Best Netflix Anime Of 2020: Must-Watch Series
Hey anime fans! Are you ready to dive into the best Netflix anime of 2020? This year was packed with incredible series, from action-packed adventures to heartwarming stories that kept us glued to our screens. Let's take a nostalgic trip and rediscover some of the gems that Netflix offered. Whether you're a long-time anime enthusiast or just getting started, there's something here for everyone. Let's jump right into the fantastic world of 2020's best anime on Netflix and explore the series that made the year unforgettable.
A Look Back at Netflix Anime in 2020
2020 was a banner year for anime on Netflix, marked by a surge in both quantity and quality. The streaming giant continued to invest heavily in anime content, securing exclusive streaming rights to highly anticipated series and producing original anime that quickly gained international acclaim. This strategic move significantly broadened Netflix's appeal, attracting a diverse audience eager for fresh and engaging content. The platform became a go-to destination for anime fans, offering a vast library that catered to various tastes, from seasoned otaku to newcomers exploring the genre.
Netflix's approach in 2020 was characterized by a blend of acquiring popular existing anime and creating original productions. This dual strategy allowed them to offer a well-rounded selection that included both familiar favorites and innovative new titles. By focusing on diverse genres and unique storytelling, Netflix successfully captured the attention of a global audience, establishing itself as a major player in the anime streaming landscape. The year's lineup showcased a range of styles, themes, and animation techniques, highlighting the versatility and artistic potential of anime.
The impact of Netflix's anime offerings in 2020 extended beyond mere entertainment. The platform's investment helped elevate the anime industry, providing creators with new opportunities and reaching a wider international audience. This increased exposure contributed to the growing mainstream popularity of anime, breaking down cultural barriers and fostering a global community of fans. As more people discovered the rich and diverse world of anime, Netflix played a crucial role in shaping the perception and appreciation of this unique art form.
Highlighting Key Titles from 2020
In 2020, Netflix delivered a wide array of anime titles that left a lasting impression on viewers worldwide. Here are some standout series that defined the year:
- Japan Sinks: 2020: This gripping sci-fi anime, directed by Masaaki Yuasa, offered a harrowing and realistic portrayal of a family struggling to survive after a series of devastating earthquakes plunges Japan into chaos. Its unique animation style and emotionally charged narrative made it a standout hit.
- BNA: Brand New Animal: This visually stunning anime, created by Studio Trigger, told the story of Michiru Kagemori, a human who suddenly transforms into a tanuki and seeks refuge in Anima City, a haven for beastmen. With its vibrant animation, catchy soundtrack, and compelling characters, BNA quickly gained a dedicated following.
- Aggretsuko (Season 3): The third season of this beloved comedy anime continued to resonate with viewers through its relatable depiction of office life and the daily struggles of Retsuko, the red panda who copes with her frustrations by singing death metal karaoke. Its humor and heartfelt moments made it a fan favorite.
Top Netflix Anime Series of 2020
Let's get into the specifics! Here’s a rundown of some of the top anime series that Netflix offered in 2020, perfect for revisiting or discovering for the first time.
Japan Sinks: 2020
Japan Sinks: 2020 is a gripping and emotional anime series directed by Masaaki Yuasa, known for his unique and distinctive animation style. The story revolves around the Muto family, who are caught in the midst of a catastrophic series of earthquakes that devastate Japan. As the country begins to sink into the ocean, the Muto family must navigate through the chaos and destruction to find safety and survive. The series offers a raw and unflinching look at the human cost of natural disasters, exploring themes of family, resilience, and the will to survive in the face of overwhelming adversity.
What sets Japan Sinks: 2020 apart is its realistic and often brutal portrayal of the disaster. Unlike many disaster-themed anime that focus on heroic feats and fantastical scenarios, this series delves into the gritty realities of survival, showcasing the struggles, losses, and difficult choices that the characters must face. The animation style, while unconventional, adds to the series' unique atmosphere, creating a sense of unease and immersion that draws viewers into the harrowing experience of the Muto family. The emotional depth of the characters and their relationships is another key element, as the series explores how they cope with the trauma and loss they experience.
The series is not without its critics, with some viewers finding the animation style jarring or the storyline too bleak. However, its powerful storytelling and thought-provoking themes have resonated with many, earning it a place among the standout anime of 2020. Japan Sinks: 2020 challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the fragility of human existence and the importance of family and community in times of crisis. Its unique approach to the disaster genre and its unflinching portrayal of human suffering make it a memorable and impactful anime series that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
BNA: Brand New Animal
BNA: Brand New Animal is a visually stunning and action-packed anime series created by Studio Trigger, known for its vibrant and energetic animation style. The story is set in a world where humans and beastmen coexist, but tensions and prejudices run high. The protagonist, Michiru Kagemori, is a human girl who suddenly transforms into a tanuki beastman and flees to Anima City, a haven for beastmen seeking refuge from human society. In Anima City, Michiru teams up with Shirou Ogami, a stoic and enigmatic wolf beastman, to uncover the secrets of her transformation and the dark forces at play within the city.
One of the defining features of BNA: Brand New Animal is its distinctive visual style, which blends traditional animation techniques with modern digital effects. The character designs are bold and expressive, and the action sequences are fluid and dynamic. The series is also notable for its vibrant color palette and its imaginative world-building, creating a visually engaging and immersive experience for viewers. The catchy soundtrack further enhances the series' appeal, adding to the excitement and energy of the action scenes and the emotional depth of the character moments.
Beyond its visual appeal, BNA: Brand New Animal explores themes of identity, prejudice, and social justice. Michiru's journey of self-discovery as she navigates the complex world of beastmen and humans is a central focus of the series, as is the exploration of the tensions and conflicts between the two groups. The series also touches on issues of discrimination and inequality, challenging viewers to consider the ways in which society treats those who are different. With its compelling characters, exciting action, and thought-provoking themes, BNA: Brand New Animal is a standout anime series that is sure to appeal to fans of action, fantasy, and social commentary.
Aggretsuko (Season 3)
Aggretsuko is a comedy anime series that has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide with its relatable and humorous depiction of office life and the struggles of modern adulthood. The series follows Retsuko, a red panda who works as an accountant in a Japanese trading company. Retsuko is often frustrated by her demanding boss, annoying coworkers, and the pressures of society, and she copes with her stress by singing death metal karaoke in secret. The third season of Aggretsuko continues to explore Retsuko's personal and professional life, as she faces new challenges and learns to navigate the complexities of adulthood.
One of the defining features of Aggretsuko is its ability to blend humor with genuine emotional depth. The series is full of laugh-out-loud moments, but it also tackles serious issues such as workplace harassment, social anxiety, and the search for meaning and purpose in life. Retsuko's character is particularly relatable, as she struggles to balance her personal desires with the expectations of society. The series' supporting characters are also well-developed and add to the overall richness of the story. The third season of Aggretsuko sees Retsuko taking on new challenges, including joining an idol group and dealing with the pressures of fame.
Aggretsuko has been praised for its witty writing, its relatable characters, and its insightful commentary on modern society. The series has resonated with viewers of all ages and backgrounds, who appreciate its humor, its heart, and its honest portrayal of the challenges of adulthood. Whether you're a fan of comedy, slice-of-life anime, or simply looking for a relatable and entertaining series, Aggretsuko is definitely worth checking out. Its unique blend of humor and heart makes it a standout anime series that is sure to leave you laughing and thinking.
Other Notable Mentions
While the above titles were highlights, several other anime series from 2020 deserve recognition. These series may not have achieved the same level of mainstream popularity, but they offered unique stories, compelling characters, and impressive animation.
The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited
The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited is a stylish and action-packed anime series that follows the adventures of Daisuke Kambe, a wealthy and eccentric detective who uses his vast fortune to solve crimes in unconventional ways. Daisuke is partnered with Haru Kato, a principled and idealistic detective who is often at odds with Daisuke's methods. Together, they must solve a series of complex cases while navigating the challenges of their contrasting personalities and approaches to justice.
One of the defining features of The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited is its unique blend of crime-solving and comedy. The series is full of over-the-top action sequences and humorous interactions between Daisuke and Haru. However, it also tackles serious themes such as corruption, social inequality, and the ethics of using wealth and power to solve crimes. The animation style is sleek and modern, and the soundtrack is catchy and upbeat. The dynamic between Daisuke and Haru is a central focus of the series, as they learn to work together and appreciate each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!
Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! is a heartwarming and inspiring anime series that celebrates the joy of creativity and the power of collaboration. The series follows Midori Asakusa, a high school student who dreams of creating her own anime. Midori teams up with Sayaka Kanamori, a money-minded classmate who sees the potential for profit in Midori's ideas, and Tsubame Mizusaki, a talented and popular student who wants to become an animator despite her parents' objections. Together, they form the Eizouken, a club dedicated to creating anime.
One of the defining features of Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! is its emphasis on the creative process. The series delves into the technical aspects of anime production, showcasing the challenges and rewards of bringing a story to life through animation. The characters are all passionate and dedicated to their craft, and their enthusiasm is contagious. The animation style is unique and expressive, capturing the energy and excitement of the creative process. The series celebrates the power of imagination and the importance of following your dreams.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of 2020 Anime
So there you have it, folks! A look back at some of the best Netflix anime from 2020. These series not only provided entertainment but also showcased the diverse and evolving landscape of anime. From gripping dramas to lighthearted comedies, 2020 offered something for every anime fan. Whether you're looking to revisit these classics or discover them for the first time, Netflix continues to be a treasure trove of incredible anime content. Happy watching, and here's to many more amazing anime series in the years to come! The anime from 2020 still holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, and for good reason. The series offered unique stories, compelling characters, and impressive animation. If you haven't seen them yet, be sure to check them out!