Studio Ghibli is probably the most popular Japanese animation film studio that everyone would know about. Founded in 1985, the studio is known for its critically acclaimed and popular animated feature films, which are beloved by fans all over the world for their imaginative storytelling, stunning animation, and memorable characters.

If you liked their classics like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and My Neighbour Totoro, here’s our recommendation on the more underrated Studio Ghibli movies that will make you emotional. Save this list for when you feel like a cute cosy night in or an emotional rollercoaster ride!

For those who want to feel happy - Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

If you're feeling down and need a little pick-me-up, then Kiki's Delivery Service would be perfect. This cute film tells the story of a young witch named Kiki who moves to a new town and sets up a delivery service on her broomstick. With its charming characters, beautiful animation, and uplifting story, this movie is sure to put a smile on your face. If you love cats, Jiji is the black cat that accompanies Kiki whilst she trains to become a full-fledged witch!

For those who want to feel loved - Whisper of the Heart (1995)

Whisper of the Heart is a beautiful and heartwarming coming-of-age story that explores the ups and downs of first love. This heartfelt Studio Ghibli film follows the journey of a young girl named Shizuku who falls in love with a boy after discovering his love for reading and violin making. With a lovely storyline and characters that are just so relatable, this movie is sure to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Super cute as a dinner date with your partner on a weeknight.

For those who want to feel inspired - Princess Mononoke (1997)

For those who like a more epic and inspiring story, have you seen Princess Mononoke? This movie tells the tale of a young warrior named Ashitaka who becomes embroiled in a battle between humans and nature. Besides the stunning animation and powerful themes of environmentalism and peace, this movie will surely leave you feeling inspired to make a difference in the world.

For those who want to feel hope - Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

Get ready to grab the tissues, because Grave of the Fireflies is one of the most heart-wrenching movies of all time. This film is a heartbreaking fiction story of two siblings struggling to survive in Japan during World War II. With its poignant portrayal of the human cost of war, this movie is sure to leave you feeling devastated but also grateful for the peace we have today.

For those who want to feel sadness - When Marnie Was There (2014)

When Marnie Was There is a hauntingly beautiful film that will transport you to a magical world of friendship and self-discovery. Follow the journey of a young girl named Anna who discovers a mysterious mansion and befriends a ghostly girl named Marnie. With its themes of loneliness, self-discovery, and loss, this movie is sure to leave you feeling a sense of melancholy and introspection.

What did you think? Have you seen most of these Studio Ghibli movies? They have so many other ones that we love that we would love to binge watch together in the S-kin Studio office. Let us know what Studio Ghibli movie you’ll be watching next on our socials @skinstudioj_, we’d love to hear all about it!

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