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Ponyo
Ponyo Image
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Metascore
86 out of 100

Universal acclaim - based on 29 Critics What's this?

User Score
7.7 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 123 Ratings

Your Score
10 out of 10
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  • Summary: Ponyo is a story inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale "The Little Mermaid." Already a box-office success in Japan, the story of a young and overeager goldfish named Ponyo and her quest to become human features an outstanding roster of voice talent. (Walt Disney Pictures)

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
  1. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Deborah Young
    100
    It is a work of great fantasy and charm that will delight children ages 3 to 100.
  2. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Roger Ebert
    100
    There is a word to describe Ponyo, and that word is magical. This poetic, visually breathtaking work by the greatest of all animators has such deep charm that adults and children will both be touched.
  3. New York Daily News
    Reviewed by: Joe Neumaier
    60
    Trippy in the right way, and wholly enchanting.

See all 29 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 47 out of 63
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 63
  3. Negative: 5 out of 63
  1. heyitsmegrif4
    9
    Ponyo is sweet, elegant, and innocent. With probably the best animation in Miyazaki's career. Ponyo has so much heart and a rich story. You have to think who would hate it. I give this movie 94%.… Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  2. NeilR
    5
    Miyazaki's genius reached its height in SPIRITED AWAY. Unfortunately, this was also the stage at which The Disney Company became more involved in Studio Ghibli. Sadly, nothing from Miyazaki has been the same ever since -- not the artistry, characterization, story-lines or philosophy. Luckily Joe Hisaishi still holds up his end with a brilliant score that falters only with the film's horrific end-title music. The song "Ponyo" might give a shark heartburn. PONYO is earnest and very pretty, but too predictable in its plot and too random in its attention to detail to satisfy this viewer. Great studios sometimes bring masterworks to Disney. Too often, today's Disney dumbs 'em down, as it did so well with its awful adaptation of clips from PLANET EARTH, titled only -- EARTH. To be fair, Miyazki has the right to craft a film exclusively for children, however, MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO did just that --with artistry and reasonable sophistication. A mediocre film from a master makes one feel cheated, for it is the filmmaker who teaches and engages the audience. The market should never, ever drive= a great filmmaker's choices. Unfortunately, that's exactly what happened with PONYO.… Expand
    • 2 of 3 users said yes
  3. KellyM
    1
    I waited for a moment where I might feel some sort of emotion for at least one character in the film. I waited and waited. I then waited a little longer. I sat in the theater watching the credits roll to some of the worst music I have ever heard. When it was over all I can say is "I waited." If you enjoy waiting by all means go see it. If you would like to be more productive with your time I suggest painting a room in your house and wait for the paint to dry. It is equally entertaining.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes

See all 63 User Reviews

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