Since the release of its first feature film Doraemon: Nobita’s Dinosaur in 1980, the Doraemon film series has become a beloved cultural treasure of Japan, capturing the hearts of generations and continents. Beyond the gadgets and wacky adventures, the Doraemon films are known for their deep emotional resonance, exploring themes such as friendship, family, sacrifice, and growth.
Here are the 5 most emotional Doraemon movies, voted by fans and celebrated for the lasting feelings they leave behind.
5. Doraemon: Nobita and the Undersea Devil’s Castle (1983)
One of the more serious-toned films in the series, this film follows Nobita and his friends as they explore an underwater world and encounter a hidden civilization planning the destruction of Earth. The plot takes a surprisingly touching turn with the sacrifice of the underwater buggy, a farewell scene that remains one of the most heartbreaking in the series.
4. Doraemon: Nobita’s Treasure Island (2018)
Inspired by Treasure Island, this high-seas adventure combines thrilling pirate escapes with heartwarming family moments. A key scene in which Nobita risks everything to save Doraemon elevates the story, showing how courage and love can emerge from even the shyest characters. Beneath the action lies a touching narrative about parenthood, loss and the unexpressed strength of bonds.
3. Doraemon: Nobita’s Dinosaur 2006
A remake of the very first Doraemon film, this film follows Nobita as he raises a baby dinosaur, Piisuke, from a fossil. Their bond strengthens, but Piisuke will eventually have to return to his prehistoric home. The tearful farewell scene, in which Nobita chooses Piisuke’s happiness over his own attachment, remains one of the most iconic moments in Doraemon’s story, teaching audiences the bittersweet essence of true love.
2. Doraemon: Nobita and the Steel Troops (1986)
What begins as a fun discovery of giant robot parts turns into a battle against an army of machines intent on world domination. The character of Lilulu, a robot who begins to question her existence thanks to Nobita and Shizuka, brings emotional depth to the film. His final choice offers a mix of pain and hope, leaving viewers bleary-eyed and contemplative.
1. Doraemon: Nobita and the Birth of Japan (2016 remake)
This remake of the 1989 classic tops the list for its raw depiction of loneliness, rebellion, and self-discovery. When Nobita decides to escape, he is joined by his friends, each fleeing from their own burdens. Their journey to prehistoric Japan turns into a story of survival, courage, and learning the true meaning of home. The emotional arc culminates in the realization that the family we often take for granted is irreplaceable.
Bonus: Stand by Me Doraemon (2014)
As the first 3D film in the series, Stand by Me Doraemon condensed the most emotional chapters of Nobita and Doraemon’s journey, from their first meeting to their separation. The film sparked a wave of “Dora cries” across Asia, with scenes like Nobita’s duel and Doraemon’s farewell making even adult fans cry.
