Today’s quick review: Porco Rosso. Porco Rosso (Michael Keaton), a bounty hunter cursed to look like a pig, patrols the Adriatic in his seaplane, earning a healthy living by hunting down the pirates that operate there. But Porco’s luck changes when the pirates hire Donald Curtis (Cary Elwes), an American pilot, to shoot him down. To get back in the air, Porco must solicit the help of Fio Piccolo (Kimberly Williams-Paisley), a bright young mechanic.
Porco Rosso is a Japanese animated adventure from writer and director Hayao Miyazaki. Porco Rosso has the beautiful animation, charming comedy, and keen eye for detail that Miyazaki films are known for. Its fast-paced dogfights give the film plenty of action, while its sanitized combat and friendly characterse help keep the tone light. Porco Rosso has a touch of magical realism, but it trades Miyazaki’s rich fantasy worlds for a grounded setting.
Unlike many of Miyazaki’s films, Porco Rosso has a clear historical setting: Italy in the 1930s. The film primarily focuses on Porco’s adventures rather than matters of historical importance, but the setting makes itself felt in subtle ways, from Porco’s service in World War I to the rise of fascism in Italy. The historical backdrop gives the story a wistful tinge, a tale that could only take place during a brief period of history between two World Wars.
Fans of Miyazaki will enjoy Porco Rosso for what it is: a refreshing, wholesome watch that makes the most of a gorgeous setting and lovable characters. Porco Rosso is not as complicated, dramatic, or far-fetched as Miyazaki’s best work, but its charm and craftsmanship make it welcome addition to the canon. Avoid it if you prefer pure fantasy or you’re looking for a tidy story, since the film leaves a few of its key plot threads open.
7.8 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 for gorgeous animation and a charming story.