5 Breathtaking Ghibli Movies That Showcase the Studio’s Magical Art Style

“In every Ghibli film, magic isn’t just fantasy; it’s a feeling, a memory, a moment you never want to forget.”

Fed up with watching Ghibli art style A.I. images everywhere? Well, if you really want to know the true reason why Ghibli’s magic works and why people never get bored of the art style, then watch these magnificent titles I’m lining up for you.

Whether you are a veteran and have already watched Ghibli movies a hundred times or a new one unknown to the world, everyone can equally enjoy these movies.

And if you have already watched the movies, you can definitely relive the moment by rewatching them, because you’re never too late or old to re-watch your favourite shows.

Now, let’s hurry and start with our listicles.

5. Grave of the Fireflies:

Year: 1988

Genre: War/Drama

Starting the list with a strong one, Grave of the Fireflies is definitely something that brings out most of the emotions of its viewers.

The movie begins with atrocities happening everywhere because of the war breakout in Japan.

All the heartfelt incidents that happened in Japan and stories revolve around portraying most of the tear-jerking moments in the film.

There are two characters in the story, Seita and Setsuko, and through their lens and the struggles faced during the bombing, we can emotionally connect with them.

Sadly, they were left behind because their mom died in the incident, and they are left with nothing. They can’t even afford food, shelter, or any of the basic necessities to survive in the field.

Despite all the sad things, this one is a masterpiece of the Ghibli franchise, and if you haven’t watched this one yet, then sorry my friend, understanding the magic of storytelling is something out of your league.

So, do watch it; and fair warning, keep tissues with you because you will definitely need them, trust me.

Also Read: Must-Watch Anime of 2025: Top Ongoing & Upcoming Series You Can’t Miss!

4. My Neighbor Totoro

Year: 1988

Genre: Fantasy, Family

Everything about this Ghibli film is charismatic and healing, and of course, this is one of the most beloved Ghibli movies around the world.

Even if you haven’t watched this one, not knowing Totoro is one of the most impossible things in this world. He is even loved as the mascot of the Studio Ghibli franchise.

The story of My Neighbor Totoro begins with a school-going girl, Satsuke, and her younger sister, Mei; again, two siblings in the story who are full of life.

They shift to the countryside with their father and live in an old house covered with beautiful greenery and mesmerizing sceneries.

But every happy family does go through hardship, and here it’s Satsuke and Mei’s mother who is hospitalized in a local hospital nearby.

Despite all the ups and downs, Satsuke and Mei never lose hope, and soon they find an oddly cute creature, Totoro, that often helps them and also plays with them.

The movie is really light-hearted and will definitely bring a smile to your bad days for sure!

3. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya

Year: 2013

Genre: Family/Fantasy

A girl whose immense beauty became the curse of her life. Yes, that is exactly the story of Princess Kaguya.

It starts when a poor old man hears a voice from the bamboo, and while looking through it, he finds a beautiful yet otherworldly-looking baby inside the bamboo. He brings her home and hands the baby to his wife.

They get exceptionally happy after receiving such a blessing of having a divine-looking child at home and start taking care of her and name her Kaguya.

As she grows up, the old man thinks of building a big mansion for her because he feels she is not an ordinary girl. She should live like a princess. From here on, Princess Kaguya’s struggles towards being a well-mannered woman begin.

And now she is no longer allowed to do what she loves, being caged to live a life like a princess.

The story of Princess Kaguya is a really tragic one but worth watching for its beautifully curated animation and storytelling. Definitely a must-watch.

2. Only Yesterday

Year: 1991

Genre: Slice of Life

Only Yesterday is my personal favourite Ghibli movie. There’s just something about the film that will take you on a nostalgic trip that is soothing to watch.

The story revolves around a 27-year-old single woman who lives in Tokyo but loves to spend her vacation from work in rural areas helping with sunflower harvesting. She loves spending time enjoying a slow-paced life.

While travelling to the countryside from Tokyo, there are flashbacks of her memories from 1966, when she was in fifth grade.

The movie smoothly shifts from the past setting to her present life. Her memories from the past make us feel relatable, and you can’t help but get so immersed in the film that you can never look back.

Trust me, this movie is one of the hidden gems of the Ghibli franchise, and if you haven’t watched it, this is your chance to watch it now.

1. Pom Poko

Year: 1994

Genre: Fantasy, Comedy, and Drama

Another underrated gem that discusses a lot about the importance of the environment and how humans are ignoring the fact that they’re all a part of it.

The story revolves around the tanuki; basically Japanese raccoon dogs; and in this film, a few of them have special abilities to shapeshift for a certain time. Yes, you read that right!

These little tanuki are forced to leave their house because of human intervention, and because of that, they do everything possible to stop them.

You’ll get to see exciting turns of events and plots during the tanukis’ attempts to stop humans from destroying their home.

The movie is magically beautiful with a hint of comedy everywhere, but in the end, it will bring tears to your eyes for sure, with a lot of guilt in your heart. So, prepare yourself before going for it.

Despite all this, this Ghibli movie conveys the best message to humanity and definitely, every human existing on Earth should watch it without any hesitation.

Wrapping Up:

So, with that said, we have completed our listicle of 5 Breathtaking Ghibli Movies ever made, and after watching all five movies, if you still feel like this mesmerizing world can be curated by technology?

Then, my friend, you really need help!Lastly, thanks for reading till the end. I hope you enjoy watching all the movies. Happy watching!