10+ Greatest Action Anime Movies of All Time! [Recommendations]

Aside from sequels or prequels to existing anime series, action anime movies are hard to come by. So you’re looking for a few good standalone anime action movies.

So, which action anime films are the best? We don’t have Demon Slayer: Mugen Train or Dragon Ball Super: Brolly on this list. Nonetheless, you will find the best suggestions ever.

Best Action Anime Movies List!

13. Bayonetta: Bloody Fate

Bayonetta, the hottest witch, awakens in a coffin after 20 years with no recollection of her past. She begins her journey to recover the past with the help of a weapon smith and a mysterious bartender, encountering various mysteries that eventually lead to a larger picture.

Bayonetta: Bloody Fate is one of the most visually stunning films ever made. The action is never-ending and leaves you feeling satisfied. Despite the lack of a storyline, you can enjoy this amazing action anime film to your heart’s content.

12. Asura

Kyoto, set in the mid-15th century, became a target of constant floods and drought, eventually leaving Asura, a young boy, to fend for himself in the wilderness. He struggled to survive for years until he met a village girl who inspired empathy in him. But it didn’t last long, as the famine returned to the village.

Asura is not your typical action anime film because it combines a heartbreaking storyline with some decent action scenes. The character development is gradual, and the animation is quite impressive. So, if you’re looking for a sad action anime film, go ahead and watch it.

11. Black Fox

Rikka is a ninja who lost her father and grandfather to an evil organisation bent on destroying her father’s drones. After escaping, she works as a private detective, donning her grandfather’s mask and systematically eliminating her family’s murderers.

Black Fox is a one-of-a-kind ninja anime film set in a futuristic world. Although nothing stands out to make you say, “Awe! “The action is delivered in the proper manner.” Black Fox is a good recommendation on the list because of its good animation and solid storyline.

10. Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade

Constable Fuse is an elite special forces soldier whose mission it is to keep the public safe. He is sent back to the military academy for re-evaluation after failing to prevent a terror attack. Can Fuse reclaim his heroic spirit and continue to deal with the government’s conspiracies?

Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade is outstanding in every way. It neatly ties up loose ends, giving you a sense of completion, and unless you’re looking for a spineless action film, this one will keep you entertained to the end.

9. Steamboy

Ray Steam is a young boy who receives a package containing a Steam Ball. It appears to be a powerful engine filled with pressurised steam that, if in the wrong hands, can be disastrous. Can Ray protect his father and grandfather’s creation?

Steamboy has an impossible mission vibe to it, and it is a fantastic concept. The animation is odd, but everything else feels like you’re watching a modern anime. Watch it if you want to see an action anime film with a Ghibli-like theme.

8. Redline

Set in a futuristic world where hover cars rule the world, everyone’s goal is to win the universe’s best race: Red Line. JP gets a spot as a substitute in the Red Line race after losing in the Yellow Line. Can he win the race by outdriving all the other drivers?

Redline is one of the most beautiful animes we’ve ever seen, and that’s not an exaggeration. While it lacks a strong plot, it makes the most of what it has. The action is over the top, and the romance is undeniably one of the best aspects that contribute to it being one of the best action anime movies.

7. Akira

When ESP experiments with children go wrong in 1988, the Japanese government drops an atomic bomb to wipe them out. After 31 years, Kaneda, a gang leader, fights against the government to save his friend Tetsuo while revealing all the mysteries.

Akira is without a doubt one of the greatest classic stories ever written. Despite being released in 1988, it features high-quality animation and some exciting action sequences. The depiction of the future may be exaggerated, but it makes sense given the world building.

6. Ninja Scroll

Jubei is a typical wandering samurai who is caught up in a fight between the Devils of Kimon. Only he and his battle companions can now save Japan from disaster caused by an enemy who is literally immortal.

Ninja Scroll is ideal for anyone looking for a ruthless killer film set in a samurai setting. It has just the right amount of action (which is excessive) and the pace is interestingly fast.

5. Afro Samurai: The Movie

There are only two rules in the western-infused futuristic Japan: while Number 1 rules the world, only Number 2 is required to challenge him. Afro lost his father, who used to be Number One, to an evil gunman and resolved to avenge him and reclaim his position at any cost.

Afro Samurai: The Movie is a film adaptation of the Afro Samurai anime. Regardless, you can watch the movie instead of the 5 episode anime. It takes a unique approach to the samurai world, with everything feeling western and the action scenes being sick.

4. Ne Zha

The Lord of Heaven creates Nezha out of heavenly pearl. With his unique abilities and a prophecy that the world would be destroyed, he became an outcast among all. Now he must choose between the good and evil paths in order to change his fate and become the hero the world requires.

Ne Zha is a Chinese-animated film with stunning visuals and mind-blowing action sequences. It’s your standard myths and gods concept with a strong main character. As a result, you have plenty of room for action and character development. Give it a shot if you want to see one of the best Chinese action anime movies.

3. Promare

When a massive firestorm wreaked havoc on the planet, half of the cities were destroyed, and mutants with fire abilities began to emerge. Simultaneously, a mutant terrorist organisation called “Mad Burnish,” led by a girl named Lio, decided to destroy the Earth. However, the Burning Rescue Fire Department, led by Galo, stands in their way. Who will emerge victorious in this battle between terrorists, mutants, and saviours?

Expect a unique style of art and visuals from the same animation studio that created Gurren Lagann and Kill la Kill. Nonetheless, the anime film Promare provides unexpected action with constant combat situations. Watch it to see Studio Trigger’s latest bizarre masterpiece.

2. The Boy and the Beast

Kyuuta, an orphan, meets Kumatetsu, a ferocious beastman, and becomes his apprentice. Soon after, the world is thrown into chaos by an unknown entity, putting the duo’s relationship to the test. Can they work together well for the final showdown and demonstrate their bond as father and son?

We weren’t expecting much from this film before watching it, but it far exceeded our expectations. Although it does not have a great story, the characters provide everything you need, and the action is also quite good.

1. Sword of the Stranger

Kotarou, a young orphan, is on the run from unknown pursuers. After nearly giving up hope of survival, he comes across Nanashi, a wandering samurai who sealed his blade due to a tragic past. Can they survive the enemies’ onslaught and solve the mystery behind everything?

Sword of the Stranger requires no explanation as to why it is the best action anime film ever made. If we can rate the film higher than a 10, we will gladly do so. The animation, action, choreography, and pace are all fantastic.

While it introduces a novel fusion of Chinese and Japanese swordsmen, it also captures the beauty of honouring them. Look no further if you enjoy samurai action anime films.

Final Thoughts!

Well, these are the 13 best action anime movies that we believe are among the top picks because finding a good action movie is usually quite difficult. However, we’ve gone above and beyond in selecting the best for you.

So, what are your thoughts on the list? If you think of any other action anime movies that should be on this list, please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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