Few animation studios can claim the same level of artistry, influence, and acclaim asStudio Ghibli. Since its inception, the studio has released a string of beloved films, many of which have become favorites for animation fans worldwide. Ghibli’s ability to blend touching stories with breathtaking animation has cemented its place in cinematic history. However, while all of its films have their unique strengths, new data fromranking.netsuggests that one title stands above the rest as the studio’s definitive masterpiece.
Analyzing the ratings from thousands of viewers, it is easy to see how Ghibli’s films stack up against one another. While classics likeMy Neighbor TotoroandHowl’s Moving Castleare classic fan favorites, the numbers reveal a clear winner amongst fans overall.
The Cat Returns
Cast
The Cat Returns is a Japanese animated fantasy film directed by Hiroyuki Morita and produced by Studio Ghibli. The story follows a young girl named Haru who saves a cat from traffic, only to find herself whisked away to the Cat Kingdom where she is honored for her bravery. The film explores themes of self-discovery and courage, featuring whimsical characters and imaginative settings.
A charming yet often overlooked entry in Ghibli’s catalog,The Cat Returnsis a loose spinoff toWhisper of the Heart.It follows a young girl named Haru who finds herself whisked away to a whimsical kingdom of cats after saving a feline prince. The film’s playful tone and vibrant animation make it an enjoyable watch, though it lacks the depth found in some of Ghibli’s more critically acclaimed works.
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Despite its delightful plot and fluid animation,The Cat Returnsdoes not quite reach the emotional heights of the studio’s best films. Its lighthearted storytelling and brief runtime make it feel more like a fun side story rather than a defining masterpiece, which is reflected in its relatively lower rating among Ghibli’s works.
Unlike Ghibli’s more fantastical films,Whisper of the Heartis a grounded, heartfelt story of self-discovery and young love. The film follows Shizuku, a book-loving student who dreams of becoming a writer, as she forms a meaningful connection with a boy pursuing his own craft of violin-making. The film’s emphasis on personal growth and creative passion resonates deeply with audiences.
While it may not have the grand spectacle of some of Ghibli’s higher-rated films,Whisper of the Heartexcels in making viewers care about the charactersand giving them development. Its quiet, slice-of-life approach has won over many fans, even if it doesn’t dominate the rankings.
One of Ghibli’s most unique protagonists,Porco Rossofollows a World War I pilot cursed to have the appearance of a pig. Combining adventure, aerial combat, and a touch of romance, the film delivers an entertaining blend of action and inner thoughts. Its stunning animation, particularly in the flying sequences, remains one of Ghibli’s most visually appealing films.
Despite its technical brilliance and intriguing lead character,Porco Rossohas a more niche appeal compared to Ghibli’s most beloved films. Its themes of war, loss, and personal redemption are thought-provoking, but the film does not capture the same universal adoration as some of its contemporaries.
A mesmerizing fantasy filled with magic, romance, and an anti-war message,Howl’s Moving Castleis a fan favorite that proves Miyazaki’s talent for world-building. The story follows Sophie Hatter, a young woman cursed into an old woman’s body, and her journey with the charming wizard Howl. The film’s breathtaking animation and dynamic characters make it a standout entry in Ghibli’s selection.
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Despite its worldwide appeal, some critics argue that the film’s plot becomes convoluted, particularly in its latter half.WhileHowl’s Moving Castleis undeniably a visual and emotional feast, its story and theme complexity keep it from achieving the top spot.
Though technically released before Studio Ghibli was officially formed,Nausicaä of the Valley of the Windis often considered a must-watch part of the studio’s legacy. The film has a richly developed post-apocalyptic world where nature and humanity are at odds. Its protagonistNausicaä is one of Miyazaki’s strongest heroines, embodying intelligence, compassion, and bravery.
Nausicaäis based on the manga series by Miyazaki himself, though the two differ in many respects.
With its environmental themes and epic storytelling,Nausicaäis still a beloved film, but its early animation style, while still beautiful, lacks the refined polish of Ghibli’s later works. This may explain why it falls just short of the highest-rated films in the data.
Arguably the face of Studio Ghibli,My Neighbor Totorois a heartwarming tale about childhoodwonder and family bonds. The film’s cutest character, Totoro, has become an enduring icon of Japanese animation, beloved by audiences worldwide. Its simple yet emotional story continues to enchant viewers decades after its release.
Despite its status as one of Ghibli’s most recognizable films,Totoro’slack of a traditional plot structure may be why it does not rank at the very top. However, its influence and timeless charm keep it among the studio’s best.
A darker and more mature Ghibli film,Princess Mononoketackles themes of environmental destruction, conflict, and morality. The film’s breathtaking animation and intricate story make it one of the studio’s most ambitious works. Ashitaka and San’s journey through a world caught between industrial progress and nature’s wrath is deeply impactful.
Despite being a near-perfect film in terms of scope and execution,Princess Mononokemay not be as appealing or understandable to younger audiences. This could explain why it shares a rating withMy Neighbor Totororather than surpassing it, though it is funny that two movies so far on the opposite end of Ghibli’s style could share a spot among the highest-rated Ghibli movies.
An absolutely must-watch coming-of-age story,Kiki’s Delivery Servicecaptures the struggles of independence and self-discovery. Following Kiki, a young witch setting out to find her place in the world, the film’s quiet, reflective storytelling has earned it a special place in many hearts.
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Though it ranks highly,Kiki’s Delivery Servicedoes not quite reach the epic scale of some of Ghibli’s other top contenders. However, its gentle, uplifting nature makes it one of Ghibli’s lasting top films.
A high-flying adventure blending fantasy and steampunk elements,Castle in the Skyis a thrilling showcase of Miyazaki’s imagination. The film’s breathtaking visuals and intriguing story make it one of the studio’s strongest offerings.
Though it might not share the same universal recognition that some of Miyazaki’s later films enjoy,Castle in the Skyis still an incredibly influential movie whose legacy can even be seen today inMiyazaki-esque films likeThe Wild Robot. Its themes of power, greed, and discovery are explored very deeply, but the film is often overshadowed by one Ghibli works that refined these ideas further.
At the very top of the rankings isSpirit Away,Ghibli’s magnum opus, and the highest-rated film according to the ranking.net. Winning the top spot according to fan votes, the film’s breathtaking animation, imaginative world, and profound coming-of-age story make it a true masterpiece. The film eventually earned Ghibli, and anime in general, its first Oscar. Though it now shares that honor withThe Boy and the Heron,Spirited Away’s historical significance is indisputable.
With its universal appeal and deep emotional story,Spirited Awaystands as Studio Ghibli’s definitive masterpiece. There’s a reasonSpirited Awaywas the highest-grossing anime film for more than a decade before it was dethroned byDemon Slayer: Mugen Train. It’s undeniable that all ofStudio Ghibli’sfilms have their own merits, this film’s ability to blend creativity, complexity, and accessibility makes it the crown jewel of the studio’s legacy.
