If you’re a fan of Studio Ghibli’s enchanting storytelling and breathtaking animation, you’ll want to explore best anime movies to watch if you love Studio Ghibli. This list features a selection of films that capture the same magical essence and emotional depth that Ghibli is renowned for.
Now, let’s discover:
1. Mary And The Witch’s Flower
Mary and the Witch’s Flower is a heartwarming adventure set in a magical version of the English countryside. This visually stunning film weaves a timeless tale of growth and maturity, while its intricate details celebrate the beauty of life.Released in 2017, the film’s familiarity is no coincidence. Based on a beloved British children’s book, it features artists who previously worked with Studio Ghibli. Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, who also helmed The Secret World of Arrietty, some might consider this connection a bit of a cheat! However, despite its roots, Mary and the Witch’s Flower stands entirely apart from Ghibli.
The story follows Mary Smith, a young girl living with her great-aunt in a large countryside home. One day, she discovers a magical flower called Fly-By-Night, which grants her temporary magical powers. This leads her on an adventure to Endor College, a secret school for witches. As Mary navigates this enchanting world, she learns about friendship, courage, and the importance of being true to oneself. With its rich visuals and heartfelt narrative, Mary and the Witch’s Flower captures the essence of youthful wonder while exploring deeper themes.
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2. Kino’s Journey
With just 13 episodes in its 2003 anime adaptation, Kino’s Journey offers a compact yet profound narrative that embodies the essence of a Ghibli masterpiece. Its visuals feature soft, sweeping shapes and delicate watercolor backgrounds, creating a captivating aesthetic. However, what truly distinguishes Kino’s Journey is its thought-provoking plot.
The story follows the titular character, Kino, as she travels the world on her talking motorcycle, Hermes. Each episode presents a unique and intriguing scenario that challenges viewers to ponder deeper themes, reminiscent of the mind-bending narratives crafted by Hayao Miyazaki. The whimsical premise combined with serious undertones sets Kino’s Journey apart as a compelling exploration of life and human nature.
3. Children Who Chase Lost Voices
Children Who Chase Lost Voices (also known as Journey to Agartha) can be seen as a darker counterpart to Spirited Away, tackling more mature themes while still delivering an ethereal adventure. While Spirited Away resonates with younger audiences, its story may leave older viewers wanting more. In contrast, Children Who Chase Lost Voices dives into the complexities of grief and the process of moving on.
The film follows Asuna, a middle school girl dealing with the loss of her father and the emotional distance created by her mother’s demanding nursing job. Asuna discovers a mysterious world beyond her own, where she meets Shun, a boy from Agartha, who introduces her to the wonders and dangers of this spiritual realm. Like Spirited Away, the characters navigate a landscape that blends reality with fantasy, but Children Who Chase Lost Voices emphasizes the importance of confronting life’s harsh realities.
Through its exploration of loss and longing, the film presents a more profound narrative that encourages reflection on how we cope with grief. The interactions between Asuna and Shun, along with their encounters in Agartha, highlight the film’s central themes of love, memory, and acceptance. Ultimately, while both films celebrate pockets of fantasy, Children Who Chase Lost Voices offers a richer, more mature experience that invites viewers to ponder deeper emotional truths.
4. Millennium Actress
Millennium Actress is a visually breathtaking exploration of the life of an elderly actress, offering a captivating journey through decades of memories in under an hour. This emotionally charged film perfectly encapsulates the unrestrained essence of Ghibli’s storytelling.
The film’s vibrant and intricate scenes draw from the past, infusing a warm, nostalgic atmosphere into the narrative. Small details evolve into significant plot points, anchoring the characters within a magical, liminal space. This heartfelt warmth mirrors the affection found in many of Ghibli’s historical works, such as My Neighbor Totoro and From Up on Poppy Hill. Additionally, its narrative style resonates with that of Only Yesterday, blending reality and fantasy in a way that invites deep reflection on the passage of time and the nature of memory.
5. Suzume
Makoto Shinkai’s films are renowned for their intricate storytelling and emotional depth, earning him recognition as a potential successor to Hayao Miyazaki. His latest film, Suzume, adds yet another impressive entry to his already celebrated portfolio. However, beneath its fantastical surface, Suzume reveals a complexity that invites deeper reflection.
In many ways, Suzume parallels Spirited Away, utilizing rich visuals and a layered narrative to explore the universal challenges of growing up. The characters frequently encounter unseen mysteries, and the film imbues its magical elements with a distinctly pragmatic touch reminiscent of Ghibli’s style. Notably, Suzume pays homage to Ghibli’s enduring cultural impact through subtle nods throughout the story.
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