Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation studio known for producing some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed animated films of all time.
Founded in 1985 by directors Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and producer Toshio Suzuki, Studio Ghibli has produced a wide range of films that span a variety of genres, from fantasy and adventure to drama and romance.
Many of Studio Ghibli’s films have become cultural touchstones, beloved by audiences around the world for their beautiful animation, compelling characters, and imaginative storytelling.
Best Studio Ghibli Movies
We’ll explore some of the best Studio Ghibli movies and what makes them so special.
1. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
My Neighbor Totoro is a 1988 Japanese animated film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli.
The film tells the story of two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move with their father to the countryside to be closer to their mother who is recovering from an illness. They soon discover that their new home is inhabited by forest spirits, including a large, furry creature called Totoro.
The film is known for its gentle storytelling, stunning animation, and heartwarming themes of family, nature, and imagination. It has become a beloved classic of Japanese animation, and has been praised for its positive representation of childhood and the natural world.
My Neighbor Totoro has also had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring countless merchandise, spin-offs, and tributes.
It remains one of Studio Ghibli’s most popular and beloved films, and has introduced many people around the world to the magic and wonder of Japanese animation.
2. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
Kiki’s Delivery Service is a 1989 Japanese animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The movie is based on a novel by Eiko Kadono and tells the story of a young witch named Kiki who moves to a seaside town to start her own delivery service.
The film is known for its beautiful hand-drawn animation, heartwarming story, and charming characters. Kiki is a relatable protagonist who must navigate the challenges of growing up, finding her place in the world, and dealing with self-doubt.
The movie also explores themes of friendship, independence, and the importance of following your dreams.
One of the standout features of Kiki’s Delivery Service is its attention to detail and world-building. The seaside town of Koriko is depicted as a vibrant and bustling place, with shops, cafes, and a diverse cast of characters.
Kiki’s journey through the town as she makes her deliveries is filled with memorable encounters and experiences.
The movie’s score, composed by Joe Hisaishi, is also a standout feature, with its whimsical and melodic themes perfectly complementing the visuals and story.
Kiki’s Delivery Service has become a beloved classic of Japanese animation and is often cited as one of Miyazaki’s best works.
Overall, Kiki’s Delivery Service is a heartwarming and magical movie that is perfect for viewers of all ages. Its themes of self-discovery, friendship, and determination make it a timeless classic that is sure to inspire and uplift.
3. The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)
“The Secret World of Arrietty” is a 2010 Japanese animated film directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi and produced by Studio Ghibli.
The film is based on the 1952 novel “The Borrowers” by Mary Norton and tells the story of a young borrower named Arrietty, who lives with her family under the floorboards of a human home.
Here are three reasons to watch “The Secret World of Arrietty”:
Beautiful Animation: As with all Studio Ghibli films, “The Secret World of Arrietty” is beautifully animated.
The attention to detail in the animation is impressive, with each frame of the film being a work of art. The film’s animation brings the world of the borrowers to life, capturing their miniature world in intricate detail.
Charming Characters: The characters in “The Secret World of Arrietty” are charming and endearing. Arrietty is a strong and resourceful protagonist, while the human character Sho is sympathetic and kind-hearted.
The relationship that develops between Arrietty and Sho is heartwarming and adds emotional depth to the film.
Universal Themes: Although the film is set in a fantastical world of tiny borrowers, “The Secret World of Arrietty” deals with universal themes that are relevant to all audiences.
The film explores the themes of friendship, family, and the importance of finding your place in the world. These themes are explored in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making the film enjoyable for both children and adults alike.
4. Princess Mononoke (1997)
“Princess Mononoke” is a 1997 Japanese animated fantasy film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, and produced by Studio Ghibli.
The film is set in Japan’s Muromachi period and follows the story of a young warrior named Ashitaka, who becomes involved in a struggle between the forest gods and humans who are destroying the forest for their own gain.
The film explores themes of environmentalism, industrialization, and the clash between nature and civilization.
The character of Princess Mononoke, a human raised by wolves and fighting for the protection of the forest, has become an iconic figure in Japanese popular culture and a symbol of environmentalism.
The film’s animation is known for its intricate hand-drawn details and vivid colors, and the score by composer Joe Hisaishi has also become iconic.
“Princess Mononoke” was a critical and commercial success in Japan, grossing over $150 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film in Japanese history at the time.
The film has since become a classic in the anime genre and is widely regarded as one of the greatest animated films ever made. It has also had a significant impact on popular culture and has influenced many subsequent films and television shows.
5. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
“Howl’s Moving Castle” is a 2004 Japanese animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki, and produced by Studio Ghibli.
The film is based on the novel of the same name by British author Diana Wynne Jones, and tells the story of a young girl named Sophie who is transformed into an old woman, and her adventures with a young wizard named Howl.
One reason to watch “Howl’s Moving Castle” is the stunning animation and artistry of Studio Ghibli.
The film is visually stunning, with intricate hand-drawn backgrounds, imaginative character designs, and breathtaking sequences of magic and fantasy. The attention to detail and the richness of the world created by the film make it a feast for the eyes and a joy to watch.
Another reason to watch “Howl’s Moving Castle” is the emotional depth and complexity of its characters.
The film explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and love, and features a cast of well-developed and relatable characters who are struggling with their own personal demons.
The relationship between Sophie and Howl is particularly compelling, as they learn to accept each other’s flaws and strengths, and grow to care for one another.
Finally, “Howl’s Moving Castle” features a beautiful and haunting musical score by composer Joe Hisaishi, which perfectly captures the film’s sense of magic, wonder, and melancholy. The music adds to the film’s emotional impact and helps to create a sense of immersion in the film’s world.
Overall, “Howl’s Moving Castle” is a magical and heartwarming film that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its stunning animation, complex characters, and beautiful music make it a must-watch for fans of animation and fantasy, and a film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
6. Ponyo (2008)
“Ponyo” is a 2008 Japanese animated fantasy film written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. The film tells the story of a young goldfish named Ponyo who dreams of becoming human and the boy Sosuke who befriends her and helps her achieve her goal.
One of the strengths of “Ponyo” is its stunning and whimsical animation, which is a trademark of Miyazaki’s films.
The hand-drawn animation is rich in detail and color, creating a vivid and enchanting underwater world. The film also features a memorable and catchy soundtrack, with songs performed by the main voice cast.
The film’s story is heartwarming and imaginative, exploring themes such as friendship, family, and the balance of nature. The relationship between Ponyo and Sosuke is particularly touching, and their interactions are both charming and meaningful.
“Ponyo” also features strong voice performances from its cast, including the likes of Cate Blanchett, Liam Neeson, and Tina Fey in the English language version.
Overall, “Ponyo” is a delightful and enchanting animated film that showcases the unique vision and creativity of Hayao Miyazaki. It is a film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages and is a must-watch for fans of animated films or Japanese cinema.
7. Spirited Away (2001)
“Spirited Away” is a 2001 fantasy film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
The film tells the story of a young girl named Chihiro who, while moving to a new town with her parents, wanders into a mysterious world ruled by supernatural beings and is forced to work in a bathhouse for spirits in order to save her parents and find her way back home.
The film features breathtakingly beautiful animation and a captivating story that explores themes of identity, growing up, and environmentalism.
“Spirited Away” won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest animated films ever made.
8. The Cat Returns (2002)
The Cat Returns is a 2002 Japanese animated film directed by Hiroyuki Morita and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film tells the story of a high school student named Haru, who saves a cat from being hit by a car and suddenly finds herself whisked away to the Kingdom of Cats.
There, she is told that she has been brought to the kingdom as a thank you for saving the life of the Cat King’s son. Haru soon finds herself embroiled in a fantastical adventure, filled with talking cats, magical transformations, and daring rescues.
The Cat Returns is known for its beautiful animation, whimsical storytelling, and delightful characters. It has been praised for its sense of humor, its celebration of imagination and creativity, and its heartwarming themes of friendship and self-discovery.
The film is often seen as a spiritual successor to Studio Ghibli’s earlier film, Whisper of the Heart, which features some of the same characters and is set in the same world.
Like many Studio Ghibli films, The Cat Returns has gained a cult following around the world, and has inspired numerous fanworks, merchandise, and tributes.
9. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Grave of the Fireflies is a 1988 Japanese animated war film directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli.
The movie is based on a semi-autobiographical novel by Akiyuki Nosaka and tells the story of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, who struggle to survive in Japan during World War II.
The film is known for its powerful and emotional portrayal of the horrors of war, particularly the impact it has on innocent civilians.
The story is heartbreaking, with Seita and Setsuko facing starvation, illness, and the loss of loved ones. The movie is also notable for its stunning hand-drawn animation and attention to detail, with each frame filled with beautiful and poignant imagery.
One of the strengths of Grave of the Fireflies is its ability to create empathy for its characters, particularly the two siblings. The movie explores the complex emotions of grief, guilt, and love in a way that is both authentic and deeply affecting.
The relationship between Seita and Setsuko is heartwarming, and the tragedy of their situation is all the more devastating because of how much the audience cares for them.
The film’s score, composed by Michio Mamiya, is also a standout feature, with its haunting and melancholic themes perfectly complementing the visuals and story.
Grave of the Fireflies has become a revered classic of Japanese animation and is often cited as one of the most emotionally powerful war movies ever made.
Overall, Grave of the Fireflies is a must-see movie that is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Its themes of loss, resilience, and the human spirit make it a timeless masterpiece that is sure to stay with viewers long after the credits roll.
10. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
“Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” is a 1984 Japanese animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Topcraft and Studio Ghibli.
The film is based on Miyazaki’s own manga series of the same name and tells the story of a young princess named Nausicaä who lives in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by toxic forests and giant insects.
Here are three reasons to watch “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind”:
Stunning Visuals: As with all of Miyazaki’s films, the animation in “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” is breathtakingly beautiful.
The landscapes are incredibly detailed, and the colors are rich and vibrant. The film’s action scenes, which feature giant insects and airships, are also visually stunning and exciting.
Strong Female Protagonist: Nausicaä is a strong and compassionate protagonist who is not afraid to fight for what she believes in. She is a skilled warrior and a natural leader, but she also has a deep love for nature and a desire to understand and protect it.
Nausicaä is a great role model for young viewers and a refreshing change from the typical damsel in distress.
Environmental Message: “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” is a film with a strong environmental message.
The film explores the idea that humans should live in harmony with nature and that our actions have consequences for the world around us. This message is conveyed through the film’s plot and characters, making it an entertaining and thought-provoking watch for audiences of all ages.
11. Whisper of the Heart (1995)
“Whisper of the Heart” is a 1995 Japanese animated romantic drama film directed by Yoshifumi Kondō and written by Hayao Miyazaki, based on the manga of the same name by Aoi Hiiragi.
The film follows the story of a young girl named Shizuku, who discovers a love for reading and writing after she meets a boy named Seiji who dreams of becoming a master violin-maker.
The film explores themes of creativity, self-discovery, and coming-of-age. It is known for its realistic and relatable portrayal of teenage life and the struggles of finding one’s own path in life.
The film’s animation style is characterized by its attention to detail and expressive character designs.
Despite its critical acclaim, “Whisper of the Heart” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as other Studio Ghibli films, but it has since gained a cult following and is highly regarded by fans of the genre.
It has been praised for its heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth, and for its portrayal of the joys and pains of growing up.
12. From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)
“From Up on Poppy Hill” is a 2011 Japanese animated film directed by Goro Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli.
The film is set in 1963 Yokohama and tells the story of two high school students, Umi and Shun, who become friends and work together to save a beloved clubhouse from being demolished.
One reason to watch “From Up on Poppy Hill” is its beautiful hand-drawn animation, which captures the charming and nostalgic atmosphere of 1960s Japan.
The attention to detail in the backgrounds and character designs is exquisite, and the animation is accompanied by a lovely soundtrack composed by Satoshi Takebe.
Another reason to watch “From Up on Poppy Hill” is its engaging story and well-developed characters.
The film explores themes of family, identity, and the importance of preserving history and traditions. Umi and Shun are both relatable and likable characters who face personal challenges and must navigate their changing relationships with their families and the world around them.
Finally, “From Up on Poppy Hill” is a touching and heartwarming film that celebrates the beauty and importance of community and the connections between people.
The film’s message of hope and perseverance in the face of change and adversity is inspiring and relevant, making it a film that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages and backgrounds.
Overall, “From Up on Poppy Hill” is a beautiful and moving film that showcases the talents of Studio Ghibli and the Miyazaki family.
Its stunning animation, engaging story, and uplifting message make it a must-watch for fans of animation and Japanese culture, and a film that will leave a lasting impression on its viewers.
13. Tales from Earthsea (2006)
“Tales from Earthsea” is a 2006 Japanese animated fantasy film directed by Goro Miyazaki, the son of acclaimed filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki.
The film is based on the first four books of the “Earthsea” series by Ursula K. Le Guin and follows a young prince named Arren as he sets out to find the cause of the imbalance in the world of Earthsea.
One of the strengths of “Tales from Earthsea” is its beautiful and detailed animation, which is a hallmark of Studio Ghibli productions. The film’s vivid colors and lush backgrounds create a fully realized world that is both fantastical and grounded in reality.
The film also explores deep themes such as mortality, balance, and the cycle of life and death.
The story is complex and thought-provoking, and the characters are well-developed and memorable. The relationship between Arren and the wizard Sparrowhawk is particularly well done, as it evolves from mistrust to mutual respect and friendship.
“Tales from Earthsea” features a talented voice cast, including Timothy Dalton, Willem Dafoe, and Cheech Marin in the English language version.
Overall, “Tales from Earthsea” is a visually stunning and thematically rich animated film that explores deep and thought-provoking ideas. It is a must-watch for fans of Studio Ghibli films or fans of fantasy and adventure movies.
14. Porco Rosso (1992)
“Porco Rosso” is a 1992 adventure film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The film tells the story of a veteran World War I fighter pilot named Porco Rosso, who now works as a freelance bounty hunter chasing air pirates over the Adriatic Sea.
Porco has been cursed to look like a pig, and the film explores his struggles to come to terms with his identity and find a sense of purpose in a world that has changed since the war.
“Porco Rosso” features stunning animation, a memorable cast of characters, and a soundtrack composed by Joe Hisaishi. The film has been praised for its themes of redemption, honor, and love, as well as its imaginative depiction of aviation and the Mediterranean.
While it was not as commercially successful as some of Miyazaki’s other films, “Porco Rosso” has become a cult favorite among Studio Ghibli fans.
15. Pom Poko (1994)
Pom Poko is a 1994 Japanese animated film directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film tells the story of a group of tanuki (Japanese raccoon dogs) who band together to save their forest home from destruction by humans.
The tanuki use their shape-shifting abilities and supernatural powers to try to scare off the humans and protect their land. Along the way, they must confront their own internal conflicts and struggles, as they grapple with the rapidly changing world around them.
Pom Poko is known for its powerful environmental message, its exploration of themes such as tradition, modernity, and the relationship between humans and nature. It has been praised for its imaginative storytelling, its beautiful animation, and its sense of humor.
The film has become a cult classic among fans of Japanese animation, and has been cited as one of Studio Ghibli’s most thought-provoking and visually stunning works.
Its impact on popular culture has been felt around the world, and it remains a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world.
16. Castle in the Sky (1986)
Castle in the Sky is a 1986 Japanese animated adventure film directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The movie tells the story of two orphans, Pazu and Sheeta, who embark on a perilous journey to uncover the secrets of a mysterious floating castle known as Laputa.
One of the strengths of Castle in the Sky is its imaginative and visually stunning world-building. The movie is set in a steampunk-inspired world that is both futuristic and nostalgic, with intricate mechanical devices and fantastical landscapes.
Miyazaki’s attention to detail and his ability to create a sense of wonder and magic through his animation is a standout feature of the film.
Another strength of the movie is its well-crafted characters, particularly the two young protagonists. Pazu and Sheeta are relatable and likable characters who are driven by their courage, curiosity, and compassion.
Their relationship is sweet and heartwarming, and their journey is filled with danger, action, and moments of tenderness.
The movie’s score, composed by Joe Hisaishi, is also a standout feature. Hisaishi’s music is both atmospheric and uplifting, perfectly capturing the sense of adventure and wonder that permeates the film.
Overall, Castle in the Sky is a charming and delightful movie that showcases the best of Miyazaki’s talents as a storyteller and animator. Its themes of friendship, courage, and environmentalism make it a timeless classic that is beloved by audiences of all ages.
3 Characteristics of Studio Ghibli Movies
Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation studio that is renowned for producing some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed animated films of all time. Here are three characteristics that are often associated with Studio Ghibli movies:
Beautiful Animation: One of the most distinctive characteristics of Studio Ghibli movies is their stunning animation.
The studio is known for its use of hand-drawn animation techniques, which give their films a unique look and feel. The attention to detail and the richness of the colors in Studio Ghibli movies are often cited as being particularly impressive.
Themes of Nature and Ecology: Another hallmark of Studio Ghibli movies is their focus on the natural world and the environment. Many of their films explore themes of ecology and the relationship between humans and nature.
This is reflected in the stories, characters, and settings of their movies, which often feature lush forests, fantastical creatures, and magical spirits.
Strong and Complex Characters: Studio Ghibli movies are also known for their complex and well-developed characters.
Their protagonists are often strong-willed, independent, and resourceful, but they are also flawed and vulnerable.
The supporting characters are also given depth and personality, which adds to the richness of the films. The studio is particularly renowned for its strong female characters, who are often central to the plot and are depicted as being just as capable as their male counterparts.
3 Reasons To Watch Studio Ghibli Movies
nique storytelling and imagination: Studio Ghibli movies are known for their imaginative and original storytelling. Each film explores a unique theme or concept, often drawing from Japanese folklore and mythology, and features memorable and lovable characters.
The movies transport viewers to fantastical worlds that are full of wonder and magic.
Beautiful animation and attention to detail: Studio Ghibli movies are famous for their breathtaking animation, which is characterized by its attention to detail and vivid colors.
The films are often hand-drawn and take years to complete, resulting in an unparalleled level of visual artistry.
The attention to detail extends to the film’s sound design, which often features lush and evocative musical scores.
Thought-provoking themes and messages: Studio Ghibli movies often explore complex themes and messages that resonate with viewers of all ages.
The films often deal with universal topics such as environmentalism, coming-of-age, and the importance of compassion and empathy.
The stories are layered and often tackle difficult subjects in a way that is accessible to all viewers, making them a perfect choice for families to watch together.
Best Studio Ghibli Movies – Wrap Up
Studio Ghibli has produced many beloved and acclaimed animated films over the years, making it difficult to choose the “best” ones.
Each of these films showcases Studio Ghibli’s signature blend of stunning animation, rich storytelling, and memorable characters. They cover a range of genres and themes, from fantasy and adventure to drama and social commentary.
Whether you are a fan of animation or just looking for a great movie to watch, Studio Ghibli’s films are sure to entertain and inspire you with their creativity, heart, and artistry.