What to KnowStudio Ghibli’s “PONYO”Academy Museum of Motion Pictures6067 Wilshire BoulevardFeb. 14 through Jan. 10, 2027Level 2 in the Wanda GalleryIncluded with museum admissionThe exhibit is “supported in part” by the Japan FoundationA Feb. 14 “Ponyo” screening is sold out, but a stand-by option is available

The corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue sits less than 10 miles from the ocean, but starting on Valentine’s Day the ocean, or at least an iconic animated film that is full of watery whimsy, will call upon the museum-famous intersection.

That’s where the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures may be found, and on Feb. 14 an exhibit honoring an oceanic gem, set to run through the remainder of 2026 and a pinch of 2027, will come ashore.

It’s “Ponyo” from Studio Ghibli, the enchanting tail, er, tale of a plucky ocean-dwelling lass and her terrestrial adventures above the waves.

Hayao Miyazaki’s 2008 film continues to win new fans, bewitch people who loved it from the start, and connect with movies mavens who are in search of magic, beauty, and an uplifting story of friendships formed, dreams followed, and the majesty of nature.

Over 100 pieces selected by the Studio Ghibli will be on view in the exhibit, with an animation table — it’s interactive — serving as an engaging centerpiece. The experience also includes an “immersive play environment,” an area which will give younger fans a joyful way to experience some the story of the film.

Among the items on view? Look for hand drawings by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli animators, art boards, and a Studio Ghibli desk.

Something that will surely thrill “Ponyo” devotees? Some of the pieces in the exhibit have never been displayed in North America.

A Feb. 14 “Ponyo” screening at the museum is sold out but do watch for more film events as the exhibit continues. Look also for sweet gifts and goodies for sale in the museum store, including a Ponyo plush and lunch box.

We may never plunge into a strange and soggy world that’s rife with fantastical possibilities, but we can joyfully submerge ourselves in the new “Ponyo”-powerful show that’s surfacing soon at the Academy Museum.