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“I do believe in the power of story. I believe that stories have an important role to play in the formation of human beings, that they can stimulate, amaze and inspire their listeners.”
– Hayao Miyazaki
For a story to be successful and capture our hearts, it needs three important things; compelling characters, immersive world-building, and timeless relevance. As animation genius, and head producer, director, and artist at Studio Ghibli, Hayao Miyazaki says “Is someone different at age 18 or 60? I believe one stays the same.” and I believe this is captured in the stunning works of the studio he pioneered. Studio Ghibli has the magic touch that so few studios do; they can bring grown adults to tears, invoke pure joy, and transport us back to the simpler times of our childhoods and the naivety that came with them. The wonder that exudes from each Ghibli animation is unmatchable, and the wonderful thing is, is that the films are so simple. Whether it be a story of friendship, adventure, grief, or growing up, Studio Ghibli has mastered the art of storytelling with a purpose.
I have been a Ghibli fan for many years and still have vivid memories of watching Spirited Away for the first time, sat up close to the TV and completely taken in by the stunning art-style, and the seriously delicious-looking food! Since then I have ventured into other works by the Studio and thought of no better time than now to share my top picks, just as Netflix releases 21 of the Studio’s catalogue starting today (1st of February 2020).
1. Only Yesterday (1991)
My first pick is admittedly unusual, however Only Yesterday is my favourite Ghibli film so far. If you’re looking for magical escapism, this is not the film for you. Instead the story is quite the opposite and follows the story of an adult Taeko as she rediscovers her childhood hopes and dreams. Confronted by the brutal reality of outside expectations from her family and career of what her life ‘should’ be, Taeko decides to take a trip to the countryside to live out her childhood dream of holidaying in the country. Hold on before you keep scrolling to find something more exciting! I promise this film is seriously good! I found myself feeling everything Taeko was feeling, from the fear of judgement, the pressure of adulthood, and the joy in the simple things; I think a lot of people will find comfort in her character regardless of cultural background. If anything, Only Yesterday taught me that we are all the same, and all feeling the burden of adulthood, but also to never let go of that innate feeling of childhood hope. Only Yesterday is completely relevant to us as university students heading off into the grown up world, and I highly recommend giving it a watch.
“To be a butterfly, a caterpillar has to become a chrysalis first, even if it never for a moment wanted to become one.”
-Taeko Okajima (Only Yesterday)
2. Princess Mononoke (1997)
My second choice is another strange but common choice, in that it’s not the fun, happy-go-lucky style of Ghibli film most casual viewers are well-accustomed to, but is a Ghibli classic. A thought-provokng theme you can find throughout Ghibli’s work is it’s emphasis on ambivalence, or being neither ‘black’ nor ‘white’, or in the case of Princess Mononoke, ‘good’ nor ‘evil’. As viewers you are implored to assess your own views and beliefs, when you are forced to confront characters like Lady Eboshi who is neither a villain or protagonist and displays both good and evil characteristics. In an age of growing environmentalism, Mononoke is a call to it’s viewers to respect nature and protect it from harm. Overall, Mononoke discusses the changing culture of Japan during the 80s and 90s; as the country quickly developed and in the process of urbanisation, ancient beliefs about our purpose in the world were forgotten. Incredibly before it’s time, and a beautiful masterpiece in terms of art, story, and music; Princess Mononoke is a must watch.
“These days, there are angry ghosts all around us. Dead from wars, sickness, starvation, and nobody cares. So – you say you’re under a curse. So what, so’s the whole damn world.”
– Bou Jiko (Princess Mononoke)
3. Spirited Away (2001)
If not for the sake of nostalgia alone, Spirited Away had to be my final choice! You’ll be happy to know that this film isn’t completely miserable or existential-crisis inducing like the previous suggestions and you’re probably already familiar with the Academy award-winning story. If you’re not, Spirited Away is an adventure in friendship, responsibility and courage as Chihiro learns about the importance of life and love when she is ‘spirited away’ into the mystical world of ancient Japanese kami. Aside from being a fantastic story, the art style of this film is gorgeous and Miyazaki’s attention to character and world-building is very evident throughout. When I think of Ghibli, I think of Spirited Away as the feature really does exemplify what the Studio is all about; telling beautiful, and complex stories. Again like with ‘Mononoke’, there is a general theme in Spirited Away of ancient Japanese belief and culture, and protecting it. As well as this, the character No-Face hints towards Miyazaki’s disdain towards greed, especially when it comes to the monetary and material. If you haven’t already seen Spirited Away (how could you have not at this point!), I recommend it hugely; this film gives off super cosy vibes and would be a fantastic night-in watch!
“Welcome the rich man, he’s hard for you to miss. His butt keeps getting bigger, so there’s plenty there to kiss!”
– Aniyaku (Spirited Away)
Feature Image Credits: BagoGames from Flickr (CC BY 2.0)
culture Film Netflix only yesterday princess mononoke Spirited Away Studio Ghibli top picks
Last modified: 31st January 2020
