Gather the fam for a Studio Ghibli night: Check out these high-rated movies
Warmth, love, and compassion highlight each film created by the legendary animation studio, Studio Ghibli. The beloved film studio was founded in Tokyo by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata on June 15th, 1985. Ever since, the master filmmakers have released numerous family films which garnered worldwide admiration & success.
There’s nothing better to lift your mood and bring your family together like Studio Ghibli movies! We’ve compiled a list of some of the studio’s most famous and highest rated films. Here are Studio Ghibli’s most cherished movies, in order of audience age group:
Ponyo (2008)
This fantastic sea adventure is perfect for the youngest and even oldest viewers! The captivating animated film by Hayao Miyazaki follows the story of Ponyo, a goldfish who magically becomes a human girl after meeting the five-year-old boy Sosuke.
The film garnered major box office success in Japan and became the fifth highest grossing anime film of all time! Soon, an English language edition was released to over 900 theaters in the United States. This would become Studio Ghibli’s largest release in America. We highly recommend this film for its uplifting story that’s perfect for even the tiniest film watcher!
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Everyone knows the iconic character of Totoro, who has become famous around the world! My Neighbor Totoro tells the story of a family who moves to rural Japan and the two young daughters who meet the titular friendly wood spirit, Totoro.
Heartwarming & playful, this internationally acclaimed film is a must see! The light plot and lack of conflict make this an easygoing watch for everyone. However, the characters’ ill mother may be considered too sensitive a topic for some viewers. On the other hand, the film has a wondrous happy ending and highly recommended for all!
Spirited Away (2001)
Spirited Away is a feast for the eyes and a story that stays in your heart. The film follows Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who must save her parents, find a way to escape the spirit world, and return home. The film contains a plethora of imaginative creatures & characters that will entertain the whole family!
Spirited Away won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, making it the only non-English film to win in this category! The film is rated PG and acceptable for all viewers – however, there are some creepy creatures which might frighten the little ones.
If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re truly missing out on one of the most creative animated films of all time! What are you waiting for? Watch it tonight!
Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
Based on the 1986 novel of the same name, Howl’s Moving Castle is a fantasy love story that will move your heart while giving plenty of laughs along the way! The film tells the story of Sophie, who has been turned into an old woman by an evil witch and must find the cure to her curse.
With the backdrop of a violent war, this film may not be suitable for younger viewers. Oscar nominated, this film is a work of art and perfect for older kids who enjoy creative & fantastical stories!
Princess Mononoke (1997)
An epic fantasy film, Princess Monoke is a compelling treat even for adults! The film is set in the late Muromachi period and follows a young prince, Ashitaka, who must create peace between the forest spirits and the human world.
PG-13 and over two hours long, this masterpiece is definitely for the older kids who love fantastic battle scenes and mind-bending creatures. This movie can keep even the angstiest preteen on the edge of their seat!
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All of these films are our childhood favorites and we know your family will enjoy the magical adventures and heartwarming stories that these films have to offer! Let us know in the comments your favorite Studio Ghibli movies!
