It’s February and love is in the air, as well as on every major streaming service and cable. When Valentine’s Day is on the mind, the most important question to ask is obviously what you’re going to watch.
With hundreds of rom-coms and tearjerkers at your fingertips, it can be difficult to pick a good movie when you’re in the mood for love. If live action isn’t catching your interest, Studio Ghibli’s collection of gorgeously animated films may be just what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re a long time fan of the Japanese animation studio or just starting out, these are just a few of its productions that’ll make your heart jump for joy.
Howl’s Moving Castle
“Howl’s Moving Castle” has been giving viewers unrealistic romantic expectations for years as one of Ghibli’s most iconic and stylish films. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be whisked off by a handsome wizard voiced by Christian Bale?
This whimsical watch follows Sophie, a hatmaker who finds herself on the castle’s doorstep when a run-in with the infamous Witch of the Wastes leaves her with a nasty curse. Now a young woman trapped in the body of a 90-year-old, Sophie finds herself entangled in the life of the mysterious wizard Howl, who may be hiding secrets of his own behind that charming smile.
“Howl’s Moving Castle” is a magical voyage through a war-torn world packed with gorgeous scenery and a soundtrack that will instantly transport you to a windswept field of wildflowers, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day adventure.
Ponyo
If you’re looking for something light-hearted and a little bit silly to watch this Valentine’s Day, you’ve found the catch of the day. With its charming seaside setting and lovable cast of characters, there’s nothing fishy about “Ponyo”… aside from its titular character.
The daughter of an ocean-dwelling goddess and a wizard, Ponyo is a magical goldfish who tips the balance of nature to reunite with the young human boy who saved her, Sosuke.
As the ocean rises and the town becomes flooded, Ponyo and Sosuke embark on an aquatic adventure brimming with childlike whimsy. Studio Ghibli’s trademark beautiful animation is showcased at its finest as land meets sea in this fun fishy flick.
The Cat Returns
Finally, a romance your cat can enjoy! “The Cat Returns” is a strange but dreamlike adventure full of heart and many, many cats.
Average highschool student Haru rescues a cat from the road, assuming there’s nothing fantastical about the feline, only to learn he was the prince of the Kingdom of Cats. She is then visited by the cat king himself, and told that she is now engaged to the prince as a reward for her heroic deed. If she’s going to have any hope of getting out of the arranged marriage, she’ll need the help of Baron – a smartly dressed statue brought to life in order to help those in need.
Though it’s one of Studio Ghibli’s more eccentric movies, there’s a lot to love about “The Cat Returns.” From the quirky cast of catlike characters to the fanciful plot that doesn’t take itself too seriously, you’re sure to enjoy every second of your journey through the Kingdom of Cats.
Castle in the Sky
Got your head in the clouds? If not, the airborne adventures in “Castle in the Sky” will see to it. An orphan named Sheeta is racing to find Laputa, a mythical castle floating among the clouds, and possesses the only clue to its location: an ancient and powerful crystal tied to the castle’s legend.
When Sheeta falls from the sky and into the arms of Pazu, a young mechanic, the two must discover Laputa’s secret before it can fall into the hands of a government agent with dark intentions.
“Castle in the Sky” is a breathtaking mix of retrofuturism, steampunk and fantasy with all the Ghibli aircrafts you could ever wish you could pilot. The connection between Sheeta and Pazu is heartwarming and innocent, making it one of Ghibli’s best depictions of young love. Oh, and did I mention the family of sky pirates?
Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro
Not in the mood for romance? If you would rather watch a pursuit for treasure instead of love, “Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro” is the perfect Studio Ghibli watch.
Following Lupin III, the notorious grandson of famous thief Arsene Lupin, this film has action and excitement in spades. Lupin and his loyal lackeys, Jigen and Goemon, head to the small kingdom of Cagliostro to unravel a global counterfeiting scheme, only to find an endangered princess who may hold the key to an even greater treasure.
Lupin must infiltrate the trap-laden castle to rescue princess Clarisse from the rotten Count Cagliostro, all while evading the watchful eye of his long time nemesis Inspector Zenigata. You can always expect the unexpected, along with beautifully animated car chases and narrow escapes from death’s door. Though it may be one of the lesser known Ghibli features, this gang of charming thieves is sure to steal your heart.
