A hidden world of swirling currents and vibrant color has surfaced in Los Angeles. A new exhibition at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures plunges visitors directly into the enchanting aquatic realm of Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved film, “Ponyo.”
This isn’t merely a display of artwork; it’s an immersion. The museum, which first honored Miyazaki with a retrospective upon its 2021 opening, now unveils a treasure trove of original sketches, storyboards, and animation elements gifted by the legendary Studio Ghibli.
Spanning nearly 3,800 square feet, the exhibit breathes life into the 2008 masterpiece. Curator Jessica Niebel describes it as a privilege to share these materials, offering a rare glimpse into the meticulous artistry behind the film.
“Ponyo” itself is a reimagining of “The Little Mermaid,” but filtered through Miyazaki’s singular vision. The story follows a magical goldfish princess who longs to become human after forming a bond with a young boy named Sosuke, defying the wishes of her powerful, underwater wizard father.
The film marked a deliberate return to hand-drawn animation for Miyazaki, a conscious shift after experimenting with computer-generated imagery in previous works. He challenged his team to imbue every element with fluid, lifelike movement, resulting in a breathtakingly dynamic underwater world.
Visitors will encounter delicate pencil sketches of pivotal scenes, alongside stunning projections of the film’s most iconic moments. But the exhibit isn’t solely for animation aficionados; it’s designed to captivate the film’s youngest fans.
The space transforms into a playful ocean landscape. Rolling blue installations mimic the ebb and flow of waves, inviting children to explore. They can even slide a “Ponyo” figure across an ocean wall or hide within a replica of Sosuke’s trusty green bucket.
Interactive animation tables allow budding filmmakers to create their own short sequences, positioning sharks, jellyfish, and crabs frame by frame. The scene is overseen by charming representations of the film’s elder characters, facing a looming threat from rising waters.
Niebel hopes the exhibit will spark a creative flame in a new generation, inspiring young minds to consider the possibilities of filmmaking and artistic expression. It’s an invitation to dream, to imagine, and to dive into the magic of “Ponyo.”
The exhibition opens this weekend and will remain on display until January 2027, offering ample opportunity to experience this extraordinary world. Admission is free for those under seventeen.
