9 Anime Movies Based On Fairy Tales

Fairy tales have always been a go-to for magical stories, but when anime gets involved, these tales become something entirely new. With vivid animation, unique twists, and a bit of that signature anime flair, classic fairy tales get a fresh makeover that keeps us hooked. Whether it’s a well-known story like Cinderella or a more obscure folktale, anime brings these timeless tales to life in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

In this article, we’re looking at 9 anime movies that take inspiration from beloved fairy tales. Each film gives its own creative spin on the characters and stories we grew up with, mixing in adventure, emotion, and stunning visuals. Let’s dive into these reimagined fairy tales and see how anime has put its own twist on these classic narratives.

9. Sinbad (2015-2016)

Inspired by the tales of Sinbad the Sailor from One Thousand and One Nights, this anime trilogy follows the daring adventures of Sinbad, a young boy with dreams of exploring the world’s vast oceans, as he sets sail on a journey to explore new lands and unravel mysteries. Along the way, he meets a girl named Sana, who holds a mysterious power and is being pursued by dangerous forces. Together, they discover a secret island filled with wonder and danger, while facing challenges from sea monsters and sinister foes. The film blends action, fantasy, and friendship, showcasing Sinbad’s courage and determination as he embarks on a thrilling quest to protect Sana.

The Sinbad trilogy breathes new life into the classic story while introducing fresh characters and unexpected twists. The captivating visuals, combined with fast-paced action and engaging storytelling, make these films a must-watch for anime fans who love a mix of fairy tales and high-stakes adventures.

8. Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp (1982)

Also based on the story from One Thousand and One Nights, this anime adaptation tells the familiar tale of Aladdin, a poor young man who discovers a magical lamp with a powerful genie inside. With the genie’s help, Aladdin seeks to win the love of a princess and defeat the evil sorcerer who stands in his way.

This 1982 version stays close to the traditional narrative. The themes of courage, destiny, and the triumph of good over evil are woven throughout, while the animation brings Aladdin’s world of flying carpets, hidden treasures, and mystical beings to life. It’s a delightful retelling of a timeless fairy tale, filled with the kind of fantasy and action that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

7. Thumbelina: A Magical Story (1993)

Originally a 26 episodes series, this was edited into an 80-minute movie. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s Thumbelina, it follows the tiny heroine as she embarks on a grand adventure through the natural world. Born from a flower, Thumbelina faces numerous challenges, including an unwanted marriage proposal from a toad and an escape from a beetle king, all while searching for her true love.

The anime captures the charm and whimsy of Andersen’s original tale, with beautiful animation and a touching story about perseverance, friendship, and love. Thumbelina’s journey may be filled with danger, but it’s also brimming with heartwarming moments and magical creatures.

6. Jack and the Beanstalk (1974)

This anime adaptation of the English fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk brings the familiar story to life with vintage 70s animation and a classic take on the characters. Jack, a poor but adventurous boy, trades his cow for magic beans, which grow into a giant beanstalk leading to the sky. There, he meets a mysterious giant, a kidnapped princess, and a lot more danger than he bargained for.

The princess has her own storyline and agency beyond being just a damsel in distress. The film also includes more magical elements and emotional depth, making it both a visually rich and engaging retelling of the original tale.

5. The Little Mermaid (1975)

Long before Disney’s adaptation, this 1975 anime film stayed true to the darker, more melancholic version of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid. The story follows Marina, a mermaid who falls in love with a human prince and makes a deal to trade her voice for legs, with the hope of winning his love. Unlike the happily-ever-after ending many are familiar with, this version captures the original tale’s bittersweet conclusion, focusing on Marina’s sacrifice and emotional turmoil.

The film’s pastel-colored animation and haunting soundtrack amplify the tragic beauty of Andersen’s story. It’s a powerful reminder of the original fairy tale’s themes of unrequited love and self-sacrifice, making this anime a must-watch for those who prefer the deeper, more poignant side of fairy tales.

4. The Wild Swans (1977)

This anime adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Wild Swans follows the tale of a young princess named Elisa, who embarks on a self-sacrificing quest to save her brothers from an evil queen’s curse that has turned them into swans. As Elisa faces incredible challenges, the film emphasizes themes of family loyalty, courage, and perseverance.

Retaining the dark and magical atmosphere of the original fairy tale, the vivid animation and emotionally charged narrative make The Wild Swans a faithful and beautiful adaptation that captures the essence of Andersen’s work while resonating with viewers of all ages.

3. Twelve Months (1980)

Based on a Russian fairy tale, Twelve Months tells the story of a young girl forced by her cruel stepmother and stepsister to gather firewood in the forest on New Year’s Eve. There, she encounters the twelve personified months, who come to her aid in completing her impossible task. This heartwarming tale highlights kindness, generosity, and the beauty of nature’s cycles.

The anime’s stunning animation and touching story create a unique entry in the realm of fairy tale adaptations. With its wintry setting and focus on changing seasons, Twelve Months is both visually captivating and emotionally uplifting, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.

2. Doraemon: Nobita’s Dorabian Nights (1991)

In a whimsical twist on Arabian Nights, Doraemon: Nobita’s Dorabian Nights sends our beloved characters, Nobita, Doraemon, and their friends, on an epic adventure through the magical world of 1,001 nights. Using Doraemon’s time-traveling gadgets, the friends explores ancient Arabia, filled with flying carpets, magic lamps, and daring bandits.

With plenty of humor and action, this movie beautifully combines science fiction with fairy tale elements. Rooted in the tales of Arabian Nights, it retains the signature charm of Doraemon, delivering moral lessons about friendship, bravery, and problem-solving while providing a nostalgic journey for long-time fans and a delightful introduction for newcomers.

1. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)

Directed by Studio Ghibli’s Isao Takahata, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is based on one of Japan’s oldest and most beloved folktales, The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter. The story follows Kaguya, a mysterious girl found inside a glowing bamboo stalk, who grows into an exceptionally beautiful woman. Despite her humble beginnings, she is sought after by noblemen and even the Emperor himself. However, Kaguya holds a secret, she is not of this world, and her destiny lies far from Earth.

This stunningly animated film blends the gentle elegance of traditional Japanese art with a moving story about beauty, nature, and the transient nature of life. Like all great fairy tales, it explores deeper themes of identity, longing, and the passage of time, making it a profound and visually breathtaking adaptation.