Studio Ghibli, the renowned home of Japanese animated films, is celebrated globally for its enchanting creations. Infused with magic and fantasy, Studio Ghibli’s movies transport audiences to captivating realms.
With an impressive catalog of films, many of which stand as top-grossing animated classics, Studio Ghibli offers a rich cinematic experience.
For those who want to get into the magical world of Studio Ghibli on Netflix, here’s a curated list of must-watch animated films. These recommendations promise to capture the essence of Studio Ghibli’s enchanting storytelling.
Studio Ghibli Movies On Netflix
1. Kiki’s Delivery Service (Majo no Takkyuubin)
- Release: 1989
- Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 43 minutes
Kiki’s Delivery Service is often hailed as one of the finest slice-of-life films ever created. The narrative revolves around Kiki, a young witch who embarks on a solo journey to a new city as per her community’s traditions.
Her talkative cat, Jiji, accompanies her, and she finds employment at a local bakery and establishes her own delivery service.
The film resonates strongly, particularly with children and teenagers, as it explores themes of self-discovery and navigating through moments of self-doubt—universal experiences in the journey to adulthood.
These relatable elements contribute to the acclaim of Kiki’s Delivery Service as one of Studio Ghibli’s standout films.
2. Grave of the Fireflies (Hotaru no Haka)
- Release: 1988
- Genre: Drama, Historical
- Duration: 1 hour 28 minutes
Grave of the Fireflies is one of Studio Ghibli’s most poignant films, portraying a tragic tale set in the waning months of the Second World War. The narrative unfolds around two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, navigating the harsh realities of survival.
Having lost their mother and home, the siblings seek refuge in an abandoned bomb shelter, where they strive to find moments of happiness amid hunger and suffering.
Despite the heart-wrenching storyline, Grave of the Fireflies has earned widespread acclaim for its simplicity and the profound portrayal of unconditional love between siblings, making it one of Studio Ghibli’s most cherished films.
3. My Neighbor Totoro (Tonari no Totoro)
- Release: 1988
- Genre: Adventure, Drama, Supernatural
- Duration: 1 hour 26 minutes
My Neighbor Totoro stands out as an iconic film from Studio Ghibli, showcasing the creative brilliance of Hayao Miyazaki. This masterpiece introduces Totoro, the renowned mascot of Studio Ghibli.
The narrative unfolds in the post-war Japanese countryside as a professor and his two daughters move into an old house. With their mother in a nearby hospital, the sisters discover spirits in a nearby forest and form a heartwarming friendship.
Critically acclaimed as a moving masterpiece, My Neighbor Totoro captures the essence of two sisters’ adventures and their genuine bond with a forest spirit, making it a must-watch film from Studio Ghibli.
4. Whisper of the Heart (Mimi wo Sumaseba)
- Release: 1995
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life, Shoujo
- Duration: 1 hour 51 minutes
Whisper of the Heart, a coming-of-age romantic film crafted by Studio Ghibli, intricately follows the journey of Shizuku Tsukishima as she embarks on pursuing her dreams.
Initially depicted as a carefree girl with a love for books and writing, Shizuku’s life takes a turn after encountering Seiji, an aspiring violin maker. Inspired by his dedication, Shizuku resolves to pursue her own aspirations earnestly.
This heartwarming tale from Studio Ghibli explores into teenage dreams and romance, offering a narrative that extends beyond the studio’s typical themes. The film has left many viewers eager for a sequel, anticipating further developments in the enchanting romance between Shizuku and Seiji.
5. Princess Mononoke (Mononoke Hime)
- Release: 1997
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Duration: 2 hours 13 minutes
Princess Mononoke is one of Studio Ghibli’s most renowned films, celebrated for its powerful narrative and compelling female protagonist. Crafted by the visionary Hayao Miyazaki, this film is hailed as a classic in the studio’s repertoire.
The story unfolds around Ashitaka, an Emishi prince, on a quest to cure his curse. His journey takes an unexpected turn as he encounters San, a human raised by wolves, and becomes entangled in a conflict between forest spirits and humans in the western land.
The film’s central theme, revolving around the clash between industrialization and nature conservation, remains highly relevant. This resonant and thought-provoking aspect contributes to Princess Mononoke’s status as one of the finest Studio Ghibli films worth experiencing.
6. Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi)
- Release: 2001
- Genre: Adventure, Drama, Supernatural
- Duration: 2 hours 4 minutes
If you’re watching Studio Ghibli Movies for the first time, Spirited Away is a must-watch movie.
Regarded as one of Studio Ghibli’s masterpieces, Spirited Away unfolds a magical tale about a young girl’s adventure in the spirit realm. Chihiro’s life takes a fantastical turn when Yubaba, a formidable sorcerer, transforms her parents into pigs.
Determined to escape the spirit realm and rescue her parents, Chihiro navigates a challenging journey, ultimately finding her way out with the support of newfound friends.
Spirited Away encapsulates the essence of Studio Ghibli – a blend of fantasy, magic, and a resilient young female protagonist. It serves as the perfect initiation for those eager to explore the captivating realm of Studio Ghibli.
7. Howl’s Moving Castle (Howl no Ugoku Shiro)
- Release: 2004
- Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Romance
- Duration: 1 hour 59 minutes
Adapted from the English novel of the same name, Howl’s Moving Castle is a magical creation by Studio Ghibli. Set in a make-believe kingdom where magic and technology thrive side by side, Sophie undergoes a curse cast by a wicked witch, transforming her into an elderly woman.
To break free from the curse, Sophie goes on a journey and encounters a mobile castle, where she meets the mighty wizard Howl. Amidst the backdrop of wars, Sophie and Howl join forces to navigate challenges and protect their loved ones.
Howl’s Moving Castle serves up the perfect blend of Studio Ghibli enchantment. It’s an ideal starting point for anyone embarking on their Studio Ghibli adventure, offering a story that resonates with hearts, young and old alike.
8. The Tale of Princess Kaguya (Kaguya-hime no Monogatari)
- Release: 2013
- Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Historical
- Duration: 2 hours 17 minutes
Written and directed by Isao Takahata, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is a fantasy drama film based on a legendary Japanese fairy tale. The story follows the life of Princess Kaguya, who is mysteriously found inside a bamboo tree by a local bamboo cutter.
Princess Kaguya is growing up unbelievably fast, and her adoptive father soon realizes she is special. Despite Princess Kaguya’s protests, her father takes her away to the city to live as a nobleman and soon shatters Kaguya’s innocent view of mortal life.
Animation style The Tale of the Princess Kaguya was quite different from the usual Studio Ghibli productions. However, like any other film, it has a message for its viewers.
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is a good watch if the audience is familiar with the films produced by Studio Ghibli.
9. The Secret World of Arrietty (Karigurashi no Arrietty)
- Release: 2010
- Genres: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 34 minutes
The Secret World of Arrietty tells the story of a small family, also known as The Borrowers, who secretly live on the floors and walls of human households.
Since they needed to borrow items to survive, Borrowers depended on humans but could also not be exposed to them. The main protagonist, Arrietty, befriends a human boy, Sho, who helps his family escape after they are found.
The Secret World of Arrietty is a great movie for those new to Studio Ghibli films. Most Studio Ghibli films focus on the value of friendship, and The Secret World of Arrietty is an example.
10. Ponyo
- Release: 2008
- Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
- Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes
Ponyo is one of the films written and directed by Studio Ghibli’s mastermind, Hayao Miyazaki. The film follows the journey of a magical goldfish, Ponyo, who wants to become human after meeting a human boy, Sosuke.
However, Ponyo’s wish has dire consequences as she uses magic to transform herself into a human girl. Sosuke and Ponyo try to save their loved ones and stay together despite all the trouble.
Ponyo is one of Studio Ghibli’s critically acclaimed films worldwide. This film is considered a sweet treat for children and people of all ages.
