Studio Ghibli are somewhat overrated in my opinion, but Princess Mononoke is a fine piece of film-making. Joe Hisaishi usually composes most Ghibli films, and he is indeed wonderful. His work on Nausicaa is phenomenal, especially the
title track. That build up to the violins sends shivers down my spine every time. I favour Princess Mononoke for its plot and intricacies - I wrote a piece on it for university and I grew to love it in such a different light - but I also enjoy Kiki's Delivery Service, Castle in the Sky and of course; My Neighbour Totoro. Grave of the Fireflies, too, is a superb film and one which I feel everyone should watch at least once in their lifetime. Howl's Moving Castle, however, despite its usual praise, I feel is a bit of a train-wreck, and Spirited Away, while lovely, is overrated.
Georgia, if you have the opportunity, I would definitely recommend doing any work you can on Ghibli. The studio encompasses such a large and diverse body of work, so much so I don't think you'll find yourself stuck on things to write. Since they're one of Japan's most well known exports, it isn't hard to find academic references, essays, books and such on the subject, either. Plus you say you'd be out of your comfort zone, but then that you've seen all there is to see! I did several pieces on Ghibli and Miyazaki in particular at university level and loved every second.