10 Studio Ghibli Films You Absolutely Must Watch

There exists a particular understated power in a Studio Ghibli film. Maybe it is the allure of hand-crafted art, the whimsical creatures, or how time seems to stand still in every moment. For me, it has consistently been about the feelings these movies generate—helping me feel acknowledged, motivated, and a bit more open to the wonders in everyday life.

Studio Ghibli's stories inspire how I see the world with curiosity, courage, and a love for the little things. I am creating this work not just as a fan, but as someone keen to share that feeling with you. Whether you are new to Ghibli or have already wandered through its magical forests and flying palaces, these are the films I believe everyone ought to experience at least once. These are my top suggestions, not because they are well-known, but because they sparked profound reflections, aspirations, and at times, rendered me completely at a loss for words.

Studio Ghibli films do more than tell stories—they invite you into worlds where bravery is gentle, kindness is powerful, and even the smallest instances carry deep meaning. They are perfect for those seeking to take a break, reflect, and revive a feeling of wonder.

I hope this list helps you discover (or rediscover) some Ghibli magic. If you are ready to discover a new type of affection for animation, here is how to begin.

1. Spirited Away (2001)

About the film: A 10-year-old girl, Chihiro, finds herself stuck in a mysterious spirit world after her parents are transformed into pigs due to eating the spirits’ food. To save them and return home, she must work at bathhouse run by a witch while planning an escape and solution.

Why should you watch it: It is a story comprised of resilience, growing up, and finding your true self, wrapped in surreal and unforgettable visuals.

My Favourite Part: The quiet train ride over the flooded tracks is hauntingly beautiful and captures the film’s reflective soul.

2. My Neighbour Totoro (1988)

About the film: Two sisters decide to move closer to the countryside to be closer to their hospitalized mother, in the process they discover forest spirits, soot sprites, and the well-known Totoro.

Why should you watch it: It captures the magic of the childhood imagination and the healing power of nature in one majestic film.

My Favourite Part: Waiting at the rainy bus stop with Totoro is a magical, wordless moment filled with gentle wonder.

3. Princess Mononoke (1997)

About the film: In a war-torn land, a prince named Ashitaka tries to make peace between the forest gods and humans who destroy the lands mercilessly. Alongside San, a wolf-raised girl, he on an unforgettable conquest.

Why should you watch it: It is a powerful tale of Nature vs. Humanity.

My Favourite Part: When Ashitaka carries San through the battlefield, it is a silent, powerful act of peace in the midst of war.

4. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

About the film: A casual hatmaker named Sophie is cursed to become an old woman by an evil witch and manages to find refuge in a magical, walking castle owned by a reclusive wizard named Howl.

Why should you watch it: It is a mix of romance and an anti-war fable with unforgettable worldbuilding and charm.

My Favourite Part: When Sophie opens the door to Howl’s past, revealing his vulnerability and deepening their connection.

5. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

About the film: Kiki, a young witch, moves to a seaside town to begin her independent life. With her black cat Jiji and a flying broom, she manages to start a delivery service.

Why should you watch it: A gentle meditation on finding purpose and confidence.

My Favourite Part: Kiki regaining her powers mid-air to save her friend is a soaring moment of renewed self-belief.

6. Castle in the Sky (1986)

About the film: Orphaned kids Sheeta and Pazu search for the mythical flying island Laputa, while closely followed and chased by pirates and government agents.

Why should you watch it: Ghibli’s first official film is a mix of epic adventure full of heart, steampunk skies, and epic action.

My Favourite Part: When Sheeta and Pazu hold hands and chant the spell to destroy Laputa, choosing love and peace over power.

7. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

About the film: In a post-apocalyptic world overtaken by toxic forests and giant insects, Nausicaä is a princess trying to stop war and bring back the balance of nature.

Why should you watch it: It is an environmental message hidden well within a thriller sci-fi movie.

My Favourite Part: Nausicaä walking through the toxic jungle unharmed shows her deep bond with nature and unshakeable courage.

8. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)

About the film: A bamboo cutter finds a tiny girl inside a glowing stalk, who quickly grows into a beautiful young woman with a mysterious and confusing past. A reimagining of a classic Japanese folktale.

Why should you watch it: It is visually striking and very emotional. It is a slow yet powerful reflection on life.

My Favourite Part: When Kaguya soars into the sky, torn between her celestial home and earthly love, it's achingly beautiful and bittersweet.

9. Ponyo (2008)

About the film: A fish-girl named Ponyo escapes the sea and becomes human to be with a boy named Sosuke. But her transformation upsets the balance of nature and the ocean.

Why should you watch it: It is a beautiful story about love, change, and childlike wonder.

My Favourite Part: Ponyo racing across the stormy waves to reach Sosuke bursts with joy, magic, and unshaken love.

10. Whisper of the Heart (1995)

About the film: Shizuku, a book-loving teenager, meets a boy who dreams of becoming a violin maker. As she learns more about him, she’s inspired to make her own story.

Why should you watch it: It is a realistic, poignant coming-of-age tale for creatives and dreamers.

My Favourite Part: Shizuku singing “Country Roads” with Seiji is a soft, shining moment of courage and creative connection.

Studio Ghibli movies offer more than mere narratives; they create complete realms founded on feelings, creativity, and significance. They not only amuse you; they transform you, subtly and profoundly. Every movie on this list has impacted me, but if I had to choose one that encapsulates my love for Ghibli, it would be Spirited Away. It is truly remarkable to witness Chihiro, an ordinary girl, gradually transform into a courageous, insightful, and compassionate individual.

That serene train journey through a submerged landscape, with Chihiro and No-Face gazing out the window. Almost no words are exchanged, yet it conveys everything about transformation, solitude, and optimism. It’s eerie and lovely, like numerous Ghibli scenes.

So, what actions should you take next? Choose a movie. Observe it gradually. Allow yourself to experience all emotions. Perhaps it will motivate you, soothe you, or even alter your perspective on life. Ghibli movies do not proclaim their themes loudly—they softly suggest them, lingering with you well beyond the end credits.

Go search for your favorite. Or allow it to discover you.

Written by Sean Solano Paul