Makoto Shinkai gave anime fans one hit movie after another. From Your Name, and Weathering with You to his latest release, Suzume, every film had a groundbreaking debut. But somewhere along the way, the themes of his creations have become repetitive.

Of course, fans have realized it, too. In the highly competitive anime industry, Shinkai needs to come up with refreshing ideas to keep the audience engaged. With a whole new film on its way, it’s the best time for the director to rethink what he wants to portray next.

Makoto Shinkai needs to move away from traditional romance stories Makoto Shinkai has not strayed from the romances since Your Name | Credit: CoMix Wave Films

A look at the last few movies of Makoto Shinkai will tell you everything you need to know about the director’s repetitive themes. From A Garden of Words, Your Name, Weathering with You to Suzume,...