Studio Ghibli is one of the most influential Japanese film companies, perhaps the greatest animation studio in the world like Pixar in US. They have released numerous of modern-day classics films to make them appeal to audiences of all ages since they were founded in 1985. Here we are introducing some of Ghibli’s best films that you don’t want to miss out if you never seen before.
Spirited Away (千と千尋の神隠し)
I think that you are at least heard the name of this movie or seen its character, otherwise, you’re missing out. “Spirited Away” is Studio Ghibli’s most successful film so far, every piece of praise this movie receives is deserving. The movie follows the story of a young girl as she was trapped in a world of spirits and supernature, and tries to find a way back. We highly recommend seeing the studio’s most wonderful film, as it’s definitely worth it.
Castle in the Sky (天空の城ラピュタ)
Laputa: Castle in the Sky is Studio Ghibli’s first film, which is a simple, straightforward adventure story, with classic adventure factors such as castle, aircraft, robots, gunfights, and magic. The animation is fabulous, and he directs in a way that really lets people appreciate the beauty of scene and story. Pirates offer funny comedic relief and Pazo and Sheeta are an adorable pair. Miyazaki passed his environmentalist message to us in an appropriate way.
My Neighbor Totoro (となりのトトロ)
There’s a good chance you might rank it even higher if you first saw My Neighbor Totoro when you were a young kid, Even so far, we could not find a second child-friendly film from Studio Ghibli as great as “My Neighbor Totoro.” With a whimsical sense of fun in a way, it is refreshing for both young and old viewers. The characters are colorful and memorable to the point where Studio Ghibli still uses the title character, Totoro, as their mascot. Depicting the adventures of two little girls, there’s not much happening but experiencing the wonder of nature.
Princess Mononoke (もののけ姫)
Princess Mononoke stormed into Japanese cinemas in 1997 and quickly broke box office records in Japan. This film often defined as an anime epic, the film teems with monsters and warriors. The main characters — San, the princess, who protects the forest and its gods, and Ashitaki, a cursed warrior trying to free himself while protecting the peace. Some scenes are frightening for kids, thought Studio Ghibli films are not necessarily aiming at children all the time. Overall, this film encompasses all that Studio Ghibli is about: the fight between industrialization and the protection of nature, heroes and heroines, legends, and beautiful animation.
Howl’s Moving Castle (ハウルの動く城)
Howl’s Moving Castle tells the story of a young girl who named Sophie, meets the mysterious wizard Howl. But has turned into an old lady by a jealous witch, Sophie is flung into a sequence of adventures with Howl along with his magical castle. This movie contains some deep and dark themes when compared to most of the studio’s typical films. Having said that it still offers much of the incredible scenes and charming story that Studio Ghibli is known for.
After Word
If you’re interested in Studio Ghibli films after reading this article and willing to find out more amazing work such as ‘Kiki’s Delivery Service’, ‘Nausicaa of the valley of the wind’ and more, be sure to check out Buyee shopping page where you could always find the film you like!
