UF’s 5 Studio Ghibli Must-Sees

While it would be amazing if you could watch all of the 18 Studio Ghibli films currently out, unfortunately school and other obstacles may make it impossible. That’s why I’ve narrowed the list down to what I consider to be the five best films.

1. Spirited Away

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Even if you saw Spirited Away when you were younger, I recommend seeing it again. Spirited Away has beautiful, breathtaking animation. Additionally, it carries a powerful message and teaches a lot about Japanese culture. The scenery is breathtaking, and every image is a work of art. This movie is amazing.

2. Howl’s Moving Castle

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Howl’s Moving Castle is both funny and serious at times. If you’re not watching it for the handsome main character, Howl, then you’re watching it for the anti-war message or because you can relate to the main character, Sophie. Howl’s Moving Castle uses beautiful imagery to warn viewers of the dangers of war and the strength of love.

3. My Neighbor Totoro

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My Neighbor Totoro is a fun, adorable movie. It’s Studio Ghibli’s most iconic film, and the lovable Totoro has long represented the studio. The movie is light-hearted and a joy to watch. If you’re having a bad day or just need a little pick-me-up, this movie will do the trick.

“I like Totoro because it’s from my childhood, and after watching it again the family relations touch my heart,” said Gwen Burg, first-year linguistics major.

4. Princess Mononoke

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Princess Mononoke also heavily depicts Japanese culture. The movie has both a strong male and female lead character. The movie centers around a young woman’s quest to protect her forest from destruction. The movie is both powerful and symbolic as it speaks to present day concerns such as gender equality and environmentalism.

“I like Princess Mononoke because of the multidimensional characters and the themes such as good versus evil and industrialism versus nature,” said Karlene Santos, second-year elementary educations major.

5. Kiki’s Delivery Service

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Kiki’s Delivery Service is a cute film about a young witch who struggles to find her place in the world. Kiki leaves her family and hometown to find a place where she can settle down and belong. The movie shows the beauty of engineering and the difficulties of being different and trying to fit in. With beautiful animation and scenery, its a wonderful film.

 

So there you have it. My top five Studio Ghibli films.

Kawaii! In Japan, Totoro is extremely popular.

Of course, I recommend watching all of them like From Up on Poppy Hill, The Wind Rises and Grave of Fireflies, but these five movies should be a good start.