10 Anime Series That Fell Short of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes

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Anime, a distinctively Japanese style of animation, has been around since the 1910s but didn’t truly capture the world’s attention until the 1960s. Since then, its popularity has grown significantly, leading to the art form we recognize today. The combination of compelling narratives, diverse genres, and distinctive animation techniques have made anime a global sensation.

Streaming platforms making anime more accessible has undeniably boosted its popularity. However, it’s the exceptional quality of the shows themselves that has truly catapulted anime to global fame. With their captivating narratives, unique animation styles, and intriguing characters, these series have drawn viewers from all corners of the globe. Many have left an indelible mark as cultural icons. Remarkably, some of the most renowned and critically acclaimed anime shows come very close to achieving a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, but surprisingly, a few fall short.

As a passionate film enthusiast, here I present to you ten captivating anime series that have nearly achieved a flawless rating on Rotten Tomatoes, arranged according to the acclaim bestowed upon them by esteemed critics. Enjoy!

10
‘Dragon Ball Z’ (1989 – 1996)

87% on Rotten Tomatoes

In the ’80s, Akira Toriyama’s anime series, “Dragon Ball”, was widely adored. However, when its sequel, titled “Dragon Ball Z“, debuted in 1989, it significantly elevated Toriyama’s franchise. This continuation followed the adventures of Goku and his fellow martial artists, who were endowed with extraordinary powers. They engaged in fierce battles against dangerous adversaries, protected the world from destruction, and pursued the legendary Dragon Balls – seven magical orbs capable of summoning a dragon that grants wishes.

Dragon Ball Z marked a shift for Toriyama’s series, emphasizing science fiction aspects and intense, do-or-die battles. It surpassed its precursor to become one of the most acclaimed and adored anime globally. Despite boasting an impressive 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, some dedicated fans might disagree with it not being perfect.

9
‘Eden’ (2021 – 2022)

88% on Rotten Tomatoes

Over the past few years, streaming behemoth Netflix has emerged as one of the leading backers for anime, funding fresh animated shows and strengthening its presence in the market. One such production is the original series Eden, exclusively available on Netflix. This series is set in a future where Earth is populated by artificial intelligence robots, and it tells the story of two robots who discover a human baby and choose to nurture her as their own.

Typically, anime are based on existing manga series, but that’s not the norm for the show named Eden. In this case, the anime was developed from the Netflix series, transforming Eden into a multi-media franchise. Despite being just 4 episodes long, Eden received an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

8
‘Speed Racer’ (1967 – 1968)

88% on Rotten Tomatoes

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, let me tell you about my favorite animated series – “Speed Racer,” also known as “Mach GoGoGo.” This high-octane adventure takes you on a thrilling ride alongside our young protagonist, Speed Racer, as he strives to become the world’s greatest racer. Despite its brief run of just 52 episodes spanning a single year, it managed to reach top speed and leave an indelible mark on anime in America for years to come. It wasn’t until the 1990s and shows like “Dragon Ball Z” or “Sailor Moon” appeared that Speed Racer started to be overshadowed, but its impact on the genre remains significant even today.

Despite being an older production, the anime series “Speed Racer” continues to be highly influential and frequently cited as one of the best in the genre. It has also garnered high praise, boasting an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

7
‘Devilman Crybaby’ (2018)

89% on Rotten Tomatoes

Devilman Crybaby revolves around main character Akira Fudo, a teenage boy who merges with a demon for immense power. Now known as Devilman, he battles an ancient line of demons intent on wiping out humankind. This Netflix original series is a contemporary reinterpretation of the 1970s manga series called Crybaby. While it updates the story’s ’70s backdrop to the present day, it maintains the fundamental essence from the manga.

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I must confess that the controversial series “Devilman Crybaby” stirred quite a debate among critics and fellow viewers. Some found its graphic depictions of violence, explicit sexual content, and bleak themes to be excessive and off-putting. However, this show was the only adaptation to remain faithful to the original manga’s grim ending, which left audiences divided.

Despite these criticisms, the series received high praise for its exceptional animation, captivating soundtrack, and well-developed characters. Consequently, it garnered an impressive 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, proving that it resonated strongly with many viewers, including myself.

6
‘Samurai Champloo’ (2004 – 2005)

89% on Rotten Tomatoes

The anime titled “Samurai Champloo” revolves around a teahouse waitress who saves two skilled swordsmen from the gallows and employs their services to locate the samurai with the scent of sunflowers. Situated in an imaginary depiction of Japan during the Edo era, “Samurai Champloo” blends traditional aesthetics with modern influences, notably ’90s hip-hop music.

Despite airing for just 26 episodes in a single year, the animated series “Samurai Champloo” was highly acclaimed by critics. It boasts an impressive 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is often cited among the finest anime series ever produced.

5
‘Lazarus’ (2025 – Present)

90% on Rotten Tomatoes

In the near future, the story unfolds around a specialized task force whose mission is to find a renowned scientist and compel him to develop a life-saving vaccine. However, this wonder drug they seek has an unforeseen side effect: it inexplicably causes death for those who have taken it. Unlike many other titles on our list, Lazarus is not derived from a manga.

As a dedicated fan here, I’m thrilled to share that Lazarus is one of the freshest anime series gracing our screens right now, and it’s been making waves from the get-go. With an impressive 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s no wonder why! The genius behind this captivating production is none other than Shinichirō Watanabe, a name synonymous with greatness in the anime world, as he was the director of the legendary Cowboy Bebop. Adding to its allure are the action sequences masterfully crafted by Chad Stahelski, who has made a name for himself with his work on the John Wick film series. It’s safe to say that Lazarus is off to a fantastic start, and I can hardly wait to see where it takes us!

4
‘Yasuke’ (2021 – 2022)

93% on Rotten Tomatoes

The show titled “Yasuke” is an original production that made its debut on Netflix. It’s inspired by the real-life character, Yasuke, who lived in 16th-century Japan. This African man served as a warrior and even achieved the prestigious status of samurai during his time in Japan.

In a fictional universe that blends magic and futuristic tech, Yasuke chronicles its protagonist, Yasuke, as he fights against those aiming to dominate Japan, confronting sinister supernatural entities. Despite receiving an impressive 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, some critics and viewers argued that the fantastical elements were unnecessary, contending that the original story was already grand enough without the addition of magic.

3
‘Aggretsuko’ (2018 – 2023)

96% on Rotten Tomatoes

A unique web series titled “Aggretsuko,” produced by Netflix, has come out and stands apart from the rest on our list. This show chronicles a 25-year-old anthropomorphic red panda named Retsuko, who lives in contemporary Japan, dealing with everyday life and its complexities.

For five seasons spanning from 2018 to 2023, the satirical comedy titled “Aggretsuko” held its ground. The first three seasons garnered a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes due to their unique blend of absurdity, relatability, and insightful social commentary. Despite its final season causing a slight dip in the overall rating, “Aggretsuko” still boasts an impressive 96% approval on Rotten Tomatoes.

2
‘Attack on Titan’ (2013 – 2023)

96% on Rotten Tomatoes

In a world rebuilt after an apocalypse, we follow our main character, Eren Jaeger, on his mission to eliminate the Titans – colossal beings resembling humans – who are pushing humanity towards oblivion.

The anime series, known as “Attack on Titan,” has towered above many others in the industry. Throughout its decade-long run, it has garnered widespread praise for its gritty themes, exceptional voice acting, captivating storyline, and thrilling action scenes. Often hailed as one of the best anime series ever produced, “Attack on Titan” is recognized for broadening the global fanbase of anime.

1
‘Chainsaw Man’ (2022)

97% on Rotten Tomatoes

The storyline of Chainsaw Man originates from its namesake manga. Following a deception that ends his life, a youth combines with his demon companion, reincarnating as the potent hybrid known as Chainsaw Man.

The show has been lauded for its unique mix of genres, thrilling action scenes, and well-developed characters. A few shows in this roundup received impressive Rotten Tomatoes ratings from only a few critics. However, “Chainsaw Man” outshone them all with an astounding 97% rating, amassed from 89 reviews, barely missing the flawless 100%.

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2025-05-18 22:35