Some of these aren't much better than others, and so what's most important is that they're on the list, this isn't about arguing which is better than any other, because all 10 of these films are very special.

Akira - A technically amazing and intense film

Ghost in the Shell - Also technically amazing, and very interesting writing. The TV series that came later is worth checking out too.

Grave of the Fireflies - The most unusual film on this list, in that it is essentially a historical non-fiction drama that could have been done as a live action film. It's main strength using the animated medium was in being able to craft a more genuine and realistic performance with the child characters than it could have done with child actors in the live action medium. A finesseful, powerful, and beautiful drama.

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind - The oldest film on this list, and yet an all around fantastic film

Princess Mononoke - One of the most successful anime films of all time, and for good reason

Patlabor 2 - Perhaps the best opening sequence of any anime, but the rest of the film is excellent also.

Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade - A lesser known but by no means lesser quality anime film. Technically excellent, well written.

Ghost in the Shell 2, Innocence - A worthy sequel to Ghost in the Shell.

Cowboy Bebop the Movie - An extremely well made and entertaining film. The show is possibly even better, so check it out too.

The End of Evangelion - An incredible, intense film. The writing expresses a very tortured outlook on contemporary society. Very controversial for a variety of reasons. Very dark!

Honourable mentions: Wings of Honneamise, Both Vampire Hunter D Films, Ninja Scroll, Macross Plus (Movie edition), Steamboy, and anything else which Mamoru Oshii or Hayao Miyazaki had a hand in creating.