Studio Ghibli is one of the most beloved animation studios in the world, known for its breathtaking visuals, deep storytelling, and unforgettable characters. Founded by Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki, the studio has created some of the most critically acclaimed animated films of all time. Here is a definitive ranking of every Studio Ghibli movie, from the absolute best to the lesser-known titles.
1. Spirited Away (2001)
Arguably Ghibli’s magnum opus, Spirited Away tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl who finds herself trapped in a mysterious spirit world. The film won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and remains one of the most enchanting films ever made.
2. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
The most iconic of all Ghibli films, My Neighbor Totoro follows two sisters who befriend a giant, friendly forest spirit. Its simplicity, warmth, and nostalgia make it a timeless classic.
3. Princess Mononoke (1997)
An epic fantasy film with environmental themes, Princess Mononoke is one of Ghibli’s darkest and most mature works. The film explores the conflict between industrialization and nature through stunning animation and compelling characters.
4. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
One of the most heart-wrenching war films ever made, this Isao Takahata masterpiece tells the tragic story of two siblings struggling to survive in war-torn Japan. It’s a must-watch but will leave you emotionally devastated.
5. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
A visually stunning adaptation of Diana Wynne Jones’s novel, Howl’s Moving Castle follows Sophie, a young woman cursed to live as an old lady, and her journey with the mysterious wizard Howl.
6. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
While technically made before Studio Ghibli was officially founded, Nausicaä is often considered its first film. This post-apocalyptic tale of a young princess fighting to restore balance to the world remains one of Miyazaki’s greatest works.
7. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
A wholesome coming-of-age story about a young witch starting her own delivery service in a seaside town. Kiki’s journey of self-discovery is beautifully told through gentle storytelling and stunning visuals.
8. The Wind Rises (2013)
Miyazaki’s semi-biographical final (for now) film tells the story of Jiro Horikoshi, the engineer behind Japan’s World War II fighter planes. A deeply emotional meditation on dreams, love, and war.
9. Castle in the Sky (1986)
The first official Studio Ghibli film, Castle in the Sky is a thrilling adventure following two kids on a quest to find a mythical floating city. It’s a must-watch for any Ghibli fan.
10. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)
Isao Takahata’s final film is a visually unique and deeply moving adaptation of Japan’s oldest folk tale. The hand-drawn watercolor animation is breathtaking.
11. Porco Rosso (1992)
A unique adventure about a pilot cursed to look like a pig. Porco Rosso is charming, funny, and full of thrilling aerial sequences.
12. When Marnie Was There (2014)
A beautifully animated yet underappreciated film, When Marnie Was There tells a mysterious and touching story about friendship and self-discovery.
13. Whisper of the Heart (1995)
A grounded, heartfelt romance about a young girl discovering her passion for writing. Unlike many other Ghibli films, this one focuses entirely on everyday life, making it all the more relatable.
14. The Cat Returns (2002)
A fun, whimsical spin-off of Whisper of the Heart, The Cat Returns follows a girl who is whisked away to a kingdom of talking cats. It’s lighthearted and enjoyable, but not as deep as Ghibli’s best.
15. Pom Poko (1994)
An unusual but charming film about shape-shifting raccoons trying to save their forest from human destruction. It’s funny, bizarre, and full of environmental themes.
16. Only Yesterday (1991)
A mature, slice-of-life film about a woman reminiscing on her childhood while contemplating her future. Slow-paced but deeply emotional.
17. My Neighbors the Yamadas (1999)
A unique, sketch-style animated comedy about a quirky Japanese family. While charming, it lacks the epic storytelling of Ghibli’s best works.
18. Earwig and the Witch (2020)
Ghibli’s first CGI film was a major departure from their traditional animation style. Unfortunately, it received mixed reviews due to its underdeveloped story and lackluster visuals.
Studio Ghibli has produced some of the greatest animated films of all time, and even its weaker entries have a special charm. Whether you’re looking for fantasy, adventure, or heartfelt slice-of-life stories, there’s a Ghibli film for everyone.
