BEST ANIME TO STREAM

The Japanese may be slightly insane when it comes to TV game shows, but you can’t fault them for their fantastic animated films and series

BEST FOR ABSURD ACTION

One Punch Man

What seems at first a totally ridiculous premise for a show quickly reveals itself to be a stroke of genius. Saitama is a superhero in a world filled with heroes and monsters. But unlike most of his caped counterparts, Saitama can dispatch the various villainous fi ends with a single gut-busting punch.

TV series / Netflix

Castlevania

Video games may still be struggling to conquer Hollywood, but this Castlevania TV adaptation nailed the move to the small screen. There are only four episodes right now, but season two will bring plenty more gothic renditions of Belmont’s fight against Dracula.

TV series / Netflix

The Boy and the Beast

Few people would want to be the apprentice of a huge hairy monster, but orphaned Shibuya doesn’t have a choice when living on the streets. Despite the odds, though, the pair eventually form a bond to rival Scooby and Shaggy.

Film / Amazon Video

Cowboy Bebop

Rated as one of the all-time best anime series, Cowboy Bebop sees Spike and his crew of bounty hunters jet about the solar system locking up criminals. With only 26 episodes, you don’t have to forfeit your social life to reach the finale.

TV series / Netflix

Your Name

We’ve all seen those Freaky Friday-type films where two people reluctantly swap bodies, but to call Your Name a cliched copycat would be brutally unjust. This romance story feels totally unique, with its gorgeous animations and whimsical characters.

Film / Amazon Video