Hayao Miyazaki is a name that commands respect in the world of animation. With a career spanning decades, his films have enchanted audiences with their breathtaking visuals, heartfelt stories, and unforgettable characters. While his recent output has been sparse—fans waited a decade between The Wind Rises and The Boy and the Heron—his filmography remains remarkably consistent. None of his twelve features are outright bad, which makes ranking them a delightful challenge. Here, we focus on his first seven films, all released in the 20th century, and rank them from good to great.
7. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
It might seem sacrilegious to place My Neighbor Totoro at the bottom, but in a filmography this strong, something has to be last. The film is undeniably charming, with its gentle tale of two sisters who befriend forest spirits in rural Japan. However, compared to Miyazaki's other works, it feels the most meandering. The plot is thin, and the pacing is slow, making it harder to grasp a clear narrative drive. While it's still a lovely watch, it lacks the depth and complexity that elevate his other films. That said, it's a testament to Miyazaki's skill that even his "weakest" film is still a beloved classic.
6. Porco Rosso (1992)
Porco Rosso tells the story of a World War I fighter pilot cursed to look like a pig, who now works as a bounty hunter in the Adriatic Sea. The premise is delightfully absurd, and the film is full of aerial dogfights and adventure. Yet, like Totoro, it feels a bit aimless, with a narrative that meanders more than it drives. The charm of the protagonist and the gorgeous animation keep it engaging, but it doesn't quite reach the emotional heights of Miyazaki's best. It's a fun, visually stunning ride, but not his most cohesive story.
5. Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)
Following Totoro, Miyazaki returned to the coming-of-age genre with Kiki's Delivery Service. The film follows a young witch who, at thirteen, must leave home to find her place in the world. It's a sweet, gentle story about independence and self-discovery, but it also suffers from a loose structure. The plot is simple, and the ending feels abrupt. Still, the film's warmth and the relatable journey of its protagonist make it a delightful watch. The animation and score are, as always, top-notch, and it's a film that resonates with anyone who's ever felt lost trying to find their path.
4. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
Before Studio Ghibli was officially founded, Miyazaki directed Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, a post-apocalyptic epic that blends sci-fi and fantasy. The film is set in a world ravaged by pollution, where a young princess, Nausicaä, tries to bring peace between humans and the giant insects that now dominate the land. It's a visually stunning film with a rich, complex world that feels far bigger than the movie itself—no surprise, since it was adapted from Miyazaki's own manga, which he continued writing after the film's release. The environmental themes and strong heroine make it a standout, even if it's not as polished as his later works.
3. Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro (1979)
Miyazaki's directorial debut, Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro, is often overlooked because it predates Studio Ghibli. But it's a gem. The film follows the master thief Lupin III as he attempts to rescue a princess from a counterfeiter's clutches. It's a thrilling, comedic adventure that showcases Miyazaki's knack for action and humor. The animation is more traditional, but it's filled with inventive set pieces and a charismatic lead. It's a must-watch for any fan of Miyazaki or classic anime, and it's a shame it doesn't get more recognition.
2. Princess Mononoke (1997)
Princess Mononoke is a sprawling, epic tale set in a world where humans and nature are at war. The film follows Ashitaka, a young prince cursed by a demon, as he seeks a cure and finds himself caught in the conflict between the iron town of Irontown and the forest gods. It's a mature, complex film that doesn't shy away from moral ambiguity—there are no clear villains, only conflicting perspectives. The animation is breathtaking, and the story is both intimate and grand. It's a powerful statement on environmentalism and humanity's relationship with nature, and it remains one of Miyazaki's most ambitious works.
1. Spirited Away (2001)
While Spirited Away was released in 2001, it's often grouped with Miyazaki's 20th-century classics due to its timeless quality. But since our list strictly covers the 20th century, we'll crown Princess Mononoke as the best of that era. However, if we were to include Spirited Away, it would undoubtedly take the top spot. It's a masterpiece of imagination, telling the story of a young girl trapped in a world of spirits and gods. The film is a visual feast, with every frame packed with detail and wonder. It's a coming-of-age story, a fantasy adventure, and a commentary on consumerism and identity, all rolled into one. It's no wonder it won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and is considered one of the greatest films ever made.
Miyazaki's 20th-century films are a testament to his genius. Each one is a unique, beautifully crafted work that has left an indelible mark on animation and cinema. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, these films are essential viewing. And for more on the best in film, check out our list of the greatest American movies or the most game-changing films in cinema history.
