I finally got to see “Ponyo” last weekend.  The animated film is both written and directed by Miyazaki.

Ready for an adventure?  Check out Ponyo!  Image source.

As with many of Miyazaki’s film, the children are brave and the environment needs to be protected.  In this case it is our ocean.  This is a good reminder for us to think about our planet more.  These days, we hear about how much the ocean is contaminated with mercury and garbage.  There is even an island of garbage floating right in the middle of the Pacific Ocean called “The Garbage Patch“. It’s unbelievable.

As for the story line, I felt it’s aimed more towards younger fans. A bit like “The Little Mermaid”.  But Ponyo is entertaining and brings you to a time of youthful innocence and adventure.

Ponyo is a fish with a human head who wants to become even more human.  A young boy named Sosuke came across Ponyo when she was injured and swept to the coast.  Soon enough, Ponyo turns into a human child.  After a storm, the place is flooded and the adventure begins.  The children then set out to rescue Sosuke’s mom after the flood.  They come across kind local towns people.  They face their fears and overcome danger.

As with many other animated films by Studio Ghibli, the animation is great.  The feelings and expression are portrayed very well by all the characters.  Especially the expressive little Ponyo and the adventurous and clever Sosuke.

This is one of my favorite scenes from Ponyo.  It is Ponyo’s first time eating ramen noodles.  She is surprised to see the dry noodles become a steaming bowl of goodness.  Image source.

The little house on the cliff is nice too.  It reminds me of a Mediterranean style home nicely perches on a cliff overlooking the ocean.  It’s a very idyllic setting where friends and neighbors are not afraid to lend a hand.

That is another thing I noticed about Miyazaki’s film, it’s that people are genuinely kind to each other.  It’s almost something we don’t see living in the city very much.  But deep down, I think people want to be nice and kind to each other.  Even in any city or town, and in times of a crisis, there will still be more people who are caring then those that want to do harm.

Ponyo On the Cliff by the Sea is one animated film worth watching!