Anime has been a beloved form of entertainment for many years. With countless series shaping the medium and influencing generations of fans and creators, it’s important to explore classic anime. Whether you’re an experienced anime enthusiast or new to the genre, watching classic anime helps you understand its evolution and cultural impact. Here are five timeless classics that every anime fan should watch.
Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996)
Genre: Mecha, Psychological, Drama
Episodes: 26 + Movies
Neon Genesis Evangelion is more than just a story about giant robots. It’s a deep exploration of the human mind. The series, directed by Hideaki Anno, follows Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy who is chosen to pilot a giant robot called an Eva. His mission is to protect humanity from mysterious beings known as Angels.
What makes Evangelion stand out is its mix of action, complex characters, and deep themes. For example, the series explores topics like depression, identity, and the meaning of life. It’s a thought-provoking experience that stays with viewers long after they finish watching. Moreover, Evangelion has had a huge impact on the anime industry and pop culture, influencing many other works and creating a devoted fanbase.
Cowboy Bebop (1998-1999)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Drama
Episodes: 26 + Movie
Cowboy Bebop is a unique series that combines sci-fi, western, and noir elements into a stylish experience. Set in a future where bounty hunters, also known as “cowboys,” chase criminals across the solar system, the story follows the crew of the spaceship Bebop, led by the cool and mysterious Spike Spiegel.
Directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, Cowboy Bebop excels in storytelling, with iconic characters and a memorable soundtrack by Yoko Kanno that fits perfectly. Each episode is a self-contained story, offering a blend of action, humor, and deep moments. Because of its high quality, Cowboy Bebop appeals to both new viewers and longtime fans.
Akira (1988)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Cyberpunk
Duration: 2 hours 4 minutes (Movie)
Akira is one of the most influential anime films ever made. Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, the film is set in a dystopian future Tokyo. The story follows Kaneda, a biker gang leader, as he faces off against his best friend Tetsuo, who gains powerful psychic abilities.
Akira is famous for its groundbreaking animation, detailed world-building, and intense action scenes. The film explores themes like power, corruption, and the loss of control. In addition, Akira pushed the boundaries of what anime could do and introduced the medium to a global audience, making it a cornerstone of anime history.
Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Episodes: 291
Dragon Ball Z is one of the most popular anime series in the world. Created by Akira Toriyama, the series is a continuation of Dragon Ball. It follows Goku as he defends Earth against powerful enemies. From the Saiyan Saga to the battle against Majin Buu, Dragon Ball Z is packed with epic battles, memorable characters, and thrilling power-ups.
Dragon Ball Z helped make anime popular in the West, thanks to its dynamic fight scenes, iconic transformations, and themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of strength. Even years after its original run, the series continues to inspire new fans and remains a classic in the shonen genre.
Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Cyberpunk, Thriller
Duration: 1 hour 22 minutes (Movie)
Ghost in the Shell, directed by Mamoru Oshii, is a key work in the cyberpunk genre. The story, set in a future where cybernetic enhancements are common, follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg police officer tracking down a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master.
The film’s stunning visuals, atmospheric soundtrack, and thought-provoking story make it a classic. Ghost in the Shell has influenced many other films and media, including The Matrix. It remains an important piece of work, sparking discussions about the impact of technology on society and what it means to be human.
Conclusion: Timeless Classics That Define Anime
These five classic anime series and films have made a lasting impact on anime and continue to resonate with audiences today. Whether you’re watching these masterpieces again or discovering them for the first time, they offer a look into the creative power of anime and its ability to tell stories that are both entertaining and meaningful.
From the psychological depth of Neon Genesis Evangelion to the genre-blending brilliance of Cowboy Bebop, each of these classics shows a different aspect of anime’s rich history. So, if you’re looking to expand your anime knowledge or simply want to enjoy some of the best the medium has to offer, these five recommendations are a great place to start.
