Suggestions for a good anime to watch (i.e. Voices of a Distant Star)

[Blacksite]

I've recently noticed that I got back into watching anime. I was watching Final Fantasy Unlimited and Voices of a Distant Star the other day. They were both very good, in my opinion. Though, I was wondering if anyone could suggest another good anime for me to watch. My friend, well, she's into anime as well and we were planning on going out and renting another anime to watch this weekend. So, if anyone could suggest a good anime to watch (particularly one that's similar to the works of Makoto Shinkai) that'd help a lot. I guess I'm looking for an anime that's both full of drama, action and romance. Nothing too cheesy and nothing along the lines of being too kid-orientated. I guess you can say I'm looking for a mature anime. Something that honestly moved you when you watched it. Haha, I guess it's hard to describe. :/

Anyways, if you have any suggestions please let me know. Thanks, guys.

[Dave]

Fate/Stay Night
Solty Rei
5 Centimeters Per Second (Makoto Shinkai)
The Place Promised in Our Early Days (Makoto Shinkai)
Last Exile
Negima
Chrono Crusade
Angelic Layer
Noein
Moon Phase

[Xelis]

Certainly your best bet is Monster, most amazing storytelling from an anime. Ticks all your boxes and defantly has no kiddy elements in it.

EDIT: Ah, your renting, Monster hasn't been released in the west yet, only fansubs about.

[DrFeelgreat]

Gurren Lagann.

Without a doubt the best anime of 2007.

[Vulgotha]

Passage of the Stars
Crest of the Stars
Banner of the Stars I
Banner of the Stars II
Banner of the Stars III


Favorite series. Of all time.

Deep.

[Blacksite]

I remember watching the first episode of Angelic Layer a while back. I think that's the only anime I watched from the list of titles that you guys offered. It was alright. You got to love that Icchan character though, weird guy and kind of comical. So I'll be sure to check out some of the ones you guys offered. Cheers, and thanks for the help.