a day in the life of a latvian mom

Since I first discovered Studio Ghibli in 2004, these films have become a cherished part of my life. Their unique blend of fantasy, emotional depth, and stunning animation has captivated me and countless others around the world. While there are a few Ghibli movies I haven’t quite connected with, there are many that I return to year after year, each offering something magical and profound.

My love for Ghibli is something I’ve shared with my husband and, most importantly, with my three girls. Watching these films together has become a family tradition, and I’ve enjoyed seeing how each of them connects with the stories in their own way. Nelle, my youngest, first saw Kiki’s Delivery Service when she was just 3 years old and immediately fell in love with Kiki and her black cat, Jiji. It’s been her favorite ever since, and I love how these movies have become a part of their childhood just as they did mine.

Below, I’ve gathered some of my favorite Studio Ghibli films, each with its distinct mood and message.

Castle in the Sky (1986)

Mood: Adventurous and Nostalgic
This was the first official Studio Ghibli film, and it sets the stage for the studio’s legacy of storytelling. The movie is an action-packed adventure that evokes a sense of nostalgia for classic tales of treasure hunts and lost civilizations. The floating island of Laputa is a breathtaking setting that embodies the spirit of exploration and the wonders of the unknown.

Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

Mood: Lighthearted and Inspirational
Kiki’s journey as a young witch finding her way in a new city is a story full of charm and positivity. It’s a coming-of-age tale that resonates with anyone who has ever faced the challenges of growing up and finding their place in the world. The mood is one of gentle encouragement and optimism, perfect for when you need a pick-me-up. This film holds a special place in our family, especially for Nelle, who adored it from the first time she watched it.

Only Yesterday (1991)

Mood: Reflective and Nostalgic
This film is a thoughtful exploration of memory and self-discovery. As the protagonist, Taeko, reminisces about her childhood while considering her future, the movie invites viewers to reflect on their own past experiences and how they shape who we become. The mood is introspective and deeply nostalgic, offering a quiet and contemplative experience.

Porco Rosso (1992)

Mood: Fun and Adventurous
Set in the beautiful Mediterranean, this story about a World War I pilot cursed to live as a pig is both whimsical and thrilling. The film is full of aerial dogfights, witty humor, and a touch of romance, making it a delightful escape into a world of adventure.

Whisper of the Heart (1995)

Mood: Tender and Uplifting
A touching story about a young girl discovering her passion for writing, this film beautifully captures the excitement and uncertainty of youth. The mood is tender and uplifting, celebrating creativity and the courage to follow one’s dreams.

Spirited Away (2001)

Mood: Enigmatic and Captivating
This Academy Award-winning film is perhaps Studio Ghibli’s most famous work. It tells the story of a young girl who stumbles into a mysterious and surreal world where nothing is as it seems. The mood is one of mystery and wonder, as the protagonist, Chihiro, learns about bravery and resilience in a world full of strange and captivating spirits.

The Cat Returns (2002)

Mood: Whimsical and Delightful
A fantasy adventure about a girl who is whisked away to the Kingdom of Cats after saving a feline prince. The movie is light-hearted and filled with quirky characters, offering a whimsical escape into a world where the impossible becomes possible.

Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Mood: Romantic and Dreamlike
One of the most visually stunning Ghibli films, this tale of love and transformation is set against the backdrop of war and magic. The mood is romantic and dreamlike, with a narrative that explores themes of self-acceptance and the complexities of love.

Ponyo (2008)

Mood: Joyful and Playful
This colorful and vibrant film tells the story of a little fish who longs to become human. The mood is joyful and playful, capturing the wonder and excitement of childhood. It’s a celebration of the natural world and the simple pleasures of life.

The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)

Mood: Enchanting and Reflective
Based on The Borrowers, this film presents the world from the perspective of tiny people living under the floorboards of a human house. The mood is enchanting and reflective, focusing on the beauty of the natural world and the delicate balance between humans and nature.

From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)

Mood: Nostalgic and Heartwarming
Set in the early 1960s, this film is a nostalgic look at Japan on the brink of modernization. The story follows a group of students working to save their school’s historic clubhouse, weaving themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time into a heartwarming narrative.

The Wind Rises (2013)

Mood: Bittersweet and Poetic
This semi-biographical film tells the story of Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of Japanese fighter planes during World War II. The mood is bittersweet, capturing the beauty and tragedy of creation and the burden of the creator. It’s a poetic meditation on dreams, ambition, and the fleeting nature of life.

When Marnie Was There (2014)

Mood: Melancholic and Introspective
A hauntingly beautiful story of friendship and self-discovery, this film explores themes of loneliness, memory, and identity. The mood is melancholic and deeply emotional, leaving a lasting impression with its gentle, introspective narrative.

Earwig and the Witch (2020)

Mood: Quirky and Modern
Studio Ghibli’s first fully 3D animated film, Earwig and the Witch, offers a fresh take on the Ghibli style. The story of a young girl raised by a witch is quirky and modern, blending traditional Ghibli charm with new visual techniques.

I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite Studio Ghibli films, and what special memories do you have with them? Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering the magic of Ghibli, feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Looking forward to your stories,

Ilze