Studio Ghibli productions are my comfort movies for whenever I want to relax on a break. They are wholesome, aesthetically pleasing, and just great films to watch overall. I also grew up watching Studio Ghibli movies, so these films bring a sense of nostalgia to me. Over the years of watching and re-watching these iconic films, here are the ones I love and why you should watch them.

My Neighbor Totoro (1998)

You've probably seen this lovable, chubby grey creature floating around the internet. Totoro is from the movie My Neighbor Totoro, who the two main characters of the movie discover and come to love throughout the movie. The movie follows the story of two young girls, Satsuki and Mei, who had just moved to an old house in the countryside around the 1950s. They go on adventures discovering their new home, and befriend spirits like susuwatari and Totoro.

It definitely doesn't get old every time you re-watch it. I probably have watched this movie over ten times and it still hits the same. My Neighbor Totoro is a movie fit for everyone with its wholesome themes and cute characters!

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From Up On Poppy Hill (2011)

From Up On Poppy Hill is one of my favorite movies of all time. Unlike My Neighbor Totoro, this movie is more melancholic and anchored towards a slightly older audience. It is set in Yokohama in 1963, featuring the story of sixteen-year-olds Umi Matsuzaki and Shun Kazama in their high school lives.

After they met in the newspaper club, Umi and Shun decide to join the effort to renovate the Latin Quarter, the clubhouse of their school that was about to be demolished. Umi also discovers the story behind her father's death and life during the Korean War.

Not only is the movie and plot well written, but the soundtrack is my favorite from all of the Studio Ghibli movies. It is definitely one of the overlooked Studio Ghibli movies in my opinion, but I highly recommend it. If you love nostalgic movies, From Up On Poppy Hill is the movie for you.

Ponyo (2008)

Another spirited, heartwarming movie, Ponyo tells the story of a young goldfish named Ponyo who dreams of becoming a human. She meets Sosuke, a five-year-old boy who she befriends. However, her transformation disrupts the balance of nature, leading to an adventure filled with magic, friendship, and the beauty of the ocean.

Coming back to this movie, I really love the aesthetics of the setting of this movie. If you're looking for a film that captures childhood wonder, breathtaking animation, and a touching story, Ponyo is a must-watch! Experience the magic of the sea and the joy of discovery in this movie.

Spirited Away (2001)

Spirited Away is definitely another well-known movie globally, and it is worth the hype. Like Ponyo, the aesthetics and setting of this movie is beautiful. The movie follows Chihiro, a young girl who stumbles into a mysterious spirit world after her parents are transformed into pigs.

To find a way back home, Chihiro must work in a magical bathhouse that is managed by a witch named Yubaba. Along the way, she makes unforgettable friends, uncovers hidden strength, and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

Spirited Away would be a movie I would recommend to anyone. If you're looking for a film that blends stunning animation, deep symbolism, and an enchanting adventure, Spirited Away is a must-watch!

Howl's Moving Castle (2004)

Howl's Moving Castle follows the story of Sophie, a young woman cursed by the Witch of the Waste to become an old woman. She stumbles upon the moving castle of the wizard Howl, where she navigates the struggles of her new identity and the looming war in her kingdom. Sophie bonds with the mysterious Howl, a talking fire named Calcifer, and Howl's apprentice, Markl. My personal favorite is Markl's dog, Hin.

This movie is filled with worldbuilding and characterful figures, all wrapped into a heartfelt story. Howl's Moving Castle is the perfect movie for anyone looking for an fantastical adventure.

Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

Devasting, heartbreaking, and emotional, Grave of the Fireflies is a movie that will leave you in tears. Set during the final months of the Second World War, two orphans, Seita and his sister Setsuko, struggle to survive in the hardships of the war. After losing their mother in the raid, Seita and Setsuko face hunger, isolation, and the difficulties of staying alive in a ruined country.

Be prepared to be hit by several emotional trains when you watch Grave of the Fireflies. With beautiful animations and storytelling, witness the resilience of two siblings as they navigate the devastation of war.

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By the end of this article, I hope that you have found a Studio Ghibli movie that fits your liking. While all Studio Ghibli movies are extremely well produced, these are the movies that resonated with me till this day. Whether you love thrillers or heartwarming stories, there is definitely a Studio Ghibli movie for you. Happy watching!