Studio Ghibli has been captivating audiences for nearly five decades since its inception in 1985. Famous for its iconic hand-drawn animation, the studio is equally celebrated for its memorable characters and unique storytelling. From romance to fantasy and war dramas, Ghibli has produced masterpieces across various genres. With 24 films to its name, explore our ranked list of all Studio Ghibli movies to discover the studio’s finest work.
24. Earwig and the Witch
- Release Year: 2020
- Genre: Animation, Family, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 22 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 4.7/5.39
In an effort to modernize their signature animation style, Studio Ghibli transitioned from its beloved hand-drawn aesthetics to 3D CGI in Earwig and the Witch, directed by Hayao Miyazaki’s son, Goro Miyazaki. The film centers around Earwig, an orphan adopted by a witch to be her assistant. Unfortunately, this experimental venture failed to resonate with long-time fans, lacking the familiar Ghibli charm and engaging characters.
23. Tales From Earthsea
- Release Year: 2006
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 55 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 6.3/6.8
Directed by Goro Miyazaki, Tales From Earthsea is based on Ursula K. Le Guin’s Earthsea series. This film tells the story of Archmage Sparrowhawk and a troubled prince, Arren, who embark on a quest to restore balance in their enchanted realm. Although it marked Goro’s directorial debut, it didn’t capture the essence that fans expected from a Ghibli film.
22. The Ocean Waves
- Release Year: 1993
- Genre: Animation, Romance, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 12 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 6.6/6.5
Unlike most Ghibli films, The Ocean Waves offers a grounded portrayal of high school relationships as Taku Morisaki reflects on his final year with the arrival of Rikaku Muto. With a shorter runtime of just 72 minutes, fans remain divided on the film’s charm, viewing it both as underappreciated and hit-or-miss.
21. My Neighbors the Yamadas
- Release Year: 1999
- Genre: Animation, Family, Comedy
- Duration: 1 hour 44 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.1/7.09
My Neighbors the Yamadas takes a refreshing turn with its watercolor-like animation, showcasing the daily lives of the Yamada family. This film adapts Hisaichi Ishii’s manga, embodying a distinct style that resonates in this warm-hearted family drama.
20. Pom Poko
- Release Year: 1994
- Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 59 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.2/7.2
Directed by Isao Takahata, Pom Poko follows shape-shifting tanukis fighting against urban expansion. Despite its playful premise, the film critiques environmental destruction and serves as an eye-opening watch.
19. The Cat Returns
- Release Year: 2002
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Slice of Life, Family
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.1/7.7
If you’re a cat lover, The Cat Returns is a must-see. Follow Haru Yoshioka as she saves a cat prince and enters a whimsical world. This film serves as a spiritual follow-up to Whisper of the Heart, featuring the beloved Cat Baron.
18. From Up on Poppy Hill
- Release Year: 2011
- Genre: Animation, Family, Romance
- Duration: 1 hour 31 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.4/7.7
Set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s Olympic preparations in 1964, From Up on Poppy Hill portrays the budding romance between Shun and Umi as they fight to preserve their school’s clubhouse. This movie departs from fantasy, offering a relatable, poignant love story.
17. The Wind Rises
- Release Year: 2013
- Genre: Animation, Biography, Drama
- Duration: 2 hours 6 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.7/8.1
The Wind Rises is Ghibli’s only fictionalized biopic, telling the story of Jiro Horikoshi, the designer behind WWII-era fighter planes. While the film takes creative liberties, it remains a deeply moving exploration of ambition and love alongside Jiro’s aviation journey.
16. When Marnie Was There
- Release Year: 2014
- Genre: Animation, Mystery, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 42 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.6/8.0
When Marnie Was There narrates the beautiful story of Anna, a girl struggling with asthma who finds friendship with the mysterious Marnie during a summer in the countryside. This tale explores friendship and self-discovery, striking a personal chord with many viewers.
15. Ponyo
- Release Year: 2008
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.6/7.9
Ponyo is a magical story about a goldfish princess who desires to become human after forming a bond with a boy named Sousuke. This enchanting tale captures the essence of innocent love and friendship, depicted with stunning visuals and heartfelt characters.
14. The Secret World of Arrietty
- Release Year: 2010
- Genre: Animation, Fantasy, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.6/7.9
The Secret World of Arrietty brings to life the adventures of a tiny girl, Arrietty, who lives under the floorboards. When she befriends a human boy, they embark on a journey of friendship across their vastly different worlds. This heartwarming tale showcases the power of connection despite obstacles.
13. Porco Rosso
- Release Year: 1992
- Genre: Animation, Comedy, Action, Adventure
- Duration: 1 hour 33 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.7/7.9
Follow the story of Porco, a World War I pilot cursed to live as a pig in Porco Rosso. He ventures into a world of adventure, comedy, and unexpected alliances. This one is a lighthearted film with punchy humor that captivates audiences of all ages.
12. Only Yesterday
- Release Year: 1991
- Genre: Animation, Romance, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 51 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.6/7.44
Only Yesterday is a nostalgic masterpiece, offering a glimpse into Taeko’s childhood as she visits her family in the countryside. Directed by Isao Takahata, this narrative speaks volumes about reminiscence, interconnectedness, and the simplicity of life.
11. The Boy and the Heron
- Release Year: 2023
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 2 hours 3 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.4/7.6
After the setback of Earwig and the Witch, Hayao Miyazaki returned with The Boy and the Heron, a poignant coming-of-age story about Mahito, who grapples with the loss of his mother during WWII. This film is a full-circle moment for Ghibli, showcasing the beauty of acceptance and the journey to find one’s place in the world.
10. Whisper of the Heart
- Release Year: 1995
- Genre: Animation, Romance, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 51 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.8/8.2
Whisper of the Heart tells the heartfelt tale of Shizuku Tsushikishima, a book-loving girl on a quest to find her passion. Her journey leads her to a mysterious boy who shares her love for literature. This coming-of-age story envelops viewers in nostalgia for their own youthful dreams.
9. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
- Release Year: 1984
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 57 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.0/8.35
As one of the earliest Ghibli highlights, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a triumph in storytelling. It addresses environmental themes through the eyes of Nausicaä, who fights to save her kingdom from pollution and destruction. This film set the tone for future Ghibli works featuring strong female leads.
8. Howl’s Moving Castle
- Release Year: 2004
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 59 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.2/8.7
Howl’s Moving Castle showcases Sophie, cursed to age into an elderly woman, who seeks the enigmatic wizard Howl to reverse her spell. This visually striking film brilliantly blends themes of love, war, and personal transformation, solidifying its status as a cherished Ghibli classic.
7. Castle in the Sky
- Release Year: 1986
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 2 hours 4 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.0/8.2
Castle in the Sky introduces viewers to Pazu and Sheeta as they embark on a quest to find Laputa, the legendary floating castle. Full of adventure and beautiful imagery, this film remains a favorite among Ghibli fans for its engaging storyline and captivating environments.
6. The Tale of Princess Kaguya
- Release Year: 2013
- Genre: Animation, Family, Drama
- Duration: 2 hours 17 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.0/8.2
The Tale of Princess Kaguya beautifully adapts a traditional Japanese folk tale with stunning artistry. Following a bamboo cutter who discovers a mystical girl, Kaguya’s journey explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the passage of time. This film stands out for its artistic expression and emotional depth.
5. Kiki’s Delivery Service
- Release Year: 1989
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 42 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 7.8/8.2
Kiki’s journey of self-discovery unfolds in Kiki’s Delivery Service, where a young witch opens a delivery service in a seaside town. The charm of this film lies in its empowerment and acceptance of oneself, resonating with viewers of all ages.
4. Princess Mononoke
- Release Year: 1997
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 2 hours 13 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.3/8.6
Princess Mononoke is celebrated for its bold narrative and exploration of environmental themes. The epic conflict between the titular princess, the forest spirits, and industrial forces highlights a multifaceted approach to storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences.
3. My Neighbor Totoro
- Release Year: 1988
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Drama
- Duration: 1 hour 26 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.1/8.2
My Neighbor Totoro is an endearing story of two sisters discovering magical creatures in the countryside. This film is a celebration of childhood wonder that continues to captivate viewers, making it a timeless classic that resonates across generations.
2. Grave of the Fireflies
- Release Year: 1988
- Genre: Animation, Drama, War
- Duration: 1 hour 29 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.5/8.5
Grave of the Fireflies stands as one of the most emotionally powerful animated films ever made. Based on Akiyuki Nosaka’s semi-autobiographical story, it portrays the tragic survival of siblings Seita and Setsuko in post-war Japan. This heart-wrenching tale challenges viewers to confront the harsh realities of war.
1. Spirited Away
- Release Year: 2001
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Family
- Duration: 2 hours 5 minutes
- IMDB/MAL: 8.6/8.7
Spirited Away has remained a benchmark of excellence in animation. Following a young girl’s journey through a mesmerizing spirit world, the story resonates on multiple levels, addressing themes of identity, growth, and the transformative power of kindness. Its global acclaim, including an Academy Award, solidifies its position as Ghibli’s masterpiece.
This ranking encapsulates our personal favorites and those beloved by fans. What’s your favorite Ghibli film? Share your thoughts in the comments. For more engaging content, continue to explore related articles and insights at Moyens I/O.