A boy and girl fall in love while trying to save their school club house in the latest animated film from Studio Ghibli.
There are none of the fantastical elements that distinguish many of this Japanese studio's brilliant movies.
But while grounded in realism, Poppy Hill is just as charming and bewitching as movies like Spirited Away or Arietty.
The story itself is not particularly original, but the gorgeous animation, evocative setting and memorable characters combine  to create a very satisfying, and ultimately touching, drama.
The film focuses on Umi, who is looking after her mother's boarding house while her mother studies in America.
Every day Umi raises flags outside the house as a message to her father, who was lost at sea several years before.
She doesn't have time for anything but school work and the hotel, until she meets fellow student Shun.
Umi is particularly impressed with Shun's drive and passion as he spearheads attempts to protect the rickety old clubhouse from demolition.
The campaign brings them closer together, but blossoming romance is threatened by a secret concerning both their families.
From Up on Poppy Hill is suitable for children but it's not strictly a children's movie – like many of Studio Ghibli's films it can appeal to all ages.
Similar in tone to The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and Ghibli's classic teenage romance Whispers of the Heart, the should delight fans of the studio's work.
David Knights