15 Japanese Anime films that deserve an Oscar

By Sayan

Modified Jan 05, 2025 10:42 ET

Paprika (Image via Sony Pictures)

10) Belle (2021)

Belle (Image via Toho Co., Ltd)

Mamoru Hosoda directed Belle, which was released in 2021. The story follows Suzu, a shy high school student who becomes a global sensation in a virtual world called U, where she transforms into the singer Belle. Her online fame grows, but she crosses paths with a mysterious and feared figure called the Beast. Suzu learns the Beast’s identity and helps him face his real-life struggles. The movie draws inspiration from Beauty and the Beast but modernizes it with themes about online identity and trauma. Its visuals are stunning, especially the design of U’s digital landscapes. The movie’s emotional depth and style deserved Oscar's attention.

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Edited by Sugnik Mondal