I’ll be the first to admit, I had never seen Porco Rosso before I took out time for this review. It was always a film on my list of animated films, but I somehow never got the time to watch this. What a fool, I was. Porco Rosso is a Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli classic. Skipping this film is like considering yourself a Martin Scorsese fan but you’ve never seen The King of Comedy. Porco Rosso took me by surprise, and it will surely do the same to you!
How to Download Porco Rosso
You can download or stream the film from a digital platform. Click on the Download button at the end of this review and make your choice. Check out also other films by Hayao Miyazaki, such as My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, or Princess Mononoke.
The Movie Review
In 1930s Italy, Porco Rosso follows the tale of Marco Pagot, a skilled pilot who mysteriously transforms into a humanoid pig. Now known as Porco Rosso, he is a bounty hunter, battling air pirates that terrorize the Adriatic Sea.
The rise of fascism and political unrest make him retreat to his secluded hideaway, a peaceful island where he repairs his beloved red seaplane. However, his tranquil existence is disrupted when an ambitious American ace pilot named Donald Curtis challenges him to a duel. Meanwhile, Rosso finds himself entangled in the lives of the charismatic singer Gina and her persistent suitor, Fio.
As Porco Rosso navigates his complicated relationships and confronts his own personal demons, he learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the true nature of heroism.
I understand that this was a lengthy synopsis, but there is always so much to summarize in every Ghibli film, and Porco Rosso is no exception obviously.
Written and directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, Porco Rosso expertly balances lighthearted comedy with profound themes, effortlessly transitioning from thrilling aerial battles to tender character moments. Miyazaki’s imaginative storytelling and attention to detail create a rich, believable world that transports it into the heart of the story.
The dialogue sparkles with wit and charm, allowing us to connect deeply with the characters and their journeys.
Through subtle visual cues and nuanced storytelling, Miyazaki conveys the complexities of Porco’s character, exploring his past, his regrets, and his journey toward redemption.
Miyazaki’s attention to detail extends to the film’s supporting characters as well. Each character is given their own distinct personality and motivations, brought to life through their interactions and mannerisms.
From the enigmatic and alluring Gina to the plucky and determined Fio, Miyazaki’s direction ensures that each character leaves a lasting impression.
Voice Acting
The voice acting adds to this flavor, I only had the English Dub available, but it was brilliant nonetheless. Rosso was voiced impeccably by Michael Keaton in the English dub.
Keaton captures Porco’s complex persona, conveying his weariness and determination with nuance and depth. From the feisty Gina to the brash Donald Curtis, each character is given a distinct personality and backstory that adds depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.
It’s a testament to Miyazaki’s genius that these animated characters feel so alive.
The Animation
Visually, Porco Rosso is a feast for the eyes. It’s a Studio Ghibli film, after all, there is not a chance in hell that this film would look even slightly weak. Hayao Miyazaki’s meticulous animation work shines through in every frame.
The landscapes are beautifully rendered, from the azure skies to the shimmering seas, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean setting.
The character designs are exquisite, with Porco’s iconic pig face managing to be both endearing and enigmatic.
The hand-drawn animation possesses a fluidity that is rarely seen in the medium outside of Ghibli’s works. I must point out the thrilling aerial sequences, they were a true spectacle to behold.
The Music
Again, if it’s a Miyazaki film, then you will have Joe Hisashi making the soundtrack for it. Together, these two have created the perfect formula for their work, and it comes together masterfully in Porco Rosso. The enchanting score perfectly complements the film’s uniqueness in tone.
The soaring melodies accompanying Porco’s flights, the melancholic tunes underscoring moments of introspection, and some of the most gut-wrenching tunes for the heart-breaking moments, the music adds an emotional layer to the storytelling.
Hisaishi’s compositions create an indelible connection between the audience and the characters, heightening the film’s impact.
Verdict
Porco Rosso is a cinematic gem that continues to shine brightly even after three decades.
With its compelling narrative, impeccable writing and direction, captivating characters, stunning animation, and a spellbinding soundtrack, this film is a masterpiece. I never expected to like it this much, but after just one viewing, it has become one of my most favorite Ghibli films of all time. It is genuinely that good.
