Since its inception in 1985, Studio Ghibli has been regarded as one of the most successful and critically acclaimed animation studios of all time. They’ve compiled a comprehensive list of films that every film or anime enthusiast should see at least once. Get to know studio ghibli movies in order.
This is your finest reference for accessing this incredible library of films that have broken out of their genre molds. True works of art.
How Many Studio Ghibli Movies Are There?
Studio Ghibli has aided in the broad adoption of anime, which was formerly restricted to a small subculture.
For almost three decades, the now-famous animation studio has been at the top of its game, creating work by a who’s who of animation’s A-listers. The company is preparing to release more ground-breaking anime films.
The best approach to enjoying Studio Ghibli films is to watch them in chronological order.
Using this approach, you can observe their progress from competent filmmakers to truly original thinkers, which is why it is the best. While Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata are responsible for the majority of the studio’s successful films, other filmmakers are equally skilled.
You can currently view one of the 23 Studio Ghibli films that have been released. Despite Miyazaki’s direction, we’re not including The Castle of Cagliostro or Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind because they were released before Studio Ghibli existed. Now for the list proper.
1. Castle In The Sky (1986)
What to Look for in Every Studio Ghibli Film: A Chronological Overview of the Entire Canon (2021 Update)
The first feature film from Studio Ghibli. Hayao Miyazaki directed it because it contains a clear message against war and how to preserve the environment, both of which are very important to the director. There will be better films, but this one is still quite good.
2. Grave Of The Fireflies (1988)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
This is Ghibli’s first truly amazing effort. The film Grave of the Fireflies’ powerful anti-war message has influenced perceptions in modern Japan.
This film, directed by Isao Takahata, the other Ghibli master, is famous for its emphasis on darker and more realistic stories.
3. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Totoro, the happier of the two, was released the same year as Grave of the Fireflies. This is the story of two Japanese girls and their mother, who has become ill and sent them to the countryside to recover.
The Studio might utilize Totoro as their symbol, launching their movies with the creature, because it is such a terrific family film.
4. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Kiki’s Delivery Service guarantees laughter at every turn. The narrative of a young witch who goes out to discover the human world is filled with extraordinary happenings and a heartfelt message about the importance of friendship.
Miyazaki retains a light and enjoyable style. The story’s entire setting becomes a place we want to visit.
5. Only Yesterday (1991)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Because Takahata directed it, you may expect a more mature and serious film. The film follows a young woman as she flees the city for the country in search of a quieter, more peaceful way of life.
The main character recalls her formative years and the significant events that occurred during that time in the film.
6. Porco Rosso (1992)
What to Look for in Every Studio Ghibli Film: A Chronological Overview of the Entire Canon (2021 Revision)
The film Porco Rosso is unusual. The main character fights air pirates while feeling emotionally trapped by his past and Femme Fatales, lending the film a Casablanca vibe.
Oh! Apart from that, the protagonist is a pig with human feelings. Porco is full of imagination, excitement, and even mystery. The picture is both one of the studio’s first and most accomplished works.
7. Ocean Waves (1993)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
It’s probable that this is Ghibli’s least-known film. The film’s limited release was due to its creation exclusively for television. Netflix and other streaming services have made it more accessible in some areas.
The simple love triangle framework of the film gradually gives way to a more complex life tale. This is also the first Ghibli film that was not directed by Miyazaki or Takahata.
8. Pom Poko (1994)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Update)
The title refers to how the main characters in the image produce a rhythmic sound with their bellies.
Pom Poko, Ghibli’s first foray into other animation processes, is a pleasant little adventure set in a more imaginative world than Takahata has previously explored.
9. Whisper Of The Heart (1995)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Yoshifumi Kondo directed this film. Whisper of the Heart is one of Ghibli’s greatest films. It follows a teenage wannabe author and her best friend, a young musician.
Unfortunately, Kondo died not long after the film’s release, thus Miyazaki and Takahata never got to see him as their successor. His skill was undeniable.
10. Princess Mononoke (1997)
What to Look for in Every Studio Ghibli Film: A Chronological Overview of the Entire Canon (2021 Revision)
The first Studio Ghibli epic! Princess Mononoke by Hayao Miyazaki has something for everyone. It’s a large action movie with some excellent set pieces and a love story tossed in, as well as a powerful environmental message.
Miyazaki draws inspiration from directors like Kurosawa to produce an epic fantasy film that fans will enjoy.
11. My Neighbors The Yamadas (1999)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Update)
This is yet another of Ghibli’s most ambitious animation efforts. The film, directed by Isao Takahata, delves into the minutiae of daily living in a Japanese metropolis.
The Yamadas are a beautiful family, and their antics help the picture meet the comedy genre. Nothing else in the Ghibli canon compares to it in terms of animation style.
12. Spirited Away (2001)
What to Look for in Every Studio Ghibli Film: A Chronological Overview of the Entire Canon (2021 Revision)
This film cements Miyazaki’s status as a filmmaker and Studio Ghibli’s image as a sanctuary for talented artists.
The film was a critical and commercial triumph, earning an Oscar for Best Animated Film and introducing new audiences to Japanese animation.
This is another high fantasy tale by Miyazaki, with one of the studio’s most endearing heroes.
13. The Cat Returns (2002)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
The Cat Returns, directed by Hiroyuki Morita and Reiko Yoshida, is the first theatrical Ghibli film not directed by Miyazaki or Takahata since Whisper of the Heart.
It’s not only one of Ghibli’s best films, but it’s also one of its smallest. You’ll get the full effect if you watch it alongside Whisper of the Heart.
14. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Howl’s Moving Castle, based on Diana Wynne Jones’s novel of the same name, is one of my favorite Ghibli films.
The film has it all: a poignant family story, a comic sidekick, and a world war. This is an industry classic that has lasted the test of time thanks to outstanding performances from a brilliant cast.
15. Tales From Earthsea (2006)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Another of the most well-known fantasy writers of all time, Ursula K. Le Guin’s Earthsea trilogy, has been adapted.
Goro Miyazaki, the director’s son, directed the picture, which is largely regarded as the series’ poorest installment. If you’re a completist, you should watch it anyhow.
16. Ponyo (2008)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
After directing Howl’s Moving Castle, Miyazaki is back behind the camera. Like in My Neighbor Totoro, a little kid makes an unexpected friendship with a female who turns out to be a fish. This one is also concerned about the environment.
17. Arrietty (2010)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
There is also Arrietty, in addition to these original reimaginings. This time, it’s a quote from Mary Norton’s The Borrowers, a story about a small community of people who live in other people’s homes and take stuff from them to build their own homes and clothing.
This is the first film directed by someone other than Hayao Miyazaki or Isao Takahata, and it boasts stunning landscapes and set design. There is no doubt that they are attempting to install a new guard.
18. From Up Poppy Hill (2011)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Poppy Hill, Goro Miyazaki’s second feature film, is a triumphant return to form. In this tale set in a beach community, the two teenage protagonists and the rest of the supporting group are instantly likable. The last twist is also gratifying.
This demonstrates that Goro will carry on his father’s legacy.
19. The Wind Rises (2013)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
This is Hayao Miyazaki’s latest and, according to him, final film. The Wind Rises avoids magical elements in favor of a more grounded story.
The plot revolves around an aircraft designer who discovers his designs are being used in lethal warfare. Despite being a melancholy and introspective film, it is also one of the best.
20. The Tale of Princess Kaguya (2013)
What to Look for in Every Studio Ghibli Film: A Chronological Overview of the Entire Canon (2021 Revision)
Isao Takahata died shortly after the release of his final film. Oh, boy! What a terrible way to go out. Kaguya is more than just a bang; it’s a nuclear explosion.
Takahata’s ongoing exploration with its animation approach yields magnificent outcomes. This film is an excellent depiction of Kaguya’s Japanese folklore.
Despite being nominated for an Academy Award, the picture was ultimately defeated by Big Hero 6.
21. When Marnie Was There (2014)
What to Look for at Each Studio A Chronological Guide to the Entire Canon of Ghibli Films (2021 Revision)
Hiromasa Yonebashi, the creator of “Arrietty,” is back with another outstanding film that was rumored to be the last one ever made by his studio.
Marnie narrates the story of an ill little girl who goes to the country to get better and meets a girl who is unlike the others.
It would have been a shame if this had been Ghibli’s final film because it depicts the company at its artistic zenith.
22. Earwig and the Witch (2020)
What to Look for in Every Studio Ghibli Film: A Chronological Overview of the Entire Canon (2021 Revision)
Six years after the premiere of When Marnie Was There, Studio Ghibli’s debut 3D animated picture was directed by Goro Miyazaki.
Earwig isn’t a fantastic film because the filmmakers clearly lack experience making 3D films. How gently would the studio shut down?
23. How Do You Live? (2023)
What to Look for in Every Studio Ghibli Film: A Chronological Overview of the Entire Canon (2021 Revision)
While the film has not yet been released to the public, it marks Hayao Miyazaki’s return to directing feature films after a long break. We’re both overjoyed.
The film will portray the story of a young guy whose life is changed after reading Yoshino Genzaburo’s novel of the same name. Our excitement for 2023 has reached a fever pitch.
Overview Of The Studio Ghibli Movies In Order
“Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind” predates the existence of Studio Ghibli, but it has long been claimed by the legendary animation studio and serves as the starting point.
The success of “Nausicaa” led to the establishment of Ghibli in 1985. Miyazaki’s trademark environmentalist and pacifist themes are featured in the film, which is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is dwindling in the face of an expanding poisonous forest and giant insects.
The story revolves around Nausicaa, a young and capable princess whose compassion and dedication to understanding the deadly flora and fauna prove critical to everyone’s survival.
Frequently Asked Question
Q1. Which Studio Ghibli should I watch first?
Spirited Away
Spirited Away is the film to see if you want to take your first steps into the world of Studio Ghibli. Spirited Away, regarded as one of Studio Ghibli’s best films, is a magical story about a young girl’s journey in the spirit realm.
Q2. Is Howl’s Moving Castle and Spirited Away connected?
The films Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle share many similarities. Both are directed by the same person, are Japanese films, and are animated. Chihiro’s parents are turned into pigs at the start of Spirited Away for their gluttony.
Q3. Is Totoro in Toy Story 3?
“Totoro makes a cameo appearance in ‘Toy Story 3’,” he acknowledges. “We do small homages in our films, and we thought this was a very fitting way to show [Miyazaki and his film company] Studio Ghibli how much we appreciate them.”
