Top 5 Underrated Anime Movies from 2022 [Best Recommendations]

Anime movies have a special way of captivating our hearts, with their imaginative stories, relatable characters, and mesmerising animation. They transport us to different worlds, introducing us to unique characters and their struggles. These films have become a staple of entertainment, not only for anime fans but for people of all ages, and in recent years, we have seen some truly exceptional movies. But what is it about these movies that makes them so captivating? Maybe it's the way they tackle relevant issues with a unique perspective or the way they transport us to different worlds, cultures, and periods.

In this article, we'll be delving into some of the most underrated anime movies of last year. We'll be examining their creative storylines, relatable characters, and mesmerising animation. From heart-wrenching tales of friendship and chasing dreams to thrilling sports dramas and post-apocalyptic adventures, these films have something for everyone.




5. The Quintessential Quintuplets Movie

The Quintessential Quintuplets Movie is a 2022 Japanese animated romantic comedy film that serves as the finale of the anime television series of the same name. Based on the manga series by Negi Haruba and produced by Bibury Animation Studios, the film follows the story of Futaro Uesugi, a tutor who plans to confess his love to one of the quintuplets, Ichika, Nino, Miku, Yotsuba, and Itsuki, during their final school festival. As the festival progresses, the quintuplets confront their struggles and relationships, leading to a heartwarming and emotional conclusion.

The film is directed by Masato Jinbo, written by Keiichirō Ōchi, and stars Yoshitsugu Matsuoka, Kana Hanazawa, Ayana Taketatsu, Miku Itō, Ayane Sakura, and Inori Minase. With a captivating storyline and relatable characters, this film is a must-watch for fans of the anime series and anyone looking for an uplifting and heartwarming film experience. The comedic timing is spot-on and will have you laughing throughout. The animation is also a standout feature, with vibrant colours and expressive characters that bring the story to life.


4. Drifting Home

Drifting Home is a 2022 Japanese animated coming-of-age fantasy adventure comedy-drama film co-written and directed by Hiroyasu Ishida. Produced by Studio Colorido, the film was released simultaneously in Japanese theatres and on Netflix on September 16, 2022. The story follows Kosuke Kumagaya and Natsume Tonai, two childhood friends who drift out to sea in a haunted apartment complex. It’s that the film offers a unique blend of fantasy, adventure, and comedy that is sure to captivate audiences.

The heart of it lies in the journey of the characters, who have all turned to adventure for different reasons but share the same passion and determination to make a change in their lives. The audience sees how a group of imperfect people fail, struggle, and learn to cooperate with their teammates while getting a peek into the vulnerable corners of their minds.


3. Bubble

"Bubble" is a 2022 anime film that will have you on the edge of your seat. Directed by Tetsurō Araki and written by Gen Urobuchi, this psychological thriller takes place in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo where mysterious bubbles have made the city uninhabitable. But that doesn't stop a group of determined teenagers, including the strong-willed Hibiki, from using parkour to navigate the city and make a life for themselves. When Hibiki meets the mysterious Uta, a girl with superhuman parkour abilities, they team up to uncover the truth about the bubbles and the city's past. But as they dig deeper, they realise that the bubbles may be more connected to them than they ever imagined.

With stunning animation, a thrilling storyline, and relatable characters, "Bubble" is a must-watch for anime fans looking for a mind-bending adventure. It grossed around $509,309 and has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. With a high-octane, romantic drama overseen by some of the most renowned names in anime, "Bubble" promises to be a captivating watch.


2. The First Slam Dunk

"The First Slam Dunk" is a 2022 anime film that will have basketball fans on the edge of their seats. Written and directed by Takehiko Inoue, and produced by Toei Animation and Dandelion Animation Studio, this sports drama is based on Inoue's Slam Dunk manga series. It was released theatrically in Japan on December 3, 2022. The film follows Ryota Miyagi, the point guard of Shohoku high school's basketball team, as he and his teammates Hanamichi Sakuragi, Takenori Akagi, Hisashi Mitsui, and Kaede Rukawa challenge the inter-high basketball champions, the Sanno school.

With its mix of hard-fought battles, heart-pumping action, and a coming-of-age story, "The First Slam Dunk" is an anime classic that evokes a sense of nostalgia in fans of the manga series. The film's heart lies in the journey of the characters, who all turn to basketball for different reasons but share the same passion and determination to make a change in the arena and their lives. The animation is top-notch, and the micro-expression of the characters has been delicately illustrated to convey emotion. The film teaches an important message: in life and basketball, the important thing isn’t who wins or loses, but how each person owns up to their mistakes. It grossed over $50.7 million and has received positive reviews from critics and audiences. With its expertly weaved-in tense action scenes, relatable characters, and passionate storyline, "The First Slam Dunk" is a must-watch for all anime and sports fans.


1. Goodbye, Don Glees!

Goodbye, Don Glees! is a coming-of-age story about three childhood friends who reunite to clear their names after a wildfire breaks out in the mountains. Toto Mitarai and Roma Kamogawa formed their own club, the Don Glees when they were children, but when Toto moves to Tokyo to attend high school, their friendship is put to the test. Toto returns a year later to find Roma longing for his crush, Tivoli Urayasu, who has moved away to Ireland. The three friends, now including new member Drop Sakuma, embark on a journey to retrieve a drone that they believe will clear their names and bring them closer together. Along the way, they confront their own insecurities and regrets and ultimately discover the true meaning of friendship. The film was directed by Atsuko Ishizuka and produced by Madhouse, with music composed by Yoshiaki Fujisawa and the main theme song "Rock the World" performed by Alexandros. It was released in Japanese theatres on February 18, 2022, and in North America by GKIDS.


Final Thoughts

In conclusion, we have taken a closer look at some of the anime movies of recent years that may have been brushed under the carpet by the hype of Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen Movies. We've examined their unique stories, relatable characters, and mesmerising animation.

These films have captured the hearts of audiences around the world and have become a staple of entertainment for people of all ages. Now that you've read this article, is there anything here that caught your attention? Or maybe you have watched some of the movies on this list? Don't hesitate to share your thoughts about them in the comment section below.

by Ahmad Animasaun