s focus on self-discovery and mentorship, paired with its boundary-pushing visuals, captures anime’s spirit of blending action with personal growth. Directed by Bob Persichetti and others, it’s a visual knockout with universal appeal.

1. Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005-2008)

This beloved series follows Aang, a young boy tasked with saving the world as the last Airbender. Its art, inspired by anime like ‘Fullmetal Alchemist’, uses clean lines and expressive characters to tell a sweeping fantasy tale.

Created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, the show nails anime’s knack for epic storytelling and emotional depth. With themes of balance, sacrifice, and friendship, it’s a cultural phenomenon that feels like it belongs in an anime lineup.

Which of these anime-inspired films or shows is your favorite, or is there another gem we should check out? Drop your thoughts in the comments!