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Unlike the majority of Western, English-language shows — with the exception of certain cartoons — an anime's opening theme song is still a major aspect of the viewing experience. Thanks to anime production being largely based around 13-episode cours, most anime will regularly get updated opening and ending themes. On top of that, plenty of anime have been lucky enough to get talented composers who genuinely care about creating quality background music for the episodes themselves.

Although several anime on this last are iconic classics of the medium, the fact that they have such strong soundtracks may often by overlooked thanks to the other reasons for their popularity.

The original English Pokémon theme set the tone for the next three decades

Thanks to the mind-boggling popularity of the Pokémon anime, right from the very beginning, the words "I want to be the very best" got burned into a generation of young minds.

In 2004, a peculiar series took a portion of the anime world by storm. Investigative stories can be compelling on their own, but Paranoia Agent brought something extra to the genre that still gives fans chills. The series was released at a time when anime wasn't nearly as popular as it is today, though, which means that it flew off the radar of many potential fans. In a couple of months, however, this will be corrected — Mvm announced that the series is getting a gorgeous steelbook Blu-ray edition, barely a year after its 20th anniversary. The special edition hits shelves on August 11.

Paranoia Agent centers around a series of violent crimes that start taking place in Musashino, Tokyo. In the incidents, people are attacked with a bat, and the attacker gets around the city on inline skates. The problem is, the only suspect is a little boy who, in theory, shouldn't...

Anime often hooks us with a bold opening, only to twist into something wildly different by the end. These shows evolve in tone, stakes, or style, surprising us with transformations that make their debuts feel like distant memories.

We’ve ranked 10 anime that shift dramatically from their first episode, from intriguing to jaw-dropping. Here’s why these series take you on an unexpected ride.

10. Hunter x Hunter (2011-2014) Madhouse

The first episode introduces Gon’s cheerful quest to become a Hunter like his dad. It feels like a light adventure, but the series dives into dark, complex arcs like the Chimera Ant saga.

The shift to gritty battles and moral dilemmas shocks us. We’re gripped by its unpredictable depth.

9. Gintama (2006-2021) Sunrise

Gintoki’s debut as a samurai odd-job worker sets up a goofy, episodic comedy. Later, it weaves in epic battles and heartfelt drama across sprawling arcs.

The...

For the third year in a row, Crunchyroll is continuing its Ani-May tradition and celebrating all the biggest shows from the platform throughout the month. The celebration is packed with limited-time retail collaborations, new physical releases of popular anime, and in-person events around the globe, ranging from meet-and-greets to themed experiences, among other treats for the fans. Amid the festivities, a selection of the streamer's hottest titles has been made more accessible than ever for viewers at home for a limited time. Twenty shows, headlined by the first season of the breakout smash Solo Leveling, the critical darling Chainsaw Man, and all episodes of the globally popular Demon Slayer, can be watched now on the platform for free (with ads) until the end of the month.

Crunchyroll has brought together a list of classics and modern favorites to give viewers a solid sample of the kind of anime the service...

Crunchyroll’s Ani-May 2025 Celebration ( Photo Credit – Facebook )

Crunchyroll is kicking off Ani-May 2025 with a bang, and anime fans, whether new, seasoned, or just curious, are in for a month-long celebration worth tuning into. With a lineup of 20 hit series becoming available to stream at no cost, the platform opens the floodgates to a universe of genre-spanning stories, iconic classics, and fresh chart-toppers. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia of Cowboy Bebop or the adrenaline of Jujutsu Kaisen and Solo Leveling, the sheer variety guarantees there’s something irresistible in the mix.

Catch Up Before the Next Wave Hits

Besides, this isn’t just a content dump. Crunchyroll is giving fans more reasons to mark their calendars. The lineup features several titles that have either just wrapped or are preparing to make their return, so there’s a perfect storm of timing and hype. Solo Leveling, which finished its latest season to roaring applause,...

Solo Leveling and other popular anime titles will be available to stream for free this May, courtesy of Crunchyroll. This month-long free streaming promotion, along with additional specials and goodies, is part of the company's annual anime celebration in May, known as Ani-May.

Crunchyroll, the leading streaming platform for new and popular anime titles, celebrates all things anime every May for a month-long event known as Ani-May. This Ani-May 2025 will continue previous benefits, such as offering a new collection of popular anime series available to stream for free with ads, while introducing new and exclusive perks for casual viewers and subscribers. Additionally, new high-quality anime merchandise and home media releases will be released throughout May by Crunchyroll and its affiliated retail partners.

Solo Leveling, Demon Slayer, The Apothecary Diaries & More Will Stream for Free This May on Crunchyroll

Among the many extravagances being offered by Crunchyroll this Ani-May, the new selection of free,...

Celebrated Japanese animation director Masaaki Yuasa has unveiled the debut project from his newly established animation studio, ame pippin. Titled “Daisy’s Life,” the feature is a Japanese-French co-production based on Banana Yoshimoto’s novel Hinagiku no Jinsei, with original illustrations by renowned artist Yoshitomo Nara. The film is set for delivery in 2026.

Yuasa is best known for his surreal storytelling and bold visual style in films such as “Mind Game,” “Lu Over the Wall,” and the Golden Globe-nominated “Inu-Oh.” He launched ame pippin in February 2025 with the goal of pushing artistic boundaries in the animation world. Backed by heavyweights Asmik Ace, Inc., Aniplex Inc. and CoMix Wave Films, the Tokyo-based studio aims to be a major force in the ever-evolving global animation landscape.

“Daisy’s Life” follows the emotional journey of a six-year-old girl named Daisy, who loses her mother in a tragic accident and struggles to adapt to life with her aunt.

Image Credit: Matt Lief Anderson With his music serving as a staple of Adult Swim’s ambiance, Flying Lotus, the producer name of Steven Ellison, was very likely the soundtrack of many fans’ formative anime years. For those who may not have heard his music while sneaking late night episodes of Trigun and Cowboy Bebop , you may have heard his works featured in series such as Carole & Tuesday and Yasuke , or felt his musical genius on Kendrick Lamar’s seminal release To Pimp a Butterfly amongst his many solo and collaborative releases. Ellison is so much more than a musician though. His directorial talents can be seen in music videos, short films, and feature length productions, with the latest of these being his sci-fi horror drama, Ash , for which he also did the music. He is not one to shy away from showcasing his love of anime, and that bled...

Calling Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End the best anime of all time might be a bit of a stretch. It’s not like it’s broken new ground or anything Yet! In fact, if someone says it’s overrated, that’s totally understandable. Even the creators themselves didn’t think they were making a game-changer, but what they Did give us is a solid show that perfected everything that already exists.

Fern and Stark dance scene | Credits: Madhouse Studio

So is it revolutionary? Not quite. Still, it turns out fans are eagerly waiting to see what happens next in the series. Now those who haven’t watched Frieren yet may wonder, what could still be the magic behind its global success? It’s a show that everyone is talking about.

Frieren doesn’t do anything new, it just polishes everything that’s already there Fern dragging Frieren | Credits: Madhouse Studio

Frieren...

The strength of an anime series’ writing can sometimes be determined at first glance — be it in the context of series famous for their stellar narratives, like Neon Genesis Evangelion or Attack on Titan, or titles tied to acclaimed creators, like Satoshi Kon’s Paranoia Agent. However, not every anime’s merits are as easily discernible from the get-go, and some of the medium’s most narratively compelling exemplars end up being overlooked due to deceiving first impressions.

Powerful writing, nuanced characterization, and evocative thematic substance can sometimes hide in anime series that, to the casual eye, don’t stand out as particularly intelligent or competently written. These anime might not strike viewers as thought-provoking masterpieces initially, yet reward those who give them a shot with some of the most riveting writing in the medium.

Related10 Shows to Avoid If You're Just Getting Into Anime

From Berserk to The Promised Neverland,...

Acclaimed Japanese animation director Masaaki Yuasa has announced the launch of his own animation studio, ame pippin. Teaming up with industry giants Asmik Ace, Inc., Aniplex Inc. and CoMix Wave Films Inc., Yuasa’s new venture promises to bring fresh and innovative content to the world of animation.

Yuasa, known for his unique and imaginative storytelling, has been a prominent figure in the animation world for decades. In 2013, he co-founded the hugely popular Japanese animation studio Science Saru with producer Eunyoung Choi. That studio produced Yuasa’s 2023 Golden Globe-nominated feature “Inu-Oh,” Netflix’s “Scott Pilgrim Takes Off” and episodes of “Adventure Time” and “Star Wars: Visions.”

In the animation community, Yuasa’s most highly regarded work may be 2004’s “Mind Game,” considered by many to be one of the most important Japanese works of the 21st century. His more recent films, such as “Lu Over The Wall” and “Ride Your Wave,...

This article contains mentions of sexual and physical assault, cruelty and death to children and animals, and stalking. Reader discretion is advised.

The great thing about anime is that anything can happen. Even the most outlandish premises are not out of the question for any story. Sometimes, though, anime can still surprise fans. This most often occurs when a disturbing episode comes out of nowhere. Even some of the sweetest anime can be plagued by an episode that is so jarring that it practically feels out of place.

The most shocking episodes still haunt audiences long after many of these series end. The switch in tone between these episodes and the rest of their series can be so stark that it almost feels like viewers are watching a different anime entirely. These particular episodes may be disturbing, but their anime are made all the more intriguing by their inclusion.

Related10 Most Disturbing Anime Series,...

Tubi has become a dark horse giant in terms of anime streaming, with several classic anime shows and movies available on the free platform. This is now set to include two cinematic gems by the legendary Satoshi Kon.

Satoshi Kon is known for his influence on and creation of multiple iconic anime works, with two of his best now headed to Tubi. Among these is an acclaimed and somewhat experimental movie that's synonymous with the themes seen in much of his work. Heading to Tubi in just a few days, these round out a growing catalog of must-watch and even exclusive anime available to stream.

Related February 1 Will Be a Great Day for Naruto Fans

Several new dub episode releases of both Naruto Shippuden and Boruto: Naruto Next Generations are set to hit a major streaming service next month.

Two of Satoshi Kon's Best Anime Movies Are Heading to Tubi...

Nowadays, it starts to feel like every anime is gunning for a remake or a reboot. There are plenty of valid reasons fans might want some series to get a remake, like cleaning up the filler or sticking more faithfully to its source material's plot. Reboots and remakes offer the chance for a fresh take on a familiar franchise, and they also offer a second go for a series whose first adaptation maybe didn't do it justice.

What about series that don't need a remake, though? It might come as a surprise to hear that there are many series that not only don't need a remake, but which would probably be hurt by a remake. Sometimes the first go at a series is just exceptional on its own—so good that a reboot would threaten to ruin something that's already fantastic. Other times, it's because the things that bring a...

If you happened to catch Misery Signals on their farewell tour, first of all I am extremely jealous. Not just because you got to see one of the most influential metalcore bands of all time, but you also got to see one of the best up and coming metalcore bands around, Trench. Trench brings the heavy and dark, and it may not be a surprise to learn how much of that is influenced, whether directly or indirectly, by the anime they watched growing up and still watch to this day. I chatted with vocalist Jay Breen about anime and how they were able to bring their influences to life in the video for “Divided Between New Skin.” Can you tell me a little about your anime journey? How it started and where you are now? Are there genres you gravitate toward? What is your favorite anime series or movie of all time?...

Science fiction anime, and sci-fi media in general, cover themes other than the obvious advanced technology and extraterrestrial exploration. Tropes like artificial intelligence or post-apocalyptic settings can create profound narratives around sensitive or complicated issues. Ergo Proxy, for example, uses sentient machinery to touch upon the subjects of identity and nihilism.

Sci-fi commonly uses elements to explore abstract concepts such as humanity and corrupt societies, and exploring such potentially deep subjects often gets dark. And, often, these stories reveal that there is nothing more terrifying than humanity itself or more disturbing than the human mind.

Related 10 Most Disturbing Anime Series, Ranked

Anime like Flowers of Evil, Paranoia Agent, and Higurashi are creepy to their cores, giving many anime fans a sleepless night.

Gantz is a Merciless Game of Survival Available to Stream on Crunchyroll

In 2004, Studio Gonzo released the psychological horror known as Gantz. After dying in a train accident,...

Following the theatrical screening in September 2023 , the 4K remaster edition of the late Satoshi Kon's 1997 anime film Perfect Blue will get its ultra HD Blu-ray release in Japan on February 28, 2025. The official X (formerly Twitter) for Kon's Stone , a company that manages the anime and manga works of Kon, announced the news today. As the first feature film work by Kon, the anime film adaptation of Yoshikazu Takeuchi's Perfect Blue: Complete Metamorphosis psychological thriller novel released in Japan on February 28, 1998. The original character design was by acclaimed manga artist and illustrator Hisashi Eguchi ( Stop!! Hibari-kun! ). As well as his following works, including Millennium Actress (2002), Tokyo Godfathers (2003), Paranoia Agent (2004) and Paprika (2006), Madhouse worked on anime production. After its release, the film was well received at film festivals around the world, winning awards at the Fantasia International Film Festival in Canada and the Porto International Film Festival in Portugal.

The medium of anime has famously drawn people in with the boundless creativity of its stories and settings. From rich fantasy adventures to imaginative sci-fi universes, anime has a knack for building compelling, detailed worlds that feel both wondrous and immersive. Nonetheless, there is such a thing as too much exposition, and some anime franchises are guilty of going overboard with fleshing out the lore of their universes.

The most complex anime worlds often have to spread out to countless spin-offs, multimedia alternate retellings, and supplementary materials to fit all the information the creators come up with, resulting in unavoidable confusion. While there’s plenty of intrigue to figuring out the complexities of anime’s densest lore webs, these franchises take it a step too far.

Related Top 10 Most Beautiful Anime Worlds, Ranked

Discover the 10 most beautiful anime worlds that captivate with stunning visuals and imaginative settings. See how these worlds enhance their stories.

I didn’t start seeing a therapist until my mid-20s. I’d been at odds with my mental health at the time and always tried to not let it bother me until I could convince myself that that sense of unease would go away. After all, ignoring the pressure and muscling through the pain I was feeling got me through my lonely high school years, my arduous college years, and my first two decades of living as a straight cis male. Aside from that, I never truly believed that my issues were severe enough that I would have deserved a therapist. It wasn’t that I didn’t understand the value of therapy, but I long held myself to an impossible standard wherein I did not feel entitled to one. But as I got older, I started to see the difference between having a professional to consult about my...

One Shot invites close readings of the basic unit of film grammar.Paprika.More than a decade ago, Satoshi Kon’s premature death left a vacuum in the animation world. Not many directors so intuitively understood how the form could convey cinematic subjectivity, or were as imaginative in their experimentation. He used character designs that were unusually realistic for anime, then found ways to fray that realism. Think of a man vomiting scrawled katakana in Paranoia Agent (2004), or a nighttime chase in which a murderous specter appears to sail across rooftops in Perfect Blue (1997). In Kon’s cinema, the boundaries between reality, dreams, imagination, and memory are in constant flux.The lead character of Kon’s final completed feature, Paprika (2006), is a psychiatrist who treats patients with an experimental device that lets her enter their minds as they sleep; the title refers to the mischievous persona she assumes within that headspace.

The anime industry lost a long-treasured gem as Ryou Kouno, a talented art director, passed away recently. Kouno has been in the anime industry for decades and has made significant contributions during her career. News of her passing away has been received by fans with grieving hearts.

She was a part of popular works like Mob Psycho 100, Devilman Crybaby, Perfect Blue, and many more. Her easy adaptability to such widely different art styles made her a favorite in her field.

Talented Art Director Ryou Kouno Passes Away Mob Psycho 100 | Credit: Studio Bones

Ryou Kouno, a popular background artist and art director in the anime industry, passed away on October 23, 2024. News of her death was publicly revealed two days later, on October 26, by her nephew via Twitter. Her nephew also reported that she passed away due to suspected gastrointestinal bleeding.

Fans of the artist have commented their condolences under the post,...

Quick Links Serial Experiments Lain Predicted Social Media Paranoia Agent Feels More Relevant Than Ever These Two Classic Anime Work Best Due to a Lack of the Supernatural

When it comes to psychological thrillers, anime isn't always seen as a source for the genre. Nevertheless, there have been several great psychological terrors in the medium, namely involving the works of Satoshi Kon. One such example was the TV series Paranoia Agent, which is seen as a gem in the genre. In terms of being the best, however, its direct competition is a similar hit from a few years earlier.

Serial Experiments Lain was a strange yet now acclaimed anime series that combined cyberpunk with prescient transhumanism, and it explored concepts that seemingly paved the way for social media. On the other hand, Paranoia Agent is a show that feels just as timely due to how it handles media hysteria and modern urban legends.

Satoshi Kon is one of the most ambitious directors in the film and anime industry. He knows how to instil fear into the hearts of viewers through psychological elements a bit too well. From Paprika to Perfect Blue, the director has an incredible body of work that makes him one of the best in the psychological thriller genre. But one of his lesser-known works and an anime, Paranoia Agent, is much more disturbing than any of his feature films.

Lil’ Slugger in Paranoia Agent by Satoshi Kon. [Credit: Madhouse]

Paranoia Agent has many layers to its narrative. It blends Kon’s signature narrative style of questioning what is reality and when the mind is playing tricks on you. However, it deals with completely different themes than Perfect Blue does. The ending of the anime also left viewers baffled and questioning what really happened. It’s time to dive into it.

A Darker,...

Animation film director Satoshi Kon , who passed away in August 2010 at the age of 46, was born on October 12, 1963 in Hokkaido, Japan. Ikebukuro Humax Cinemas, operated by Humax Entertainment, will hold a special screening event of the director's works as “Satoshi Kon Birthday Celebration" from October 11, 2024. In conjunction with the screening, there will be special bonus gifts for visitors, original drinks, and merchandise for sale that can only be available there. Ticket prices and sales dates will be announced shortly. Screening Schedule: October 11 (Fri) - 17 (Thu) “Tokyo Godfathers” (2003), “Paprika” (2006) October 12 (Sat / Satoshi Kon's Birthday) “Perfect Blue" (1997) October 18 (Fri) - 24(Thu) “Millennium Actress" (2002) October 18 (Fri) “Paranoia Agents” (2004) - all-night screening on Blu-ray Tokyo Godfathers and Paprika will receive their first Dcp (Digital Cinema Package) screenings in Japan, and the system will allow for very high resolution images to be displayed and high quality, clear sound to be enjoyed. Additionally, the two main...

Anime, as a form of entertainment, is often celebrated for its peak creativity and distinguished storytelling. The narrative can be diverse, from heartwarming tales to intense sagas full of intense action sequences. As a result, ever since trailblazer series such as Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, Cowboy Bebop, and many more, the art form has become infectiously popular around the world.

A still from Dragon Ball Z. Credits: Toei Animation)

Despite being such a mainstream form of entertainment and making the audience get infectiously addicted to it, creativity can be a boon and a bane at the same time. Well, because sometimes this pushes the boundary of creativity and makes the series get a little too wild for its own good.

Even though there is a fragile boundary between pushing the narrative and being controversial, some countries have felt the need to ban the series because it can clash with their...

Paranoia Agent is a 2004 anime created by industry legend Satoshi Kon, about the mind-bending fallout of a peculiar crime spree. Tsukiko Sagi is a character designer suddenly thrust into the spotlight after creating an immensely popular cartoon dog. Facing debilitating burnout, and under the pressure of her manager to create a bigger success, she walks home alone at night. She's stressed out, her dazed and anxious state already causing several accidents. After breaking down in a parking lot, discarded drafts are strewn about... Klunk! A bent, gold softball bat clobbers the poor woman. At the hospital, she describes the assailant to the detectives: a small boy wearing shorts and a baseball bat, shredding across the city streets on golden inline skates. A figure the panicked city calls Shnen Batto, or Lil' Slugger.

This article is part of IndieWire’s 2000s Week celebration. Click here for a whole lot more.

The 2000s were a period of great technological change for anime. The DVD boom brought the industry to the West like never before (while inspiring Western money along with it), and traditional cel animation began to be entirely taken over by digital painting while many artists continued exploring the possibilities of CGI; according to “Anime: A History” author Jonathan Clements, the last cel-animated anime was “Sazae–san“ in 2007.

There was certainly a lot to like, as so many new and vastly influential creators were taking their first steps into the industry. In 2002, the great Makoto Shinkai created “Voices of a Distant Star” almost entirely on his own. Elsewhere, Hayao Miyazaki won anime’s first Oscar for “Spirited Away,” while the late Satoshi Kon fully emerged as one of the world’s best and most...

A cult classic, Paranoia Agent is often overlooked despite being a gripping anime series created by the legendary Satoshi Kon. The show's structure, visuals, and themes reflect Kon's signature style, exploring fear, paranoia, and the blurring of reality. Released at the dawn of social media, Paranoia Agent's warnings about misinformation and rumors are more relevant than ever today.

One of the most fascinating things about media history is seeing which shows explode and cement themselves as well-known classics, and which slowly slip out of the public consciousness as time passes. A great example of this is Paranoia Agent, as despite being an anime masterclass and having an excellent pedigree, the show often gets overlooked when anime fans discuss the best shows of the early 2000s. But what is Paranoia Agent, and why did it end up as an often-overlooked cult classic?

Paranoia Agent was created and directed by the legendary Satoshi Kon,...

Stephen King is one of the most prolific storytellers of this generation and responsible for more than 65 novels & novellas, over 200 short stories, and close to 100 movies based on his work. Stephen King has been honing his craft for more than 50 years and hes practically become a genre in his own right. King is arguably best known for his horror contributions, but hes tackled everything from science fiction, to crime dramas, and high fantasy. Stephen Kings works have found universal acclaim and penetrated many different mediums including video games but there have yet to be any official Stephen King anime adaptations.

At first glance, Stephen King and anime may not seem like a natural pairing. That being said, there are already a number of acclaimed anime series that feel reminiscent of Kings stories, themes, and ideas. A proper Stephen King anime may never come to pass, but these series should at...

Who is the greatest anime director of all time? One name that cinephiles won't let be forgotten (nor should they) is Satoshi Kon. A surrealist who always tied his imagination to a strong character or theme, only Kon could make the movies he chose to in the way he made them.

His "hyper-real" style of animation is the core of his filmmaking philosophy; animation can tell the same stories that live-action movies can, but shouldn't try to emulate how those movies tell them. He also understood how the greatest advantage animation has is editing; since the images are drawn, not blocked and framed, it's all the easier for scene after expressive scene to flow into one another.

Kon's influence on international filmmakers (particularly "Perfect Blue" obsessive Darren Aronofsky) is undeniable. Tragically, Kon died in 2010 at the age of 46, cutting that influence (and his in-development projects like "The Dream Machine") short.

Anime endings that defy convention with surreal narratives and reality-bending visuals are sure to leave audiences in shock and awe. Gainax Endings, as seen in Neon Genesis Evangelion and other series, challenge the norm and remain widely discussed and debated over the years. Mind-blowing twists, like those in Paranoia Agent and Puella Magi Madoka Magica, alter realities and characters in ways that audiences can't predict.

As a rule, most anime endings tie every loose end in a neat bow. However, there are a number of series whose endings break all the rules, resulting in trippy finales that have fans questioning reality, and contemplating how reliable the anime's narrator is. Often, theyll be accompanied by fast-paced, thrilling action and visuals that play with the very threads of reality that the series takes place in.

These finales are not only a tipping point for the characters caught in the middle of them.

Alice Hirsch/ @h.irsch Jesus Piece combines heavy metal with a love of all things anime and it really shows their work. Aaron Heard spoke with Crunchyroll News about his tattoos, love of the Samurai Champloo sword, and which anime he's been keeping up with. This interview has been edited for clarity. You put out one of the albums of the year last year with “...So Unknown.” Congrats on that and I love seeing how it’s taken the band to new heights! Aaron Heard: Oh, man, it's been awesome. Really just breathed new life into everything. You know, once you've been playing the same songs for a long time, it gets a little redundant, you know? Now that we have some new tracks to play, it’s just like a new fire. Seeing the “Gates of Horn” video is actually what inspired me to reach out. I saw it...

Season 2 of One-Punch Man suffered from a noticeable decline in animation quality due to rushed production and studio changes. Fans were excited for Season 3 but concerned about potential animation issues persisting from the previous season. Season 3 will focus on the Monster Association story arc, with S-Class heroes and a mysterious deity playing key roles.

Easily one of the biggest names in action-comedy anime and manga is One-Punch Man. The anime and manga smash hit, created by the fittingly-named mangaka One, takes many of the tropes of Western superhero comics and Japanese kaiju movies and turns them completely on their heads. Featuring an overpowered hero named Saitama, the franchise is very popular in all of its forms, namely its anime.

The show's first season catapulted the franchise's already huge popularity even further, but it definitely took a hit in its second season. One of the biggest criticisms of the less well-received...

Crunchyroll offers a variety of short, single-season anime perfect for those with limited time. Some of the best short anime on Crunchyroll are noted for the high quality of their art and animation. Other short anime are noteworthy for being able to tell complete and well-developed stories in a short amount of time.

Crunchyroll is one of the biggest and most accessible anime streaming sites around, and that’s especially true for short, single-season anime. Not everyone has the time to devote hours upon hours of their time to anime with hundreds of episodes, and whether it’s newer, seasonal anime, or older favorites, Crunchyroll has an incredible catalog of shorter anime for people to watch at their leisure.

Crunchyroll has an incredibly large selection of single-season anime, and some are better to watch than others. Between the consistency of their animation, the high quality of their writing, and how...

Cowboy Bebop: The Movie will be shown in over 300 theaters in the U.S. for three days only, from January 21 to January 23, as part of Anime Expoìs Cinema Night series. The movie takes place during the timeline of the anime series and focuses on a high-stakes bounty case that the crew of the Bebop must solve. Fans appreciate the movie's cool vibe and how it enhances the anime experience with better animation, storytelling, and mesmerizing music.

As part of its Cinema Night series, Anime Expo (Ax) is bringing back Cowboy Bebop: The Movie later this month for a limited time in select theaters across the United States. This will be only the fourth time the jazz-noir, cult classic film has been made available to watch in American theaters, with the most recent showing having come way back in 2018.

As revealed in a recent post on the X account of @ICONICEventsNow,...

Anime can make niche subjects fascinating by using compelling storytelling techniques that show viewers why they should care. The definition of "niche" varies based on personal tastes, but these anime focus on truly obscure topics that are often overlooked. These shows prove that a great story can be about anything as long as it is told well, and they can help promote more interest in niche subjects among viewers.

While most popular anime focus on topics that general audiences enjoy such as epic fights or relatable human drama, a select few can also make incredibly niche topics fascinating as well. These shows may often seem like a burden to get invested in for those who haven't seen them, but by using compelling storytelling techniques these anime can show their viewers why they should care about whatever topic they cover. In doing so they prove that a great story can truly...

Paprika contains scenes with sexual content.

Originally based on a book written in 1993, the 2006 anime film Paprika could be written off as an anime version of Inception. It's worth noting, however, that Satoshi Kon's film predates Inception by four years, and the original book predates it by over a decade. There are superficial similarities between the two plots, due to involving machines meant to influence people's subconscious through their dreams. Paprika is a one-of-a-kind experience, with a beautiful yet surreal style that make it so much more than just an anime version of a Hollywood movie.

Paprika's director Satoshi Kon was never quite as popular or well-known as Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki, especially outside Japan. However, the films that Kon directed including Perfect Blue, Millennium Actress, and Tokyo Godfathers have all been widely acclaimed by critics and audiences alike. Kon also directed the anime series Paranoia Agent,...

Anime come in all shapes and sizes, but there are also many trends that take over the industry, such as the recent influx of darker and more mature series. The “Dark Trio” is a name that’s been given to Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, and Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku, three adult series that concurrently ran in Weekly Shonen Jump. These three series have earned this foreboding moniker through challenging storytelling that constantly puts its characters and worlds in danger.

The Dark Trio is a great place for shonen fans to experience more mature stories, but they’re hardly the only anime that visit such dark places. In fact, there are some exceptional series out there that put the Dark Trio to shame when it comes to vicious, violent, and provoking content.

Related: Attack On Titan & 9 Other Anime That Inspired The Shonen "Dark Trio"

Attack On Titan 89 Episodes

Hajime Isayama’s Attack on Titan...

In an effort to achieve perfection in every sphere of life, humanity has allowed technology to have free reign over basically everything, but in the process, it has lost its soul and created a fragmented, isolated existence where the miseries of the real world can be forgotten in the alluring virtual one. Along with the advent of AI, the combination of two synthesized reality is already dominating the world, which gives rise to the inevitable questioning of identity, reality, and conception of truth. Mangaka Uru Okabe’s masterpiece Good Night World, adapted into a Netflix anime series, meditates on the aforementioned questions and additionally alludes to some profound notions about the nature of humanity itself.

Revolving around a terribly dysfunctional family, the story of Good Night World goes to dangerous lengths while measuring up the ugly skeletal form of reality with the paradise land of simulation dedicated to wish fulfillment.

The 2000s were a great decade for various forms of media, but few experienced the same type of rapid growth as anime. The medium rose to international prominence during the 1980s and 1990s, setting the stage for an impressive number of series to debut at the beginning of the following millennia.

However, while well-known shows like Naruto and Bleach are still being syndicated in the current day, there are many other series that aired in the 2000s that have been forgotten by the vast majority of their former fans. Despite their brief popularity, these titles ultimately faded into obscurity after being replaced by more contemporary series.

Related: 10 Biggest Anime Time Skips That Changed Everything, Ranked

Zatch Bell! (2003)

During the 1990s, anime grew significantly more popular in international markets, so by the time that the 2000s rolled around, there was a massive influx of new series attempting to cash in on the medium's recent growth.

Anime makes tremendous breakthroughs each decade and there’s a distinct feeling that accompanies these different time periods, whether they’re series from the ‘80s, ‘90s, the 2000s or beyond. Some of anime’s most popular series like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Serial Experiments Lain, or Trigun are all pre-2000s content, but that’s not to say that modern anime don’t have their charms.

Anime continues to evolve and learn from its past, which means that post-2000s series have opportunities and luxuries that were previously impossible. There’s still a lot of understandable nostalgic love for the anime series from the past. However, there’s plenty of current content that pushes boundaries, inspires audiences, and arguably even tops retro anime series.

Related: 15 Ways Modern Anime Is Better

Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! 12 Episodes

Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! is a more recent anime that beautifully celebrates animation's limitless nature.

Each decade of anime reflects a distinctly unique energy and the ‘00s are full of ambitious and innovative series that includes the likes of Paranoia Agent, Welcome to the Nhk, Elfen Lied, and Monster. The ‘00s are a transitory period for both animation and storytelling, which results in creative risks, some of which pay off more than others.

The ‘90s set high expectations that weren’t easy to follow and the lessons learned during the following decade have continued to inform modern series. There are plenty of compelling ‘00s era anime. However, many of these series overstay their welcomes and dilute strong ideas to diminishing returns. There are some discouraging situations where promising anime become mediocre misfires because they don’t remain one-season wonders.

Related: 10 2000s Anime That Were Way Ahead Of Their Time

Death Note 2 Seasons, 37 Episodes

Death Note remains one of the medium's most popular anime, yet the...

The 2000s were a major growth period in anime, as the hobby became more mainstream in the US and other regions outside of Japan. The period between 2001 and 2010 saw a huge number of series produced, and many of them have gone on to be respected classics, both within their genres and within the scope of anime in general. While some are part of larger franchises, many of the best anime in the 2000s were stand-alone works based on manga.

There are far too many amazing 2000s anime to list here, but these are 10 of the best anime that this decade has to offer. Narrowing down this list was quite difficult, so if a favorite series is missing, don't take it too hard; it was probably on the edge of being included.

Monster (2004-2005)

Monster is a psychological thriller series which tells the story of Dr. Tenma, who found himself in a difficult triage situation,...

In the world of anime, it's pretty common for a series to have one season of 10 to 15 episodes, far from a hindrance though, some of the best anime are 15 episodes or less. These brief series are usually, although not always, complete by the end of their run. Since the investment risk in a 12 episode series is so much lower than a 22 to 26 episode series, these shorter anime can often be a little weirder, venturing into territory that longer anime may be afraid to embrace. These also tend to be based on more obscure manga, or alternatively are anime-original series with no source material at all.

Some of the best anime series with 15 episodes or less span genres, and some have much less than 15 episodes, so it's a bit difficult to compare them to each other. Still, these series had to be good enough to stand out among a crowded market.

The 2000s were an important period of change for many industries, anime included, and some particularly unique anime made their debut during this decade. Anime is never afraid to embrace darker ideas and uncomfortable stories, but the '00s indulges in some especially grim concepts.

Related: 10 2000s Anime That Were Way Ahead Of Their Time

Some of these macabre anime series masquerade as broader, mainstream fare, and it's easy to forget how far they go, especially by today's standards. There are some extremely dark anime from the 2000s that are not recommended for the faint of heart.

Blue Gender 26 Episodes, 1 Movie

Blue Gender kicks off the '00s, and it appropriately encapsulates many of the decade's changing sensibilities. Set in a bleak vision of the future where humanity has been forced off of Earth due to extraterrestrial intervention, Blue Gender follows Yuji Kaido, a soldier who's spent more than two...

There’s so much creativity on display in anime and there’s always something new to discover, whether that happens to be a playful and optimistic series or something more mature that leans into the opposite extreme of darkness. Radical tonal shifts are surprisingly common in anime and it’s never a good idea to judge a series’ atmosphere from its art design or characters.

Related: Attack On Titan And 8 Other Anime That Got Too Dark

There are also plenty of anime that flirt with darker implications, but leave the audience guessing whether they’ll actually cross this line or not. Bleak twists and downer endings can make it really difficult to give a series a shot or consider it worthy of a revisit, while other anime are only memorable because of their grim conclusions.

Puella Magi Madoka Magica 12 Episodes, 2 Movies

Puella Magi Madoka Magica is an edgy magical girl...

Crunchyroll continues its curation of cinema to its growing catalog this December with a robust schedule of newer and classic films just in time to enjoy during the holiday season, which include Millennium Actress, Liz and the Blue Bird, Penguin Highway, As the Gods Will, and more.

From critically acclaimed director Satoshi Kon, known also for Perfect Blue, Paprika, Tokyo Godfathers, and Paranoia Agent, experience the gorgeous new restoration of one of his greatest works, Millennium Actress. Boasting countless awards, including the Grand Prize in the Japan Agency of Cultural Affairs Media Arts Festival, which it shared with Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away, the film produced by Madhouse is a must-see for anime fans of all ages.

Based on the Sound! Euphonium novel series written by Ayano Takeda, which also was adapted into an anime series and available on Crunchyroll, Liz and the Blue Bird is a spin-off anime...

It’s hard to not get overcome with morbid joy every October when streaming services transition over to horror-centric programming to celebrate Halloween in all of its gory glory. It’s becoming more and more common for content providers to curate a full 31 days of scary sights so that audiences don’t have to go a single hour without horror options at their hedonistic disposal. Halloween traditions tend to highlight the live-action mayhem that’s marked this holiday for years, which remain fun, but often have audiences searching for new ways to get scared. Everyone has seen the perennial holiday classics and the endless slew of slasher sequels, but there’s also a rich catalogue of alarming anime that are just as likely to creep out crowds.

There are more options than ever before when it comes to anime streaming services. Multiple channels offer thousands of hours of content that...

When we think of the term “auteur” or “auteur theory” we usually include directors such as Alfred Hitchcock or Stanley Kubrick given the diversity in their work, the amount of creative control they had and the recurring themes in their features. Especially the latter is interesting because Kubrick has managed to leave his footprint in the world of film, even though he has only produced a small number of films, in comparison to Hitchcock that is. Given this definition, director Satoshi Kon, although he helmed even a smaller number of features, should deserve the title as well, especially since features like “Paprika” or “Perfect Blue” are considered masterpieces of the genre and remain influential sources for filmmakers all over the world. In his documentary “Satoshi Kon, The Illusionist” French director Pascal-Alex Vincent, who previously made “Miwa, A Japanese Icon” about actor Akihiro Miwa, tells the story of arguably one of...

(Welcome to Ani-time Ani-where, a regular column dedicated to helping the uninitiated understand and appreciate the world of anime.) It’s not hyperbole to say it feels like the world is on fire, and it’s very tempting to want to get away from it all and look for some escapism. Of course, leave it to the […]

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