Studio Ghibli Ranked

3/27/2023

For almost 40 years, Studio Ghibli has been leading the way in superb animation, magical storytelling, mythical creatures, grand adventures, and captivating themes. They are one of my favorite studios and have made some of my all-time favorite films. These films capture your heart and open your eyes to a world of imagination and wonder. I decided to rank all of the current 23 Studio Ghibli films. — Arnold At The Movies

#23 Earwig and the Witch (2020)

Unfortunately, not every studio can have a perfect record and there is always that one misfire. 2020's Earwig and the Witch is Studio Ghibli's first epic misfire. 1.5 stars out of 5.

#22 Tales from Earthsea (2006)

Tales from Earthsea is not a bad film overall, but it is definitely one of Studio Ghibli's more weaker films on a narrative perspective. Beautiful animation that's boggled down by the slog pacing. However, it is still worth your time. 3 stars out of 5.

#21 Ocean Waves (1993)

One of Studio Ghibli's lesser known films. Ocean Waves is a wonderful little film that was animated, written, and directed by Studio Ghibli's younger staff members. 3.5 stars out of 5.

#20 From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)

From Up on Poppy Hill is a gentle and sweet film from Studio Ghibli. Both nostalgic and lovely to look at. This is Goro Miyazaki's best directed film. 3.5 stars out of 5.

#19 My Neighbors the Yamadas (1999)

My Neighbors the Yamadas is a slice-of-life dramedy from writer-director Isao Takahata. Blended with a stylized comic strip aesthetic, we follow this dysfunctional but utterly charming family. 3.5 stars out of 5.

#18 The Cat Returns (2002)

Sometimes one needs a quick trip to Cat Kingdom, but be careful! The Cat Returns is a breezy and colorful adventure from Studio Ghibli with actor Cary Elwes reprising his role as Baron Humbert von Gikkingen A.K.A The Baron. 4 stars out of 5.

#17 Pom Poko (1994)

Pom Poko is a little gem from Studio Ghibli: strange, hilarious, and charming. A wild adventure with our Japanese raccoon dogs that is chock-full of environmental allegories and emotional weight. 4 stars out of 5.

#16 When Marnie Was There (2014)

When Marnie Was There is the second Studio Ghibli feature from writer-director Hiromasa Yonebayashi. When Marnie Was There boasts some exquisite hand-drawn animation along with sensitive storytelling. A bittersweet tale of wonder and awe. 4 stars out of 5.

#15 Howl's Moving Castle (2004)

Writer-director Hayao Miyazaki‘s Howl's Moving Castle is quite possibly Studio Ghibli’s most imaginative film. Howl is a wild experience chock-full of fantasy and romance. Miyazaki’s storyline is ambitious, while the animation is stunning to look at. In addition, the film’s undertone contains a strong anti-war message. 4.5 stars out of 5.

#14 Porco Rosso (1992)

“I'd rather be a pig than a fascist.” Porco Rosso is another grand adventure from Hayao Miyazaki. An action-packed and comedic force that sends Porco flying high in the sky. This strange tale of identity is boasted through vibrant animation and delightful storytelling. 4.5 stars out of 5.

#13 Whisper of the Heart (1995)

Any movie that uses John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads" is an automatic win for me. Director Yoshifumi Kondo's Whisper of the Heart is both an enchanting and sweet tale of childhood dreams. 4.5 stars out of 5.

#12 Castle in the Sky (1986)

Castle in the Sky is action/adventure filmmaking at its finest. Hayao Miyazaki's animation is both rich and vibrant, while the narrative is both thrilling and exciting to watch. Castle in the Sky is a highly influential picture for later steampunk films. 4.5 stars out of 5.

#11 The Wind Rises (2013)

Hayao Miyazaki's The Wind Rises is full of beauty and complexity. Romantic and breathtaking, Miyazaki crafts compassion into his storytelling. Miyazaki's picture is also full of visual grandeur that soars through the clouds and your heart. 5-stars.

#10 Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind marks the birth of Studio Ghibli. Highly influenced from earlier works of Dune and Lord of the Rings, Nausicaä is a grand post-apocalyptic fantasy film. Hayao Miyazaki's picture is fueled with anti-war and environmental themes throughout. All of this is led by our passionate heroine (Nausicaä). 5-stars.

#09 Only Yesterday (1991)

Isao Takahata knows exactly how to wreck my emotional well-being. Only Yesterday is one of the sweetest and best coming-of-age stories ever put on film. Only Yesterday is emotionally honest and reflective throughout. The artistry in this picture is unmatched. 5-stars.

#08 The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)

I might be slightly bias with this one because The Secret World of Arrietty was my first introduction into the world of Studio Ghibli. I automatically fell in love with it and wanted to see more. Arrietty is a beautiful film inside and out. It boasts gorgeous animation, followed by heartfelt storytelling. This film will always hold a special place in my heart. 5-stars.

#07 Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

Kiki's Delivery Service is an utter delight. Hayao Miyazaki's movie is rich in storytelling, character-driven, and offers a splendor of beautiful animation. Kiki is a wonderful coming-of-age film that showcases one's independence, vulnerabilities, and friendship. What a magical little movie this is. 5-stars.

#06 The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)

Isao Takahata's The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is absolutely breathtaking. A stunning work of art from Studio Ghibli through a continuous series of watercolors and visual splendor. What a marvel this movie truly is. 5-stars.

#05 Ponyo (2008)

"She's a little girl with a round tummy." Hayao Miyazaki's Ponyo might be my favorite film that has come from Studio Ghibli. It gives you a giant warm hug full of cuteness and love. Ponyo is filled with stunning animation and a magical story inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid. Miyazaki's picture captures the childlike wonder for all ages. 5-stars.

#04 My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming tale about family and taking care of nature. Since debuting in 1988, Totoro has become the worldwide symbol for Studio Ghibli. My Neighbor Totoro studies the beauty of childhood with enchanting storytelling along the way. 5-stars.

#03 Princess Mononoke (1997)

Princess Mononoke is fierce, brutal, and visually breathtaking. This epic adventure from Hayao Miyazaki is worth your time. A landmark for superb animation backed by a narrative fused with environmentalism. What a powerhouse this film is. 5-stars.

#02 Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

The one not for children. Isao Takahata's Grave of the Fireflies is an absolutely powerful and soul-crushing film. This anti-war picture is profoundly haunting and achingly sad. Quite possibly one of the greatest animated films ever made. No words. 5-stars.

#01 Spirited Away (2001)

I give you the best animated film ever produced... Spirited Away. Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away is a dazzling story about children growing up. Totally original and awe-inspiring to watch, Spirited Away will capture your heart and transport your mind to another dimension. Miyazaki's picture is simply a living and breathing work of art. In the end, it's a masterpiece. 5-stars.

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