5 Anime Movies of the 2000s That Absolutely Deserve Modern Reboots

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Each decade produces anime shows and movies that become well-known and define the trends of that era. Things like the art style, animation quality, genre, and common themes can often tell you when a show or movie came out, and can also bring back strong memories for those who watched it originally. For instance, the 1990s were famous for sci-fi anime like *Neon Genesis Evangelion*, *Ghost in the Shell*, and *Bubblegum Crisis*, while the 2020s are currently known for popular dark fantasy series such as *Demon Slayer*, *Jujutsu Kaisen*, and *Chainsaw Man*.

The 2000s produced many iconic anime series – like *Bleach*, *Naruto*, and *One Piece* – that continue to shape the action-adventure genre today. Beyond TV shows, the decade also saw a fantastic wave of anime films spanning genres like action, sci-fi, and drama. While these older films are often cherished for their nostalgic value, a modern remake could introduce them to a new generation and highlight their enduring quality and impact on animation. This list will look at 2000s anime movies that would benefit from a fresh adaptation.

5) Millennium Actress

Released in 2001, *Millennium Actress* is a beautiful and imaginative anime film that quickly became a standout of its time. It’s celebrated for its gorgeous animation and the way it seamlessly mixes reality and fantasy. The movie thoughtfully examines themes of chasing your dreams, love, fate, memory, and how we perceive things. With its vibrant visuals and backdrop of traditional Japanese history, it’s a truly captivating experience. If you enjoy anime films like *5 Centimeters per Second* or *The Girl Who Leapt Through Time*, *Millennium Actress* is definitely worth watching.

The story of *Millennium Actress* draws inspiration from the lives of famous Japanese actresses Setsuko Hara and Hideko Takamine. The film explores themes of time passing and cultural shifts as the main character recounts her life story. In the film, Chiyoko Fujiwara, a celebrated actress who has withdrawn from public life, agrees to a rare interview – her first in three decades. A documentary crew is granted the privilege of filming it. Through the symbolic mystery of a key representing a past secret, Chiyoko shares the joys and sorrows of her career, and reveals her biggest regrets.

4) Metropolis

Released in 2001, *Metropolis* is a science fiction film packed with action. It’s famous for its groundbreaking animation, which was considered top-notch when it came out, and takes place in a visually stunning city. The movie explores big ideas like what it means to be human, the problems with social class and poverty, and the relationship between people and robots. If you enjoy dystopian stories such as *Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind*, *Steamboy*, and *Baccano!*, you might like this film.

The film *Metropolis* is set in a future where humans and robots coexist, but this isn’t peaceful. Many working-class people resent the robots, blaming them for job losses and hardship. In this tense environment, detective Shunsaku Ban is hired to find a scientist who’s been conducting forbidden experiments. Ban doesn’t realize the scientist is building Tima, an incredibly advanced android meant to power a devastating weapon. Along with his nephew, Kenichi, Ban protects Tima as they move through the city, unaware that she is beginning to develop human emotions.

3) Paprika

Released in 2006, *Paprika* was the last film from celebrated director Satoshi Kon, known for his work on titles like *Perfect Blue*, *Tokyo Godfathers*, and *Millennium Actress*. It’s a visually stunning and surreal science fantasy with elements of film noir. The movie gained recognition for its dreamlike quality, which set it apart from other films at the time. *Paprika* delves into fascinating topics like the blurred line between dreams and reality, the power of the subconscious, and how technology impacts the human mind. If you enjoy mind-bending films like *Mind Game* or *Belladonna of Sadness*, this is definitely worth watching.

Set in the future, the film *Paprika* centers around a device called the DC Mini, which lets people watch each other’s dreams. Dr. Atsuko Chiba leads the research into this technology, but she also secretly uses the DC Mini as the dream detective ‘Paprika’ to provide therapy. As Atsuko and Paprika move between dreams and reality, the line between what’s real and imagined becomes increasingly blurred, creating a fantastical and mind-bending experience for viewers.

2) Redline

Redline is a visually stunning racing anime that blends science fiction and action into a single, exciting story. Though it was released in 2009, the film took years to create, resulting in over 100,000 individually hand-drawn frames. This unique animation style, which largely avoids computer-generated imagery, was widely praised for its innovative look. Today, Redline is a beloved cult classic with a dedicated following who appreciate its high-speed action and classic underdog story. If you enjoy shows like Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Initial D, or Gurren Lagann, you should definitely check it out.

The story of *Redline* begins on the planet Dorothy, where street racer JP is trying to qualify for the Redline race – a famous competition held across the galaxy. Though JP doesn’t win the qualifying Yellowline race, fans vote him into Redline anyway after two other racers withdraw. However, there’s a dangerous catch: the race takes place on Roboworld, a planet controlled by cyborgs who have vowed to destroy any racers who enter their airspace.

1) Tokyo Godfathers

Released in 2003, *Tokyo Godfathers* remains a moving and relevant story about the challenges people face in everyday life. Directed by Satoshi Kon, who also created *Paprika*, *Paranoia Agent*, and *Perfect Blue*, the film explores themes of poverty, homelessness, and the power of human connection. While dealing with serious topics, it balances these with moments of comedy and heartwarming portrayals of found family and redemption. The animation is beautifully nostalgic, and the characters are complex and relatable. If you enjoy films like *Wolf Children*, *Grave of the Fireflies*, or *Silver Spoon*, this is definitely worth watching.

Tokyo Godfathers tells a heartwarming story grounded in the realities of life for those struggling with homelessness. On Christmas Eve, Hana, a transgender woman, Miyuki, a teenage runaway, and Gin, an alcoholic, unexpectedly team up when they find an abandoned baby. Determined to find the baby’s mother and reunite them, the three embark on a journey that forces them to confront their own difficult pasts and the hardships they’ve faced.

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2025-10-16 20:17