21 Best Dubbed Anime Movies

Are you ready to dive into the world of anime but prefer to watch it in English? Whether you’re new to anime or a seasoned fan, finding high-quality dubbed movies can be a challenge. Dubbed anime has come a long way, with exceptional voice acting that brings these beloved characters to life without the need for subtitles. From epic fantasy adventures to heartwarming tales of love and friendship, dubbed anime movies offer an immersive experience that’s perfect for relaxing after a long day.

In this post, we’ve compiled a list of 21 of the best dubbed anime movies that will capture your imagination and tug at your heartstrings. And the best part? We’ll also tell you where to stream each one, so you can kick back and enjoy the magic without any hassle. Whether you’re streaming solo or introducing these films to your family or friends, these movies are sure to become favorites. Let’s dive in!

21 Best Dubbed Anime Movies

1. Spirited Away
2. Howl’s Moving Castle
3. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)
4. Princess Mononoke
5. Akira
6. Grave of the Fireflies
7. My Neighbor Totoro
8. A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi)
9. Bubble
10. Suzume
11. The Stranger by the Beach (Umibe no Étranger)
12. Drifting Home
13. Josee, the Tiger and the Fish
14. Ghost in the Shell (1995)
15. Paprika
16. Perfect Blue
17. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
18. Weathering With You
19. Redline
20. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
21. Ponyo

1. Spirited Away

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Coming-of-Age
Where to Stream: MAX (HBO) 

Spirited Away is a magical journey into a world of spirits and gods. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the story follows Chihiro, a young girl who stumbles upon a mysterious bathhouse while moving to a new town. When her parents are transformed into pigs, she must navigate this strange world, filled with fantastical creatures and eerie beings, to find a way to save them. This Studio Ghibli masterpiece is renowned for its imaginative world, stunning animation, and deep themes of identity and resilience.

2. Howl’s Moving Castle

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
Where to Stream: MAX (HBO)

In Howl’s Moving Castle, a young woman named Sophie is cursed by a witch and transformed into an elderly woman. To break the spell, she seeks the help of the mysterious wizard Howl, who lives in a magical, moving castle. As she becomes entangled in Howl’s world, Sophie discovers the power of love, courage, and self-acceptance. This visually stunning film by Hayao Miyazaki is a tale of magic, war, and romance, with a richly imagined world and unforgettable characters.

3. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)

Genre: Romance, Drama, Fantasy
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll

In Your Name, two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, who live in different parts of Japan, mysteriously begin swapping bodies. As they live each other’s lives, they form a deep bond, despite never having met. The story weaves romance, fantasy, and a touch of sci-fi, culminating in a race against time as they try to prevent a disaster from destroying Mitsuha’s town. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, this film is celebrated for its breathtaking animation, emotional depth, and captivating storyline.

4. Princess Mononoke

Genre: Fantasy, Action, Historical
Where to Stream: MAX (HBO)

Princess Mononoke is an epic tale set in medieval Japan, where the balance between nature and human industry is under threat. The story follows Ashitaka, a prince cursed by a demon, as he becomes embroiled in a war between a mining colony and the forest gods, led by the fierce Princess Mononoke. This Hayao Miyazaki film is a powerful commentary on environmentalism and the clash between tradition and progress, filled with action, mythical creatures, and moral complexity.

5. Akira

Genre: Cyberpunk, Action, Sci-Fi
Where to Stream: Hulu, Crunchyroll

Set in a dystopian future Tokyo, Akira is a groundbreaking anime that helped introduce the genre to the world. The story centers on Kaneda and Tetsuo, members of a biker gang who get caught up in a government conspiracy involving a secret military project. As Tetsuo’s psychic powers grow uncontrollably, the city teeters on the brink of chaos. This film is a masterclass in animation and storytelling, with its intense action, dark themes, and a haunting vision of the future.

6. Grave of the Fireflies

Genre: Drama, War, Historical
Where to Stream: n/a

Grave of the Fireflies is a poignant and heartbreaking tale of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, struggling to survive in Japan during World War II. After their home is destroyed by an air raid, they are left to fend for themselves, facing hunger, despair, and the harsh realities of war. Directed by Isao Takahata, this Studio Ghibli film is a powerful anti-war statement, renowned for its emotional depth and the tragic beauty of its animation.

7. My Neighbor Totoro

Genre: Fantasy, Slice-of-Life, Family
Where to Stream: MAX (HBO)

My Neighbor Totoro is a charming story of two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside and discover magical creatures living in the nearby forest. The film follows their interactions with these beings, particularly the gentle forest spirit Totoro, as they cope with their mother’s illness. This Hayao Miyazaki classic is beloved for its warmth, whimsical creatures, and its portrayal of childhood wonder and imagination.

8. A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi)

Genre: Drama, Romance, Slice-of-Life
Where to Stream: Apple TV, YouTube, Amazon Video (must be purchased or rented) 

A Silent Voice explores the themes of bullying, redemption, and the struggles of communication. The film tells the story of Shoya Ishida, a former bully who seeks to make amends with Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he tormented in elementary school. As they reconnect, both characters must confront their pasts and the impact of their actions. This deeply moving film is praised for its sensitive portrayal of its characters’ emotional journeys and the complex issues of guilt, forgiveness, and self-worth.

9. Bubble

Genre: Sci-Fi, Romance, Action
Where to Stream: Netflix 

Bubble is a visually stunning addition to the best dubbed anime movies, set in a world where gravity-defying bubbles have caused chaos in Tokyo. The story centers on Hibiki, a young man with extraordinary parkour skills, and Uta, a mysterious girl who appears one day. As they explore their connection, the movie delves into themes of love, loss, and the beauty of fleeting moments. The film’s captivating animation and unique concept make it a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and romance.

10. Suzume

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
Where to Stream: Netflix, Crunchyroll 

Suzume is a magical adventure that follows a young girl named Suzume as she embarks on a journey to close mysterious doors that are unleashing disasters across Japan. Along the way, she encounters strange beings and uncovers hidden truths about herself and the world. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, the film combines stunning visuals with a heartfelt story, exploring themes of grief, responsibility, and the connections that bind us.

11. The Stranger by the Beach (Umibe no Étranger)

Genre: Romance, Drama, LGBTQ+
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll 

The Stranger by the Beach is a tender, coming-of-age romance that tells the story of Shun, a young man living on a remote island, and Mio, an orphaned boy who drifts into his life. As they grow closer, the film explores their emotional struggles and the complexities of love and acceptance. This beautifully animated film offers a heartfelt portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships, with a focus on personal growth and the courage to embrace one’s true self.

12. Drifting Home

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
Where to Stream: Netflix

Drifting Home is a whimsical yet emotional story about childhood friendships and the passage of time. The film follows a group of kids who find themselves stranded on a mysterious drifting apartment complex in the middle of the ocean. As they navigate this strange new world, they must confront their feelings about their changing lives and the bonds they share. The film’s mix of fantasy and real-world issues makes it a poignant exploration of growing up.

13. Josee, the Tiger and the Fish

Genre: Romance, Drama, Slice-of-Life
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll

Josee, the Tiger and the Fish is a touching love story between Tsuneo, a university student, and Josee, a young woman with a disability who rarely leaves her home. When Tsuneo begins working as Josee’s caretaker, they slowly develop a deep bond, learning to face their fears and dreams together. This beautifully animated film explores themes of independence, love, and the courage to pursue happiness despite life’s challenges.

14. Ghost in the Shell (1995)

Genre: Cyberpunk, Sci-Fi, Action
Where to Stream: Tubi, PLEX, Pluto TV

Ghost in the Shell is a seminal cyberpunk film that explores the boundaries between humanity and technology. The story is set in a future where cybernetic enhancements are common, and follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg officer, as she hunts a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master. The film is a deep exploration of identity, consciousness, and the impact of technology on society, with groundbreaking animation and a philosophical narrative.

15. Paprika

Genre: Sci-Fi, Psychological, Mystery
Where to Stream: Tubi 

Paprika is a mind-bending film that blurs the lines between dreams and reality. The story follows Dr. Atsuko Chiba, a psychologist who uses a device that allows her to enter and explore her patients’ dreams as her alter ego, Paprika. When the device is stolen, the dream world begins to merge with reality, leading to surreal and chaotic consequences. Directed by Satoshi Kon, this film is a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of the subconscious mind.

16. Perfect Blue

Genre: Psychological Thriller, Horror, Mystery
Where to Stream: Philo, Roku, AMC+, Sling TV

Perfect Blue is a chilling psychological thriller that delves into the dark side of fame and identity. The story follows Mima, a pop idol who leaves her group to pursue an acting career, only to be stalked by an obsessive fan and haunted by disturbing visions. As her life unravels, the line between reality and illusion blurs. Directed by Satoshi Kon, this film is a masterful exploration of the psychological toll of celebrity and the fragility of the human mind.

17. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

Genre: Sci-Fi, Romance, Drama
Where to Stream: Crunchyroll 

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, one of the best dubbed anime movies, follows Makoto Konno, a high school girl who gains the ability to travel through time after a near-death experience. At first, she uses her powers for trivial matters, but soon realizes the far-reaching consequences of her actions. This film is a blend of sci-fi and coming-of-age drama, with a focus on the complexities of time travel and the importance of living in the moment. It’s a touching and thought-provoking story about the choices we make and the people we affect.

18. Weathering With You

Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Drama
Where to Stream: MAX (HBO) 

Weathering With You is a story of love and sacrifice set against the backdrop of a rain-soaked Tokyo. Hodaka, a runaway teenager, meets Hina, a girl with the ability to control the weather. As they grow closer, they must navigate the challenges of their circumstances and the consequences of Hina’s powers. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, this visually stunning film explores themes of climate change, youthful optimism, and the lengths one will go for love.

19. Redline

Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Racing
Where to Stream: Fandango 

Redline is an adrenaline-fueled anime set in a futuristic world where the most dangerous and illegal race, the Redline, takes place. The story follows JP, a daredevil racer, as he competes in this high-stakes event filled with deadly obstacles and ruthless competitors. Known for its explosive animation and high-octane action, this film is a visual spectacle that captures the thrill of speed and the excitement of racing.

20. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya

Genre: Fantasy, Historical, Drama
Where to Stream: MAX (HBO) 

The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is a beautifully animated retelling of a classic Japanese folktale. The story follows Kaguya, a princess found inside a bamboo stalk, who grows into a beautiful and mysterious young woman. As she is pursued by suitors and faces the pressures of royal life, Kaguya yearns for freedom and the simple life she once had. Directed by Isao Takahata, this Studio Ghibli film is praised for its unique, watercolor-style animation and its poignant exploration of life, loss, and the fleeting nature of happiness.

21. Ponyo

Genre: Fantasy, Family, Adventure
Where to Stream: MAX (HBO)

Ponyo is a heartwarming tale about a young boy named Sosuke who befriends a magical goldfish named Ponyo. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the story unfolds as Ponyo, who longs to become human, uses her magic to transform herself, causing an imbalance in nature. As Sosuke and Ponyo’s friendship grows, they embark on an adventure to restore harmony to the world. This Studio Ghibli film is beloved for its charming characters, stunning animation, and its gentle exploration of themes like environmentalism and the innocence of childhood.

Honorable Mentions: Other Great Dubbed Anime Movies

In all seriousness, this list only begins to scratch the surface as far as great dubbed anime movies are concerned. There are just so many. If you’ve made it through this list and you are still looking for something to watch, here are some more to consider checking out:

• Wolf Children
• Arrietty
• The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya
• All of the Inuyasha movies
• Kiki’s Delivery Service
• Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
• Whisper of the Heart
  

What Do You Think Is The Best Dubbed Anime Movie?

I hope you enjoyed this list of the 21 best dubbed anime movies! Do you agree with the selections, or do you have a personal favorite that didn’t make the cut? Anime has a way of touching our hearts and sparking our imaginations, and everyone has that one film that resonates deeply with them. I’d love to hear your thoughts—what’s your go-to anime movie? Did we miss any must-watch films?

If you found this list helpful or interesting, don’t forget to share it with fellow anime fans and leave a comment below. And, keep coming back to Mommy Needs Advice for more anime recommendations, news, and updates.