The story of Porco Rosso takes place during the 1930s in the Adriatic Sea region of the Mediterranean. Porco Rosso is a former human fighter pilot who has become a pig-headed bounty hunter, earning his money by chasing down air pirates who are disrupting the local sea trade. However, he is constantly hounded by the Italian Air Force, who want him to rejoin their ranks.
One of Porco's frequent targets is a group of air pirates led by a woman named Gina, who runs a popular local tavern. Porco has a complicated relationship with Gina, as they were once in love, but Porco's sense of duty and honor caused him to avoid commitment. Another recurring character is an American freelance adventurer named Curtis, who becomes Porco's rival for Gina's affections.
As the story progresses, Porco crosses paths with a young orphan girl named Fio, who impresses him with her engineering skills and quickly becomes an important part of his crew. Together, they take on a more dangerous group of air pirates led by a notorious villain known as the Crimson Tomahawk.
Throughout the film, Porco struggles with his curse and comes to terms with his own mortality, as his past catches up with him and he must face his own legacy. Meanwhile, the romantic tensions between Porco, Gina, and Curtis reach a boiling point as they each confront their own fears and desires.
In typical Miyazaki fashion, the film is visually stunning, with detailed depictions of the Italian countryside, the Adriatic Sea, and the soaring biplanes of the era. It also features a memorable score by frequent Miyazaki collaborator Joe Hisaishi. Overall, Porco Rosso is a charming and exciting adventure story, with a unique protagonist and a message about staying true to oneself.