All 19 Katsuhiro Otomo Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Katsuhiro Otomo is a renowned Japanese manga artist, animator, and filmmaker, known for his groundbreaking work in the animation industry. In this movie roundup article, we will be exploring a selection of Otomo’s film projects, showcasing his unique artistic vision and leaving you with a deeper appreciation for his unparalleled talent.
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1. Live in Chigasaki (1978)
Chigasaki, also known as the Whirlwind of Chigasaki, is a 1978 Japanese drama film created and penned by Yoshimitsu Morita. The movie features Masami Aoki, Tamotsu Ishii, and Nobuko Misawa in notable roles. The film portrays the poignant narratives of its characters, unfolding against the backdrop of Chigasaki, Japan.
2. Harmagedon (1983)
“Harmagedon: Genma Taisen, “ or simply “Harmagedon, “ is a 1983 animated adventure film starring Tôru Furuya, Mami Koyama, and Masako Ikeda. Directed by Rintarô, the movie was a collaboration between Haruki Kadokawa Films and Madhouse in Japan. Set in a world where Earth must defend itself against a dangerous extraterrestrial threat, the film follows three unlikely heroes: a Transylvanian princess, a Japanese high school student, and a 2,000-year-old warrior.
3. Crusher Joe: The Movie (1983)
Crusher Joe: The Movie, a 1983 sci-fi anime adventure, follows the journey of Joe and his crew after a failed warp travel. Facing false accusations of space piracy and suspended licenses, they must clear their names and unravel the mystery of missing passengers. The crew embarks on a dangerous mission to a treacherous planet while facing action-packed encounters.
4. Robot Carnival (1987)
Robot Carnival, released in 1987, is an eclectic animation that brings together six short stories by renowned animators under the “robot” working title. The film delves into a curious world of robots, offering a mix of comedy, drama, and surreal moments. The film’s runtime is 90 minutes, making it an engaging experience for both kids and adults.
5. Akira (1988)
Akira, a groundbreaking animated adventure from 1988, masterfully explores the cyberpunk genre in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo setting. When a top-secret military project turns a biker gang member into a psychic powers possessed psychopat, only a teenage gang of biker friends and a group of psychics can stop it.
6. So What (1988)
So What is a heartwarming and energetic drama-music film released in 1988, starring Kazuki Minabuchi, Mikihisa Azuma, and Kanako Fukaura. The movie, set in a small Japanese town, centers around high school students in their final year who juggle their academic responsibilities with their passion for playing in a rock band. The film explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the transformative power of music.
7. Roujin Z (1991)
“Roujin Z, “ directed by Hiroyuki Kitakubo and written by Katsuhiro Ôtomo, is an unforgettable animated film set in a futuristic nursing home. The movie’s compassionate young nurse is dedicated to caring for an elderly invalid strapped to a revolutionary healthcare bed, but things do not go as planned. With unexpected consequences unfolding, the satire comedy blends heartfelt moments with deep emotional resonance, making it a standout in the world of anime animation.
8. Wârudo apâtomento horâ (1991)
“Wârudo apâtomento horâ” is a comedic and horrifying blend of Japanese Yakuza underworld culture and a poltergeist-like presence. Set in 1991, this unique film follows a Yakuza member entrusted with an intriguing mission: empty an apartment of its occupants within a week or face dire consequences.
9. Memories (1995)
“Memories, “ a visionary animated science fiction anthology from the esteemed director, Katsuhiro Otomo, immerses viewers in a captivating world of unforgettable tales. This feature film, originally released as “Memorîzu, “ seamlessly blends genres, including anime, sci-fi, and thriller, to deliver a story that transcends expectations.
10. Perfect Blue (1997)
“Perfect Blue” is a haunting animated feature from Japan that explores the boundaries of sanity, identity, and obsession. The film follows Mima, a pop singer who decides to leave her career behind and pursue a new life as an actress. But as her fame slowly slips away, strange and terrifying events begin to occur. Mima becomes the target of an obsessed fan who seems to be able to see and manipulate the world around her. As she spirals into insanity, it becomes clear that she’s not just being stalked by her fan but also haunted by the ghost of her past.
11. Spriggan (1998)
Spriggan, released in 1998 and directed by Hirotsugu Kawasaki, Norihiko Sutô, and Katsuhiro Ôtomo, takes you on a thrilling adventure set in a snowy landscape. As the titular superhuman agent, the movie follows a high-octane race against time as he attempts to thwart a foreign military unit from seizing control of an ancient artifact. This artifact holds the key to ultimate power, which could change the world as we know it.
12. Metropolis (2001)
“Metropolis, “ a captivating 2001 film directed by Rintarô, is an enchanting blend of animation, drama, and adventure. The movie’s captivating storyline revolves around protagonists Kenichi and his uncle Shunsaku Ban as they join forces to unravel a mystery involving the titular character Tima, a humanoid robot. This synthetic human is not just a machine but an innocent and endearing young girl caught up in an intriguing urban dystopia.
13. Steamboy (2004)
“Steamboy, “ a 2004 anime adventure, takes place in an era of steam-powered innovation set during the 1860s. This thrilling tale centers around a young inventor who unwittingly becomes embroiled in a high-stakes conflict. As the world approaches 1866 in England, the groundbreaking advances in steam technology promise to bring about significant change.
14. Mushi-Shi: The Movie (2006)
Mushi-Shi: The Movie, released in 2007, is a captivating Japanese film that delves into the realms of the supernatural. Based on the anime series Mushi-Shi, the movie follows the enigmatic and wandering mystical doctor, Ginko, as he travels through remote regions of Japan curing people of the effects caused by mythical creatures known as the Mushi. With a runtime of 2 hours and 11 minutes, this visually stunning film showcases the creative world of Japanese animation in a live-action form.
15. Onigamiden — Legend of the Millennium Dragon (2011)
Discover the epic adventure of “Onigamiden — Legend of the Millennium Dragon” as it unfolds in its entirety. A world on the brink of war, this thrilling tale follows a courageous 15-year-old boy who time travels 1200 years back to save the day.
16. Vivid (2011)
“Vivid,” an enthralling action-packed fantasy-horror movie, transports viewers into the pulsating streets of Manhattan. The narrative centers on a cutting-edge substance that provides its users with an extraordinary ability.
17. Short Peace (2013)
Short Peace is a captivating animated film from Japan, released in 2013 and premiering in 2014. The anthology features four distinct stories, each taking place in different periods and settings within the Japanese narrative landscape.
18. Nosferatu vs. Father Pipecock & Sister Funk (2014)
Step into a darkly comedic, erotic horror world with “Nosferatu vs. Father Pipecock & Sister Funk. “ This cult classic film, released in 2014, follows Count Orlock, a shape-shifting Transylvanian vampire who seduces a man named Martin. Expect a blend of adventure, comedy, and fantasy as Martin’s encounter with the vampire takes him on an unforgettable journey.
19. Vesper (2022)
In the dark, post-apocalyptic world of Vesper, 13-year-old Vesper and her father endure a fight for survival as Earth’s ecosystem collapses. With her unique bio-hacking abilities, Vesper becomes a formidable force, leveraging her strength and wit to protect herself and her family. Explore a cyberpunk sci-fi world in this gripping, 1h 54min adventure, drama, and sci-fi film that’s received 6 wins and 10 nominations.
