Actually, I got time. Let’s get into it a little.
First are the obvious two examples: Spirited Away and Kiki’s Delivery Service, where work is central to the entire conceit. In both films, the central characters struggle to balance their job and their identity. Crucially, the work itself isn’t an obstacle for the characters to “rise above”. Rather, it’s a component of how they grow.
It’s also worth noting that much of the supporting cast in both movies are working class, but they aren’t seen as lesser for it. What matters is they’re good people.
Other films are less overt in their working class themes, but they’re still there.
Howl’s Moving Castle is an interesting one. Sophie starts the film working as a seamstress in a hat shop, before signing on as a maid on behalf of Howl. (There’s a lot of cleaning in this movie.) There’s also something to be said for Howl himself. Even amidst his draft dodging and anti-war efforts, he still finds time to make spells for ordinary people.
Castle In The Sky is another great example of subtler working class themes. Our main hero Pazu works in a mining town, populated by gruff working class men who are just getting by day by day. When time comes to take to the sky, he works as a mechanic on the pirate ship in order to pay his way. Even secret princess Sheeta works as a cook, and was working a farm by herself before the events of the movie transpire.
This isn’t a comprehensive list, and there’s definitely more to explore here. I just think it’s interesting how he not only has so many working class heroes, but how work itself isn’t seen as a bad thing. There’s always a quiet dignity to it.
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