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Mystical universes and other-worldly creatures seem to spill out from the mind of Japanese director and Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki like magic. Through his breathtaking animated films, Miyazaki has created detailed, hand-drawn universes that could only come from the colorful imagination of a storyteller. The famed animator and director has now announced his retirement twice, once in the 1990s and most recently in 2013. Though he’s cited old age as the reason, humorously calling himself “an old geezer” repeatedly in the 2016 documentary Never-Ending Man Hayao Miyazaki, the rise of CGI-animated filmmaking has also deterred him from creating with a full production team of animators.
However, it’s no secret that Miyazaki has an unrelenting love for creation and continues to work on new animation projects despite the retirement announcements. He returned to his production team in 2020 to assist his son in creating the computer-animated film Earwig and the Witch for the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Japan. Fans of Studio Ghibli and Miyazaki are also anticipating the upcoming release of his latest film How Do You Live?, based on a 1937 novel by Genzaburo Yoshino, a childhood favorite of Miyazaki.
While we wait for the latest undoubted masterpiece from Miyazaki to release this summer, fall back into the mystical worlds of Studio Ghibli by rewatching Miyazaki’s best works, as well as the 2016 documentary, exclusively available on Max.
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Although Nausicaä of the Valley was made a year before the founding of Studio Ghibli in 1985, it’s widely regarded as a Ghibli piece because most of the staff that worked on it were original members and founders of the established design studio. Nausicaä, the Princess of the Kingdom of the Valley of the Wind, goes on a thrilling journey to protect her people and the environment from a spreading toxic jungle. With her pet fox-squirrel, Teto, and other trusted animal friends by her side, she embarks through a world of giant insects, ancient technology, and breathtaking landscapes. The film speaks to the delicate balance between humanity and nature, pacifism, and spiritual connections: all expected themes from Miyazaki. Nausicaä of the Valley encourages viewers to reflect on their relationship with the environment, the power of empathy, and the possibilities of a more harmonious existence.
Castle In The Sky
In a steampunk-inspired world behind the clouds, viewers follow orphans Sheeta and Pazu as they unlock the secrets of a legendary civilization. As they’re pursued by sky pirates and government agents, the adventurous duo race against time to find the mystical floating castle, Laputa, rumored to hold unimaginable power. Together, Sheeta and Pazu soar through the skies on fantastical airships, navigating treacherous landscapes and encountering quirky characters along the way, like a funny robot named Bazu. From the dazzling beauty of nature to the jaw-dropping spectacle of the floating castle itself, the film immerses onlookers into a world of vivid colors while exploring the power of greed and the pursuit of beliefs. Alongside its imaginative setting and grand sense of adventure, Castle in the Sky is a visual feast that will transport viewers to a world where dreams take flight and anything is possible.
Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea
If you’re also enamored by mermaids as of late, Ponyo is the Studio Ghibli film you need in your life. We follow Ponyo, a goldfish-turned-girl, and Sosuke as they embark on a whimsical underwater journey together. Along the way, Ponyo’s water power begins to grow. Along with her transformation, she’s able to manipulate water by making powerful waves, summoning and communicating with sea creatures, and making the ocean come alive. Ponyo celebrates the boundless imagination and innocence of childhood, friendship, and connection, and encourages finding a balance between human progress and the preservation of natural ecosystems.
Spirited Away
One of Miyazaki’s most well-known films, Spirited Away throws young Chihiro into an enchanting world where her parents are pigs and spirits relax in a magical bathhouse. Chihiro encounters the alluring sorceress and madam of the bathhouse, Yubaba, as well as the popular mysterious spirit, No-Face, and the adorable soot sprites that live in the basement lair of the bathhouse. Spirited Away holds themes of self-discovery, environmentalism, and the illusive power of materialism. Above all, it’s a coming-of-age story for Chihiro. She learns the power of friendship, resilience, and empathy, and the importance of embracing her true self, all while bathed in an array of vibrant colors and mesmerizing animation.
The Secret World of Arrietty
The Secret World of Arrietty is a captivating film that follows the adventures of a teenaged borrower named Arrietty Clock and her family. Borrowers are miniature people who live secretly beneath the floorboards, borrowing small necessities from human homes to survive. The Clock family face the looming threat of being discovered when Arrietty and 12-year-old Shawn grow a deep friendship. The story touches on themes of empathy and respecting nature and the environment, which is intimately connected to the fabled history of borrowers maintaining a delicate balance with the world around them. With its stunning animation, charming characters, and heartfelt storytelling, the film is a delightful and enchanting tale that reminds us of the power of friendship, the resilience of the human spirit, and the magic that can be found in the most unexpected places.
Kiki’s Delivery Service
Adapted from the 1985 novel of the same name by Eiko Kadono, Kiki’s Delivery Service is an adorable story of perseverance and personal growth. When 13-year-old trainee witch Kiki sets out to begin her witch duties, she has no idea what she’s in for. However, she soon creates a unique delivery business in a quaint seaside town, flying around on her broomstick delivering packages. Along her journeys, she meets a host of colorful characters including a pleasant bakery owner, who gives Kiki room and board for her services; Tombo, a nerdy kid who’s obsessed with aviation and Kiki’s ability to fly; and a sweet, friendly painter. Through bustling streets and picturesque landscapes, Kiki’s adventures are filled with excitement and wonder. From daring rescues to unexpected friendships, the film is a joyful celebration of self-discovery, friendship, and the magic that exists within us all.
The Wind Rises
Inspired by the life of aircraft designer Jiro Horikoshi, The Wind Rises follows Horikoshi as he pursues his passion for aeronautical engineering during the pre-World War II period in Japan. Though it’s his dream, the realities of being in a country on the brink of war puts a strain on his endeavors. It’s rooted in historical events, but the film also weaves in romance with the story of Jiro falling in love with a young woman named Nahoko. With that added layer, Horikoshi struggles to come to terms with his role in the war efforts. The story examines themes of love, ambition, artistry, and the impact war has on individuals and society. While stunning in its detailed Studio Ghibli-style, The Wind Rises also encourages viewers to take an introspective look at the human spirit and the effects historic events can have on art and culture.
My Neighbor Totoro
The magical adventures of Satsuki and Mei begin when they move into a charming countryside home where many fantastical creatures live nearby. The adorable duo meet their new neighbor, the fluffy and huggable forest spirit, Totoro, and together, the trio explore lush landscapes, fly on enchanted umbrellas, and meet mischievous dust bunnies. Satsuki and Mei learn the importance of family, friendship, and embracing the beauty of nature. They dance in the rain, plant acorns, and even venture into the magical Totoro tree, where they learn amazing secrets and encounter more eye-opening surprises. My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming tale about childhood innocence, family and sibling bonds, and how we cope with change and uncertainty.
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