‘Ponyo’ is a very magical and charming film directed by animation legend, Hayao Miyazaki. A five-year-old boy, Sosuke, finds a pet goldfish named Ponyo but he has no idea that she is really a magical entity! Ponyo is taken back to the sea by her father, who tries to discourage her from returning to land and becoming human. However, she discovers his magic elixirs and through a series of events, Ponyo becomes human. Purportedly, the film is inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid,” but this is not a simple retread of the story; it is a wild amplification. The script is solid and the voice acting is top notch too – it is quite emotional and never feels bland. I also loved the expressive and instantly distinguishable characters in this movie.
Where the film really comes alive is in its tremendous artwork and expressive and striking animation. Miyazaki creates a world of imagination that is so extraordinary. He uses stunning colors, beautiful backgrounds, and interesting character designs creating sheer beauty. Watching Ponyo run and bounce around with the uncontrollable joy of a child is a wonder to watch. I distinctly remember Sosuke’s expressions the first time he heard Ponyo talk – it was so enchanting. Specifically the water animation is both utterly breathtaking and unique compared to all other water animation that I’ve seen. Famous Japanese artist, Katsushika Hokusai painted “The Great Wave” depicting large, rogue waves and hollows of cresting waves. Similarly, in ‘Ponyo’, this Japanese Hokusai watercolor style allowed the water to come alive on screen.
Moreover, I loved the themes of ecology, friendship, and innocence. Miyazaki gives the viewer the opportunity to look at the world through a child’s wide, unspoiled eyes transmitting the hopefulness of renewal.
In short, ‘Ponyo’ makes you feel like a child again. The seemingly limitless positive energy the film has reminds us of the innocence of childhood and friendship. Ponyo is a fantastic, beautiful work of pure joy that can be enjoyed by any age.