My kids loved those movie when they were growing up, but I do not think i ever got to sit and watch it from start to finish, until last night.

It is a really great movie.

Will you tell us what you like about it?

It's been so long since I watched Ponyo, I barely remember anything about it. Definitely due for a rewatch.

Really loved this movies physics!

I saw it for the first time only a year ago, if you're happy to get someone else's answer. For me it was a delight because seemingly every creative decision reflected an abundant love of life itself. The film is bursting with beauty and relish for the natural world, but without being cloying or simplistic in its storytelling, its message, or its aesthetics. There are moments of action that are exceedingly lifelike, and moments of stillness that are almost profound. The script itself is refreshingly not adhering to the Hollywood formula, instead it meanders and surprises you by turns. Another way in which it is very much 'like life'.

It is a love story without being sexual. It is about two 5 year olds who fall in love as best friends. It it also about a father's love for his daughter, and loving her so much he gives her up to save the world.

Love story aside, it is a very cute movie. It has humor without being a comedy. I also think Sōsuke, one of the two main characters, personifies Gen X. Moon leaves him to watch over the stray kid she found during a tsunami so mom can go to work.

The English dub has a wonderful voice cast, Liam Neeson, Betty White, Cloris Leechman, Lily Tomlin.

every creative decision reflected an abundant love of life itself.

From Ponyo's love of ham and Sōsuke to Fujimoto's love of Ponyo, and the love Ponyo shows to the sick baby. Even how much Sōsuke loves licking the honey off his teaspoon.

Thanks for the response. It never really clicked for me for several reason, but I like hearing other perspectives in case I missed something.