This thesis analyzes how Japanese animated movies can serve as a tool for the formation of critical thinking, which is crucial for contemporary society and its further development. The Japanese animated movies are presented as a pedagogical tool and medium with great potential for educational practice. This paper analyzed the use of Japanese animated movies as a pedagogical tool for the formation of critical thinking, proposed pedagogical strategies for integration into educational practice, analyzed selected Japanese animated films that promote understanding of social, cultural and moral issues, and investigated how this medium encourages empathy and understanding of different perspectives. This medium improves the quality of teaching and makes it more interesting and effective for students. The use of Japanese animation helps to create a space where students feel confident to freely discuss and express their opinions, attitudes and experiences. Also, animated movies stimulate children's curiosity and satisfy their desire to give meaning to the world around them. The conclusion is that the Japanese animated movies as a pedagogical tool provide a wealth of resources and opportunities for enriching the pedagogical experience and educational process, and its integration into educational practices can significantly contribute to the formation of critical thinking, media literacy, emotional intelligence and cultural diversity. It is important to note that watching and analyzing the mentioned media encourages numerous aspects of critical thinking, it encourages students to ask questions, consider different perspectives, reflect on the content itself, it enables simulation of real life problems and situations and it encourages practical research through which students can develop critical thinking skills in a safe and controlled environment.