What's Your Favourite Studio Ghibli film?
As Whisper of the Heart continues on our screens, we asked our team for their favourite Ghibli movie
With the restoration of Studio Ghibli's soaring Whisper of the Heart currently gracing our screens in both subtitled and English dub versions, we thought this was a great opportunity to ask the DCA team for their favourite film from the beloved studio.
This bright idea was also sparked by an audience comment card left for us after a screening of Kiki's Delivery Service, which said:
"Whisper of the Heart - My favourite Studio Ghibli film, less well known than some others, but an incredibly beautiful film I think many would love!"
As you might expect, our picks often correspond to important times in our lives, as well as loving specific characters, and demonstrate the emotional impact of these remarkable movies.
Published
Kiki's Delivery Service speaks to all us
Kiki’s Delivery Service! I moved across the UK for uni when I was 17 and it’s such an accurate and symbolic representation of moving somewhere new. I wish I’d seen it when I was moving
Anoushay, Visitor Assistant
Seconding the love for Kiki! The ultimate cosy film and watching it feels like a warm hug. Kiki honestly has my ideal life, living above a bakery with a sassy cat companion and flying about her Scandi-inspired Japanese coastal town. I imagine some Ghibli purists would call it sacrilege to watch anything but the original Japanese. But I have to also shoutout the elite English voice cast including Kirsten Dunst and my queen Debbie Reynolds!
Olivia, Cinema Young Audiences Coordinator
I had [Kiki's Delivery Service] on VHS and watched it over and over until the tape stretched at the end, and as a result I can't remember how it does end! I loved and related to the spirited but very clumsy young witch, and JiJi sparked my lifelong love for black cats.
Kay, Gallery Assistant
Spirited Away continues to dazzle
For me, Spirited Away is easily one of the best films of the 21st century and I'm not sure it can be topped, but I was completely blown away watching the 4K restoration of Kiki's Delivery Service on the cinema screen here at DCA in August. I've seen it many times over the years, but what a joy on the big screen.
Michael, Cinema Programmer
Love, love, love Spirited Away hands down! childhood fears, spirits, transformation, bravery, love, acceptance, wee spiders, 'that' train...and a soundtrack that stays with you always.
Sarah, Head of Learning
Has to be Spirited Away! Absolutely iconic for a reason and the first Studio Ghibli movie I ever saw. Made me never want to go into a bathhouse when I was younger though.
Caitlin, Events Assistant
No cuts to Princess Mononoke
Forever grateful to Spirited Away for introducing us to Ghibli films, but my personal fave is Princess Monokoe because I love a kick-ass girl riding a wolf, and the forest spirits are just wonderful. Forest bathing is the best.
Ailsa, Visitor Assistant
Princess Mononoke!! Ashitaka might be the coolest protagonist ever & the film feels more and more relevant each year
Samuel, Visitor Services Manager
Grave of the Fireflies still haunts us
Grave of the Fireflies had me absolutely howling in tears but I wouldn’t have it any other way, amazing film.
Joung, Visitor Assistant
Grave of the Fireflies because I am a masochist.
Annabelle, Print Studio Coordinator
Every Studio Ghibli film is a gem
I love Porco Rosso - It's a great showcase of Miyazaki's love for flying machines, and its high action aerial dogfights and hilarious brawling pirates contrast with beautifully illustrated scenery and a sensitive portrayal of survivor’s guilt. Compelling, unusual, funny, and my absolute favourite Ghibli film score.
Mairi, Learning Coordinator
I have a real soft spot for Howl's Moving Castle, it's so beautiful and magical. On a more shallow note, Howl and Sophie both have some awesome outfits...
Valerie, Exhibitions Coordinator
Technically pre-studio Ghibli, but Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind was my most precious adventure tale growing up! I'm so hopeful that I'll get to see it in theatres. It has the most gorgeous forest environments and atmosphere as well as lovely glider action!
Salomeja, People and Payroll Officer
"My Neighbour Totoro won me over as soon as the Catbus arrived!
Simon, Cinema Manager
The Cat Returns (underrated banger imo)
India, Visitor Assistant
My Neighbour Totoro seems like too obvious a choice, but it's such a comfort and completely magical. Outside of the big hitters, Porco Rosso is amazing, I love The Cat Returns (half of my cat's name is a tribute to the great fish-devouring bandit), and I remember being completely swept away (and reduced to tears) by The Wind Rises at the cinema. I've also got a lot of time for Pom Poko!
Jonny, Communications Assistant
Thanks for reading! Please let us know your favourite Studio Ghibli film, and don't miss Whisper of the Heart (4K Restoration) at DCA Cinema!
You can also find a range of wonderful Studio Ghibli items in DCA Shop, from notepads to the Ghibliotheque book.