Ghibli films are the best place to start if you want to introduce your non-Anime friend to anime, as they have such diversity and universal themes that will appeal to everyone.
They blend in themes of fantasy, adventure, romance, etc, which are suitable for people of all ages and all walks of life.
Studi Ghibli’s commitment to hand-drawn animation sets it apart from other films. Their vivid and uniquely crafted art style pulls you into their realm, and their relatable characters are bound to get you attached.
Here’s a list of our top 10 Ghibli recommendations to pull your non-anime friend into the realm of anime.
10Kiki’s Delivery Service
Kiki’s Delivery Service is an adorable anime as it follows the tale of a young witch in training. However, she isn’t perfect of the mightiest witch there, making her flaws relatable.
She learns through her mistakes and endures on her path to self-discovery. This gives off a positive vibe to empower anyone who is feeling a little lost in their life.
In addition, a cat named Jiji accompanies Kiki, which is bound to draw any cat lover.
9When Marnie Was There
When Marnie Was There is set in a picturesque town embedded with details that will allure all your artistic and creative friends.
The movie follows Anna’s personal growth and search for identity during her stay with her relatives; she goes from a shy introvert to an affable child.
The best part of the movie is the element of suspense and mystery that follows a girl named Marnie at an abandoned mansion.
It blurs the line between reality and fantasy; it even warps time, making it as though you are in a dream.
8The Secret World Of Arrietty
The Secret World of Arrietty is another pick for your creative friends as it is set in a realm where there are mini people who live underneath the floorboards and carry out their lives in secret.
The attention to detail in this movie is mind-blowing; it has meticulously crafted and brought the miniatures to life.
The story follows the friendship between Arrietty and a human boy named Shwan, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults.
7Grave Of The Fireflies
Grave Of the Fireflies is an emotional rollercoaster as it is set during WW2 and depicts the life of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko as they struggle.
This movie has a large appeal as it has an anti-war message by showcasing the consequences of war on the innocent; it’s bound to evoke your empathy and make you sob.
Its outstanding animation and heartfelt themes make it a type of movie that leaves an indelible mark on you.
6My Neighbour Totoro
My Neighbour Totoro is a classic that captures the childhood wonder and thrill of two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, as they discover magical creatures. Its memorable characters will make your imagination wild.
The unique character designs and gentle themes add to its charm and win non-anime fans’ hearts over as it gives them an escape from everyday mundane routines.
The mysterious forest spirit Totoro has become an icon and has made it to every part of the globe. I’m sure that non-anime friends would love to learn the tale behind the fluffy character.
5Princess Mononoke
Princess Mononoke is a little different from the other movies in this list as it features serious themes like morality, appreciating different cultures, violence, etc.
It shows the character development of the protagonist, Ashitaka, which can also resonate with viewers. He ventures out into the forests to find a cure for the boar gods’ corruption.
On his journey, he meets diverse characters like Lady Eboshi of the Iron Town, Princess Mononoke, etc, and learns about the complex relationship of man with nature.
4Castle in the sky
Castel in the Sky is an adventurous film that follows the journey of Pazu and Sheeta as they uncover the myth of the castle of Laputa. It’s a mystery really kept me on edge until the end.
It has many memorable characters, like Dola’s gang, a band of pirates who fly an impressive airship called the Tiger Moth. Their captain, Dola, becomes almost like a mother figure to Sheeta.
This movie has a beautiful backdrop and even features flying machines, a rustic castle in the sky, nature taking over, etc., giving an immersive experience.
3Ponyo
Ponyo has a whimsical charm that will steal any non-anime fan’s heart, as it has a heartwarming story to put anyone into a cozy mood.
It revolves around the story of a fish named Ponyo, who wants to become a human boy, and so a friendship buds between him and a boy named Sosuke.
It shows a connection between humans and nature, piquing nature lovers and environmentalists.
2Spirited away
Spirited Away has bagged a plethora of awards, including Academy Awards, Annie Awards, Animage Anime Grand Prix, etc., as it has stunning animation and its immersive world of spirits, which hooks anyone.
It follows the story of Chihiro as she ventures into the enigmatic spirit world, where she faces her fears, learns to empathize, etc, which adds an overall emotional depth to the movie.
In addition, each character is complex, with their very own quirks and transformations, which provide a wide angle.
1Howl’s Moving Castle
Howl’s Moving Castle is a movie that will have any non-anime fan awestruck over its setting and the pure budding romance between Howl and Sophie. In fact, there’s a whole fanbase that fawns over Howl.
It is set in a magical world of wizards where Sophie gets cursed into old age by the witch of the waste, who is jealous.
We follow Sophie’s journey to breaking her curse and her encounters with magical beings like Calcifer, Madame Suliman etc.
In addition, this movie has an anti-war theme as it criticizes the futility of wars and the destruction they cause.
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