Must-Watch ’90s Anime Movies That Are Timeless

Hello! In this list, I’ve compiled the ’90s anime that I searched for, watched, and highly recommend. Each title is a testament to the imaginative spirit of the decade, showcasing the unique art styles and compelling narratives that define this golden age of anime. So, grab your popcorn and prepare to dive into a nostalgic journey filled with unforgettable adventures, emotional moments, and timeless themes!

Some ’90s anime series will appear on the list.

1. Wicked City

Wicked City is a 1987 Japanese adult animated dark fantasy action horror film produced by Video Art and Madhouse for Japan Home Video.

A black guard agent is assigned a new partner to protect a client, unaware that the client is actually safeguarding them. They are unawear their mission is to unite a human and a demon to restore the balance between the two worlds by being a couple.

• Duration: 1hr 22mins
• Genre: Horror, action
• Aired: 1987

2. Perfect Blue

This movie is SERIOUSLY psychological and definitely not suitable for children. Some scenes are violent, and others contain nudity, making it challenging to comprehend. If you plan to watch Perfect Blue, ensure you pay close attention to fully grasp its nuances.

Mima Kirigoe, a pop singer, decides to leave her singing career to pursue acting, hoping her fans will support her new direction. However, she soon realizes she is being stalked by an obsessed fan who sent her a letter urging her to visit the website he created for her.

As time goes on, Mima’s mental state begins to deteriorate, leading her to lose touch with reality. In a desperate attempt to boost her acting career, Mima agrees to perform in a rape scene that both transforms her career and exacerbates her mental struggles. She begins to see hallucinations of herself as a pop singer, who calls her “Filthy.” Eventually, this illusion becomes increasingly threatening, attempting to harm her.

• Duration: 1hr 21mins
• Genre: Psychological, mystery, drama
• Aired: 1997

3. Joker: Marginal City

• Duration: 41mins 50secs
• Genre: Action, romance, sci-fi
• Aired: 1992

4. Kite

Sawa was taken into custody by Akai and Kanie, two detectives assigned to her case after her parents were murdered. The detectives train her to become a weapon, and she suffers continuous physical abuse at the hands of Akai, who is also responsible for her parents’ deaths.

One day, Sawa meets Oburi, an orphan and vigilante. He is another weapon, carrying out murders for Akai and Kanie. The two develop a bond, dreaming of a future free from their grim realities. This film is an adult anime featuring nudity.

• Duration: 50 mins
• Genre: Action, Drama, police
• Aired: 1998

5. Serial Experiments Lain

Lain Iwakura, a fourteen-year-old introverted student, is one of the girls from her school to receive an email from a classmate who has committed suicide. This sparks her interest in the internet, and her life takes a dramatic turn as she attempts to connect with the deceased girl.

• Seasons: 1
• Episodes: 13
• Genre: Psychological, Mystery, Drama
• Aired: 1998