We dive under the sea for Mikethefab's birthday with Hayao Miyazaki's Ponyo—an enchanting, aquatic fairy tale about childhood wonder, magical chaos, and the world's bravest little goldfish. We explore what makes Ponyo such a singular Studio Ghibli experience, debate whether its dream logic delights or frustrates, and revisit the question of how children's animation speaks to grown-ups. Along the way, we interview Mike's daughter Nora for her expert take on the film, and answer listener mail from the citizens of De Niro Nation, making this our most wholesome episode yet. Wikipedia page for Ponyo. Films recommended this episode:

• Redline
• Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab, email them at [email protected], and follow them on Instagram @ourherodeniro. Next week: Great Expectations Supplemental links:

• Mikethefab's cologne: L'Homme
• MikeBackAtYou's cologne: Ombré Leather