Studio Ghibli Has Lots of Great Movies, But New Data Reveals Its One True Masterpiece
Studio Ghibli's fan-favorite film has been revealed in new poll
Few animation studios can claim the same level of artistry, influence, and acclaim as Studio Ghibli. Since its inception, the studio has released a string of beloved films, many of which have become favorites for animation fans worldwide. Ghibliâs 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 from ranking.net suggests that one title stands above the rest as the studioâs 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 like My Neighbor Totoro and Howlâs Moving Castle are classic fan favorites, the numbers reveal a clear winner amongst fans overall.
10 The Cat Returns (77.4 points from 952 ratings)Anime Directed by Hiroyuki Morita; Based on the Manga by Aoi HiiragiYour RatingThe Cat Returns
Release Date
July 13, 2005
Director
Hiroyuki Morita
Writers
Aoi Hiiragi, Reiko Yoshida, Hayao Miyazaki, Cindy Davis, Donald H. Hewitt
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 Returns is a loose spinoff to Whisper 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 filmâs playful tone and vibrant animation make it an enjoyable watch, though it lacks the depth found in some of Ghibliâs more critically acclaimed works.
RelatedStudio Ghibli Fans, Your Next Anime Obsession Is Finally Live and Here's Why
Ghost Cat Anzu is the perfect next-watch for any Ghibli fan looking for a comedic and heartbreaking film.
Despite its delightful plot and fluid animation, The Cat Returns does not quite reach the emotional heights of the studioâs 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 Ghibliâs works.
9 Whisper of the Heart (79.8 points from 1,046 ratings)Anime Directed by Yoshifumi KondĹ; Based on the Manga by Aoi HiiragiYour RatingWhisper of the Heart
Release Date
July 15, 1995
Runtime
111 Minutes
Director
Yoshifumi KondĹ
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki, Aoi Hiiragi
Sequel(s)
The Cat Returns
Yoko Honna
Issei Takahashi
Unlike Ghibli's more fantastical films, Whisper of the Heart is 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 filmâs emphasis on personal growth and creative passion resonates deeply with audiences.
While it may not have the grand spectacle of some of Ghibliâs higher-rated films, Whisper of the Heart excels in making viewers care about the characters and giving them development. Its quiet, slice-of-life approach has won over many fans, even if it doesnât dominate the rankings.
8 Porco Rosso (81.5 points from 832 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Based on His Own MangaYour RatingPorco Rosso
Release Date
July 18, 1992
Runtime
93 minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki
ShĂťichirĂ´ Moriyama
Tokiko KatĂ´
One of Ghibli's most unique protagonists, Porco Rosso follows 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 Ghibliâs most visually appealing films.
Despite its technical brilliance and intriguing lead character, Porco Rosso has a more niche appeal compared to Ghibliâs 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.
7 Howl's Moving Castle (82.7 points from 1,732 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Based on the Novel by Diana Wynne JonesYour RatingHowl's Moving Castle
Release Date
November 20, 2004
Runtime
119minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Diana Wynne Jones
Chieko Baisho
Takuya Kimura
A mesmerizing fantasy filled with magic, romance, and an anti-war message, Howl's Moving Castle is a fan favorite that proves Miyazakiâs talent for world-building. The story follows Sophie Hatter, a young woman cursed into an old womanâs body, and her journey with theâââââââ charming wizard Howl. The filmâs breathtaking animation and dynamic characters make it a standout entry in Ghibliâsâââââââ selection.
RelatedStudio Ghibli Fans Still Misunderstand One Detail About Hayao Miyazaki That Makes Him Such a Gifted Director
Studio Ghibli fans believe that Hayao Miyazaki's films are optimistic in spite of their creator, but the visionary director is sorely misunderstood.
Despite its worldwide appeal, some critics argue that the filmâs plot becomes convoluted, particularly in its latter half. While Howlâs Moving Castle is undeniably a visual and emotional feast, its story and theme complexity keep it from achieving the top spot.
6 Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (83.7 points from 1,160 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Based on His Own MangaYour RatingNausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Release Date
March 11, 1984
Runtime
117 Minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki, Cindy Davis, Donald H. Hewitt, Kazunori ItĂ´
Sumi Shimamoto
GorĂ´ Naya
Though technically released before Studio Ghibli was officially formed, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is 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 protagonist Nausicaä is one of Miyazakiâs strongest heroines, embodying intelligence, compassion, and bravery.
Nausicaä is based on the manga series by Miyazaki himself, though the two differ in many respects.
With its environmental themes and epic storytelling, Nausicaä is still a beloved film, but its early animation style, while still beautiful, lacks the refined polish of Ghibliâs later works. This may explain why it falls just short of the highest-rated films in the data.
5 My Neighbor Totoro (84 points from 1,772 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Original Story by Studio GhibliYour RatingMy Neighbor Totoro
Release Date
April 16, 1988
Runtime
86minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki
Dakota Fanning
Elle Fanning
Arguably the face of Studio Ghibli, My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming tale about childhood wonder and family bonds. The filmâs 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 Ghibliâs most recognizable films, Totoro's lack 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 studioâs best.
4 Princess Mononoke (84 points from 1,773 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Original Story by Studio GhibliYour RatingPrincess Mononoke
Release Date
July 12, 1997
Runtime
133 Minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki
YĂ´ji Matsuda
Yuriko Ishida
A darker and more mature Ghibli film, Princess Mononoke tackles themes of environmental destruction, conflict, and morality. The filmâs breathtaking animation and intricate story make it one of the studioâs most ambitious works. Ashitaka and Sanâs journey through a world caught between industrial progress and natureâs wrath is deeply impactful.âââââââ
Despite being a near-perfect film in terms of scope and execution, Princess Mononoke may not be as appealing or understandable to younger audiences. This could explain why it shares a rating with My Neighbor Totoro rather 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.
3 Kiki's Delivery Service (84.4 points from 1,538 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Based on the Novel by Eiko KadonoYour RatingKiki's Delivery Service
Release Date
July 29, 1989
Runtime
103 Minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki
Minami Takayama
Rei Sakuma
An absolutely must-watch coming-of-age story, Kiki's Delivery Service captures the struggles of independence and self-discovery. Following Kiki, a young witch setting out to find her place in the world, the filmâs quiet, reflective storytelling has earned it a special place in many hearts.âââââââ
RelatedStudio Ghibli Recruits Spy x Family Creator For the Most Gorgeous Anime Crossover
Tatsuya Endo, creator of the Spy x Family manga series, worked with Studio Ghibli to give their popular witch Kiki a makeover.
Though it ranks highly, Kikiâs Delivery Service does not quite reach the epic scale of some of Ghibliâs other top contenders. However, its gentle, uplifting nature makes it one of Ghibli's lasting top films.
2 Castle in the Sky (85.8 points from 1,671 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Original Story by Studio GhibliYour RatingCastle in the Sky
Release Date
August 2, 1986
Runtime
125 minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki
Producers
Hideo Ogata, Isao Takahata, Tatsumi Yamashita, Toshio Suzuki
A high-flying adventure blending fantasy and steampunk elements, Castle in the Sky is a thrilling showcase of Miyazakiâs imagination. The filmâs breathtaking visuals and intriguing story make it one of the studioâs strongest offerings.
Though it might not share the same universal recognition that some of Miyazaki's later films enjoy, Castle in the Sky is still an incredibly influential movie whose legacy can even be seen today in Miyazaki-esque films like The 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.
1 Spirited Away (87 points from 2,476 ratings)Anime Directed by Hayao Miyazaki; Original Story by Studio GhibliYour RatingSpirited Away
Release Date
July 20, 2001
Runtime
125 minutes
Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Writers
Hayao Miyazaki
Rumi Hiiragi
Miyu Irino
At the very top of the rankings is Spirit 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 with The Boy and the Heron, Spirited Away's historical significance is indisputable.
With its universal appeal and deep emotional story, Spirited Away stands as Studio Ghibliâs definitive masterpiece. There's a reason Spirited Away was the highest-grossing anime film for more than a decade before it was dethroned by Demon Slayer: Mugen Train. It's undeniable that all of Studio Ghibliâs films have their own merits, this filmâs ability to blend creativity, complexity, and accessibility makes it the crown jewel of the studioâs legacy.
, âAcapulco,â âCitadel: Honey Bunny,â âLa MĂĄquina,â âThe Law According to Lidia PoĂŤt,â âMy Brilliant Friend,â and âSenna.â
This year marks the second time âSquid Gameâ has won Best Foreign Language Series: Season 1 of the show claimed the prize back in 2022, when star Lee Jung Jae also won the award for Best Actor in a Drama Series.
Congratulations to the cast and crew of âSquid Game 2â!
Watch Lee Jung Jae in his film âDeliver Us from Evilâ on Viki below:
[viki-watchnow url=https://www.viki.com/movies/38140c-deliver-us-from-evil]
Or check out Lee Byung Hun's film Concrete Utopia below!
[viki-watchnow url=https://www.viki.com/movies/40357c-concrete-utopia] %23actor)
 WAIT, WHAT?! ???? Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce Spotted in New OrleansâBut Fans Are LOSING IT Over This One Bizarre Clue in the Photos! (Zoom in, look closer⌠do YOU see what has everyone freaking out?! ????????) %23taylorswift)
 â The United States Secret Service has tapped blockbuster movie director Michael Bay to create a recruiting advertisement that is expected to be unveiled inRead More %23hollywood)
