Movie Recommendations for Fans of Suzume

In this section of our Colossus Movie Guide for Suzume, we provide recommendations for movies with similar themes and vibes.

Mankoto Shinkai’s latest anime masterpiece, Suzume, is taking the world by storm. The film is on pace to break box office records just like Your Name, as people are obsessed with the character of Suzume and her story to save Japan from natural disaster. They undoubtedly connect with her struggle to overcome the grieving process, as well as the film’s overarching commentary on communal relations and the connectedness of the Japanese people.

So if you’re a fan of Suzume, what other movies can you watch that share similar tones and themes? Or perhaps if the movie isn’t available in your area, what other movies can fill the void in the meantime? Well, I’ve put together a list of ten movies that scratch that itch. Here are some great films like Suzume to check out.

Cast

Suzume Iwato – Nanoka Hara
Sōta Munakata – Hokuto Matsumura
Tamaki Iwato – Eri Fukatsu
Minoru Okabe – Shota Sometani
Rumi Ninomiya – Sairi Ito
Chika Amabe – Kotone Hanase
Tsubame Iwato – Kana Hanazawa
Hitsujirō Munakata – Matsumoto Hakuō II
Tomoya Serizawa – Ryūnosuke Kamiki
Daijin – Ann Yamane
Miki – Aimi
Young Suzume – Akari Miura
Makoto Shinkai – Writer and director

Movies like Suzume

5 Centimeters per Second (2007)

This anthology film by Makoto Shinkai tells three interconnected stories of love, loss, and distance. It follows the lives of Takaki Toono and Akari Shinohara, who, after being separated by a move, struggle to maintain their connection. Through stunning visuals and poignant storytelling, Shinkai explores the challenges of maintaining relationships across time and space.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)

In this sci-fi romance anime directed by Mamoru Hosoda, high schooler Makoto Konno discovers she has the power to “leap” through time. As she uses her newfound ability to improve her life, Makoto realizes that her actions have consequences that affect others. With a focus on friendship and love, the film explores the challenges and responsibilities of time manipulation.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

In this unconventional romantic drama, directed by Michel Gondry and written by Charlie Kaufman, Jim Carrey stars as Joel Barish, who undergoes a procedure to erase the memories of his ex-girlfriend, Clementine (played by Kate Winslet). As the process unfolds, Joel realizes that he wants to hold onto their shared memories. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the significance of human connections.

A Silent Voice (2016)

This emotional drama, directed by Naoko Yamada and based on the manga by Yoshitoki Oima, tells the story of Shoya Ishida, a former bully seeking redemption, and Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he bullied in elementary school. As they reconnect, the film delves into themes of forgiveness, friendship, and the consequences of one’s actions.

In Your Eyes (2014)

In this sci-fi romance directed by Brin Hill and written by Joss Whedon, two strangers, played by Zoe Kazan and Michael Stahl-David, discover they share a telepathic connection that allows them to see, hear, and feel each other’s experiences. Despite their different lives and geographical distance, they form a deep bond and attempt to overcome their personal struggles together.

Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (2011)

In this coming-of-age drama directed by Tatsuyuki Nagai, a group of childhood friends is brought back together when the ghost of their deceased friend, Menma, appears to Jinta Yadomi. As they try to fulfill her last wish, the group confronts their past, guilt, and the complexity of their relationships.

Manchester by the Sea (2016)

In this poignant drama directed by Kenneth Lonergan, Casey Affleck stars as Lee Chandler, a man who, after the death of his brother, is entrusted with the care of his teenage nephew. As Lee faces the challenges of guardianship, he must also confront the lingering grief of his own tragic past. The film provides a raw and honest portrayal of the grieving process and the struggle to find healing amidst immense loss.

Whisper of the Heart (1995)

This Studio Ghibli classic, directed by Yoshifumi Kondo and written by Hayao Miyazaki, follows the story of Shizuku Tsukishima, a young girl who dreams of becoming a writer. When she encounters a mysterious boy, Seiji Amasawa, they inspire each other to pursue their dreams. The film is a touching exploration of love, self-discovery, and artistic aspirations.

Your Lie in April (2016)

Based on the manga by Naoshi Arakawa, Your Lie in April is a live-action adaptation directed by Takehiko Shinjo. The film follows Kosei Arima, a pianist who, after the death of his mother, loses his ability to play. When he meets the free-spirited violinist Kaori Miyazono, she challenges him to confront his past and rediscover his passion for music.

About Time (2013)

This romantic comedy-drama, directed by Richard Curtis, stars Domhnall Gleeson as Tim, who discovers that the men in his family possess the ability to time travel. Tim uses his power to improve his romantic life and win the heart of Mary, played by Rachel McAdams. As he learns the limits and consequences of his time-traveling abilities, the film explores themes of love, family, and making the most of the time we have.

Share your thoughts

Are there more movie recommendations you’d make for the Colossus Movie Guide for Suzume? Leave your thoughts below and we’ll consider them for the guide.