10 Best Anime Films Of The '80s

There isn't another film in existence that's anything like Angel's Egg. That's not an opinion, nor is it some kind of over-exaggerated reach. It's incredibly weird, it's unashamedly unwilling to hold its viewer's hand, and even its director Mamoru Oshii has been quoted saying that he himself isn't exactly sure what the film is actually about.

Angel's Egg is far more interested in letting the viewer decide exactly what to make of its somewhat sparse plot, with very little dialogue and context given to the viewer to help guide them through its narrative.

The animation is often subtle, featuring long, drawn-out scenes with little to no cuts and extensive, incredibly detailed establishing shots that hang around for an uncomfortably long time. Even the soundtrack is paired back, often using howling wind or even complete silence in place of a score.

Angel's Egg is obviously a very personal film for its director, building off Mamoru Oshii's personal struggles with faith and Christianity. Yet, its slow, methodical pacing fills you with an odd sense of dread that no other film has managed to replicate in such a creepy, yet understated way. It truly is a one-of-a-kind experience, and one best viewed with the lights on.