Turning Red’s exploration of self-acceptance, generational expectations, and chaotic adolescence finds echoes in these lesser-known anime.
These series blend heartfelt character growth with unique narratives, offering fresh perspectives on identity and resilience.
1. Flying Witch (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12 | MAL: 7.50
A young witch moves to rural Japan, balancing magical traditions with mundane life. Its gentle exploration of self-discovery mirrors Mei’s journey to embrace her dual identit.
2. Welcome to the N.H.K. (2006)
Streaming: Funimation
Episodes: 24 | MAL: 8.31
A reclusive man confronts societal pressures and self-worth with help from an eccentric girl. Tackles mental health and isolation like Mei’s internal struggles1019.
3. Full Metal Panic! (2002)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 24 | MAL: 7.59
A soldier protects a girl harboring advanced knowledge, blending mecha action with themes of responsibility and belonging. Shares Turning Red’s balance of humor and emotional depth.
4. Air Gear (2006)
Streaming: HIDIVE
Episodes: 25 | MAL: 7.74
Teens use powered skates to rebel against societal norms. Its focus on youth autonomy and flashy self-expression parallels Mei’s panda-fueled rebellion.
5. Symphogear (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 65 (5 seasons) | MAL: 7.23
Girls weaponize music to fight threats, symbolizing empowerment through vulnerability. Resonates with Turning Red’s theme of embracing inner strength.
6. Ghost Hunt (2006)
Streaming: Funimation
Episodes: 25 | MAL: 7.74
A team investigates paranormal cases, confronting personal fears. Echoes Mei’s journey of facing inner chaos with friends.
7. Gunslinger Girl (2003)
Streaming: HIDIVE
Episodes: 13 | MAL: 7.38
Child assassins grapple with trauma and agency. Darker but mirrors Mei’s struggle against external control.
8. One Outs (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 25 | MAL: 8.32
A gambler dominates baseball through psychological warfare. Shares Turning Red’s subversion of expectations and underdog grit.
9. Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai (2018)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 13 | MAL: 8.23
Teens navigate supernatural puberty metaphors. Directly parallels Mei’s surreal adolescence and emotional honesty.
10. Tomo-chan Is a Girl! (2023)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 13 | MAL: 7.74
A tomboy strives to be seen as feminine. Tackles gender expectations like Mei’s clash with traditional ideals.
11. Last Exile (2003)
Streaming: HIDIVE
Episodes: 26 | MAL: 7.88
Sky pilots challenge class hierarchies in a steampunk world. Shares Turning Red’s theme of defying societal limits.
12. Busou Renkin (2006)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 26 | MAL: 7.51
A teen wields alchemical weapons to protect others. Balances action with themes of self-sacrifice and growth1.
13. Chrono Crusade (2003)
Streaming: Funimation
Episodes: 24 | MAL: 7.64
A nun and demon confront past traumas. Explores redemption and identity akin to Mei’s familial reconciliation.
14. Ghost Hound (2007)
Streaming: Funimation
Episodes: 22 | MAL: 7.38
Traumatized teens confront psychological horrors. Mirrors Turning Red’s metaphorical approach to inner turmoil.
15. Seraphim Call (1999)
Streaming: Retro platforms
Episodes: 12 | MAL: 6.50
Anthology about girls confronting existential questions. Experimental storytelling aligns with Turning Red’s whimsical depth.
Why These Anime Work for Turning Red Fans
These series prioritize emotional authenticity and character-driven growth, much like Mei’s journey.
From Flying Witch’s quiet self-discovery to Welcome to the N.H.K.’s raw mental health portrayal, they tackle adolescence’s chaos with nuance. Their mix of humor, rebellion, and resilience offers fresh lenses on identity-perfect for fans seeking stories where quirks become strengths.
