5 Must-Watch Miyazaki Movies and What Makes Them Special

Image credits: Hayao Miyazaki/ Hayao Miyazaki Fan Club

The legendary Japanese animator and storyteller Hayao Miyazaki started his career as a television director in 1971. Over the next three decades, he became one of the best-animated filmmakers in the world. In honour of this Oscar-winning genius, we look at five of our favourite Miyazaki movies, and why we think they are special.

Princess Mononoke (1997)

Image credits: Studio Ghibli
The movie name says Princess but the movie really is about a male protagonist, a young warrior prince, Ashitaka, who is afflicted with a curse. In order to save his life he must find a cure. In his search, he comes across Princess Mononoke, a young woman raised by wolves, and this is where things get interesting. 

Why it’s special: This epic historical fantasy film about Princess Mononoke’s being raised by wolves and her adventures remind us of Mowgli from The Jungle Book. Also, the action scenes are ones you don’t want to miss. 

Spirited Away (2001)

Image credits: Studio Ghibli

This is the unusual story of a young girl named Chihiro who follows her parents into an abandoned amusement park. After her parents are turned into pigs, and she gets a job at a bathhouse for spirits, her adventure begins. 

Why it’s special: One of Miyazaki’s best works, this is not just an unusual story but also a brilliant film that puts across themes of love, bravery, and environment in the most interesting way. It is not without reason that the film won the Academy Award for the Best Animated Film.

My Neighbour Totoro (1988)

Image credits: Studio Ghibli

Sisters Satsuki & Mei befriend a peculiar forest spirit named King Totoro. The story revolves round Totoro leading the sisters on wild adventures in the forests. For those who are aware about the Japanese culture, there are also some hidden references.

Why it’s special: A perfect family film! Besides Totoro, a giant bunny rabbit, there’s Catbus, which, evident from its name, is a cat that turns into a bus to allow easy travel for the girls. How can one not want to watch a film that stretches your imagination? 

Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

Image credits: Studio Ghibli

Love witches & magic? Then this is your type of film. This is a happy story about a thirteen-year-old Kiki, an ambitious girl who leaves home with her black cat Jijji to become a full-fledged witch. She sets up a delivery service and flies across the city, for the job, on a broom. The hurdles she overcomes after this forms the crux of the story. 

Why it’s special: A teenage witch, a black cat, a broomstick, and lots of magic! What’s not to love? In fact, you end up rooting for the teenager as she blooms into an independent & confident young woman. 

Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Image credits: Studio Ghibli

This Oscar-nominated movie is loosely based on the novel of the same name, by Diana Wynne Jones. It is about the clash of magic and technology. A young woman named Sophie is turned old by a witch, and she needs the help of a wizard with a moving castle. There’s also a war at the centre of it.

Why it’s special: This is probably one of the most visually spectacular movie in the Miyazaki’s catalogue. The beautifully done animation and visuals enhance the story.  

What’s your favourite Miyazaki movie? Let us know in the comments.