The latest film by writer, director, and producer Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, Ponyo is delightful and beautiful. My kids have watched it non-stop for the last two days which makes it the new favorite since ‘Cars’. Compared to the other Studio Ghibli film’s that I’ve seen, this one fairly tame. There are no huge mechanical flying machines, bizarre monsters, or shape shifting characters, thankfully the film does fine without them.
Throughout the film there is the usual environmentalist message which we come to expect from Miyazaki, this one focusing on not trashing the oceans and striving to maintain a balance.
I was very surprised at the familiar names that voiced the English version of the film including: Tina Fey, Matt Damon, Betty White, Lily Tomlin, Liam Neesen, and Cate Blanchett. Which makes me think that being part of a Miyazaki is an “in” thing to do among the celebrities.
What brings me back to Miyazaki films over and over is the artistry and imaginative elements. It is always refreshing to be taken completely by surprise at the way a story unfolds. None of the ‘same old, same old’ here. Two thumbs up from me.
Related links:
My Favorites from Studio Ghibli:
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
My Literary Quest 
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