We have a collection of 7 arrangements for Joe Hisaishi - Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (Main Theme)
How does Joe Hisaishi's theme reflect Ponyo's connection to both ocean and human worlds? Learn!
"Ponyo on a Cliff by the Sea" is a 2008 Japanese animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. While it's technically a feature-length film rather than a traditional TV cartoon series, here are some interesting facts about the film:
Inspired by "The Little Mermaid": "Ponyo on a Cliff by the Sea" draws inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale "The Little Mermaid." However, Miyazaki added his unique twist to the story, creating a magical and imaginative underwater world.
Environmental Themes: Like many Studio Ghibli films, "Ponyo" also carries strong environmental themes. The film explores the consequences of human pollution on the ocean and marine life, highlighting the importance of taking care of the environment.
Hand-Drawn Animation: Miyazaki is known for his dedication to hand-drawn animation. "Ponyo" is no exception, as it features traditional 2D animation. It's a testament to the studio's commitment to preserving this art form in the age of computer-generated animation.
International Success: "Ponyo" was well-received both in Japan and internationally. It became one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time and introduced Studio Ghibli to a broader global audience.
No Villain: Unlike many animated films, "Ponyo" doesn't have a traditional villain. Instead, it focuses on the themes of love, family, and the balance between the human and natural worlds.
Cultural References: The film is rich in Japanese cultural references. For example, it includes elements of Japanese folklore, such as Fujimoto's character, who is inspired by the legendary Urashima Taro, a fisherman who saved a turtle and visited the Dragon Palace under the sea.
Child Voice Cast: Studio Ghibli often casts child actors to voice the child characters in their films. In the English version of "Ponyo," Noah Cyrus (Miley Cyrus's younger sister) and Frankie Jonas (brother of the Jonas Brothers) provided the voices for the main characters, Ponyo and Sosuke.
Musical Score: The film features a delightful and memorable soundtrack composed by Joe Hisaishi, a frequent collaborator with Hayao Miyazaki. The music perfectly complements the whimsical and enchanting atmosphere of the story.
Record-Breaking Release: "Ponyo on a Cliff by the Sea" had the biggest opening weekend for a Studio Ghibli film in Japan at the time of its release. It showcased the enduring popularity of Miyazaki's work.
Different Versions: The film has been released in various versions worldwide. While the core story remains the same, there are differences in the dubbing, dialogue, and some minor cultural references to adapt it for different audiences.
"Ponyo on a Cliff by the Sea" is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that continues to captivate audiences of all ages with its beautiful animation and thought-provoking themes.