We all adore Studio Ghibli for its whimsical imagination, deep emotional stories, breathtaking art, and often strong female leads or powerful environmental themes. Their films are truly masterpieces. But what if you’ve watched them all and are craving that same magic? The good news is, there’s a whole world of incredible, lesser-known anime movies that perfectly capture that Ghibli spirit!
If you’re looking to dive into animated films with similar vibes – think beautiful hand-drawn aesthetics, rich emotional landscapes, a reverence for nature, and thoughtful explorations of the human experience – then you’re in for a treat.
Beyond Ghibli: 15 Underrated Anime Movies with Ghibli Magic
Here’s a curated list of excellent films that often get overlooked but absolutely deserve your attention:
From Directors and Studios Often Compared to Ghibli
These creators and studios have a similar approach to storytelling and animation, offering that familiar warmth and wonder.
Mamoru Hosoda’s Films (Studio Chizu)
While movies like Wolf Children and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time have gained popularity, Hosoda’s other works share Ghibli’s focus on family and coming-of-age with a fantastical twist.
Mirai (2018)
This film is wonderfully imaginative and deeply emotional. It follows a young boy struggling with his new baby sister, who encounters magical visions of his family’s past and future. It’s a beautiful exploration of childhood and sibling bonds.
The Boy and the Beast (2015)
A fantastic adventure about an orphaned boy who stumbles into a world of beasts and becomes the disciple of a gruff warrior. It’s a heartwarming tale about found family and identity.
Summer Wars (2009)
While it leans more sci-fi, it shares Ghibli’s strong sense of family, community, and overcoming large-scale threats with an infectious sense of wonder.
Makoto Shinkai’s Earlier Works
Before the global phenomena of Your Name. and Suzume, Shinkai crafted more subtle films that boast stunning environmental backdrops and profound emotional depth, often with a touch of melancholy.
Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011)
Visually, this film is incredibly Ghibli-esque, particularly in its sense of adventure and themes of loss and the afterlife. It tells a unique story that feels eerily familiar to some Miyazaki works.
The Garden of Words (2013)
A short, exquisitely animated film focusing on two lonely individuals who find solace in each other during the rainy season in a beautiful garden. It’s quieter but incredibly moving and visually stunning.
Studio Ponoc Films
Founded by former Ghibli animators, films from Studio Ponoc naturally carry a very similar aesthetic and storytelling approach.
Mary and the Witch’s Flower (2017)
Their debut film immediately felt like a classic Ghibli adventure. It’s reminiscent of Kiki’s Delivery Service or Spirited Away, featuring a young girl who discovers magical powers and explores a wondrous new world.
Hidden Gems with Ghibli-esque Themes
These films might not be from the “usual suspects,” but they perfectly encapsulate the spirit you love.
A Letter to Momo (2012)
After a family tragedy, a young girl moves to a rural island and soon discovers three mischievous yokai (spirits) that only she can see. It’s a beautiful blend of slice-of-life, family drama, and charming supernatural elements with a lovely traditional animation style.
Okko’s Inn (2018)
A heartwarming story about grief and resilience, this film follows a young girl who goes to live with her grandmother, who runs a traditional Japanese inn. She soon finds out the inn is also home to friendly ghosts. It’s got a wonderfully comforting atmosphere.
Miss Hokusai (2015)
A biographical drama about O-Ei, the daughter of the famous Edo period artist Hokusai. While not fantastical, it offers a beautiful historical setting, a strong female protagonist, and a subtle, reflective tone that Ghibli fans often appreciate for its artistic depth.
Mai Mai Miracle (2009)
Set in 1955, this film follows a lonely young girl in a rural town who uses her vivid imagination to escape into a magical world. It blends historical detail with a powerful sense of childhood wonder and discovery.
Princess Arete (2001)
This is a unique feminist fairy tale where a sheltered princess longs for freedom and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. It features a distinctive art style and a thoughtful, empowering narrative.
Giovanni’s Island (2014)
A more somber but incredibly beautiful film set after WWII. It tells the poignant story of two brothers in a small island community caught between Japanese and Russian forces, exploring themes of resilience, cultural clashes, and the enduring power of childhood imagination.
Colorful (2010)
A deeply introspective and hopeful film about a lost soul given a second chance at life in the body of a 14-year-old boy. It tackles serious themes but ultimately emphasizes finding beauty and meaning in the world with a gentle, contemplative pace.
I hope this list helps you discover some new favorite animated films! They might not be as widely known as Ghibli’s masterpieces, but they each offer their own unique brand of magic and emotional depth.
Which of these lesser-known gems are you excited to watch first? Let me know in the comments!
Last Updated on July 14, 2025 by Yu Alexius
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