Hayao Miyazaki stands as a titan of animation, a filmmaker whose name is synonymous with Studio Ghibli and whose works have enchanted audiences worldwide. While his 20th-century output includes classics like My Neighbor Totoro and Princess Mononoke, his 21st-century films continue to showcase his unparalleled creativity and storytelling. With five features released since 2000, each one a gem, ranking them is no easy task—but we're up for the challenge.
The Gentle Charm of Ponyo (2008)
At the bottom of our list—though "bottom" is a relative term here—is Ponyo, a film that feels like a warm hug. It's the most child-friendly of Miyazaki's recent works, centering on a five-year-old boy who befriends a magical goldfish-like creature yearning to become human. The story is simple, the stakes are low, and the animation is as beautiful as ever. While it may lack the complexity of his other films, Ponyo is a delightful entry point for young viewers and a soothing watch for adults seeking comfort.
The Imaginative Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
Coming in fourth is Howl's Moving Castle, a visually stunning fantasy that showcases Miyazaki's boundless imagination. Adapted from Diana Wynne Jones's novel, the film follows a young woman cursed with an aging spell who finds refuge in the moving castle of the enigmatic wizard Howl. It's a story about love, self-acceptance, and the horrors of war, wrapped in Miyazaki's signature whimsy. While it might not reach the heights of his absolute best, it remains a vital and beloved part of his filmography.
The Grounded The Wind Rises (2013)
In a surprising departure from fantasy, The Wind Rises is a biographical drama about Jiro Horikoshi, the engineer behind Japan's WWII fighter planes. It's a poignant, melancholic film that explores the tension between artistic passion and the destructive uses of technology. Miyazaki's love for aviation shines through, and the romance at its core adds emotional depth. It's a mature work that proves Miyazaki can excel outside his comfort zone, making it a compelling watch for those who appreciate historical drama.
The Masterpiece Spirited Away (2001)
Often hailed as Miyazaki's magnum opus, Spirited Away is a breathtaking journey into a world of spirits and gods. The story of young Chihiro navigating a bathhouse for supernatural beings is a coming-of-age tale filled with wonder, terror, and heart. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, cementing its place in cinematic history. Its themes of identity, greed, and courage resonate universally, making it a film that transcends age and culture.
The Latest Triumph: The Boy and the Heron (2023)
Topping our list is The Boy and the Heron, Miyazaki's most recent—and possibly final—film. This semi-autobiographical tale follows a young boy grappling with loss who discovers a magical world through a talking heron. It's a deeply personal work that reflects on life, death, and the creative process, blending Miyazaki's signature fantasy with a more introspective tone. Critics have praised it as a fitting swansong, and it stands as a testament to his enduring genius.
Why Ranking Miyazaki Is a Labor of Love
Ranking these films is a subjective exercise, as each offers something unique. Whether it's the pure joy of Ponyo, the imaginative spectacle of Howl's Moving Castle, the grounded drama of The Wind Rises, the universal appeal of Spirited Away, or the introspective beauty of The Boy and the Heron, Miyazaki's 21st-century output is a treasure trove for animation lovers. For those looking to explore more of his work, our ranking of R-rated sci-fi films might offer a different kind of cinematic thrill, but nothing quite matches the magic of Ghibli.
As we await word on whether Miyazaki will truly retire, one thing is certain: his films will continue to inspire and delight for generations to come. If you're new to his work, start with Spirited Away and work your way through—you're in for a remarkable journey.
