Hayao Miyazaki Movies Ranked: Worst to Best

Hayao Miyazaki stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of animation. From his early work in television to his groundbreaking films under Studio Ghibli, Miyazaki has shaped the medium in ways few creators ever could. His movies are more than just animated features, they are timeless works of art that blend imagination, heart, and unforgettable visuals.

Still, not every Miyazaki project reaches the same level of greatness. Some of his films have earned near-universal acclaim, while others fall short of his usual brilliance. Whether it is in the writing, the characters, or the overall execution, each of Miyazaki’s works carries its own strengths and flaws. Looking back across his decades-long career, it is interesting to see how his films compare to one another and which ones truly define his legacy.

From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)

Though Miyazaki wrote the script, this effort directed by his son Goro feels more restrained than the master’s usual work. The story of From Up on Poppy Hill, which follows two students uncovering their school’s past, is charming but it lacks the fantastical edge that defines Miyazaki’s storytelling.

From Up on Poppy Hill is heartfelt but subdued. The movie shines in its depiction of 1960s Yokohama, with a keen eye for detail in everyday life. However, compared to Miyazaki’s strongest films, it does not quite soar beyond slice-of-life nostalgia. It is lovely, but not transcendent.

Whisper of the Heart (1995)

Directed by Yoshifumi Kondō with Miyazaki writing the screenplay, Whisper of the Heart resonates deeply with dreamers and young artists. The romance between Shizuku and Seiji is tender and realistic, making it one of Ghibli’s most relatable stories. Still, it lacks the sweeping grandeur of Miyazaki’s best.

What keeps it memorable is its sincerity. The struggles of finding one’s path in life hit hard, especially for younger viewers. Yet, for all its grounded beauty, Whisper of the Heart does not quite achieve the mythic resonance audiences associate with Miyazaki’s name.

The Boy and the Heron (2023)

Miyazaki’s long-awaited return with The Boy and the Heron was marketed as his final film, but it plays more like a personal meditation than a grand farewell. The semi-autobiographical tale is dense with symbolism, sometimes so much so that it leaves viewers confused rather than enchanted.

That said, its visual ambition is undeniable, and the world-building in The Boy and the Heron is as bold as anything Miyazaki has done. Still, when compared to his other works, it feels more like a reflective coda than a crowning jewel.

Porco Rosso (1992)

This oddball tale of a pig-headed pilot mixes romance, war, and comedy into something uniquely Miyazaki. Porco Rosso thrives on charm, with Porco’s jaded personality and dogfights capturing a playful energy. But it lacks the sweeping thematic depth that marks Miyazaki’s very best.

What makes Porco Rosso fascinating is its exploration of disillusionment and escapism. It is a film clearly made for adults, reflecting on love and regret more than adventure. While interesting and enjoyable, it is far from Miyazaki’s most polished or timeless work.

The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)

Though directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, Miyazaki co-wrote this delicate adaptation of The Borrowers. The Secret World of Arrietty is a film of quiet moments and small wonders, capturing the perspective of tiny people in a big world. The pacing is intentionally slow, which can make it less gripping.

Still, its artistry is undeniable. From the shimmering dewdrops to the lush greenery, The Secret World of Arrietty a sensory delight. Yet compared to Miyazaki’s boldest creations, Arrietty feels like a minor but lovely entry.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Beloved for its mascot character, My Neighbor Totoro is often viewed as a cornerstone of Studio Ghibli’s identity. The film captures childhood innocence through the lens of two sisters adjusting to rural life, while Totoro himself has become a pop culture icon. Its gentle, slice-of-life atmosphere has charmed generations.

Yet beneath its reputation, My Neighbor Totoro is surprisingly thin in terms of story. With little central narrative and very little Totoro screentime, it sometimes feels more like a series of vignettes than a fully developed film. While undeniably iconic, it does not quite reach the narrative heights of Miyazaki’s stronger works.

Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro (1979)

Miyazaki’s feature debut remains a fascinating early look at his talents. His version of Lupin is softer and more heroic than usual, setting a different tone from the mischievous thief fans expected. Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro is lighthearted fun, but also less distinctively “Miyazaki” than his later works.

The chase sequences and inventive set pieces hint at the director’s brilliance. While not his most powerful film, Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro remains a must-watch for anyone interested in Miyazaki’s evolution as a storyteller and anyone who wants to see a film of his other than Studio Ghibli.

Ponyo (2008)

A whimsical reimagining of The Little Mermaid, Ponyo is one of Miyazaki’s most visually dazzling films. Its water animation and childlike energy capture a sense of wonder few other films achieve. The relationship between Ponyo and Sosuke feels innocent and endearing, making it accessible even to younger audiences.

The film does stumble in terms of narrative complexity, with a relatively simple plot compared to Miyazaki’s grander epics. Still, its heartwarming charm and extraordinary animation ensure it holds a special place in his filmography as one of his most family-friendly works.

The Wind Rises (2013)

Miyazaki’s most grounded work tells the fictionalized story of Jiro Horikoshi, designer of the Zero fighter plane. The Wind Rises is visually stunning, with dreamlike sequences and a melancholy tone. The film stands out for its realism, but its slow pacing and somber themes can make it divisive.

At its best, The Wind Rises is a meditation on ambition, compromise, and the cost of creation. While not universally adored, The Wind Rises showcases a side of Miyazaki that feels deeply personal and mature.

Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

One of Miyazaki’s most enduringly relatable films, Kiki’s Delivery Service captures the struggles of independence and self-doubt. Kiki’s journey of growth and resilience resonates with audiences of all ages. While its story is quieter than some of his grander epics, its emotional core is universal.

The film’s charm lies in its honesty. Kiki’s challenges mirror real-life growing pains, making it one of Miyazaki’s most comforting works. Kiki’s Delivery Service may not be as visually ambitious as his other films, but it is among his most heartfelt.