The best of Mamoru Hosoda: five films every film fan should see -.

Mamoru Hosoda is one of the most celebrated directors in contemporary Japanese animation, known for his ability to create deeply emotional, visually stunning and thought-provoking films. His works often explore themes of family, identity and the impact of technology on human relationships while presenting unique and imaginative worlds. Hosoda’s films have received rave reviews not only for their stories, but also for their beautiful animation and ability to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Today we want to explore Hosoda’s five best works, ranked from fifth to first, focusing on the themes and messages that make these films lasting and unforgettable. So let’s waste no more time. Here is what we consider the best of Mamoru Hosoda.

5. Mirai (2018) and Belle (2021).

Mirai follows the story of Kun, a young boy struggling with the arrival of his new sister, Mirai. As Kun struggles with his feelings of jealousy and displacement, he embarks on a magical journey through time and meets different versions of his family members, including an adult version of Mirai. Meanwhile, Belle is a modern reinvention of Beauty and the Beast, set in the virtual world of “U,” where a shy teenage girl named Suzu transforms into her virtual persona, Belle. As she becomes an online sensation, she meets a mysterious and troubled “beast” who leads her on a journey of self-discovery, friendship and healing.

It is difficult to choose between these two films, as both address important themes in Hosoda’s signature style. Mirai explores the complexities of family dynamics, childhood jealousy and personal growth, while Belle delves into the effects of the Internet and virtual realities on our self-identity and relationships. Both films demonstrate Hosoda’s ability to balance emotional depth with visually captivating worlds, creating stories that appeal to the heart as well as the mind. Mirai emphasizes family relationships and personal development, while Belle reflects on self-expression, empathy and the potential for healing in the digital age.

4. The Boy and the Beast (2015)

The Boy and the Beast follows Ren, a troubled orphan boy who finds himself in a fantastical world inhabited by anthropomorphic beasts. He is taken in by Kumatetsu, a rough but wise beast warrior, who trains him to become both physically and emotionally strong. Together they face challenges that help them discover their own identity and family ties.

The Boy and the Beast is a heartwarming story of mentorship, growth and the power of unlikely families. The relationship between Ren and Kumatetsu reflects the traditional master-student dynamic, but it is also a deeply emotional exploration of fatherhood, belonging and personal transformation. During their journey, Hosoda teaches the importance of finding your own path and the value of the relationships we build along the way. The film’s beautiful animation and action-packed sequences are complemented by its emotionally resonant themes, making it a standout in Hosoda’s filmography.

3. Summer wars (2009)

Summer Wars revolves around Kenji, a mathematical genius who is invited to spend the summer with Natsuki and her large family in their rural home. When an AI program goes rogue and begins to threaten the world, Kenji, Natsuki and the whole family must work together to prevent a global catastrophe in the virtual world of OZ.

Summer Wars combines the fantastic and the mundane, highlighting the power of family and community in the face of global challenges. The film explores the intersection of the virtual and real worlds and raises questions about technology, identity and our interconnectedness. Hosoda uses the plot’s high-stakes action to highlight the importance of unity, loyalty and resilience, illustrating how working together can overcome even the most daunting challenges. The film’s rich animation and well-developed characters make for an exciting yet heartwarming experience.

2. Wolf Children (2012)

Wolf Children follows the story of Hana, a young woman who falls in love with a man who can turn into a wolf. After his tragic death, Hana is left to raise their two children, Yuki and Ame, who also have the ability to turn into wolves. The film explores Hana’s journey of raising her children, helping them navigate their dual natures and find their place in the world.

Wolf Children is a moving and emotionally rich exploration of motherhood, identity and the struggle between personal desires and family responsibilities. The film beautifully captures the complexity of raising children and the sacrifices parents make for the good of their children. Through Yuki and Ame’s journey, Hosoda highlights the theme of self-discovery and the importance of embracing your true nature. The film’s stunning animation, combined with its deep emotional resonance, makes Wolf Children one of Hosoda’s most beloved works.

1. The girl who jumped through time (2006)

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time follows Makoto, a high school student who gains the ability to leap through time. At first she uses her new power for small personal gain, but soon realizes that her actions have unintended consequences on the lives of those around her, causing her to reflect on the complexity of time, relationships and personal responsibility.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a beautifully crafted coming-of-age story that explores the effects of time travel on personal choices and relationships. Hosoda masterfully combines elements of sci-fi with universal themes of growth, love and regret. The film reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the importance of living fully in the present, as well as the inevitability of change. With its heartfelt story and recognizable characters, it remains one of Hosoda’s best achievements, showing his talent for combining emotional depth with imaginative storytelling.

And that’s all for today! Mamoru Hosoda is a director who consistently explores the intricacies of human emotions and relationships through fantastic, imaginative worlds. Whether it is the emotional weight of Wolf Children, the technological reflections of Summer Wars, or the profound coming-of-age story in The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Hosoda’s films resonate deeply with audiences. His unique ability to weave emotional depth into beautifully animated stories makes him one of the most respected voices in modern animation. Whether exploring themes of family, identity or the passage of time, Hosoda’s works leave a lasting impression on all who experience them.

Now we’d love to hear your experiences with Mamoru Hosoda’s work! Which of his films do you think are the best? Would you rearrange the list or add others? We can’t wait to read your opinions in the comments!