All 5 Hayao Miyazaki Movies From the 21st Century, Ranked
This ranking assesses Hayao Miyazaki’s five feature films released in the 21st century, arguing that even his lowest-ranked work remains highly accomplished. It places his gentler, more family-focused films alongside darker and more reflective works, underlining his enduring influence on animated cinema.
– 5. Ponyo (2008) — a particularly calm, child-friendly fantasy about a five-year-old boy and a magical sea creature.
– 4. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004) — an imaginative anti-war fantasy distinguished by its elaborate world and memorable central romance.
– 3. The Boy and the Heron (2023) — Miyazaki’s latest film, presented as a complex, personal and visually rich late-career statement.
– 2. The Wind Rises (2013) — a more grounded historical drama about aircraft designer Jiro Horikoshi, balancing beauty, ambition and moral unease.
– 1. Spirited Away (2001) — the article’s top choice, celebrated as a widely recognised masterpiece of animation and fantasy storytelling.
- Spirited Away takes first place.
- Ponyo ranks fifth despite strong family appeal.
- Miyazaki’s 21st-century output is portrayed as consistently excellent.