Spotlight on Anime Heroines

The anime industry still has a long way to go in terms of female representation, both on screen and behind the scenes.

These films offer compelling examples of female character design and storytelling, foregrounding complex protagonists and feminist themes that explore identity, agency, resilience and self-discovery. Their choices and desires drive their narratives forward as they navigate both real and imagined worlds on their own terms.

Across fantasy, folklore and contemporary drama, these stories put female perspectives at the heart of one of cinema’s most inventive art forms. From the folklore adaptations of Princess Mononoke and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya , to the contemporary worlds of Belle and Suzume , alongside cult classics including Millennium Actress and Angel’s Egg , this season showcases the remarkable breadth of anime storytelling.

Featuring stunning 4K restorations of Princess Mononoke and Angel’s Egg , these films span beloved classics and underseen masterpieces alike. – Ella Cawthorn, Assistant Curator (Film & TV)