3 Underrated Studio Ghibli Offerings That Deserve a Second Look

39 years have passed since Studio Ghibli was formed and offered its audiences 22 movies worth remembering. While most anime fans can readily name Spirited Away, My Neighbour Totoro, or Howl’s Moving Castle as Studio Ghibli classics, there are several other than its most celebrated hits. Among the vast collection of films lies underrated Studio Ghibli gems that deserve much more recognition than they currently receive.

In this, we will be discussing three underrated Studio Ghibli offerings that show the studio’s incredible rage and artistic vision. These films offer a fresh perspective on what makes the studio’s work so special.

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3. Whisper of the Heart – A Coming-of-Age Masterpiece

Among underrated Studio Ghibli films, Whisper of the Heart portrays a beautifully crafted story about dreams and first love. Released in 1995, this hidden gem shows Shizuku, a bookish young girl who discovers her own creative voice while pursuing a mystery involving a cat in a top hat called the Baron.

What makes this Studio Ghibli offering special is its grounded advance to storytelling. In contrast to the Studio’s more fantastical works, Whisper of the Heart takes place in a realistic Tokyo setting. Thus, making its moments of magic feel all the more special.

The movie controls the universal experience of finding one’s path in life, all while maintaining Studio Ghibli’s signature attention to detail in its animation.

2. Porco Rosso – High-Flying Adventure with Heart

Porco Rosso tells the irregular story of a World War I veteran pilot, who happens to be cursed with the face of a pig. Developed in the Mediterranean during the 1930s, this quirky Studio Ghibli film incorporates action, humor, and surprising depth into something truly special.

Because of the film’s mature themes and historical setting, it set apart from other Studio Ghibli works. Even then it is accessible to younger viewers. The film deals with intricate ideas about honor, freedom, and the impact of war. Also, the stunning aerial arrangements in the film are at their finest with each dogfight choreographed like an aerial ballet.

Even though the protagonist is a pig-faced bounty hunter, his story reverberates with very human emotions about redemption and staying true to oneself.

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1. Castle in the Sky – Where Dreams Take Flight

Though it is Studio Ghibli’s first official film, Castle in the Sky often gets overlooked in discussions about the Studio’s greatest works. It was the first film that introduced us to Ghibli’s world, making us feel nostalgic. And it was where everything started. This underrated Studio Ghibli adventure story moves behind Pazu and Sheeta’s search for a legendary floating castle Laputa. The film also weaved together action, friendship, and environmental themes in classic Studio Ghibli fashion.

The film established many elements such as strong female characters, and environmental messages that would become Studio Ghibli’s hallmarks. Despite being from 1986, the animations of this film still remain breathtaking to watch. Especially in scenes featuring the film’s various flying machines and the mysterious floating castle.

The above-mentioned underrated Studio Ghibli films demonstrate the range and depth of the studio’s filmography. Each offers a rewarding experience for us willing to look beyond the studio’s most famous titles. These films show why Studio Ghibli stays synonymous with animation excellence.