In this day and age we have gotten use to the 3-D animation. This is more like the original cartoons many years ago. With a star cast of voices, the fantasy magical world of the sea comes to life. This is where Ponyo, a little gold fish, longs to become human after she was saved by a small boy.

Although this movie has many topics to discuss, one must always remember that it is animation and a fantasy of one person’s imagination. Created for the young children, it is charming and has some great issues to talk to them about. Children of any age can learn about the environment, being responsible, taking care of others, and it is okay to follow your dreams. Parents can also learn a few things from this movie, that sometimes we struggle to protect our children when they are looking at their future differently than what we may want for them.

As this is a Japanese animation film, I must warn that this movie has included things that some may not agree with, such as the Goddess of Mercy of the Sea, a comment about how the storm has returned the balance of life and life begins again and also it includes magic. But overall it is a cute and charming movie for children and adults alike.

We award “Ponyo” the Dove “Family-Approved” Seal for all ages.