Inspiring Anime Movies for Students: Lessons from Stand by Me Doraemon and More

In today's fast-paced world, finding the right motivation to study can be challenging. Anime movies offer a uniquely engaging way to inspire students, blending captivating stories with valuable life lessons. Here are several anime films that can help students find the drive to chase their dreams, persevere through challenges, and grow personally.

A Silent Voice / Koe no Katachi

A Silent Voice/ Koe no Katachi is a powerful story that delves into themes of redemption and personal growth. The narrative follows a young man named Shoya Ishida who, in retrospect, seeks redemption for the bullying he inflicted on a deaf girl, Shoko Nishimiya, during elementary school. His journey involves understanding, empathy, and self-improvement. This film encourages students to recognize the importance of forgiveness, understanding, and kindness.

Your Name / Kimi no Na wa

Your Name / Kimi no Na wa is a heartwarming tale of two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously swap bodies. Their story of self-discovery, connection, and romance emphasizes the pursuit of dreams and the impact of relationships. This anime can inspire students to pursue what they love and to value the connections they make along the way.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time / Toki o Kakeru Shōjo

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time / Toki o Kakeru Shōjo offers an imaginative journey of a girl named Makoto Naegi who discovers she can time travel. As she finds herself able to mov[e] between different time periods, she learns valuable lessons about the consequences of her choices and the importance of living authentically in the present. This anime highlights the significance of making informed decisions and cherishing the present moment.

The Wind Rises / Kaze Tachinu

The Wind Rises / Kaze Tachinu, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, draws inspiration from the life of Jiro Horikoshi, the renowned designer of the Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter plane. Through Horikoshi's story, the film showcases the passion for pursuing one's dreams, along with the importance of hard work and dedication. This anime can motivate students to stay committed to their goals, regardless of the obstacles they may face.

March Comes in Like a Lion / 3-gatsu no Lion

March Comes in Like a Lion / 3-gatsu no Lion, while technically a shogi series, features a compelling film adaptation focusing on the struggles of a young professional shogi player, Shigenori Harimoto. The story delves into themes of loneliness, perseverance, and the importance of finding one's life path. This anime can inspire students to persevere through challenges and to define their own journey.

The Cat Returns / Neko no Ongaeshi

The Cat Returns / Neko no Ongaeshi is a whimsical adventure about a girl named Haru who saves a cat, Kiki, leading her to a world of cats. The story emphasizes courage, kindness, and the importance of following one's heart. This anime can motivate students to be brave and to pursue their dreams with authenticity.

5 Centimeters Per Second

5 Centimeters Per Second is a poignant exploration of love and the passage of time. The film encourages viewers to reflect on their relationships and aspirations, motivating them to cherish their experiences and work toward their goals. This anime can inspire students to value the time they have and to make the most of their relationships and achievements.

The Secret World of Arrietty / Karigurashi no Arrietty

The Secret World of Arrietty / Karigurashi no Arrietty, based on Mary Norton's novel The Borrowers, is a delightful and heartwarming story of Arrietty, a small house borrower. This film can inspire students with its themes of kindness, courage, and the importance of exploring and understanding the world around them.

In conclusion, these anime movies are not just entertaining but also serve as valuable tools for motivation and personal growth. They offer students the chance to reflect on their own lives, set goals, and find the inspiration to pursue their dreams.