Original artwork, not a still
I'd rather be a pig than a fascist.
— Porco Rosso · 1992
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Marco chose to be a pig, and the film never explains whether that was a curse or a verdict on himself. The line says what he will not become, and makes a joke of it. It travels because it is easy to apply: a short refusal to lend your talent to any cause you despise. Miyazaki sets it in late-1920s Italy and leaves Marco's stubbornness as the only politics the film needs.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Porco RossoShow the scene
Porco Rosso, a former Italian air force ace who now lives as a pig, has had his seaplane taken to the Piccolo workshop to be rebuilt. At a cinema, his old comrade Ferrarin, now a major, finds him and warns that a warrant is being issued for his arrest: refusing to cooperate with the state, illegal comings and goings, decadent thoughts. Ferrarin urges him to come back to the Air Force so they can use their influence. Porco's answer is this line. Ferrarin says the age of daredevil flyers is over; Porco says he only flies for himself, and they part. Outside, the secret police are already on his trail.
Sources (3)
- Ghibli Wiki: Porco Rosso/TranscriptTheatre scene between Porco and Ferrarin (spelled "Fierrali" there)Reference checked
- Wikiquote: Porco RossoDialogue sectionReference checked
- Wikipedia: Porco RossoPlotReference checked
Context reviewed
