The Best Anime of 2015: What Made It Stand Out?

2015 was a landmark year for anime, showcasing a variety of genres and captivating stories that resonated with fans worldwide. With outstanding animation quality, compelling characters, and intricate plots, many shows from this year left a lasting impact on the anime landscape. This article explores the best anime from 2015, highlighting why these titles stand out and their contributions to the medium.

Top Anime Series of 2015

Several series released in 2015 gained immense popularity, winning awards and critical acclaim. Here are some of the best anime series that defined that year:

1. Attack on Titan Season 2

Attack on Titan returned with its highly anticipated second season, continuing the thrilling narrative that captivated fans in its debut season. This series explores humanity's struggle against giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The animation quality and intense storytelling contributed to its status as one of the best anime of 2015.

Key Themes

• Survival and sacrifice
• The moral complexities of war
• Human resilience in the face of despair

2. One Punch Man

One Punch Man revolutionized the superhero genre with its unique approach to storytelling. The protagonist, Saitama, can defeat any opponent with a single punch, leading to a humorous exploration of what it means to be a hero. The combination of comedy, action, and stunning animation made it an instant classic and one of the best anime of 2015.

Notable Aspects

• Subversion of superhero tropes
• High-quality fight sequences
• Relatable themes of boredom and dissatisfaction

3. My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia introduced viewers to a world where individuals with superpowers, known as Quirks, exist. It follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero. This series blends action, character development, and emotional depth, making it another standout title among the best anime of 2015.

Character Development

• Growth of Izuku Midoriya
• The dynamic relationships among classmates
• Exploration of heroism and morality

Impactful Movies Released in 2015

In addition to series, several remarkable anime films were released in 2015 that garnered attention both domestically and internationally.

1. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)

Your Name, directed by Makoto Shinkai, became a phenomenon upon its release. The film tells the story of two teenagers who inexplicably swap bodies. With stunning visuals and a heartfelt narrative, it quickly became one of the highest-grossing anime films. Its exploration of themes like time, fate, and connections resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its reputation as one of the best anime of 2015.

Visuals and Soundtrack

• Beautifully crafted animation
• Emotional and memorable music score
• Symbolic use of visual motifs

2. Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie

This film continued the legacy of the original Ghost in the Shell franchise. It delved into issues of consciousness, technology, and societal implications of AI. As a cyberpunk narrative, it attracted both longtime fans and newcomers, further establishing the franchise's relevance in contemporary discussions about technology.

Philosophical Themes

• Existential questions regarding identity
• The implications of technological advancement
• Societal changes influenced by artificial intelligence

Why 2015 Was Special for Anime

The year 2015 offered diverse content appealing to various tastes and preferences, ensuring that there was something for everyone. From epic battles and heartwarming tales to thoughtful explorations of society, the best anime of 2015 demonstrated the medium's potential for storytelling.

Contribution to Anime Culture

The titles released not only entertained but also sparked discussions around important social issues, influencing future productions. By blending genres and breaking traditional storytelling molds, 2015's anime paved the way for innovative narratives in subsequent years.

Overall Legacy

• Continued popularity of series through merchandise and adaptations
• Heightened interest in anime globally
• Influence on young creators and the industry

Conclusion

The best anime of 2015 showcased a wide array of genres, concepts, and themes, captivating both new viewers and longtime fans alike. With series like Attack on Titan and One Punch Man, alongside films such as Your Name, this year proved to be a pivotal moment in anime history. The combination of creativity, technological advancements, and cultural storytelling solidified 2015's place as a landmark year for the anime industry.