If you loved the emotional depth and gripping storytelling of Oshinoko (2024), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same heart-wrenching drama, complex characters, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're looking for another tearjerker or a story that tugs at your heartstrings, this list has something for every fan of Oshinoko.

Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Description: A harrowing yet deeply moving tale of survival and sibling love during wartime, known for its raw emotional impact and realistic portrayal of human suffering.
Fact: It is based on a semi-autobiographical novel by Akiyuki Nosaka. The film is often cited as one of the most powerful anti-war movies ever made.


Only Yesterday (1991)
Description: A reflective and mature story about a woman revisiting her childhood memories while navigating adult life, blending past and present to explore themes of identity and nostalgia.
Fact: This was the first Studio Ghibli film to be primarily aimed at an adult audience. It was based on a manga by Hotaru Okamoto and Yuko Tone.


Whisper of the Heart (1995)
Description: A charming slice-of-life story about a young girl discovering her passion for writing, filled with themes of self-discovery, creativity, and first love, all set in a realistic urban environment.
Fact: The film features the song 'Country Roads,' which plays a significant role in the plot. It was the directorial debut of Yoshifumi Kondō, a protégé of Hayao Miyazaki.


The Place Promised in Our Early Days (2004)
Description: A sci-fi drama that blends romance and alternate history, focusing on the dreams and bonds of childhood friends separated by political strife, with a melancholic yet hopeful tone.
Fact: This was Makoto Shinkai's first feature-length film. The animation showcases his signature style of breathtaking landscapes and detailed backgrounds.


Clannad (2007)
Description: A deeply emotional anime that explores themes of family, love, and personal growth through a mix of drama and supernatural elements. Its heartfelt storytelling and focus on human connections resonate strongly.
Fact: The series is based on a visual novel by Key, known for its emotionally impactful narratives. It features a unique art style with exaggerated character designs to emphasize emotions.


From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)
Description: A nostalgic coming-of-age story set in post-war Japan, emphasizing themes of youth, love, and the preservation of cultural heritage, with a warm and gentle narrative.
Fact: The film is based on a manga by Tetsuro Sayama. It was co-written by Hayao Miyazaki and directed by his son, Goro Miyazaki.


The Wind Rises (2013)
Description: A biographical drama that explores the life of an aircraft designer, blending historical events with personal dreams and moral dilemmas, presented with a poetic and introspective style.
Fact: This was Hayao Miyazaki's final film before his initial retirement. The protagonist is loosely based on Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of the Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter.


The Anthem of the Heart (2015)
Description: A touching story about a girl who loses her ability to speak and finds solace in music, exploring themes of communication, trauma, and redemption through a heartfelt narrative.
Fact: The film was produced by the same studio behind 'Anohana' and shares a similar emotional depth. It features a unique blend of musical and dramatic elements.


Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018)
Description: A beautifully animated film that examines the bonds between a mother and her adopted child, set against a backdrop of war and immortality, with a strong emotional core.
Fact: This was the directorial debut of Mari Okada, a renowned screenwriter. The film's lush fantasy world and intricate character designs are standout features.


Violet Evergarden (2018)
Description: This series delves into the journey of self-discovery and emotional healing, with stunning visuals and a poignant narrative that emphasizes the power of words and human bonds.
Fact: The animation is renowned for its meticulous detail, especially in depicting the protagonist's mechanical hands. It won several awards for its beautiful soundtrack and animation quality.
