We rank the magical films of Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. Which Ghibli masterpiece is number one?

Studio Ghibli is the Disney of Japan, but with more spirit(s). With a catalog of breathtaking films, ranking them is nearly impossible, but we tried.

The Top 5

1. Spirited Away (2001)

The gold standard. It won the Oscar and refined the medium. Chihiro's journey through the spirit bathhouse is a perfect metaphor for growing up. The animation, music, and imagination are peak Miyazaki.

2. Princess Mononoke (1997)

A magnificent epic about the conflict between nature and industry. It is darker, more violent, and morally complex. Ashitaka is the ideal neutral hero, and San is iconic.

3. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

The heart of Ghibli. There is no villain, no great conflict, just childhood wonder and the comfort of nature. Totoro is the mascot of anime for a reason.

4. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

The saddest movie you will ever watch. Isao Takahata's masterpiece about two siblings surviving WWII Japan. It is hauntingly beautiful and devastating.

5. Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

A relatable coming-of-age story about burnout and finding your purpose. Kiki losing her magic because of depression resonates with every creative person.

Honorable Mentions

• Howl's Moving Castle: Fan favorite for the aesthetic and Howl himself.
• Castle in the Sky: A perfect adventure movie.
• Porco Rosso: Underrated gem about a pig pilot in the Adriatic.
• The Boy and the Heron: Miyazaki's latest abstract reflection on life and death.