Top 20 Studio Ghibli movies for anime lovers

Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata's Studio Ghibli was founded in 1985. Since then their studio has been famous for its animation. The films from Studio Ghibli are known for their heartwarming themes, stunning visuals, and captivating storytelling which the viewers enjoy. Their art style is distinct from contemporary styles as their animation is completely hand-drawn using traditional techniques. Each frame shows the unique craftsmanship of the artists. So, let us list down the top 20 Studio Ghibli movies for anime watchers. Please note, this entire article is based on the writer's opinion. Reader's discretion is advised.

1) Spirited Away (2001)

Spirited Away tells the story of a young girl Chihiro who is transported to a magical spirit world. Her parents are transformed into pigs when they consume the forbidden food of that place. As Chihiro travels alone in this world she encounters various magical creatures. Haku was one of the magical spirits of that world that helped Chihiro on her journey to face the challenges. The movie focuses on the themes of courage, friendship, and the importance of knowing your own self. Spirited Away won the award for Best Animated Feature Film at THE Academy Awards in 2003.

2) Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

Kiki’s Delivery Service tells the adventurous story of a 13-year-old girl, Kiki, who goes on a journey to hone her talents as a witch. She travels to a new town with her talking cat, Jiji, where she starts her delivery service. Slowly she gains the trust of the townspeople and thrives in the new place. However, she suddenly faces a challenge. It is a coming-of-age movie with themes of friendship, perseverance, and growth. The viewers appreciated the movie's approach to exploring the themes of independence and finding one's place in the world.

3) Grave Of The Fireflies (1988)

Isao Takahata’s magnum opus, Grave Of Fireflies, tells the sad story of two siblings who struggle in the world. Seita and Setsuko lost their mother to the bombings and faced the challenges that the world has shoved them into. This is a devastating story and viewers have mentioned how it leaves the watchers traumatized. This movie has received immense critical acclaim for its portrayal of the cost of human lives during war and the loss of innocence when faced with harsh realities.

4) The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya (2013)

This dreamlike movie is Isao Takahata’s final film. This movie tells the story of Princess Kaguya who grows up with her adoptive parents and enjoys her life. The animation of this movie leans heavily on the traditional Japanese art style which features Sumi-e (ink wash painting) and watercolor. This gives the film a unique quality that the viewers enjoy. The movie was nominated at the Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature Film. It is considered a masterpiece of animation for its significant contribution to the art form.

5) The Boy And The Heron (2023)

The Boy And The Heron is the most recent movie by Studio Ghibli. Hayao Miyazaki made a return after 10 years of hiatus. The movie tells the story of Mahito who after losing his mother is struggling with the loss. He relocates to the countryside with his father and stepmother where he encounters a talking heron. He embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The viewers of the movie enjoyed the movie’s intentionally ambiguous narrative, the vibrant visuals with intricate details, and profound emotional depth.

6) The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)

The Secret World Of Arrietty delves into the life of Arriety who is a borrower and lives in a human house. The borrowers are miniature people who live among humans and borrow essential items for their survival from the human houses that they live in. When Arrietty is suddenly discovered by Shawn they form a unique bond of friendship. However, Arrietty eventually had to make difficult choices to prevent the discovery of borrowers’ existence. The movie is praised by its viewers for its animation and the themes of friendship and courage.

7) Princess Mononoke (1997)

Princess Mononoke is one of the most unique films of Studio Ghibli. The movie tells the story of Ashitaka, who goes on a journey to find the cure for the curse that was put on him by a demon boar god. In this journey, Ashitaka meets San, a young woman, who defends the forest from human exploitation. Through this journey, Ashitaka learns valuable lessons on the interconnectedness of all living things. This movie has a profound vision of the impact of industrialization and the struggles of coexistence between humans and nature which the viewers enjoy.

8) My neighbor Totoro (1988)

My Neighbour Totoro is one of the most legendary films of Studio Ghibli so much so that the gentle giant Totoro is the mascot of Studio Ghibli. This movie tells the story of two young girls who move to an old house with their father where their mother is recovering from an illness. The girls encounter a world of mysterious nature spirits that cannot be seen by adults. They form a unique bond with Totoro who is a friendly forest spirit. The movie delves into the themes of hope and healing which is enjoyed by the viewers.

9) When Marnie Was There (2014)

When Marnie Was There tells the story of 12-year-old Anna who is forced to relocate to the countryside because of her illness. Anna forms a unique bond of friendship with Marnie, a young girl, who lives at the abandoned hut by the sea. Anna and Marnie grow closer and share secrets. Eventually, Anna learns about Marnie's past which helps her confront her insecurities and accept herself for who she is. The themes of friendship have been profoundly delved into in this movie which the viewers enjoy.

10) Ponyo (2008)

Ponyo focuses on the story of Brunhilde who is a young goldfish who desires to become a human. A young boy named Sosuke finds her stuck in a jar by the sea and rescues her. When she encounters the human world she is enamoured and her desire to become human only grows. She uses her father's magic to turn into a human girl however it disrupts the balance and causes a disaster. This movie delves into the themes of love and friendship and has a unique outlook on how important balance is in this world.

11) The Wind Rises (2013)

The Wind Rises tells the story of Jiro Horikoshi who aspires to design aircraft in spite of having poor eyesight. He eventually follows his passion and joins a major Japanese engineering company. The film follows Jiro’s professional endeavors along with his romance with Naoko, a young woman suffering from Tuberculosis. The viewers find this movie thought-provoking in its exploration of love, loss, and dreams. The Wind Rises has won critical acclamation for its poignant storytelling and exploration of complex themes.

12) Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Howl’s Moving Castle tells the story of Sophie who lives in a magical kingdom. Sophie’s life is turned upside down when she is cursed by a witch who turns her into an old woman. Sophie finds refuge in a moving castle where he meets Howl who is a powerful wizard. As they embark on their journey together Sophie learns the important lesson on inner beauty. The movie delves into the themes of appearance and reality, love, and war and its consequences. Considered as a visual masterpiece this movie has a huge fan base and is considered as a masterpiece.

13) From Up On Poppy Hill (2011)

From Up On Poppy Hill was directed by Goro Miyazaki. The movie tells the story of Umi and her high-spirited classmate Shun Kazama on their journey to protect their building Latin Quarter which faces demolition. When Umi’s school decided to demolish the building because they wanted to make developments for the Olympics, Umi and Shun joined hands to prevent it. The delves into the themes of preservation of cultural heritage, hope, and optimism. From Up On Poppy Hill received the Japan Academy Prize for Amination Of the Year.

14) Castle In The Sky (1986)

Castle In The Sky tells the story of Sheeta, a young girl, with a magical pendant. The pendant has the power to control the magical island of Laputa. Sheeta embarks on a journey to find the island of Laputa with the help of Pazu. As Laputa is facing the danger of exploitation by the ruthless Colonel Muska, Sheeta must protect the island. The movie portrays the themes of friendship, courage, and the importance of protecting nature. The movie has received numerous accolades including the first place for Animage Anime Grand Prix.

15) Whisper Of The Heart (1995)

Whisper Of The Heart is a coming-of-age movie that tells the story of Shizuku Tsukishima who enjoys reading. When she finds that the books she chooses at the library have already been checked out by a boy named Seiji Amasawa she is intrigued and searches for the boy. She finds him and learns that he is a violin maker. Their love for books leads them to a budding romance. The movie delves into the theme of the importance of following one’s own path.

16) The Cat Returns (2002)

The Cat Returns tells the story of Haru a high school girl whose life turns upside down when she protects a cat from danger. The cat she saved was the heir to the throne of the Cat Kingdom who offered his son’s paw for marriage as a form of gratitude. Haru is overwhelmed by the world of the Cat Kingdome and looks for an opportunity to escape. Haru gets help from an unexpected companion, Baron Humbert von Gikkigen. The movie delves into the themes of gratitude, responsibility, and the unexpected consequences of kindness.

17) Pom Poko (1994)

Pom Poko tells the story of the tanuki (raccoon dogs) community who lives peacefully on the outskirts of Tokyo, in the Tama Hills. Their life is changed unexpectedly when encroachers come to their land for urban development. The tanuki takes measures to protect their land from the encroachers by using elaborate pranks and tactics. This movie is a unique and thought-provoking story that portrays the themes of environmentalism. The movie also focuses on the theme of cultural preservation. The movie’s unique blend of humor and satire has been widely acclaimed by its viewers.

18) My Neighbours The Yamadas (1999)

My Neighbour The Yamadas is a unique movie that focuses on the everyday life of the Yamada family. The Yamadas are a typical Japanese family who are dealing with life. The movie is portrayed in an episodic format with each episode focusing on a different aspect of the family. The animation in My Neighbour The Yamada has a distinct minimalist style that captures the essence of human emotions. The movie provides a unique outlook on the joys and struggles of life. The movie an Excellence Award For Animation at the 1999 Japan Media Arts Festival.

19) Tales From Earthsea (2006)

Tales From Earthsea released in 2006, tells the story of Lord Arch-mage Sparrowhawk, a powerful wizard, who embarks on a journey to bring natural balance. The land of Earthsea faces the challenge when nature loses its balance causing the death of crops and the awakening of the dragon. Sparrowhawk must bring back the balance and save Earthsea. The movie explores the themes of balance, self-discovery, and the importance of confronting inner darkness. The movie was Goro Miyazaki’s debut as a director.

20) Only Yesterday (1991)

Only Yesterday tells the story of Taeko a 27-year-old woman who travels to the Japanese countryside to help her sister’s family with the safflower harvest. Taeko faces a stagnation in her life in Tokyo which she tries to overcome during her visit to the countryside. Taeko slowly reminiscences about her childhood days during her time in the village. She also worries about her struggles with societal expectations. Only Yesterday is a poignant and introspective film that uniquely explores the complexities of adulthood. The themes of nostalgia, and social and cultural change have a thought-provoking impact on the viewers.