10 Shows & Movies Like Sonny Boy (2021)

Description: A frenetic, surreal anime that combines coming-of-age themes with absurdist humor and chaotic action. The visual style is highly stylized, with rapid cuts and exaggerated animation.

Fact: The series was originally intended to be a short OVA but gained a cult following. The soundtrack was performed by the Japanese rock band The Pillows.

Description: A psychological horror series with a non-linear narrative and a focus on the darker aspects of human nature. The visual style is muted and eerie, with a heavy use of shadows and surreal imagery.

Fact: The series is based on a light novel series by Kouhei Kadono. It was one of the first anime to explore the concept of 'urban legends' in a psychological context.

Description: A quiet, contemplative series that blends fantasy with deep emotional and spiritual themes. The world-building is subtle, with a focus on character development and introspection.

Fact: The series was created by Yoshitoshi ABe, who also worked on 'Serial Experiments Lain.' It was originally a doujinshi before being adapted into an anime.

Description: A psychological thriller that delves into themes of collective delusion and societal pressure. The narrative is fragmented, with multiple perspectives converging into a larger, unsettling mystery.

Fact: The series was created by Satoshi Kon, known for his psychological narratives. It was his only foray into television anime.

Description: A surreal and visually experimental anime that blends existential themes with chaotic, unpredictable storytelling. The narrative structure is non-linear, and the animation style is highly unconventional, often breaking the fourth wall.

Fact: The film was directed by Masaaki Yuasa, known for his unique animation style. It was initially rejected by several studios for being too avant-garde.

Description: A dystopian sci-fi series that explores existential and philosophical questions through a noir-inspired narrative. The atmosphere is bleak and introspective, with a focus on identity and autonomy.

Fact: The series features references to various philosophical works, including those of Jean-Paul Sartre. It was co-produced by Manglobe, known for their unique storytelling.

Description: Explores deep philosophical questions about identity, memory, and existence through a dreamlike, abstract visual style. The story is set in a world where memories can be transferred between bodies, creating a sense of existential uncertainty.

Fact: The series was created by Masaaki Yuasa, who also directed 'Mind Game.' Its art style is heavily inspired by 1960s and 1970s manga.

Description: A whimsical yet profound series that blends fantasy with family drama. The storytelling is rich with metaphor, and the world is filled with magical realism, creating a sense of wonder and melancholy.

Fact: The series is based on a novel by Tomihiko Morimi, who also wrote 'The Tatami Galaxy.' It won several awards for its unique narrative and animation style.

Description: A genre-defying anime that mixes comedy, sci-fi, and existential themes with a vibrant, colorful aesthetic. Each episode is self-contained, often experimenting with different tones and styles.

Fact: The series was directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, known for 'Cowboy Bebop.' It was produced simultaneously in Japanese and English, with different voice casts for each version.

Description: A coming-of-age story that uses sports as a metaphor for personal growth and self-discovery. The animation style is dynamic and expressive, often distorting reality to reflect the characters' emotional states.

Fact: The series is based on a manga by Taiyo Matsumoto, known for his unconventional storytelling. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of competitive sports.