• Mainstream legacy: films like Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke cemented Ghibli’s global reputation.
• Lesser-known works contribute depth: they reveal the studio’s willingness to experiment and reflect Japan-specific concerns, and they expanded the studio’s visual and thematic repertoire even when reception was mixed.
• The period ends in 2020 with transition: Ghibli’s exploration of new directors and techniques suggests ongoing evolution beyond its classic era.

The Definition of a Ghibli ‘B’ Work

Before the list, the criteria:

Studio Ghibli, one of Japan's most renowned animation studios, has been enchanting audiences worldwide with its breathtakingly beautiful and imaginative films for over three decades. Since its inception in 1984, Studio Ghibli has produced a remarkable collection of animated movies that have become an integral part of cinematic history. In this post, we will embark on a journey through the studio's most notable works, from their early beginnings to their latest releases in 2020.

While Studio Ghibli was officially founded in 1985, the story truly begins one year prior with Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984). Though technically made before the studio was formally established, it is universally considered the first Ghibli film. It introduced the world to Hayao Miyazaki’s obsession with flight, nature, and strong female protagonists.