Fandango Staff
Embark on a magical journey through the spellbinding universe of one of the most celebrated animation studios in the world: Studio Ghibli! From floating castles and hidden spirits to the latest enchanting tale of The Boy and the Heron, we've compiled all Studio Ghibli movies in order for fans and newcomers alike.
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1. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Before Studio Ghibli was officially founded, there was Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, an animated feature that set the stage for the studio's future masterpieces. This groundbreaking film blends a poignant environmental message with an epic adventure narrative.
It tells the story of Princess Nausicaä, a charismatic and brave young woman fighting to bring peace to a post-apocalyptic world dominated by giant insects and toxic jungles. Her quest for harmony between humans and nature is a recurring theme in Miyazaki's works, and this is film a foundational piece of the Ghibli legacy.
2. Castle in the Sky (1986)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Castle in the Sky, the first film officially under the Studio Ghibli banner, introduces viewers to a fantastical adventure high above the clouds - an enchanting tale that revolves around a young boy and girl's quest to find a legendary floating castle.
The film, rich in action, whimsy and ecological undertones, showcases Ghibli's signature blend of breathtaking visuals and storytelling that resonates with audiences of all ages, setting a high benchmark for the studio's future works.
3. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Directed By: Isao Takahata
A stark contrast to the studio's other early offerings, Grave of the Fireflies is a heart-wrenching depiction of the impact of war. This Studio Ghibli film tells the story of two siblings struggling to survive in war-torn Japan.
Renowned for its emotional depth and stunning animation, this movie is not just an artistic triumph but also a powerful anti-war statement, further demonstrating Studio Ghibli's range and ability to tackle complex, mature themes.
4. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming exploration of childhood wonder and the enchantment of the natural world. This beloved film introduces audiences to the lovable forest spirit Totoro, who has since become an iconic symbol of Studio Ghibli.
The story, set in rural Japan, follows two sisters who encounter magical creatures while coping with their mother's illness. The film's tender portrayal of family bonds, along with its delightful fantasy elements, have made it a timeless classic.
Watch: My Neighbor Totoro on Vudu
5. Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Kiki's Delivery Service, another gem in the Studio Ghibli collection, beautifully depicts the adventures of a young witch named Kiki. This coming-of-age story, set against a picturesque seaside town, explores themes of independence and self-discovery.
Kiki, with her loyal cat Jiji, navigates the complexities of adolescence while running her air courier service. The film's blend of whimsy and life lessons has endeared it to audiences, making it a pivotal part of Studio Ghibli's celebrated collection.
6. Only Yesterday (1991)
Directed By: Isao Takahata
Only Yesterday offers a reflective and deeply personal narrative, quite different from Studio Ghibli's usual fantasies. The film follows a 27-year-old woman reminiscing about her childhood as she travels to visit family in the countryside.
Only Yesterday's exploration of memory and self-discovery diverges from Ghibli's norm, presenting a grounded, slice-of-life story that resonates deeply with adult audiences.
Watch: Only Yesterday on Vudu
7. Porco Rosso (1992)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Porco Rosso is an imaginative adventure set in 1930s Italy. The story centers around an ace pilot who has been mysteriously transformed into a pig. This film has been praised for its quirky protagonist and rich, historical setting.
As it entertains with elements of romance, comedy and action (pirates! aerial escapades!), Porco Rosso also contemplates themes of identity and redemption.
Watch: Porco Rosso on Vudu
8. Ocean Waves (1993)
Directed By: Tomomi Mochizuki
Ocean Waves, one of the lesser-known entries in the Studio Ghibli catalog, is a realistic, touching portrayal of teenage life and love, delving into the complexities of a high school romance and the bittersweet trials of adolescence.
Its subtle storytelling and touching character-driven narrative provide an introspective look into the experiences of youth, distinguishing this quiet movie from the studio's more fantastical offerings.
Watch: Ocean Waves on Vudu
9. Pom Poko (1994)
Directed By: Isao Takahata
Pom Poko is an imaginative and socially conscious film about a community of shape-shifting raccoon dogs. These creatures, known as tanuki in Japanese folklore, band together to protect their forest home from urban development.
The film is an engaging blend of humor and ecological commentary, showcasing Ghibli's commitment to environmental themes and its flair for integrating folklore into modern storytelling.
Watch: Pom Poko on Vudu
10. Whisper of the Heart (1995)
Directed By: Yoshifumi Kondo
Whisper of the Heart, a touching and beautifully crafted film, explores young love and the pursuit of dreams. This Ghibli film, directed by Kondo with a screenplay by Miyazaki, tells the story of a book-loving girl and a violin-making boy.
It's a tender narrative that captures the uncertainties and aspirations of youth, set against the backdrop of everyday life in Tokyo.
Watch: Whisper of the Heart on Vudu
11. Princess Mononoke (1997)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Princess Mononoke, one of Miyazaki's most acclaimed films, is a powerful tale of conflict between humans and nature. This epic narrative, set in ancient Japan, explores themes of environmentalism and human greed, portraying a fierce battle between forest spirits and industrializing humans.
Its compelling characters, intricate plot, and stunning visuals mark Princess Mononoke as a landmark film in animation, embodying the depth and complexity that Studio Ghibli is renowned for.
Watch: Princess Mononoke on Vudu
12. My Neighbors the Yamadas (1999)
Directed By: Isao Takahata
My Neighbors the Yamadas stands out from other Ghibli productions with its original comic-strip style animation. It's a departure from the usual Ghibli fantasies, offering instead a series of vignettes about the everyday life of the Yamada family.
Its humorous and insightful take on family dynamics, combined with its distinctive visual approach, showcases the studio's willingness to experiment and explore new storytelling methods.
13. Spirited Away (2001)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Spirited Away, perhaps the most iconic film from Studio Ghibli, is a breathtaking journey into a mystical world. This Oscar-winning masterpiece tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl navigating a realm of spirits and gods after her parents are transformed into pigs by the witch Yubaba.Chihiro must navigate this enchanting yet challenging setting to find a way to rescue her parents and return to the human world.
The film's rich narrative, mesmerizing visuals and deep thematic elements capture the essence of Ghibli's magic. It's a landmark piece in the world of animation.
Watch: Spirited Away on Vudu
14. The Cat Returns (2002)
Directed By: Hiroyuki Morita
The Cat Returns is a delightful adventure which expands upon the imaginative world first introduced in Whisper of the Heart. This film follows a young girl who saves a cat and is unexpectedly rewarded with an invitation to the magical Kingdom of Cats. The more she loses herself in the kingdom, the more she loses herself. If she wants to return to the human realm, she'll need to rediscover who she is -- and fast.
With its charming story and light-hearted tone, The Cat Returns is a testament to Studio Ghibli's ability to craft enchanting, family-friendly tales that resonate across generations.
Watch: The Cat Returns on Vudu
15. Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Howl's Moving Castle, another Miyazaki masterpiece, is a fantastical tale filled with magic, romance and a powerful anti-war message.
The story revolves around Sophie, a young woman cursed by a witch, who finds refuge in the moving castle of the enigmatic wizard Howl. This visually stunning film combines imaginative storytelling with deep thematic content, exploring the transformative power of love and courage in the face of adversity.
Watch: Howl's Moving Castle on Vudu
16. Tales from Earthsea (2006)
Directed By: Goro Miyazaki
Tales from Earthsea, directed by Hayao Miyazaki's son Goro, marks a new chapter in Studio Ghibli's legacy. This film, based on Ursula K. Le Guin's classic fantasy series, explores a mythical world filled with dragons, sorcery and self-discovery.
While it received mixed reviews,Tales from Earthsea's ambitious narrative and stunning visuals furthered the studio's reputation for high-quality animation and storytelling.
17. Ponyo (2008)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Ponyo is a heartwarming story of friendship and ecological harmony. This film, inspired by the classic fairy tale "The Little Mermaid," follows the adventures of a goldfish princess named Ponyo and her desire to become human after forming a bond with a young boy.
Similar to many other Studio Ghibli movies, the movie's enchanting visuals, endearing characters and environmental message create a delightful experience for viewers of all ages.
Watch: Ponyo on Vudu
18. The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)
Directed By: Hiromasa Yonebayashi
The Secret World of Arrietty offers a fresh perspective on the classic story The Borrowers.
This film beautifully narrates the life of tiny people living secretly in a human household, focusing on their adventures and the friendship between a tiny girl named Arrietty and a human boy.
19. From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)
Directed By: Goro Miyazaki
From Up on Poppy Hill is a beautifully crafted animated film that takes us on a captivating journey to post-war Japan.
With its enchanting storytelling and stunning visuals, this movie transports us to a time of hope and resilience. Set against the backdrop of a country rebuilding itself, Poppy Hill follows a touching story of young love and determination, leaving a lasting impression on viewers of all ages. From Up on Poppy Hill is a nostalgic,heartwarming tale that celebrates the power of love and the strength of the human spirit.
20. The Wind Rises (2013)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
The Wind Rises is a beautifully crafted tale that serves as a fictionalized biography of Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of World War II fighter planes.
This contemplative film blends historical reality with artistic imagination, exploring themes of creativity, love and the moral dilemmas of technological advancement.
Watch: The Wind Rises on Vudu
21. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)
Directed By: Isao Takahata
Takahata's final masterpiece, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, is a visually breathtaking adaptation of the classic Japanese folktale "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter." This film, with its unique watercolor and sketch-like animation, tells the story of the magical Princess Kaguya, who is found inside a glowing bamboo stalk, and her life on Earth.
"The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter" is one of Japan's oldest and most prominent narratives, often regarded as a national treasure. It's been a source of inspiration for a wide range of artistic works, and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is a beautiful tribute to it.
22. When Marnie Was There (2014)
Directed By: Hiromasa Yonebayashi
When Marnie Was There is a hauntingly beautiful story of friendship and self-discovery. This film, adapted from Joan G. Robinson's novel, follows a young girl sent to the countryside for health reasons, where she meets the mysterious Marnie.
The film's emotional depth, coupled with Ghibli's signature animation style, creates a memorable experience, exploring themes of isolation, connection and identity.
Watch: When Marnie Was There on Vudu
23. Earwig and the Witch (2020)
Directed By: Goro Miyazaki
Earwig and the Witch marks Studio Ghibli's first foray into 3D CGI animation. Based on a novel by Diana Wynne Jones, this film tells the story of a headstrong young girl who grows up in an orphanage and is adopted by a witch.
While this was another of Goro Miyazaki's films that received mixed reviews, particularly regarding its shift in animation style, the film still carries the studio's legacy of strong, independent young characters and whimsical storytelling.
Watch: Earwig and the Witch on Vudu
24. The Boy and the Heron (2023)
Directed By: Hayao Miyazaki
Released on December 8th, 2023, The Boy and the Heron is the latest addition to Studio Ghibli's illustrious filmography. It is a captivating tale that intertwines themes of nature, friendship and the cycle of life.
This film beautifully narrates the story of a young boy's journey through a mystical world where life and death coexist in harmony.
Continuing Miyazaki's legacy of creating deeply moving and visually stunning films, The Boy and the Heron is an absolutely enchanting experience that is resonating with audiences worldwide.
Watch: Get tickets to see The Boy and the Heron
The Final Word: The Lasting Impact of Studio Ghibli Films
Studio Ghibli's films have left an indelible mark on the world of animation and storytelling. Through their enchanting narratives, rich characters and breathtaking animation, these films transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, touching the hearts of audiences around the globe.
Each of the Ghibli films, from the whimsical My Neighbor Totoro to the profound Spirited Away, offers a unique window into the human experience, exploring themes of love, nature and resilience.
As Studio Ghibli continues to create and inspire, its films remain timeless treasures, captivating new generations and reaffirming the power of animation to bring stories to life.
Get tickets to see the newest Ghibli film release, The Boy and the Heron, in theaters now!
