Hayao Miyazaki's top five animations known for aesthetic excellence

When people hear the word “animation,” they often think it’s something made for children. However, that’s far from the truth. Many animated films deliver profound messages that make viewers think differently about life. Japanese animators have taken the medium to extraordinary heights, and when discussing Japanese animation, Hayao Miyazaki is the first name that comes to mind. His works are admired by audiences of all ages due to their unique storytelling, artistry, and depth. Once you start watching one of his creations, it’s impossible to take your eyes off the screen.

Let’s explore the top five animated films by Hayao Miyazaki, based on IMDb ratings:

Spirited Away
Considered Miyazaki’s masterpiece, Spirited Away was released in 2001. It received widespread acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature at the 75th Academy Awards in 2003.

At first glance, the film might seem like a simple children’s story, but Miyazaki incorporates powerful metaphors and elements of Japanese folklore that elevate it to another level. The storytelling and visual design are exceptional. The story begins with Chihiro, a young girl traveling with her parents. On a shortcut, they come across an abandoned park-like area filled with food stalls. Unable to resist the food, her parents start eating and are soon transformed into pigs.

Chihiro is left stranded and finds herself working in a mysterious bathhouse owned by a witch named Yubaba. With the help of Haku, a boy from the bathhouse, Chihiro embarks on an incredible journey to free her parents and return to the real world. Many critics interpret the bathhouse as a metaphor for Japan’s historic red-light districts, where child labor was once common.

Princess Mononoke
Released in 1997, Princess Mononoke was the highest-grossing Japanese film until Spirited Away came out. It has an IMDb rating of 8.4.

Set in ancient Japan, this epic tale depicts the conflict between humans and nature gods. The two lead characters are women—Princess Mononoke, a fierce protector of nature, and Lady Eboshi, who seeks to exploit it for industrial growth. The film offers a profound commentary on environmental conservation.

My Neighbor Totoro
Released in 1988, My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming story about two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to a rural village with their father to be closer to their ailing mother.

While adjusting to their new environment, Mei discovers a mysterious rabbit-like creature in their yard. Following it into the forest, she meets Totoro, a large and mystical forest spirit. Mei’s bond with Totoro soon includes Satsuki, and together, the sisters experience magical adventures. The film has an IMDb rating of 8.1.

Howl's Moving Castle
Based on British author Diana Wynne Jones’s fantasy novel, Howl's Moving Castle premiered in 2004.

The story revolves around Sophie, an 18-year-old girl cursed by a witch to turn into an elderly woman. Unable to work at her father’s hat shop, Sophie leaves home and befriends a scarecrow who leads her to Howl’s magical moving castle.

Inside the castle, Sophie meets Calcifer, a fire demon, who promises to help her break the curse if she helps free him from Howl’s control. Over time, Sophie falls in love with Howl and helps him confront his former mentor, Madam Suliman. She eventually discovers that Calcifer holds Howl’s heart and frees him, saving Howl and ending the curse. With themes of love, magic, and sacrifice, the story concludes beautifully. Its IMDb rating is 8.2.

Castle in the Sky
Released in 1986, Castle in the Sky was Studio Ghibli’s first animated film. It has an IMDb rating of 8.

The film follows the adventure of two characters, Sheeta and Pazu, as they search for a mythical floating castle called Laputa. The story blends fantasy and adventure while exploring themes of humanity’s relationship with nature and the impact of technology on the environment.

Hayao Miyazaki’s films are more than just animation—they are artistic masterpieces filled with thought-provoking messages, unparalleled storytelling, and a touch of magic.