Since the world came to know about Japanese animated works, Studio Ghibli has crafted a remarkable legacy with its exceptional collection of films. Founded by the prolific directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, Studio Ghibli movies have become synonymous with beautifully crafted stories, spectacular animation, and thought-provoking themes.

Five of the studio’s films are among the ten highest-grossing anime feature films, and each film is a testament to the powerful narrative and the enduring magic of the studio. In today’s article, we’ll take a look at some of the best Studio Ghibli films. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.

10. Whisper Of The Heart

Studio Ghibli movies are generally directed by the prolific Japanese filmmaker, Hayao Miyazaki but “Whisper of the Heart” isn’t directed by him. In fact, it’s a film by Yoshifumi Kondō, who was a key animator and director at the studio. Released in 1995, the film follows a young girl named Shizuku as she discovers her passion for writing.

One evening, she looks through the checkout cards in her library books and discovers they were all checked out previously by someone named Seiji Amasawa. As Shizuku learns who this person is, she also begins to learn about herself and her goals in life – a self-discovery that will change her life forever.

9. Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind

Before Studio Ghibli was founded, “Nausicaä” was the movie Miyazaki working on. The film is often marketed as one of the best Studio Ghibli movies but initially, it was made at Topcraft, a studio which was later renamed Studio Ghibli. The film explores themes of environmentalism and the complexities of war.

Set in a post-nuclear futuristic world, the film tells the story of Nausicaä, the young teenage princess of the Valley of the Wind. She becomes embroiled in a struggle with Tolmekia, a kingdom that tries to use an ancient weapon to eradicate a jungle full of giant mutant insects.

8. Castle In The Sky

“Laputa: Castle in the Sky” is one of the best Studio Ghibli movies that showcase Miyazaki’s storytelling prowess and visual imagination. A beloved classic that captures the imagination and spirit of adventure, the film takes inspiration from Jonathan Swift’s novel “Gulliver’s Travels” wherein Laputa is a flying island.

Taking place in the late 19th century, the film follows the escapades of a boy and girl who are trying to keep a powerful crystal from the army, a group of secret agents, and a family of pirates, while searching for a legendary floating castle.

7. Grave Of The Fireflies

Studio Ghibli movies often combine elements of fantasy with a rich storyline, however “Grave of the Fireflies” is a thought-provoking war film from the studio. Based on the semi-autobiographical short story by Akiyuki Nasaka, the film tells the story of two siblings trying to survive during World War II in Japan.

After losing their mother in a bombing at the end of the war, Seita struggles to keep his younger sister alive who suffers from malnutrition. “Grave of the Fireflies” is a poignant exploration of the devastating impact of war on civilians.

6. Ponyo

A Studio Ghibli film, “Ponyo” is based on a Danish fairytale “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen. Miyazaki’s works are always visually stunning and Ponyo is nothing short of it. Being one of the highest-grossing anime movies of all time, the film tells the story of Ponyo, a goldfish who escapes from the ocean.

After getting rescued by a human boy Sōsuke the film deals with resolving Ponyo’s desire to become a human girl, against the devastating circumstances brought about by her acquisition and use of magic. With its vibrant animation, “Ponyo” captures the imagination and brings a sense of joy to audiences of all ages.

5. Kiki’s Delivery Service

“Kiki’s Delivery Service” is a coming-of-age story that follows Kiki, a young witch who moves to a new town and starts a delivery service using her broomstick. Set in a charming European-inspired town, Kiki faces various challenges and learns important life lessons while navigating her newfound freedom.

Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the movie portrays the gulf between independence and reliance in teenage girls. Adapted from the novel by Eiko Kadono, the Studio Ghibli film explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the value of hard work.

4. Howl’s Moving Castle

Based on the novel of the same name by Diana Wynne Jones, “Howl’s Moving Castle” has been one of the most successful Studio Ghibli movies theatrically. One of the remarkable feats of the movie is being nominated in the “Best Animated Feature Film” category at the Oscars 2005.

Howl’s Moving Castle follows Sophie, a young girl who turns into an old lady after being cursed by a witch. She seeks refuge in the enigmatic moving castle owned by the wizard Howl. Within the castle’s walls, Sophie discovers a world of magic, mystery, and unexpected alliances.

3. Princess Mononoke

Another film by Hayao Miyazaki, Princess Mononoke is an epic historical fantasy movie that was a critical hit in 1997. Set in the late Muromachi period of Japan, the film revolves around a young Emishi prince named Ashitaka, who is cursed by a boar god that would slowly kill him.

Seeking a cure, Ashitaka journeys West where he encounters San, who is charged with protecting the forest and the spirits that dwell within it. Trapped in between both sides, Ashitaka tries to broker peace between humans and supernatural beings.

2. My Neighbor Totoro

“My Neighbor Totoro” is one of the best Studio Ghibli movies that celebrate the wonders of childhood and the power of imagination. The film follows two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside to be closer to their mother, who is recovering from an illness.

As the girls grow acquainted with rural life, they encounter a giant, mystical forest spirit whom she soon befriends. The two girls suddenly find their lives filled with magical adventures in nature and fantastical creatures of the woods. The film explores themes of animism, Shinto symbology, and the joys of rural living.

1. Spirited Away

Hayao Miyazaki is a master of curating exceptional stories by adding cultural values from Japanese folklore and “Spirited Away” is a stellar example of his work. The Academy Award-winning Studio Ghibli film, Spirited Away tells the story of young Chihiro who finds herself trapped in a spirit world.

In a quest to help her parents turn back to normal after a witch transforms them into pigs, Chihiro must work her way through a bathhouse, frequented by various creatures, while trying to find a way to return to her world with her cured parents.

Which one of the following Studio Ghibli movies is your favorite? Feel free to comment down your thoughts and make sure to recommend some other anime films like the ones listed above, also don’t forget to share this article with your fellow otaku friends.

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