In 1969, a group of kids write a "Book of Prophecy" about a villain trying to destroy the world. In 1999, those childish fantasies start coming true. A mysterious cult leader named "Friend" is taking over the world. Verdict: Often called the "Greatest manga ever written." It’s a slow, paranoid masterpiece.
Kyotaro is a dark, edgy middle schooler who fantasizes about murdering the popular class idol, Anna. But when he actually watches her from the library, he realizes she’s just a weird, hungry, emotional girl. This show starts cringe but evolves into the most authentic depiction of young love ever animated. Verdict: Don’t drop it after episode 1. By episode 5, you’ll be crying.
These series have achieved mainstream success, rivaling Western shows like Game of Thrones or Stranger Things in popularity.