OpenAI's latest image-generation update has sparked a Ghibli art fest across social media. From watercolour-like landscapes to hand-drawn character portraits with expressive eyes, the internet now feels like a scene straight out of ‘Spirited Away’ or ‘Howl's Moving Castle.’
If you’re intrigued by the trend but haven’t explored Studio Ghibli movies yet, now is the perfect time to start! To make it easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the top 5 highest-rated Studio Ghibli movies on IMDb that you should definitely watch.
Top 5 Highest IMDb-Rated Studio Ghibli Movies
‘Spirited Away’
It’s no surprise that ‘Spirited Away’ holds the title of the highest-rated Studio Ghibli film on IMDb, widely regarded as one of the greatest animated films of all time. Its well-earned success stems from a perfect blend of stunning animation, immersive worldbuilding, rich character development, and a beautifully crafted narrative.
The film follows a young girl’s journey after she is mysteriously transported to an enchanted world inhabited by spirits and mystical creatures. Despite its fantasy setting, ‘Spirited Away’ tells one of Studio Ghibli’s most deeply human stories, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and self-discovery with a level of maturity and emotional depth rarely seen in animation.
The film’s universal acclaim cements its status as Ghibli’s most successful movie to date, holding an IMDb rating of 8.6. If you haven’t watched it yet, you can stream it on Netflix.
‘Grave Of The Fireflies’
‘Grave of the Fireflies’ stands out as one of the most emotionally devastating films in Studio Ghibli’s catalogue, and arguably, in cinematic history. The film follows the heartbreaking journey of two young siblings struggling to survive during the final months of World War II, a story made even more gut-wrenching by the fact that it’s based on true events.
‘Grave of the Fireflies’ doesn’t shy away from showing the brutality and despair of wartime Japan, offering a bleak yet powerful reflection on the cost of conflict.
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With an IMDb rating of 8.5, this masterpiece is available to stream on Netflix but be warned, it’s an emotional experience you won’t soon forget.
‘Princess Mononoke’
‘Princess Mononoke’ stands out as one of Studio Ghibli’s most mature films, featuring intense action sequences and hauntingly powerful scenes to drive home its themes. The story follows a young prince cursed by a dark force, leading him on a journey to find a cure. Along the way, he becomes entangled in a brutal conflict between the forest’s mystical creatures and the humans seeking to destroy it.
At its core, ‘Princess Mononoke’ is a deeply meaningful exploration of humanity’s relationship with nature, showing the devastating consequences of environmental destruction. Every aspect of the film, whether its visuals or its storytelling works together to present an authentic and thought-provoking message about the delicate balance between progress and preservation.
With an IMDb rating of 8.3, this Ghibli classic is available to stream on Netflix and remains a must-watch for fans.
‘Howl’s Moving Castle’
‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ is easily one of Studio Ghibli’s most surreal films, which is no surprise given Hayao Miyazaki’s reputation for blending dreamlike fantasy with storytelling. The film follows a young woman cursed to look like an old witch, leading her to seek help from Howl, a powerful yet insecure wizard. However, as their paths intertwine, their relationship becomes far more complex than a simple quest to break a spell.
The film is a visual masterpiece, featuring vibrant landscapes, picturesque towns, and of course, the iconic moving castle itself, an imaginative wonder that perfectly encapsulates Ghibli’s signature whimsical aesthetic. Every detail in the film feels as though it belongs to a fully fantasy world, immersing viewers in a magical and breathtaking adventure.
With an IMDb rating of 8.2, ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ is available to stream on Netflix and is a must-watch for anyone who loves fantasy, romance, and stunning animation.
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‘My Neighbour Totoro’
‘My Neighbour Totoro’ is undoubtedly one of Studio Ghibli’s most iconic and beloved films, offering a wholesome and magical experience that has charmed audiences for generations. The story follows a family’s move to the countryside, where two young sisters discover a world of friendly forest spirits, including the lovable Totoro, who has since become the face of Studio Ghibli.
Visually, the film is a masterpiece of atmosphere and art direction, featuring stunning landscapes, imaginative creatures, and unforgettable designs from the mysterious Catbus to the gentle giant, Totoro.
At its heart, ‘My Neighbour Totoro’ represents everything that makes Ghibli films so special, a sweet, aesthetically beautiful adventure that appeals to both children and adults. With its relaxing, feel-good charm, the film offers layers of depth for those seeking meaning, while also serving as a comforting escape for anyone in need of a warm, nostalgic hug.
With an IMDb rating of 8.1, this Ghibli classic is available to watch on Netflix and is an absolute must-watch for animation lovers.
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Credits: Youtube
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