April’s here, and with it comes a mix of emotions. Sometimes, words can’t quite express how we feel, but that’s where anime steps in! These animated tales are like friends who get it, making us laugh, cry, and everything in between.
These animated stories are like friends who understand exactly what you’re going through. So, as we settle into April, let’s see ten anime series that’ll hit you right in the feels. From heartbreak to hope, these shows cover it all, offering a shoulder to lean on when emotions run high.
Fans of Japanese anime find themselves drawn to heartbreaking series just as much as producers aim to evoke cathartic sadness in their audiences. While there are countless upbeat and joyful anime series that instantly lift spirits, there’s an equally abundant supply of sad anime that leave viewers reaching for tissues.
Fans seeking an emotional rollercoaster ride have a plethora of options to choose from. Whether it’s dramas delving into teenage romance or narratives tackling profound subjects like illness and war, there’s something to tug at every heartstring in anime’s extensive library.
These anime series offer a range of emotional intensity, ensuring that viewers are kept on the edge of their seats with tears streaming down their faces.
As fans get into the diverse selection available, they’re in for an emotional journey that’s sure to leave a lasting impact. So, grab your popcorn and tissues, and prepare to experience the full spectrum of human emotions with collection of sad anime.
10 Sad Animes to Watch in April: A Journey Through Emotional Rollercoasters
10. Clannad (2007)
“Clannad” is a quintessential tearjerker that follows the story of Tomoya Okazaki, a high school delinquent who finds purpose and love through his encounters with a group of girls.
The series finds themes of family, friendship, and loss, with each episode leaving a lasting impact on the viewer’s heart. Be prepared for emotional highs and lows as you follow Tomoya’s journey through life’s trials and tribulations.
9. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Directed by the renowned Studio Ghibli co-founder Isao Takahata, “Grave of the Fireflies” is a hauntingly beautiful tale set in the backdrop of World War II.
The film follows the heartbreaking story of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they struggle to survive in war-torn Japan. With its poignant narrative and stunning animation, “Grave of the Fireflies” is a cinematic masterpiece that will leave you reaching for the tissues.
8. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (2011)
“Anohana” is a poignant tale of friendship, guilt, and redemption that will tug at your heartstrings from start to finish. The series follows a group of childhood friends who drift apart after the tragic death of their friend Meiko “Menma” Honma.
Years later, Menma’s ghost appears to one of the friends, Jinta Yadomi, urging him to fulfill her unfulfilled wish. As the friends reunite to grant Menma’s wish, they must confront their own unresolved feelings and come to terms with their grief.
7. Tokyo Magnitude 8.0 (2009)
“Takao Magnitude 8.0” is a thought-provoking anime that finds the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Tokyo. The series follows siblings Mirai and Yuuki as they guide the chaos and destruction in the wake of the disaster, searching for their family amidst the rubble.
As they encounter strangers who offer help and support, Mirai and Yuuki must confront their own fears and insecurities in order to survive. With its realistic portrayal of natural disaster and its impact on human lives, “Tokyo Magnitude 8.0” is a gripping and emotional journey that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
6. A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi)
Prepare to confront themes of bullying, guilt, and redemption in A Silent Voice. The film follows Shoya Ishida, a high school student who ostracized a deaf classmate, Shoko Nishimiya, in their elementary school days. Years later, Shoya seeks redemption and attempts to reconnect with Shoko.
A Silent Voice is a powerful and emotional story that tackles complex themes. Watching it alone allows you to fully engage with the characters’ struggles and appreciate the film’s message of empathy and forgiveness.
5. Orange (2016)
Orange is a bittersweet anime that combines elements of romance, science fiction, and drama to deliver a compelling narrative about second chances and the power of friendship.
The series follows Naho Takamiya, a high school student who receives a letter from her future self, urging her to save her new classmate, Kakeru Naruse, from a tragic fate.
As Naho and her friends work together to change the course of destiny, they must confront their own regrets and fears along the way. “Orange” is a heartwarming and emotional journey that reminds us of the importance of cherishing every moment and seizing the opportunities life presents us with.
4. Angel Beats! (2010)
“Angel Beats!” is a unique blend of action, comedy, and drama that get the concept of life after death in a high school setting. The series follows a group of students who find themselves trapped in a mysterious purgatory-like world, where they must battle against an enigmatic girl known as Angel.
As they uncover the truth about their existence and confront their past traumas, the students form bonds of friendship and camaraderie that transcend death itself. With its compelling characters and emotional depth, “Angel Beats!” is a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you laughing, crying, and everything in between.
3. Charlotte (2015)
In “Charlotte,” viewers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and redemption alongside protagonist Yuu Otosaka. Blessed with supernatural abilities, Yuu initially uses his powers for personal gain, manipulating those around him for his own benefit.
However, when he encounters others with similar abilities, Yuu’s perspective begins to shift, and he embarks on a quest to right the wrongs of his past. As he grapples with the weight of responsibility and the consequences of his actions, Yuu learns valuable lessons about empathy, sacrifice, and the true meaning of power.
“Charlotte” is a thought-provoking series that delves into themes of loss, redemption, and the search for meaning in a world filled with uncertainty. Through its compelling narrative and well-developed characters, it prompts viewers to ponder their own values and choices, ultimately leaving a lasting impact long after the final credits roll.
2. Violet Evergarden (2018)
“Violet Evergarden” is a visually stunning anime series that follows the titular character, Violet Evergarden, a former soldier who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing in the aftermath of a devastating war.
As Violet takes on the role of an Auto Memory Doll, a profession that specializes in ghostwriting heartfelt letters for others, she learns to understand the complexities of human emotions and the power of words to convey love, grief, and longing.
With its breathtaking animation and poignant storytelling, “Violet Evergarden” is a mesmerizing and emotionally resonant anime that will leave you in awe of its beauty and depth.
1. Wolf Children (2012)
In “Wolf Children,” director Mamoru Hosoda invites viewers into a world where the line between human and beast blurs,finding the intricacies of family dynamics and the challenges of identity. The story revolves around Hana, a young woman who finds herself raising her extraordinary children alone after the tragic loss of their father, who was a werewolf.
As she finds the joys and struggles of motherhood, Hana must confront societal prejudices and her own fears while nurturing her half-wolf, half-human offspring, Ame and Yuki.
Through breathtaking animation and heartfelt storytelling, Wolf Children get deep into themes of love, acceptance, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us together. It’s a poignant reminder that family transcends species and that true strength lies in embracing our differences.
Must Watch Anime in April:
Your Lie in April (2014)
Rewatch it if you have already watch it since its April, and there won’t any better time to binge in again.
“Your Lie in April” is a music-themed anime that get the themes of love, loss, and the healing power of art. The series follows Kousei Arima, a talented pianist who lost his ability to hear the music after a traumatic event.
When he meets the free-spirited violinist Kaori Miyazono, Kousei’s world is turned upside down as he learns to rediscover his passion for music and life. Prepare to be swept away by the emotional performances and heart-wrenching revelations in this beautiful anime.
As we set on the journey of April, let these ten sad anime series accompany us through the highs and lows of life. From heart-wrenching tragedies to tales of redemption and hope, each of these anime offers a unique perspective on the human experience and the myriad of emotions that come with it.
So grab your tissues, immerse yourself in these beautiful stories, and let yourself be moved by the power of anime to touch our hearts and souls.
Honorable Mention
The Hole Is Open
