Happy Valentine’s day everyone! Tis the season of love for your significant other, pet, friend, crush, and especially for yourself. And although we are in a pandemic, there is still plenty of binge-watching to be done on this special occasion, one of my personal favorites being anime. Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned veteran when it comes to this genre, here are some sweet, mushy, and heartfelt anime movies to enjoy! Perfect for any stay-in date or self-care night <3
1. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) (2016)
Your Name is a story that follows two young teens, both living completely different lives (countryside vs. city), that randomly switch bodies through a strange and magical connection. However, things get much more difficult in their journey to meet in person!
This is one of my favorite films to watch because of the way it pulls you in with its beautiful animation and hilarious coming-of-age plotline. It seamlessly keeps you invested with the characters, taking you from the sweet moments, to the strange and sad.
It’s the type of movie that you will never get bored of!
2. Whisper of the Heart (Mimi o Sumaseba) (1995)
If you are looking for a fluffy, cute story that you can play in the background while you binge on snacks, then Whisper of the Heart is for you.
This is about the avid reader, Shizuku, who longs to be a writer, noticing how all the books she borrows always seem to be checked out by the name, Seiji Amasawa. Going through the cat and mouse chases, befriending new faces, and writing her first story, Shizuku is determined to find the boy who keeps mysteriously popping up.
This movie is laced with so many sweet and wholesome moments, a simple slice-of-life tale that is very charming and feels ever so calming. An underrated personal favorite Studio Ghibli film of mine to rewatch again and again!
3. The Girl That Leapt Through Time (Toki o Kakeru Shōjo) (2006)
This movie does not follow your typical romantic story-line. In fact, this science fiction tale follows a young high school girl, Makoto Konno, who discovers her newfound ability to time travel.
However, she keeps this a secret as she goes through her daily life with childhood friends, Kousuke Tsuda and Chiaki Mamiya.
The suspense I feel when watching The Girl That Leapt Through Time never fails to keep me on the edge of my seat, yet keeps me laughing even through the simple moments. Perfect for an engaging and very entertaining night for you and your loved one.
4. A Whisker Away (Nakitai Watashi wa Neko wo Kaburu) (2020)
Now, A Whisker Away is the movie for those who are 1) a cat lover, 2) a child at heart, and 3) into a mix of romance and fantasy.
This unique and innocent film focuses on Miyo Sasaki, a goofy middle-school girl who tries to gain the attention of her crush, Kento Hinode. However, she does this by transforming herself into a cat!
Cute, sweet, and simple is what I describe this movie to be. It carries such a light-hearted tone to sit back and relax with one another as you watch this charming tale unwinds.
5. Hotarubi no Mori e (Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light) (2011)
Hotarubi no Mori e will always have a nostalgic place in my heart. This is the kind of short film that reminds me of first love and that special bond you have with someone you truly care about.
This 45-minute film starts off with a young Hotaru, a little girl who gets lost in the mountain forest, where many spirits reside, while on a summer vacation to her uncle’s place. There, she meets a young boy with whom she develops a friendship over the years.
Although considered a sad tale, my heart never ceases to feel so full, yet so empty with all the moments it shows throughout. Truly a classic story to show to any old or new anime viewer.