Movie – Ponyo

Ponyo (2008) – A goldfish princess falls in love with a little boy and does everything in her power to become a girl to be with him.

More Miyazaki magic.  The attention to detail, the outstanding storytelling, always an a top quality voice cast.  I’m not sure how to communicate the wonder of a Miyazaki movie if you have never seen one.  I would put two primary qualities that attract me to his work.

First, is the stunning visual quality of his movies.  I don’t believe that there is any animation in the history of film that is better.  The depth, the detail, the color, it is all beautiful.  There are times when my attention is drawn away from the center of the action to admire the background.  I’m serious, it’s that good.

Second, is the sense of wonder that is a central part of the Miyazaki magic.  He takes you to a place of childlike marvel at a world that is new, exciting and inviting you to jump right in.  I always find his movies as a chance to step back into that sense of awe that small children experience on a daily basis, without ever having to “dumb down”.

This movie is wonderful but doesn’t bump “My Neighbor Totoro” from the #1 slot.

Why I Liked It – It’s Miyazaki, so I pretty much liked everything.

Why You Will Like It – Enjoy the fantastical world and spend your time identifying the great voice cast.

Great movie, might be a little scary for very small folk.

Rating – **** Recommended