I don’t remember all of the specifics of when I first watched a Studio Ghibli film, but I do remember how I felt. I distinctly remember the sense of solace and freedom watching Spirited Away brought. It felt like living vicariously through the main character Chihiro’s fantastical world. Throughout all of the Ghibli films, that magical feeling will never fail to amaze, no matter the character, themes, or settings. Even in the dead of winter, these films will invigorate the same feeling as seeing the first signs of spring— chirping birds and blossoming flowers. So even though winter lingers, we can immerse ourselves in the spring season through my favorite Studio Ghibli movies.

“Ponyo”: This is one of the most simplistic Ghibli films but such a wholesome watch to lighten your heart as we come out of these dark winter months. You follow a young fish princess as she journeys from her ocean kingdom to the forbidden surface, where she meets a young boy named Sosuke. Their friendship blooms as they discover the wonders of the surface world and face the repercussions of environmental challenges. If you’re looking for an innocent film to reinvigorate your child-like spirit, this is exactly it.

“My Neighbor Totoro”: This is one of the first Ghibli films I watched and it remains among my favorites because of its unforgettable, delicate portrayal of nature. Following two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, you watch as they move to a new home and encounter a gentle giant named Totoro. This magical forest spirit embodies the friendliness and childhood joy you are searching for in a film. Every aspect of this watch romanticizes the smallest, simplest joys of life. From waiting for a bus in the rain, to exploring the hidden groves of a forest, this is sure to revitalize your love of life.

“Kiki’s Delivery Service”: Especially in these winter months, “Kiki’s Delivery Service” is one of my favorite Ghibli films to return to when I want to be transported to a cheerful scene. This movie follows Kiki, a young witch, as she takes on adventures in a charming seaside town after leaving home for the first time—with her pet black cat, Jiji. For an hour and forty minutes, you will be whisked away with the sounds of bustling town streets and the scent of freshly baked bread. This coming-of-age story is sure to remind you of the importance of self discovery and living life at a slower pace.

So this month, make some time for yourself with a bowl of popcorn to indulge in these beautifully crafted films. There is no doubt that Miyazaki has been able to influence millions of viewers through his artful storytelling, so the real question is: is it pronounced Studio gib-lee or jib-lee?

Works Cited

1. “Ponyo.” Jacob Burns Film Center, burnsfilmcenter.org/booking/ponyo/. Accessed 7 Mar. 2025. 
2. Agnew, Brendan. “Living with Miyazaki, Part 4 - My Neighbor Totoro.” Medium, Medium, 16 Mar. 2023, medium.com/@BLCAgnew/living-with-miyazaki-part-4-my-neighbor-totoro-613797152e30. 
3. Nathangoldwag. “Anxiety in Kiki’s Delivery Service.” Goldwag’s Journal on Civilization, 8 June 2018, nathangoldwag.wordpress.com/2018/06/08/anxiety-in-kikis-delivery-service/.