A while back, I did a "Top Anime Classics" article that featured what I thought were the top 5 all-time greats. And they were. But as one reader so graciously pointed out, I left a few off. So, without further adieu', here's my newly revised list of the best of the best. Let me know if you agree.
1. Princess Mononoke
Okay, yes its a little old, 1997 to be exact, but it is one of the best out there. Good guys, bad guys and the spirit world all come together in this action-packed man v. nature story.
2. Ghost in the Shell
Another oldie but goodie (1996), Ghost in the Shell is one of my all time favs. Imagine the CIA in cyberspace and you've got the beginnings of what this movie is about. A wonderful sci-fi thriller, there's never a dull moment in Ghost in the Shell.
3. Akira
Governmental corruption, conspiracy and childhood friends. Oh, and did I mention a little psychic phenomena as well? Possibly one of the most popular Anime films, Akira gives you a bit of everything -- from high-speed action (via the motorcycle chases) to telepathic battles. This one you've got to see.4. Ninja Scroll
After the village of Shimoda falls victim to a deadly plague, the powers that be send in a ninja team to determine the cause. But waiting for them are the Eight Devils of Kimon and the only survivor is Kagero. Sounds great, doesn't it? It is and it should have made my list the first time. If you haven't already seen Ninja Scroll, go watch it. Now.5. Escaflowne: The Movie
Based on the 1996 television series, Hitomi is a bored young girl who finds a new life (on a new world, mind you) as the legendary Goddess of Wings. Talk about self-discovery -- this is absolutley one of my favs! Excellent animation and brilliant story. Must see, must see, must see.6. Spirited Away
Spirited Away is a fun tale of a young girl who finds an odd journey as she moves to a new home with her parents. Its definitely one of those "you have to be there movies", but I will tell you that there are people morphing into pigs! Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away didn't really get the publicity it should have when it hit the big screen but it is a classic nonetheless.7. Dragon Ball Z: Movie 4 Lord Slug
I took a little ribbing when I listed this one the first time but that's okay. I like this one because Goku powers up, but its the old Goku, not the SSJ3 or 4 that we've seen so much of lately. Besides, I love DBZ in general and the sound track to Lord Slug is amazing. Featuring Disturbed, this is just a really fun movie to watch.8. Wicked City
This one isn't for the faint of heart but its a classic nonetheless. Wicked City is a supernatural thriller that features exceptional animation and an edge-of-your-seat story. Watch it, if you think you can.9. Cowboy Bebop: The Movie
Yes, I realize the Bebop movie hasn't been out all that long but its a classic in the making so it ranks for my list. Besides, its Spike we're talking about here and he's just as great in the feature-length as he has been in the series.10. Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust
This is an all-around fav and one that will hook you on anime if you aren't already.Definitely a must-have for your anime collection.