“From Up on Poppy Hill,” a Japanese animated drama directed by Hayao Miyazaki’s son Goro Miyazaki, was scripted by Hayao Miyazaki and Keiko Niwa.

In 1963 Yokohama, Japan, Umi is a high school junior who takes on many family responsibilities. She runs her family’s boarding house and takes care of her younger siblings while her mother studies in the United States. Umi’s father was lost at sea during the Korean War.

One day Umi meets a classmate named Shun, one of the many boys trying to save their school’s historic clubhouse from being demolished because of the 1964 Olympics. Umi and Shun work together to protest the government’s decision to tear down the building. They also deal with the possibility that they may have the same father.

“From Up On Poppy Hill” is a great movie for older teens. The coming-of-age plot, period setting and some of the themes may be too mature for younger children. A strong romantic plot, the story of a father’s infidelity, suggestions of possible incestuous feelings, and some drinking and smoking are shown in the movie. The language includes mild insults.

The movie is a great addition to the new releases of Studio Ghibli’s works but pales in comparison to Ghibli’s masterpieces like “Spirited Away.” “From Up on Poppy Hill” is worth the watch for a sweet coming-of-age story.