The Wait is Over: Studio Ghibli is Coming to Netflix!

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The streaming giant Netflix has slowly been building up its library of streamable anime for years now. From the light-hearted cuteness of Aggretsuko to the adrenaline fueled action of Attack on Titan, Netflix’s catalogue of anime has something for everyone – and if you’re looking for your next binge-worthy obsession, you can check out our recommendations here!

There has always been something missing though. Studio Ghibli – the most celebrated anime studio across the globe – has long since held a “physical media only” policy, meaning it was impossible to stream any of their classic anime films. Until now! Netflix has acquired the rights to host 21 movies from the legendary Ghibli. It's like an answer to our prayers!

We know you are probably already really excited to watch Ghibli movies on Netflix, but you should note that the films will be available globally for all regions… outside the US, Canada, and their native Japan! While this may seem odd, streaming rights can be complicated, and the upcoming HBO Max has snagged the rights to stream the films in the US, although we’re unsure if this applies to Canada as well. As for Japan, considering physical media still reigns supreme, perhaps they are happy to keep Ghibli out of the streaming arena for a while longer. 

The entire collection – excluding the heart-wrenching Grave of the Fireflies, will come in waves starting February 2020. Maybe you can choose your movie date on Valentine's Day now! Netflix is also subtitling the movies in 28 languages and providing brand new dubs for up to 20 languages, bringing Ghibli films to a whole new audience who may have been unable to experience them before! That’s really awesome don’t you think?

The first wave from February 1st, 2020 Netflix will release:

• Castle in the Sky (1986)
• My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
• Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
• Only Yesterday (1991)
• Porco Rosso (1992)
• Ocean Waves (1993)
• Tales from Earthsea (2006)

Next from March 1st, 2020 Netflix will add:

• Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
• Princess Mononoke (1997)
• My Neighbors the Yamadas (1999)
• Spirited Away (2001)
• The Cat Returns (2002)
• Arrietty (2010)
• The Tale of The Princess Kaguya (2013)

The last, from April 1st, 2020 all members will be able to stream:

• Pom Poko (1994)
• Whisper of the Heart (1995)
• Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
• Ponyo (2008)
• From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)
• The Wind Rises (2013)
• When Marnie Was There (2014)

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In honor Studio Ghibli finally embracing the Age of Streaming, we’re reminded of one of our favorite quotes: “No matter how many weapons you have, no matter how great your technology might be, the world cannot live without love.” — Castle in the Sky (1986)

Pretty deep, huh? We have 9 more of our favorite Ghibli quotes to inspire you. They really bring back fond memories!

Which Studio Ghibli movie are you going to watch first? Are there any on the list you haven’t had a chance to see yet? Let us know in the comments below! 

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