Film Review: Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (2008)
Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea, often just called Ponyo, is a Japanese animated family adventure film directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the animation legend. The film is a loose and beautiful adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale, The Little Mermaid, but with a distinct Studio Ghibli twist. The opening underwater scenes are exceptionally stunning, showcasing a mesmerizing blend of art and motion.
The Fish Who Would be Human
The story centers around a small fish with a human face who dreams of a life beyond her aquarium confines. She lives with her identical sisters in an underwater home run by a mysterious wizard. Desiring freedom, she escapes and meets a young boy named Sōsuke by the shoreline. He saves her, names her Ponyo, and takes her home in a bucket. Ponyo and Sōsuke quickly form a bond, but the wizard wants her back, using his powers to reclaim her.
Despite her initial return to the underwater world, Ponyo, having tasted freedom, ham, and even a drop of Sōsuke’s blood from when he cut his hand saving her, yearns to return to the surface. Displaying her own magical abilities, she transforms into a little girl and escapes again to reunite with Sōsuke.
Sōsuke instantly recognizes Ponyo in her new form. On a dark and stormy night that threatens their seaside town and even Sōsuke’s father at sea, Sōsuke and his mother take Ponyo in. The storm is so severe that by morning, their house on the hill is nearly engulfed by water. Sōsuke’s mother leaves to check on the seniors’ center where she works, and Sōsuke and Ponyo, using Ponyo’s magic, set out to find her. But Ponyo’s powers are unstable, causing her to flicker between human and fish forms as she becomes increasingly exhausted.
Richly Detailed and Poignant
Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea offers a much happier ending compared to Andersen’s original tale. It’s a heartfelt family film about adventurous and independent children, the generational gap, and the impulsiveness of youth. The wizard may not be as villainous as he seems, and Ponyo’s transformation could be threatening the balance of the universe.
As expected from a Studio Ghibli film, Ponyo is filled with nuanced storytelling, poetic moments, and rich details. It’s a visually and emotionally beautiful film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. Highly recommended.
Content Note: Rated G. Enjoy without concerns.
Where to Watch: DVD.
