If you loved the delicate storytelling and emotional depth of Liz and the Blue Bird (2018), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same tender, introspective vibe, perfect for fans of nuanced character studies and beautiful animation. Dive into these heartfelt recommendations and discover your next favorite watch.

Only Yesterday (1991)
Description: A reflective and introspective film that follows a woman's journey back to her childhood home, exploring memories and the passage of time.
Fact: This was the first Studio Ghibli film to be directed by a woman, Isao Takahata. It was initially released in Japan with limited distribution and later gained international acclaim.


Ocean Waves (1993)
Description: A tender and realistic portrayal of teenage life, focusing on unrequited love and the complexities of young relationships.
Fact: This was Studio Ghibli's first television film and was created by a younger team of animators as a training exercise. It is based on a novel by Saeko Himuro.


Whisper of the Heart (1995)
Description: A coming-of-age story that delicately explores the emotional and creative growth of a young girl, with a focus on music and personal aspirations.
Fact: This film was directed by Yoshifumi Kondō, who was considered a potential successor to Hayao Miyazaki. It features a famous scene where the protagonist imagines a cat walking through a city.


5 Centimeters per Second (2007)
Description: A poignant tale of love and distance, told through stunning visuals and a deeply emotional narrative that captures the fleeting nature of relationships.
Fact: The film is divided into three segments, each representing different stages of the protagonist's life. It was one of the first anime films to be entirely created using digital animation techniques.


From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)
Description: A heartfelt story set in post-war Japan, focusing on young love and the preservation of cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on nostalgia and personal connections.
Fact: The film is based on a 1980 manga series. It was co-written by Hayao Miyazaki and directed by his son, Goro Miyazaki.


The Wind Rises (2013)
Description: A biographical drama that blends historical events with personal dreams, showcasing the protagonist's passion for aviation and the bittersweet nature of ambition.
Fact: The film was Hayao Miyazaki's final directorial effort before his retirement (which he later came out of). It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.


When Marnie Was There (2014)
Description: A beautifully animated film that delves into themes of loneliness, friendship, and self-discovery, with a mysterious and emotional storyline.
Fact: This was the last film produced by Studio Ghibli before its temporary hiatus. It is based on a British novel by Joan G. Robinson.


The Anthem of the Heart (2015)
Description: A touching story about a girl who loses her ability to speak and finds solace in music, exploring themes of communication and emotional healing.
Fact: The film was produced by the same studio that created 'Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day.' It features a unique blend of drama and musical elements.


Ride Your Wave (2019)
Description: A vibrant and emotional film about love, loss, and moving forward, with a strong connection to water and personal growth.
Fact: The film's director, Masaaki Yuasa, is known for his distinctive animation style. It was selected to compete in the Horizons section at the 76th Venice International Film Festival.


Weathering with You (2019)
Description: A visually stunning film that intertwines romance with environmental themes, creating a magical yet grounded narrative about sacrifice and love.
Fact: This was the first film by Makoto Shinkai to be released in IMAX. It became the highest-grossing Japanese film of 2019 and was nominated for an Academy Award.
