This article is about something that I'm incredibly passionate about: Film. Or, to be more specific, Japanese animated film by Hayao Miyazaki. Enjoy!

As someone considered the "Disney of Japan," Miyazaki and his company, Studio Ghibli, have produced several noteworthy animated movies, each with their own powerful messages and breathtaking art. Some have even been Oscar-nominated (and "Spirited Away" actually won).

Miyazaki's work often features strong female protagonists, ambiguous villains, messages about anti-war, the environment, or growing up. Some of his films are fantastical and unreal, and some are set in modern-day. There are even a few that incorporate both elements of fantasy and real life ("Whisper of the Heart," anyone?).

Also, while I normally dislike English dubs of Japanese films, the English versions of Miyazaki's films are nothing short of perfect, thanks to the hard work of Disney. 10/10, in my opinion. They're available for purchase on Amazon!

So, let's get to it.

Although Miyazaki's movies have a timeless quality that will make you want to watch them over and over again, below is a ranking of a few of my favorites.

NOTE: Even if these films don't really strike your fancy, don't worry! Miyazaki is such a prolific filmmaker that there's bound to be something that speaks to you -- check out this full list of his films. I highly, highly recommend watching any of them!

Just a note: I think anything Miyazaki's made is fantastic -- I've just chosen 10 of my favorites and ranked them from INCREDIBLE (1) to good (10).

1. Spirited Away (2001)

When apathetic and stubborn Chihiro's parents suddenly turn into pigs, her whole life gets turned upside down. In her quest to redeem her parents, she works in a bathhouse, gets a new name, rides a dragon and becomes friends with a mouse, No-Face monster, dragon and a witch. Cool, right?

In this fantastic film integration of Japanese religion and animation, Miyazaki artfully brings to life quirky characters that you won't find anywhere else.

Of all the films on this list, I believe you should watch this one first (in English or Japanese, your choice).

NOTE: This movie won an Oscar in 2003 for Best Animated Feature and is the most financially successful of all Studio Ghibli films to date.

2. Princess Mononoke (1997)

Surprisingly graphic yet amazingly good, this movie is about Ashitaka, a warrior prince who goes to meet his destiny after being cursed by a frightening boar god-turned-demon. Ashitaka meets San, a fierce girl raised by wolves, and with her, he becomes entangled in the all-out fight between the animal gods, Deer God/Nightwalker and *greedy* gun-toting humans.

This film speaks about environmentalism, balance, war and learning to coexist -- both animals and humans, nature and humans, humans and humans, etc.

Warning: "Princess Mononoke" is fairly graphic (let's just say there's a lot of blood and several severed limbs).

3. Howl's Moving Castle (2004)

This movie is a beautiful adaptation of Dianne Wynne Jones' novel, "Howl's Moving Castle," where a girl named Sophie is cursed to become an old woman, and only the temperamental and vain magician Howl can reverse it. There's a war going on, they meet a scarecrow, there's fire that talks and burns bacon and the Witch of the Waste nearly dies going up some stairs. And, somehow, Howl and Sophie fall in love. (The movie's a lot better than I'm making it sound.)

The film reflects strong themes of anti-war, friendship, love and what it means to finally grow up.

The art is breathtaking, and the actual 'moving castle' is a work of art that, personally, I wish was real. Check it out:

Bonus: Billy Crystal voices Calcifer the fire demon in the English version, and it is unbelievably hilarious.

4. From Up On Poppy Hill (2011)

Set in pre-Tokyo Olympics Yokohama, this story revolves around Umi (left) and Shun (right). They team up to clean up their school's clubhouse before the school president demolishes it, and they become closer and closer in the process... but their families have a shocking secret. Juxtaposed between the old and the new, this heartwarming film reflects themes of friendship, romantic love, high school life and family.

This is one of my all-time favorites. I highly recommend it if you're looking for a light-hearted story with beautiful art, a realistic plot and characters you'll love like your own friends.

5. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Totoro is so beloved that he's actually become the face of Studio Ghibli! This movie is about siblings Satsuki and Mei's adventures with Totoro and friends (my favorite is the Cat Bus!), who are spirits only able to be seen by children. Gentle, heartwarming, and playful, this film matches the personality of Totoro himself.

Perfect for little children, this movie will be a favorite for years to come. They might even want one of these when it's over!

NOTE: There are some dark, controversial theories about this film, but I'll let you read them for yourself here.

6. Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

This film illustrates Miyazaki's emphasis on the environment. Nausicaa is the princess of the Wind Valley, a place secluded from the steadily encroaching toxic jungle. Nausicaa's heart for all nature brings her into conflict with those seeking to finally destroy the jungle -- and its normally harmless insect inhabitants.

This movie will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, guaranteed.

7. Castle in the Sky (1986)

AKA 'Laputa,' this movie takes place in a fantastical world where an ancient floating city (populated by robots) is sought after by sky pirates, the government, and Pazu and Sheeta, a girl with a mysterious past. Like many of Miyazaki's other films, the young protagonists take on adult roles and believe in preserving the sanctity of nature.

This film is an incredible original story filled with plot twists, endless action and comedy in the form of sky pirates. What's not to love?

8. The Wind Rises (2013)

The most recent and last film made by Miyazaki before his retirement, this movie reflects his love and admiration of flying. Set in mid-WWII Japan, the story revolves around Jiro HIrokoshi, an actual airplane designer who designed the Japanese Zero Fighter. This movie is all about the power of imagination, flight, the reputed 15 seconds of fame and the meaning of love and dreams.

9. Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

As a teenage witch, Kiki sets out to find her own path and gets entangled in all sorts of adventures (one involves a blimp, a near-death experience and a flying bike!). This movie is all about growing up, persevering and the power of friendship.

Also, the cat talks. It's cute.

10. Grave of the Fireflies (1988)

Don't watch unless you're ready for a good cry. This movie is a gritty, real depiction of how the Allied firebombings in WWII affected civilians in Tokyo. Two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, fight for their survival in a devastating tale of endurance, courage, grief and what it means to be family.

Seriously, you'll cry. Don't say I didn't warn you.

For more detailed synopses of the stories, check out this Odyssey article: Top 10 Hayao Miyazaki Movies.