Best French manga and anime
French animes: an underrated gem among the best animated series in the world
Although less numerous and often overshadowed by the worldwide fame of Japanese animes, French animes possess a rich cultural heritage and impressive longevity. These series, despite having lesser popularity, have established themselves and integrated durably into the audiovisual landscape, shaping contemporary animated television with a unique style and recognized narrative depth.
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French animes stand out by a visual and stylistic identity very different from American or Japanese productions. They often favor innovative techniques and storylines rooted in their own culture. While Japanese influences are present, these works bring a fresh perspective on animated themes, offering a rare diversity worthy of study to better appreciate their complexity and artistic richness.
10. The Mysterious Cities of Gold (2012): a worthy heir to an 80s classic
In 2012, the iconic series The Mysterious Cities of Gold made its grand return, continuing the adventure began in 1982. It highlights Esteban, a fearless orphan, who, with his companions, explores a mysterious America in search of the legendary Seven Cities of Gold. This saga skillfully blends South American mythology and science fiction elements, captivating a new generation while feeding the nostalgia of older fans.
While the evolution of animation style towards 3D may require some adjustment, the modern season remains a visual feat. The iconic characters Esteban, Zia, and Tao are reimagined to captivate today's fans, with deeper storytelling and a thoughtful narrative pace. Although less striking than the original version, this sequel remains a must-watch for all enthusiasts of French animes.
9. LoliRock: an underrated magical and musical series
Released in 2014, LoliRock draws inspiration from cult magical girl franchises like Sailor Moon and Precure. The heroine, Iris, discovers she is a princess with a unique destiny, gifted with magical powers destined to defend the kingdom of Ephédia against the forces of evil. The series skillfully balances music and battles, with the young protagonists leading double lives between concerts and supernatural confrontations against the antagonist Lord Gramorr.
Its bright and dynamic world charms a diverse audience. Less focused on a complex plot, LoliRock remains memorable thanks to endearing characters and colorful graphics. It is an excellent introduction to magical girls for newcomers and a long-awaited series for aficionados anticipating a potential season 3.
8. Lastman: a deep and intense French action anime
Adapted from the famous 2013 comic, Lastman immerses the viewer in the story of Richard Aldana, a big-hearted boxer who protects a young girl named Siri against threatening supernatural forces. This series brilliantly combines narrative maturity and dynamic action scenes, propelling French animation into a new dimension.
Its graphic style, influenced by American comics as well as Japanese classics such as Dragon Ball and Fist of the North Star, creates a unique atmosphere. Also serving as a prequel to the comic book, Lastman enriches the universe while offering a renewed look at the shonen genre.
7. Valérian and Laureline: a science-fiction and time adventure anime
For fans of science fiction filled with humor, Valérian and Laureline (2007) is a gem to discover. The plot follows Valérian, a time police officer, who saves Laureline from certain death in 10th-century France, triggering a series of temporal disturbances threatening Earth in 2416. Together, they must repair these breaches while avoiding time paradoxes.
Their intergalactic journey is tinged with wit and irony, with lively dialogue and a charming duo. Each episode plunges us into original extraterrestrial worlds, offering a fresh touch to the genre. This underrated French series deserves a prime place in your collection of French animes.
6. Wakfu: a French fantasy universe rich in emotion and adventure
Initially designed as a video game, Wakfu has won over the public with its animated series launched in 2008. The story follows Yugo, a young Eliatrope, who sets out to find his missing family, accompanied by his loyal companions. The richness of the series lies in the psychological development of the characters: from naive young heroes, they gradually become seasoned adventurers, taking the viewer on an unforgettable initiatory journey.
With multiple seasons, special episodes, and OVAs, the franchise is appreciated in whole while allowing a deep dive into a complex and fascinating universe. Fans’ attachment to the protagonists remains strong, making Wakfu a sure value of French animation up to 2024 and beyond.
5. Ōban Star-Racers: a thrilling anime dedicated to interstellar racing
Ōban Star-Racers proposes a revolution in the sports genre by integrating races in a futuristic intergalactic setting. At the heart of the Great Ōban Race, an epic competition gathering the most talented pilots in the universe, Eva Wei joins the team as a mechanic, hoping to restore broken family ties.
Beyond spectacular races, the series explores deep emotions: Eva struggles to gain her father Don’s approval, marked by a painful past linked to a tragic racing accident. This human dimension brings a rare emotional intensity, making Ōban Star-Racers much more than just a sports animation.
4. MFKZ: a masterpiece of bold and explosive French animation
For fans of adult animation with a resolutely bold visual and narrative style, MFKZ is a must-see work. Co-produced by French and Japanese studios, this feature film follows Angelino, a 22-year-old with superpowers, hunted by mysterious agents.
The story turns chaotic as he confronts an alien named Mr. K. The action scenes are brutal, enriched with bloody realism contrasting with the deliberately exaggerated cartoonish style. This paradoxical juxtaposition gives the work a strong identity, appealing to viewers seeking original and impactful animation.
3. Miraculous Ladybug: the worldwide success of an original French animated series
Probably one of the most emblematic French series, Miraculous Ladybug features two young heroes protecting Paris from enemy forces while managing their daily student life. Co-produced by Method and Toei Animation, the series values human bonds and the secrets between Marinette and Adrien, the alter egos of Ladybug and Cat Noir, creating an engaging suspense around their dual identity.
With several successful seasons, upcoming movies including a fifth expected in late 2025, and humorous spin-offs like Miraculous Chibi, the franchise captivates a loyal audience for over ten years. This lasting success attests to the considerable cultural impact of this French animation series.
2. The Summit of the Gods: a poignant and grand French animated film
The Summit of the Gods stands as an essential French animated film, adapted from the famous Japanese manga and supported by Netflix. The story follows journalist Fukamachi Makoto, determined to climb Everest to find a lost camera belonging to legendary mountaineer George Mallory, a key historical proof.
Through his meeting with Habu Joji, a solitary climber, the viewer discovers the extreme dangers of high mountain climbing. The film realistically illustrates the tragedies and heightened passion linked to this perilous quest, offering majestic images and a rare immersion in a hostile natural environment.
1. Code Lyoko: the French icon of animated science fiction
For anyone who grew up in the 2000s, Code Lyoko represents a major reference in French animated science fiction. Combining a digital universe and adventure, its aesthetic inspired by works like Serial Experiments Lain integrates the 2D/3D duality that defines the series.
Even today, it holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. Despite a slow start, the richness of the characters, the evolution of relationships — especially between Ulrich and Yumi — and Odd’s humor keep the series enjoyable. Although the 3D animation may seem somewhat dated, the dramatic intensity and universe remain pure pleasure for lovers of French animes.
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