Must-Watch Ghibli Movies on Netflix

Ghibli Movies

1. Spirited Away (2001)

Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi), tells the story of Chihiro, a girl who enters a magical world after her parents turn into pigs. Working in a bathhouse run by a witch, she learns courage and resilience, making the film an award-winning global classic. 

2. Princess Mononoke (1997)

Princess Mononoke (Mononoke Hime) tells the story of Ashitaka, a young warrior caught in a battle between humans and the gods of the forest. The film explores themes of nature, conflict, and coexistence, and is praised worldwide for its powerful storytelling and stunning animation. 

3. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

My Neighbor Totoro (Tonari no Toroto), tells the story of two sisters who move to the countryside and discover friendly forest spirits, including the iconic totoro. The film is loved worldwide for its gentle storytelling, magical charm, and heartwarming music, making it one of Studio Ghibli’s most famous works. 

4. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Howl's Moving Castle (Hauru no Ugoku Shiro) tells the story of Sophie, a young woman cursed into an old body, who finds refuge in the magical moving castle of the wizard Howl. The film blends romance, fantasy, and anti-war themes, earning global praise for its imaginative visuals and heartfelt storytelling. 

5. Ponyo (2008)

Ponyo (Gake no Ue no Ponyo), which tells the story of a goldfish princess who befriends a young boy and dreams of becoming human. Filled with magic, friendship, and ocean imagery, the film won worldwide praise for its charm and beautiful animation. 

6. The Boy and the Heron (2023)

The Boy and Heron (Kimitachi wa Do Ikiru Ka), that tells the story of Mahito, a boy moves to the countryside after his mother’s death and discovers a magical world through a mysterious heron. This film blends fantasy and emotion, earning global praise for its stunning animation and heartfelt themes. 

7. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

Grave of the Fireflies (Hotaru no Haka), tells the heartbreaking story of two siblings struggling to survive in Japan during World War II. Known for its emotional power and realism, the film is praised worldwide as one of the greatest war dramas in animation. 

8. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

Kiki’s Delivery Service (Majo no Takkyubin), tells the story of Kiki, a young witch who moves to a new town and starts a flying delivery business. The film is loved for its warm message about independence, growing up, and finding confidence, making it one of Studio Ghibli’s charming classics. 

9. Laputa: Castle in the Sky (1986)

Castle in the Sky (Tenku no Shiro Rapyuta), tells the story of Sheeta and Pazu, two children who search for the legendary floating island of Laputa while being chased by pirates and the military. The film is admired for its adventure, imagination, and themes of friendship, making it one of Studio Ghibli;s earliest classics. 

10. Poroco Rosso (1992)

Poroco Rosso (Kurenai no Buta), tells the story of an Italian World War I pilot who is cursed to look like a pig and works as a bounty hunter in the Adriatic Sea. The film mixes adventure, humor, and reflection on war, making it one of Studio Ghibli’s most unique classics.