Sunrise Inc., established in 1972 by former Mushi Production staff members, boasts an extensive collection of highly praised anime series, movies, and OVAs. Their works often span genres like mecha, stories with antihero protagonists, war dramas, and intricate character-driven narratives.
One of Sunrise’s trademarks is its consistently high-quality animation, earning it the nickname “Sunrise Smooth.” This dedication to fluid animation ensures viewers are treated to visually stunning experiences.
Whether new to anime or a seasoned fan, Sunrise has something for everyone. Their diverse catalog caters to a wide range of tastes and moods, making it easy to find something to enjoy.
Best Anime from Studio Sunrise
1. Mobile Suit Gundam
Studio Sunrise is renowned for its Gundam franchise, which has become synonymous with the best mecha anime, much like Toei Animation is with Dragon Ball.
The series primarily revolves around the conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon, focusing on the rivalry between pilots Amuro Ray and Char Aznable. Their dynamic as the top pilots in their respective factions became iconic and set a precedent for future Gundam series.
The original series consisted of 43 episodes, but a trilogy of films condensed the story with improved audio quality, making it more accessible for new fans.
“Mobile Suit Gundam” marked the beginning of a new era in mecha anime, laying the foundation for the numerous Gundam series that would follow.
2. City Hunter
Studio Sunrise’s iconic anime series featuring Ryo Saeba is “City Hunter,” a beloved show that evokes nostalgia and remains popular today.
The series revolves around Ryo, a private detective known as City Hunter, whose mission is to maintain Tokyo’s safety and eliminate crime.
When Ryo’s partner is tragically killed, he finds himself taking care of his partner’s younger sister, Kaori, who inadvertently becomes his new partner in crime-fighting.
“City Hunter” received widespread acclaim and led to the creation of several films and spin-off series. One notable spin-off starred Jackie Chan, further solidifying “City Hunter’s” status as one of the most beloved anime series of all time.
3. Patlabor
“Patlabor” (short for Patrol Labor), a mecha franchise from Studio Sunrise, was born in 1988 from the minds of Headgear, a group consisting of manga artist Masami Yuki, anime director Mamoru Oshii, screenwriter Kazunori Ito, mecha designer Yutaka Izubuchi, and character designer Akemi Takada.
Between 1998 and 2002, “Patlabor” infuses sci-fi elements into its narrative, following the Tokyo police force as they combat crime using their giant robots.
The series centers around the squad’s newest recruit, Noa Izumi, but each team member plays a significant role in the story.
“Patlabor” offers a unique twist on the mecha genre by grounding itself in reality and infusing comedic elements, particularly sarcasm.
4. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
“Mobile Suit Gundam Wing” stands out as one of the most internationally beloved entries in the Gundam franchise, credited with introducing many to the genre and popularizing mecha anime on a global scale.
Set in the 1990s, the anime revolves around the conflict between Earth and extraterrestrial colonies. It follows a group of five teenage mobile suit pilots tasked with liberating each country from oppression. Their mission is aided by a young pacifist named Relena Peacecraft.
Although “Mobile Suit Gundam Wing” succeeded in Japan, its popularity soared overseas. For many fans, it served as a gateway anime, introducing them to the world of mecha anime and sparking a lifelong passion for the genre.
5. Cowboy Bebops
“Cowboy Bebop” is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential anime series ever created, seamlessly blending animation, storytelling, and stylish action.
The show follows Spike Spiegel and his eclectic crew of bounty hunters aboard the spaceship Bebop, as they navigate through their pasts while chasing down bounties in the present.
Even today, “Cowboy Bebop” is lauded for its meticulous attention to detail, clever humor, and mature exploration of existential themes such as boredom, death, violence, and romance.
At its core, the series is a poignant reflection on the human condition, blending elements of comedy, action, noir thriller, and societal commentary.
6. Inuyasha
The story revolves around Kagome, a teenage girl, and Inuyasha, a half-dog, half-demon, as they set out on a quest to retrieve the Shikon no Tama, also known as the Jewel of Four Souls. This powerful artifact was originally inside Kagome before the villainous demon Naraku sought to claim it for himself.
Despite its challenges, “Inuyasha” became one of Studio Sunrise’s most beloved anime series, captivating audiences with its rich storyline and memorable characters. Even today, fans eagerly await news of sequels and reboots, showcasing the enduring popularity of the series.
7. Gintama
In an alternate reality where aliens rule Japan, the anime series “Gintama” follows the adventures of Gintoki and his friends, Shinpachi and Kagura, as they navigate through odd jobs and unemployment.
“Gintama” received widespread acclaim for its sharp wit, diverse cast of characters, and knack for breaking the fourth wall. It seamlessly blends drama and comedy in various situations, captivating audiences.
The series’ success led to the creation of numerous animated films, light novels, live-action adaptations, and even CDs.
A production of Studio Sunrise, “Gintama” is a must-watch for anime fans, promising endless laughter and entertainment.
8. Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Rebellion
Studio Sunrise’s monumental achievement, “Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion,” is a groundbreaking series that has inspired countless others and set the standard for mecha anime.
The story centers around Lelouch Lamperouge, a young man with the power of Geass, who leads a rebellion against his father and the Britannian Empire.
“Code Geass” is celebrated for exploring themes such as morality, class conflict, political upheaval, and radical ideologies. Its intelligent storytelling, richly developed characters, and thrilling action sequences drive the narrative forward with unstoppable momentum.
9. Mobile Suit Gundam 00
“Mobile Suit Gundam 00” marks the 11th installment in the Gundam franchise, maintaining its signature focus on nations at war and their mechanized robot forces.
Set in the distant future, where Earth’s resources are depleted, the storyline revolves around humanity’s struggle for survival.
A secretive group called Celestial Being emerges as conflicts escalate between the world’s colonies over solar energy. Their mission is to restore peace by intervening in global conflicts.
10. Planetes
Comparing it to critically acclaimed films like “Gravity,” “Planetes” shines as a hidden gem filled with themes of existential philosophy, human psychology, and political corruption.
The narrative centers on the crew of the Toy Box, a spacecraft tasked with collecting space debris. Amidst the backdrop of garbage disposal jobs and the vast emptiness of outer space, the series delves into its characters’ lives, aspirations, fears, and personalities.
What sets “Planetes” apart is its exploration of mature themes such as loneliness, isolation, anxiety, and self-discovery, offering a depth rarely seen in anime.
Both the series and the manga garnered critical acclaim, solidifying their status as one of the most fabulous sci-fi anime creations ever crafted.
11. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphan
“Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans,” the 14th installment of the renowned mecha franchise, follows a group of child soldiers on their quest for freedom and purpose. They protect Kudelia Bernstein, a young revolutionary fighting against the oppressive military organization Gjallarhorn.
In a departure from the franchise’s usual focus on action and mecha combat, this series from Studio Sunrise tackles mature themes such as war, slavery, child soldiers, poverty, politics, corruption, and colonialism. It offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of these issues, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
12. Daily Lives Of High School Boys
Comedy anime like “Gintama” and “The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.” have gained global acclaim because their humor revolves around well-developed characters rather than relying on cheap fanservice.
Similarly, “Daily Lives of High School Boys” follows this path by introducing new quirks and antics with each episode, set in the backdrop of an ordinary high school.
Produced by Studio Sunrise, this anime serves as a coming-of-age story for its teenage characters, allowing them to escape everyday problems and embrace the joy of youth.
Overall, these elements contribute to the charm of “Daily Lives of High School Boys,” making it both cute and nostalgic, with a heartwarming touch that resonates with audiences.
