Hidden Gems: 5 Underrated Anime Films You Missed

Directed by Masaaki Yuasa, this surreal romantic comedy is a whirlwind of color and chaos set during one extraordinary night in Kyoto. The film follows a nameless heroine as she stumbles through strange parties, bizarre characters, and whimsical adventures — all while a shy admirer tries to cross paths with her again and again.

Its dreamlike pacing, inventive animation, and jazz-like rhythm make it a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. Beneath its eccentric surface lies a poetic exploration of youth, spontaneity, and the fleeting beauty of chance encounters. *The Night Is Short, Walk On Girl* is a wild, unforgettable ride that proves Yuasa’s genius in storytelling and animation.

Often overshadowed by *Your Name*, Makoto Shinkai’s earlier work *Children Who Chase Lost Voices* is a lush fantasy adventure inspired by Studio Ghibli classics. It follows Asuna, a lonely girl who embarks on a journey to the mysterious underground world of Agartha after meeting a boy from another realm.

The film explores grief, love, and the human desire to reconnect with the lost. While it may not have reached mainstream acclaim, it’s a deeply emotional story with breathtaking visuals, showcasing Shinkai’s early mastery of atmosphere and heart.

Directed by Keiichi Hara, *Colorful* is a deeply moving story that explores life, regret, and the value of second chances. After a soul fails to pass on, it’s given an opportunity to inhabit the body of a boy who recently took his own life. As the spirit navigates this new existence, it unravels the pain, secrets, and hidden beauty that make human life both fragile and precious.

Far from typical anime fantasy, *Colorful* presents a grounded and emotional narrative that asks viewers to reflect on their own worth and empathy. The film’s delicate pacing, realistic art style, and haunting score create an introspective experience that lingers long after it ends — a must-watch for anyone seeking meaning beyond entertainment.

Combining heartfelt drama with gentle humor, *A Letter to Momo* tells the story of a young girl coping with her father’s death while adjusting to a new life on a small island. When she discovers a letter her father never finished, her grief intertwines with the appearance of three mischievous spirits who turn her world upside down.

This film captures the warmth and mystery of childhood while addressing themes of loss and acceptance. With hand-drawn animation and subtle emotional beats, it’s a comforting film that feels like a hug from an old friend.

Another overlooked gem from Makoto Shinkai, *The Garden of Words* is a delicate 46-minute story about two lonely souls who find solace in a rainy garden. A teenage boy skipping school meets a mysterious woman, and through shared silence and connection, they learn about love, loneliness, and moving forward.

Every frame is meticulously detailed — raindrops glisten, leaves shimmer, and the city hums softly in the background. It’s a visual poem about the beauty of unspoken emotion. Quiet, mature, and heartbreakingly human, it’s one of Shinkai’s most intimate works.