Exploring 9 Studio Ghibli’s Magical Short Films

Studio Ghibli, renowned for its enchanting feature films, has also created a collection of captivating short films that showcase the studio’s creativity, imagination, and artistry. From promotional music videos to theatrical releases and works for the Ghibli Museum, these shorts offer glimpses into fantastical worlds and heartfelt stories. Let’s delve into some of the most notable short films produced by Studio Ghibli.

1. On Your Mark (1995)

• Director: Hayao Miyazaki
• Producer: Toshio Suzuki
• On Your Mark is a promotional music video created for the song by Chage & Aska. Directed by Miyazaki, it tells the story of two futuristic police officers who rescue a winged girl, offering themes of redemption and salvation amidst stunning visuals.

2. Ghiblies (2000)

• Director: Yoshiyuki Momose
• Producer: Hiroyuki Watanabe
• Ghiblies is a TV short film that offers a humorous and lighthearted look at the daily lives of Studio Ghibli employees. It provides an inside glimpse into the studio’s culture and the quirky characters who inhabit it.

3. Kujiratori (The Whale Hunt) (2001)

• Director: Hayao Miyazaki
• Kujiratori is a short film created for the Ghibli Museum, offering a whimsical tale about a young boy who embarks on a magical journey to hunt a mythical whale. It captures Miyazaki’s trademark blend of fantasy and adventure.

4. Koro’s Big Day Out (2002)

• Director: Hayao Miyazaki
• Koro’s Big Day Out is another charming short film produced for the Ghibli Museum, following the adventures of a puppy named Koro as he explores the world outside his home. It celebrates the joy of discovery and the wonders of nature.

5. The Night of Taneyamagahara (2006)

• Director: Kazuo Oga
• The Night of Taneyamagahara is a visually stunning short film about a young boy who encounters mysterious creatures at night. Directed by Kazuo Oga, a renowned background artist at Studio Ghibli, it showcases his masterful artistry and sense of atmosphere.

6. Mr. Dough and the Egg Princess (2010)

• Director: Hayao Miyazaki
• Mr. Dough and the Egg Princess is a charming short film that follows the adventures of a magical egg princess and a baker named Mr. Dough. Miyazaki directs it and offers a heartwarming tale about friendship, creativity, and the power of imagination.

7. Giant God Warrior Appears in Tokyo (2012)

• Director: Shinji Higuchi
• Giant God Warrior Appears in Tokyo is a live-action short film created by Studio Ghibli in collaboration with director Shinji Higuchi. It imagines a giant creature wreaking havoc on Tokyo, offering a unique blend of fantasy and reality.

8. Boro the Caterpillar (2018)

• Director: Hayao Miyazaki
• Boro the Caterpillar is a short film that premiered at the Ghibli Museum in 2018. Directed by Miyazaki, it follows the journey of a tiny caterpillar named Boro as he explores the world around him. The production of this short was documented in the NHK documentary Never-Ending Man: Hayao Miyazaki.

9. Zen – Grogu and Dust Bunnies (2022)

• Director: Katsuya Kondō
• Zen–Grogu and Dust Bunnies is a collaborative Star Wars short film produced by Studio Ghibli and Lucasfilm. Premiering on Disney+, it offers a charming and whimsical tale featuring the beloved character Grogu and the mystical world of Studio Ghibli.

Exploring the World of Studio Ghibli Shorts

Studio Ghibli’s short films offer enchanting glimpses into imaginative worlds, heartfelt stories, and captivating characters. From whimsical tales created for the Ghibli Museum to promotional music videos and collaborations with other studios, these shorts showcase the studio’s commitment to storytelling excellence and artistic innovation. Whether exploring fantastical realms or celebrating the wonders of everyday life, Studio Ghibli’s short films continue to delight audiences with their charm, creativity, and magic.