Female-led Studio Ghibli films to binge this Women's Month

Another Studio Ghibli masterpiece from Miyazaki is 'Kiki's Delivery Service' released in 1989. Screaming independence, the film features 13-year-old Kiki who spends a year alone as part of her training in becoming a witch. What we loved the most about this film? Everything. From their portrayal of witches to humanizing Kiki as a young little girl who, despite being an optimist, also goes through self-doubt and insecurity, the presentation is on point.

Hayao Miyazaki's well-acclaimed film 'Princess Mononoke' is another Studio Ghibli film that's championing women empowerment. Filled with women icons, the fantasy film sees the story of a young Emishi prince who's trying to keep the harmonious relationship of humans, animals, and mother Earth.

Hayao Miyazaki's fan-favorite film 'Spirited Away' isn't well-loved by most for nothing. The entirety of the film, from its characters and plot to its cinematography, is what draws cinephiles to watch it. Its story revolves around 10-year-old little girl Chihiro who learns how to become a strong independent woman to fend for herself and be able to save her parents.

Japanese director Hiromasa Yonebayashi's 'The Secret World of Arriety' tells the story of tiny teenager Arriety, a young borrower who risks her life every day in order for her and her family to survive. She builds a friendship with one of the humans but their friendship is put to the test when another individual seeks to banish Arriety and her family from the house once and for all.

Hayao Miyazaki's 'My Neighbor Totoro' may seem like an ordinary Studio Ghibli film but its story centric on schoolgirl Satsuke and her younger sister Mei portrays how girls can be strong, hopeful, and independent all while being vulnerable and in touch with their feelings.

Isao Takahata's 'Only Yesterday' is one of the most underrated Studio Ghibli films with a bright, smart woman lead. It tells the story of career-driven woman Taeko Okajima who travels to the countryside and reimagines her childhood days. One of the most thought-provoking Ghibli films that discusses the themes of dreams, childhood innocence, and adulthood.

Studio Ghibli's 'Castle in the Sky' is another Hayao Miyazaki masterpiece befitting a spot in this list. Although the film's centric theme is about how humanity and technology coincide, it also depicts powerful women leads who are portrayed with a facade that's strong but are naturally caring and soft-hearted.

Another underrated Ghibli film 'Whisper of the Heart' deserves a place in this list. It tells the story of young reader Shizuku who longs to be a writer in her own accord. What's lovely about this woman lead is that director Yoshifumi Kondo portrayed her with depth. She's a dreamer and a creative who's working hard to achieve what her heart longs for.