Top 10 Studio Ghibli Movies That Aren't Directed by Hayao Miyazaki

From "Grave of the Fireflies" to "The Tale of the Princess Kaguya," here are the top ten Studio Ghibli movies that aren't directed by Hayao Miyazaki.

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Studio Ghibli has created many beautiful animated movies that people love around the world. When we talk about Studio Ghibli movies, many people think of Hayao Miyazaki as the icon behind its success and creative storytelling style.

However, there are many great Studio Ghibli movies that are not directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Other talented directors have also made amazing films with strong stories, memorable characters, and unique animation that deserve more attention from fans.

In this article, we will look at some Studio Ghibli movies that were not directed by Hayao Miyazaki. These films show different styles and ideas, and they are great choices if you want to explore more from the studio.

1. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Video 

The first movie on our list, we have this classic anti-war masterpiece. This film follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, trying to survive during World War II in Japan. They face hunger, sadness, and loss in a destroyed city. Directed by Isao Takahata, Grave of the Fireflies is one of the most powerful Studio Ghibli movies of all time. Their tragic journey teaches us about the pain of war.

2. Whisper of the Heart (1995)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV Store

In this charming movie, a young girl named Shizuku discovers her love for writing. She meets a mysterious boy named Seiji who shares her passion for following dreams. Adapted from Aoi Hiiragi's manga with a screenplay by Hayao Miyazaki, the film was directed by Yoshifumi Kondō. The story shows how love and friendship help us become better people. It is a beautiful coming-of-age movie.

3. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

Directed by Isao Takahata, this film retells a classical Japanese fairy tale in a new way. A mysterious girl named Kaguya appears in a bamboo stalk and grows up quickly into a beautiful princess. The story explores her struggle between freedom and duty to her adoptive parents, Taketori and Okina. The movie uses a unique painting style that looks like traditional Japanese art. This film won many international awards for its artistic beauty and emotional depth.

4. When Marnie Was There (2014)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV Store

A lonely girl named Anna moves to a seaside village for summer. She finds a mysterious girl named Marnie living in an old mansion. They become friends and share many adventures together. The director Hiromasa Yonebayashi created a touching story about friendship and healing. As the story progresses, viewers discover that Marnie is not who Anna thinks she is. This movie touches hearts with its secret twist.

5. The Red Turtle (2016)

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand

This unique film tells the story of a nameless man who washes up on a desert island. He finds himself unable to escape because of a giant red turtle that stops his attempts. Over time, he captures and befriends the mysterious turtle. Co-directed by Michael Dudok de Wit, the movie has almost no dialogue. Instead, nature and beautiful visuals tell the entire story. It is a poetic exploration of human connection with nature.

6. Pom Poko (1994)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

Directed by Isao Takahata, this film features magical raccoon dogs called tanuki led by characters like Ohtaro and Shoukichi, fighting to save their home. Humans are building a big city where the tanuki have lived for centuries. The tanuki use their magical powers to create illusions and stop construction. The movie mixes comedy with serious messages about nature and development. It is both funny and thoughtful about environmental concerns.

7. The Cat Returns (2002)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV Store 

A girl named Haru saves a cat from being hit by a truck and is rewarded in an unexpected way. The cat is actually a prince from a magical cat kingdom. Haru is invited to the kingdom where she slowly transforms into a cat. Director Hiroyuki Morita created a fantastical adventure full of funny moments. She must find a way to reverse the curse and return to her human form before it becomes permanent.

8. Only Yesterday (1991)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV Store

Directed by Isao Takahata, this film follows a 27-year-old woman named Taeko who travels to the countryside. During her journey, she remembers her childhood and experiences as a ten-year-old schoolgirl. The movie switches between her adult present life and her childhood memories with friends. Through these memories, Taeko learns about herself and discovers what she truly wants in life. It is a quiet, thoughtful movie about growing up and self-discovery.

9. The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV Store

Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, this film shows a world of tiny people called Borrowers. Arrietty is a brave young Borrower girl who lives under the floorboards of a human house. She steals small items to survive, but one day meets a sick human boy named Shō. Their friendship changes both their lives and challenges what they know about each other. The movie presents a unique perspective on friendship between very different people.

10. From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV Store

Also known as Kokurikozaka kara, this film tells the story of Umi Matsuzaki and Shun Kazama, two high school students in 1960s Japan. They work together to save their school's old clubhouse from destruction before it is demolished. While fighting to preserve their school's history, Umi and Shun develop feelings for each other. Directed by Goro Miyazaki, the film celebrates youth, tradition, and teamwork. It shows how caring about your community creates lasting connections.