Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works (2010)

Heroic Spirits from every age are summoned to Japan by magi who participate in a modern day war for the Holy Grail. Legend claims that the Holy Grail has the power to grant any wish a person may desire; whether it's conquering the world or even changing the course of history. This is the story of Emiya Shirou, a typical high school student who is pulled into a war the likes of which few have ever seen. The battle for the Holy Grail will force Emiya to come into conflict with supernatural enemies, the longings of his heart, and the very personification of all his beliefs. The plot is relatively the same as the anime, video games, and novel. That being said not only is the story top notch but Type Moon has seen fit to introduce new elements into the foray, elements that make Unlimited Blade Works seem like a brand new creation even if you're already familiar with Fate/Stay: Night.

Unlimited Blade Works retains the essence of the basic formula of the series but places a greater emphasis on the duality between our main character Emiya Shirou and the Heroic Spirit Archer. Rather than have Shirou as the main actor on this stage, the screen time is largely split between Emiya and Archer. In this movie we see Shriou's beliefs tested by the events surrounding him and questioned by Archer. Shirou believes that he can save everyone and he will put his life on the line without hesitation to prove it. Archer on the other hand believes that it is impossible to save everyone because life is never that simple and there is no such thing as a hero. These and other ideologies shared and contrasted between the two, forces them to re-evaluate their own beliefs and even how those beliefs affect their personal realities.

The presentation is not entirely flawless. If you've seen Fate/Stay Night you will immediately notice something amiss when you watch Unlimited Blade Works; pacing. For the first 20 to 30 minutes of the movie, Unlimited Blade Works is all over the place. At the risk of spoiling anything let me give you the bare bones. The movie opens up with Tohsaka Rin summoning Archer just like in the anime. The scene then jumps to Archer and Lancer fighting. Then the scene jumps to Emiya getting injured and Tohsaka saving him. Then the scene jumps to Lancer attacking Emiya again. Then out of nowhere Saber shows up and then we're suddenly outside the church. What's even more jarring is that there are no transitions between any of these scenes. It just jumps from one clip to another. With that said, long-time fans of the series should have an easy time keeping track of the movie but it may be tougher for newcomers in the early going.

It should be noted that once the pacing catches up with plot, the anime is brilliant.  The events in the movie play out in a way you wouldn't expect and there are plenty of twists to keep you guessing. Still, if you're not at all familiar with the Nasuverse, you may wish to watch the Fate/Stay Night series to get the most out of the movie, but there's no real need to get that heavily involved if you're just looking for a good watch.

Where animation is concerned, Studio Deen went all out. Watching Unlimited Blade Works is like watching an animated painting. The clothing and hair on the characters move with life-like fluidity, much like the characters themselves. Even with regards to the fight scenes, the artists and animators really take animated battles to another level. The speed at which these blows are struck and the rapid pace of the fight scenes are impressive, especially because there is no animation slow-down nor any drop in quality. In Unlimited Blade Works every scene is stunning.

However, I do have two minor gripes. The environments, while beautifully drawn could have used more detail. If we look at Einsbren Manor, it's an impressive spectacle: we see rubble left over from battles, destroyed banisters, torn curtains, light streaming in through broken windows, etcetera, but no other environment is this detailed so while the anime is gorgeous some might wonder why aren't all the environments as detailed as they could have been. In any case the anime is definitely a feast for the eyes. It's no Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust but it's very good.

Fans might be disappointed that Type Moon doesn't spend much time shipping ShirouxSaber but given that some 20 episodes of the anime did that already I think a change of pace is fine to say the least, so this time around the movie spends a fair amount of time building the relationship between Shirou and Rin. This works really well because the two characters have viewpoints that are diametrically opposed to the other and this provides an ideological dichotomy between the two which is not compromised by differences but enhanced by them. For example, Shirou clearly has a savior complex which almost seems to stem from a reaction to childhood trauma. Rin drags these issues out into the open and which makes Shirou re-evaluate himself and his life.  A very believable undercurrent of affection flows beneath the surface of Shirou's and Rin's relationship. What is great about this is that even though the movie is very fast paced, this relationship doesn't feel underdeveloped.  Despite knowing the ins and outs of this relationship courtesy of previous series and all its scenarios, I found myself riveted by the growing bond between Shirou and Rin.

Also of note is the animosity between Shirou and Archer that is always there in the background during their interactions. During the anime, there was always venom between the two due to their different beliefs. In Unlimited Blade Works, the tension between the two explodes in no fewer than two violent confrontations between the pair. These fights are interesting because Shirou and Archer aren't operating within the confines of a good versus evil dynamic per se. Instead both characters are dealing with a reality they refuse to accept.

Music is perhaps the only area where Unlimited Blade Works fumbles and never recovers. Anyone who has seen Fate/Stay Night is probably familiar with the ambient music that sets the tone for suspense in many of the scenes as well as the pulse pounding tempos throughout the battles. Here that isn't the case.  The opening does have its fair share of drums and chanting that set the tone for the movie but the score isn't exactly epic. It's not bad but it's subpar compared to the scores used in the series.

As an aside where the fight scenes are concerned, it's a given that Saber knows how to lay the smackdown, but long-time fans will appreciate the fact that Rin has stepped her game up. Nothing this reviewer likes more than strong independent females so while it's expected that a hero like Saber can bring the hurt, it's more impressive to see such power come from Rin who is mortal and thus normal by comparison. Also, despite the dark tone, there is some humor here. When Assassin fought Saber he had this to say, "I thought she was a beautiful little flower but she turned out to be a ferocious lion."  Apparently Assassin's talent for analyzing women hasn't improved since the anime. In the series, Shirou was both the leading male and the damsel in distress. In Unlimited Blade Works, it seems that Shirou went to the school for Badass Normals and graduated valedictorian.

Unlimited Blade Works is a very good animated movie. While fans of Type Moon will likely receive the film with a high level of esteem, I can also recommend it for fans of anime in general even if they aren't familiar with the Nasuverse. Sure the movie has it's weaknesses in areas of pacing and the score, but it's a very enjoyable anime to watch. When it comes to Type Moon you'd better believe the hype.

I am the bone of my sword

Steel is my body and fire is my blood

I have created over a thousand blades

Unknown to death

Nor known to life

I have withstood pain to create many weapons

Yet these hands will never hold anything

So as I pray

Unlimited Blade Works

Immortal Regis (2006)

Immortal Regis tells the story of Jae Hyuk, a high school student struggling to take care of himself and his ailing brother. One night when Jae Hyuk's brother falls ill, our hero tries to take him to the hospital when he encounters demoness Serin, a resident of Chaos. Jae Hyuk gets killed in the battle between Serin and a random demon. This would be a short story for sure but Serin resurrects Jae Hyuk with the powers of her clan. Now an Undead, Jae Hyuk can no longer remain in the human world and is forced to travel to Chaos. While there, Jae Hyuk learns that if he can acquire the fire spirit he may be able to return home to watch over his little brother. But he'll have to contend with vicious monsters, a corrupt political system, and even the very laws of Chaos itself which are all tied to the apocalypse.

Immortal Regis is an intensely satisfying read for many reasons. The manga has layer upon layer of narrative including: myths, lineages, relationships between clans, and even science. It's difficult to discuss the finer details of the plot without spoiling some of the numerous plot twists, a few of which left this reader stunned. What starts as a simple shonen-esque tale of heroism quickly turns into something darker and more mature. Immortal Regis doesn't immediately seem like it's aiming for a piece of popularity pie, rather it emulates ancient myths to create its own and expand upon the themes and tropes therein. On top of that, the manga does a great job in leading the reader on and making one think it's going in a particular direction when a plot twist or new development within the narrative makes a hard right into something amazing.

Immortal Regis is remarkably refreshing because despite it's imaginative story and fantasy setting, the developments within this world are grounded in reality. Power dominates Chaos and it's the common end of whatever means our characters might employ. The cast is considerably more mature than what you find in other titles and they're fully aware that the tropes you see hammered in other manga such as friendship and hugs doesn't actually get things done. We see characters cutting deals, stabbing each other in the back (literally), and trying to take control of ancient powers and prophecies to fulfill their own ambition, while the people of Chaos are largely ignorant of what is actually going on behind the scenes. There is social commentary here in a way.

The characters in Immortal Regis are deep and varied. In a way it seems as though they're not characters but people placed in fantastic situations. What this means is that you have your Machiavellian types, agents of chaos, and pawns in political chess games which includes innocent people like Jae Hyuk and Serin who become guilty by associating with the wrong clans or worse yet, happening upon ancient powers which are the key to someone else's grand conspiracy. Speaking of our main characters, Immortal Regis does an amazing job of centering its plot around a pair of protagonists whereas most manga have trouble dealing with one. In a sense, Immortal Regis serves up helpings of tragedy, drama, and political intrigue in fashions Shakespeare himself would applaud.

Serin is our heroine in this story. She has all the earmarks that you'd expect of a badass. She's powerful, cunning, knowledgeable about the social and political structure of Chaos and the field of battle, but she also has a compassionate side and a very strong sense of duty. After Jae Hyuk is killed when Serin's fight with a demon got out of control, she takes it upon herself to save Jae Hyuk's life and watch over him even though she has no obligation to do so except that which she placed upon herself via her moral code.

Jae Hyuk is a complex character as well. He has the tragic flaw that you'd expect from a tragic hero but this isn't a spoiler per se. It is true that Jae Hyuk's loyalty and devotion to his younger brother is his driving force. The crux of loyalty in the world of Chaos is that it may very well get you killed, but as Jae Hyuk becomes more and more driven to return home he becomes the beneficiary of great and in some ways terrible power - power which appears to be driving him insane at certain points with his madness only being quelled by Serin's compassion. Not only that but as Jae Hyuk becomes more and more involved with the world of Chaos, he does recognize that the duty to save this world may be more important than returning home. It is that recognition of duty, how it conflicts with loyalty, and the influence of power which complicates Jae Hyuk's character and the events that stem from his decisions.

The environments of Chaos blend ancient structures sporting a mix of European and East Asian architecture alongside futuristic laboratories. Modes of transportation include dragons, horses, and carriages. There are large satellites, meticulously detailed holograms, and beautiful hanging gardens. Usually when creators try to mash so many anachronisms together it comes off as garish but in Immortal Regis the artist makes it work. From the standpoint of the character design, the characters do look oddly proportioned for the first volume but that's par for the course where manga is concerned. There is a gradual but very noticeable evolution of art which sees our characters transition from odd to being artistically breathtaking - even more so in the sequel manga Cavalier of the Abyss.

Immortal Regis is epic, beautiful, and incredibly well put together. To say it is unlike any manga out there would be a very good approximation of how different and how good it truly is. It doesn't aim to be like the big three or fit the needs of one particular audience. The aim of Immortal Regis is to weave an epic tale of complex characters set in a world of paradoxical aesthetics and it succeeds. Immortal Regis delivers in dividends and somehow, it's sequel piece actually improves upon the groundwork laid down by this manga. To say Immortal Regis is a must read is something of an understatement as it is absolutely amazing. If you've never read this title you're missing out.

Digital Devil Saga (PS2)

Digital Devil Saga is set in post-apocalyptic future where rival gangs: Embryon, Vanguards, Maribel, Solids, Wolves, Brutes are locked in a constant battle for supremacy. Only the last remaining gang will be allowed to enter into Nirvana. Our story centers on the Embryon, who despite being the smallest gang has proven themselves to be a formidable operation thanks to their leader Serph. While locked in combat with the Vanguards, the two gangs encounter a strange obelisk not of their world. Beams of light burst from the strange object and pierces the bodies of Embryon, rendering them unconscious. After awakening, Serph is relieved to find that he and his friends are in good health but the enemy is nowhere to be seen. Even more unsettling are the strange brands that adorn the bodies of Serph and his friends, and a mysterious girl found within the obelisk itself. Not long after, Embryon discovers their brands have cursed them with the power to transform into demons, a power that is not unique to them alone. Serph and his friends must unravel the mysteries of this strange condition that has overtaken them and their enemies, completely unaware that their descent into madness is only beginning.

"Welcome to the human race."

As expected from a Megaten game, the story in Digital Devil Saga hooks you right from the beginning. Breaking from tradition is what the franchise is known for and Digital Devil Saga does a fantastic job of using the opening exposition to lay down the rules of the world and explaining the status quo, and then turning it upside down before you even pick up the controller. Some might see this as the narrative being too loose but in reality, the game does an effective job of using this plot device to put you in the same position as the characters that – much like the player – has to break away from the typical approach to combat. The mysteries here build a compelling narrative but as is the norm, certain aspects of the plot or aesthetics may be off-putting to those who are hardline anti-religious. The game borrows heavily from Hinduism and other eastern religions but this is not done in an overtly offensive manner. The only negative thing I can say about the games plot is that apart from establishing this world and its characters it doesn't build on many of the concepts for which it laid the groundwork. This is somewhat understandable as this is part one in a two part series, but I felt that there were just one too many loose ends that the writers left for the sequel.

Embryon

Digital Devil Saga is filled with rich cast of colorful characters. By default, the characters we meet approach life and death from an almost Spock-like mindset heavily steeped in the rational. After the characters get their brands, their personalities change – and for some the change is dramatic. Early on, Heat was the model right-hand man for Serph but after he is branded and his personality is made manifest, Heat lives up to his namesake; acting irrationally, questioning orders, and putting the team in danger. The personality changes are subdued for some characters like Gale for instance who by nature emphasizes the Vulcan approach to just about everything.

Where gameplay is concerned, Digital Devil Saga sticks the tried and true turn based battles.  You have five characters but only three are allowed into any given encounter, but you can swap them in and out at any time and as many times as you wish so long as that character is alive, similar to FFX. This adds a bit of strategy because although every character can learn every technique, they cannot equip all of them at once. Furthermore, certain characters are stronger when using their element and weak to said elemental opposite. For example, Heat is a fire attribute party member. Although he can learn to use almighty and ice magic, he’ll never be good as say Serph or Cielo respectively. Most enemies have elemental weaknesses that the player can exploit to score a critical hit, paralysis, and even get an extra turn. Bear in mind, your characters also have weaknesses which the enemies will exploit at every opportunity once you beat the first dungeon.

There are dozens of different techniques that your characters can learn. By defeating your enemies, you will acquire Atma Points (AP) which can be used to purchase a variety of techniques in the forms of new attacks, tag team moves, magic, support skills and feeding techniques which allow you to devour your enemies for more AP and even health buffs. There are also skills which can make you impervious to various attacks such as those of a physical, magical and status based nature. You will find that by equipping enough of these skills, you will be able to effortlessly negate your enemy’s attacks, cost them a turn and make your characters almost invincible. This player actually buffed Serph to the point where only almighty spells had any effect on him.

I do have some complaints. The battles are much too frequent (every two-to-five seconds), the game is extremely linear, there are only a small handful of side-quests, for an RPG the game is rather short, and as with most RPGs once you reach level 99, you can mop the floor with your enemies, rendering the need to learn most skills unnecessary. And as for the skills you did learn, you can plow through just about every enemy using brute force.

However, if you’re not at level 60 before you hit the half-way point you’re in for a world of pain. I cannot stress enough that this is a difficult game and the dramatic leap in difficulty after the first dungeon may turn some players off immediately. However, if you’re at all familiar with games from the Shin Megami Tensei universe then you know this is par for the course.

From a graphics standpoint the game is smooth. There are no jerky animations the characters move with a life-life fluidity. The character designs themselves are imaginative as are the environments. The only real knock I have against the game is that the environments themselves are not rendered with the same level of detail as the characters. The music is also very good. While this is no Persona soundtrack the themes certainly standout – particularly Danger by Etro Anime and several of the boss themes. It’s definitely a soundtrack worth owning.

Overall Digital Devil Saga is an amazing, must-have RPG. It does have a few hiccups and the fact that it’s part one in a two part series means that you won’t get the complete story without also playing Digital Devil Saga 2, but for Shin Megami Tensei fans it’s a no-brainer. I would also highly recommend this game for RPG fanatics, just know what you’re getting into because the Shin Megami Tensei franchise isn't known for pulling its punches.

Black Rock Shooter (2010)

Black Rock Shooter started out as a video created Ryohei Huke and Alternative band Supercell. The music, imaginative character designs, and colorful environments was enough to make the video the talk of many anime forums. As with typical hype fests since the 2000s, it was picked up by a studio and given the animated treatment.

The OVA takes place on two worlds: Earth and Other World. Our main character is a middle school girl named Mato Kuroi. The new girl in town, Mato quickly makes friends with her new classmates including a quiet girl named Yomi Takanashi who later convinces Mato to join the volleyball team. As time passes, Yomi starts to change in such a way that she appears to have a split personality. Yomi is eventually spirited away and no one can find her. Wishing to save her friend, Mato merges with a mysterious apparition that suddenly appears before her to offer her aid, becoming Black Rock Shooter. This new entity sets off on a quest to save Yomi from a similar entity known as Dead Master.

The issue with Black Rock Shooter is that there are certain aspects of the anime where the work excels such as animation and art style, while lacking in other areas such as plot and character development. Two girls become friends, one disappears, and her friend goes to save her. That's the entire plot of this anime. Black Rock Shooter tries to keep things interesting by centering the subplot around the events in Other World but the setting itself nor the characters therein get the exploration they deserve which is a shame because while Earth has typical cliche anime environments such as classrooms, houses, city streets, schools, and so forth, Other World has striking visual aesthetics, and unique architecture that really builds an atmosphere of foreboding and at times epic.

Other World has a visual aesthetic that is abundantly empty. To explain, the environments are monstrous in size and have unique trappings such as chains and grave stones. Abandoned towers, shear cliffs, and mountains overlook vast landscapes of total desolation. The fact that there are no people or even remains of people gives the environments an even more oppressive identity adding untold horrors which weave oblivion into the apocalyptic setting so well it forces us to re-evaluate how we judge beauty. The character designs are interesting as well given that Black Rock Shooter, Black Gold Saw, and even Dead Master are all drawn with great artistic flourish and imagination.

At this point you may have noticed that the only images I used have been from Other World and this is done by design as Other World contains the aesthetics that make this OVA (and its anime, manga, and video game counter-parts) stand out. The character designs and environments on Earth are so drab and uninspired that in addition to actually detracting from the visual appeal of the anime it's no wonder you don't find much in the way of wallpapers or even screen caps of it online. If Other World is a feast for the eyes, Earth seems like stale bread by comparison.

The music is another place where Black Rock Shooter falters. While the music isn't terrible, it fails on an artistic level because the music doesn't do anything to stimulate the the viewer. The music in Black Rock Shooter should have been used to enhance the drama, action, and suspense but it's hardly noticeable at any point but during the fight between Black Rock Shooter and Dead Master, and even the score for that battle is bland just not to the same of extent of the rest of the soundtrack. Given the amazing scale of Other World it makes little sense that the creators didn't put any effort whatsoever into providing this OVA with a soundtrack that would do it justice. Sugizo, Dir en Grey, and most notably HYDE could have provided an amazing score for this OVA and if the budget was an issue (doubtful given the animation) any one of them could have provided an OP or EP far superior to what we have here.

Because of the appeal of its characters and universe, Black Rock Shooter has spawned a PSP game, two manga, and an anime series. That doesn't mean much for several reasons. Most anime either stem from or spawn a manga or two as well as video games. Secondly, from an economics standpoint Japan emphasizes production over consumption so its easy for the manga, anime, and game industries to flooded with a number of works and spin-offs from those works. Also keep in mind the fact that popularity is not always an enduring quality. (How many people are watching SAO today?) I understand that a lot of work went into this title but Black Rock Shooter doesn't do anything that separates it from any other anime on the market.

The story is cliche, our lead characters are not endearing, and the plot contrivances here are borderline insulting. When Yomi disappears, Mato wishes upon a star that she could bring her back. Turns out this star was an apparition called Black Rock Shooter who grants her wish. Not only that, but the defeat of Dead Master happens in such an absurd way you just have to see this. The worst offense is that while Other World is a very impressive setting which has all the action and intrigue, less than half the OVA takes place there. In the span of say 50 minutes, 15 of those (at the most) takes place in Other World, meaning that the majority of your time is spent watching a slice of life anime with the least interesting cast of characters this side of Tenchi Muyo. The conceit of the OVA and some defenders thereof is that it explores existentialism, but I recall Angel's Egg doing that in 1985, and it did it much better.

Every once in awhile there comes an anime that stimulates our senses and forces us to look at story telling in a different way. This is not one of those anime. It's not awful, but there are better things you could be watching.

Escaflowne: The Movie (2000)

Bordering between life and self-annihilation, Hitomi Kanzaki is tired of living. One day on her way home from school, she is transported to another land. A land called Gaia. Gaia has been ravaged by war and the world is in constant turmoil as Lord Folken, leader of the Zaibach empire aims to bring about the end of all things. Hitomi is believed to be the ancient Wing Goddess who has the power to summon the dragon Escaflowne which will carry out Gaia's destruction. The only thing standing between Folken and the Wing Goddess is Van Fanel, the young king of Fanelia. When faced with the full might of the Zaibach empire what hope does Van have in protecting Hitomi when he may not be able to protect himself?

Escaflowne: The Movie is an original story based off of the anime series of the same name. Since the movie is a stand alone story, it is very easy for long-time fans, as well as newcomers to get into. You don't need to be familiar with the characters or the world of Gaia in order to understand everything that goes on, but long-time fans will probably have a greater emotional return and appreciation of the liberties that were taken with the original series. However, subject matter here is something most audiences can appreciate. Themes such as family and honor are touched upon, as well as love, but not in a cliche sense of romance but rather, accepting others and sometimes doing what's right for yourself out of love for another person. It sounds somewhat inaccessible but only because few if any anime tackle themes of this nature in such a profound way.

There is a subplot revolving around the relationship between Van and Hitomi but not in the sense that they are star-crossed lovers. Our two main characters both have self-destructive tendencies and under normal circumstances, they would actually be dangerous toward one another. However, they exist in such a manner because due to their inability to form close bonds with others, they don't have the benefit of having someone in their lives who can show contrast. While Hitomi in the original series had many friends, in the movie even her closest friend feels like a stranger to her. This is also true of Van who had many friends and allies in the anime, but in the movie one of the characters goes so far as to state, "Lord Van fights alone. He's always alone." It is only after Van and Hitomi meet one another and witness each others self-destructive nature do the two of them find the motivation to change.

Escaflowne: The Movie is a lot darker than Escaflowne the series, so we don't get to see much of the "beauty" of Gaia this time around. The environments are a lot harsher, there is an abundance of dark shades, and the locations are a lot more industrial in nature. It's fascinating in many ways because while the movie and the anime take place in the same world, their respective settings are as different as night and day. If you're familiar with the series and were a big fan this actually might take you out of the movie, but that's ultimately a call made by your own aesthetics. Gaia and Earth (for the little time we're there) are all meticulously designed and the artists didn't skimp on the details. Escaflowne is revered in both Japan and America for having lush fantasy environments, and remarkable art and animation. This reviewer has been watching anime for twenty years and the only title that surpasses Escaflowne: The Movie in terms of visual quality is Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust.

One question you might be asking is how is the soundtrack? The soundtrack is composed by the legendary Yoko Kanno, with the ending theme performed by Maaya Sakamoto. In plain English: 'nough said.

When it comes to the voice acting I don't have much to say other than stellar. It was a very good idea on the part of the creators of Escaflowne to reassemble the original cast. Fans can expect the same quality of talent they're used to while newcomers don't have to worry about anyone phoning it in. The movie explores several social problems including colonialism and primogeniture. While the latter is of so-so importance in today's world, the former is still an issue as superpowers tend to prosper at the expense of weaker nations. While Escaflowne doesn't drive this point home, the Zaibach empire - with its industrial power and advanced weaponry - seems like it was modeled after the west, at least to this viewer.

If there is one moral lesson that Escaflowne does drive home it's enjoy the time you have with the one's you're with. Very rarely do we contemplate that a conversation we have with someone could be the last and you can't predict what's going to happen tomorrow. Throughout the movie we see Van and Hitomi form a uniquely powerful bond despite the fact that they come from two entirely different worlds. It eventually becomes clear that no matter how this ends they won't forget each other.

Three (3) Disc Ultimate Edition

Escaflowne: The Movie is a phenomenal anime! The creators really put a lot of effort into making this movie and it shows. The ending, as with the rest of the movie is unforgettable.  It will be even more special for long time fans of the series. Whether you watch anime or never even cared for it, Escaflowne: The Movie isn't just a fantastic addition to anyone’s library but it's the inspiring creative work of highly evolved imagination.

Moon Child (2003)

Two thieves, Sho (GACKT) and Kei (HYDE) are best friends living in the crime infested province of Mallepa. Doing what they have to in order to survive, Sho soon comes to desire more from life and longs to move up in the world. Living in a world where the number of guns determines the law, Sho and Kei will find that the price of success is one few men can afford to pay.

In addition to following the individual stories Sho and Kei, Moon Child also explores Mallepa's criminal underworld and how it affects the culture of the world these characters inhabit. lay in how the criminal underworld in Mallepa works. Although the setting of Moon Child is strikingly beautiful, and the tone is humorous at times, these elements are used to contrast the heavy drama and grim mood of this film. Our lead characters aren't exactly good guys as they regularly engage in acts of theft and murder. On the one hand this is the kind of life people in Mallepa are driven to pursue. On the other hand, our heroes in this story don't appear to be in any rush to rise above the life.

Moon Child was written by Gackt and really showed how his creativity is not limited to his music. The film does an admirable job of following the lives of several characters trying to grow and survive in a city where the only law is survival of the fittest. While Sho and Kei are the main characters, their stories intertwine with several others. What is impressive here is that even characters occupying the periphery are well-developed and their motivations are believable, albeit morally depraved for some. With Gackt at the helm the script also explores numerous social problems that you wouldn't expect from a typical crime drama. Rather than focus entirely on personal relations in this drama, Moon Child explores issues of poverty, immigration, and anomie. It also provides food for thought by exploring those variables which lead some people into a life of crime. Also interesting is that the movie doesn't glorify thug life and instead makes a point to portray what happens to people who go down that road.

The acting in this film is fantastic! Many of those unfamiliar with J-Rock superstars Gackt and Hyde wondered if either of them could actually act on film. Yes, yes they can. Both stars bring the same emotional intensity and captivating persona often seen through their music, cementing in many ways that the two are artists who are not defined by one particular medium. In an interesting approach, the movie also took the two rock stars out of their natural element where their personalities are concerned. Gackt tends to be reserved in real life but his character is completely different from himself. Sho is outgoing, unpredictable, and extremely hot-blooded. If we look at Hyde who is more outgoing and typically less reserved, we find that in Kei he is playing a character who is very guarded, and does not express himself in any particularly visible manner. In an interesting dynamic it is almost as though Gackt and Hyde exchanged personalities to play characters who are their polar opposites and that takes a considerable amount of experience that many actors take years to build. Anne Suzuki has a small role in the movie but she proves that it's not the size of the part but the size of the performance. Suzuki's screen-time is very small but it's one of the most well-done scenes in the film as Suzuki is no stranger to the art of conveying a lot while saying very little.

From the standpoint of fanboyism, a movie starring Gackt and Hyde automatically makes this a must see in my eyes and any fan of either of these two musicians. Speaking objectively, Moon Child really is an exceptional film. Great writing, excellent performances all around, and an ending that won't leave a dry eye in the house makes Moon Child a film that is not to be missed whether you're a fan of Japanese cinema or crime drama.

DEATH TRANCE (2005)

Long ago, the Goddess of Destruction waged war in the heavens until she was banished to the world below. It is here where she continued her atrocities until a lone warrior defeated her and sealed her within a coffin. The coffin was protected by a temple of warrior monks for thousands of years. That was until the temple was destroyed and the coffin stolen by a single man simply called Grave. Who is this man?  What does he seek? Death Trance is a mixed bag where the narrative is concerned. Apart from Grave himself, we encounter a number of characters who are trying to get their hands on the Goddess of Destruction’s coffin but for some, the reasons are hackneyed if not altogether questionable. While the motivations are clearly defined for most, it still doesn’t seem like the characters are aiming to do anything worth telling a story about.

Death Trance’s setting is somewhere between a period piece and Fist of the North Star. There are fighters of substantial size and questionable aesthetics that operate with the mindset of “see what you want and take it” with the only problem being the fact that Grave isn’t a guy you want to mess with no matter how tough you think you are. The world has plenty of anachronisms such as motorcycles, gun tonfas, gun swords, and even the fashion in some cases. Of course this doesn’t detract from the movie so much as it adds to its unique design.

The action scenes are a major focus of this film. There are many of them and they are all different from the last. From a sword fight that ends with someone getting shot, to a bar brawl with people fighting with Capoeira and gun tonfas, and even a battle in a forest where characters are using anything that’s not nailed down as a weapon. Death Trance gives Tak Sakaguchi free range to display the street fighting techniques that made him a sensation in the first place. While the fights aren’t as impressive as say those in Fatal Contact, they are quite imaginative and it perfectly complements the type of world in which Death Trance is set.

All of the actors and actresses in Death Trance played their parts really well. I was not familiar with Yuki Takeuchi but seeing her play the swordsman Yuri, I am convinced that no one could have played the part better. Yuri is alluring and naturally beautiful but also intelligent, powerful, and extremely cocky, all of which were traits Takeuchi herself had in spades so it was fairly easy to bring that out of Yuri’s character. Leading man Tak Sakaguchi returns to his origins as a Dark Hero in his portrayal of Grave. At the risk of venturing into a character actor, Sakaguchi does a fantastic job as Grave is a character who talks very few times in the movie and may have just two or three paragraphs of dialogue at the most, yet Sakaguchi is able to communicate what kind of character Grave is, and why Grave does what he does using non-verbals such as his body language, facial expressions, even his eyes. Grave has a balance of being a brutal man-child who solves problems with violence but he also has a certain code of honor and is more sensitive to others emotions than one might think, and Sakaguchi did an admirable job at portraying a character that while being similar to his previous character in VERSUS, is still a bit more complex.

Death Trance is a movie that clearly emphasis style over substance. It’s not deep or thought-provoking but I enjoyed it overall. Interesting characters, very good fight scenes, and a catchy soundtrack by Dir en Grey helped smooth out the rougher edges of the film. The only real downside is the cliché sequel set-up but that seems par for the course. Death Trance is not an amazing film, but it is a fun film that won’t disappoint.

Volcano High (2001)

[This review follows the English version.]

Kim Kyeong-Su is a high school student with an unfortunate habit of getting picked on at every school he goes to. A lesser known fact is that Kim has powers, very unusual powers that bullies usually find out when it is already too late. Being the good guy that he is, Kim is a target for delinquents but it is always Kim who is kicked out of school for fighting. Kim has been kicked out of nine schools so far, and in his senior year, the only school that will take him is Volcano High. If he doesn't make it here he won't make it anywhere. However, even at Volcano High Kim has to deal with challenges and roadblocks on his road to success. He seems distracted by his crush Yu, and he has already become the target of school bully Jang Ryang.  If that weren't enough, Kim has to deal with his most fearsome enemy, the substitute Mr. Ma. Graduating is the least of Kim's worries as his goal must be to survive.

Set in Korea, Volcano High follows the formula of the high school delinquent genre where situations occur within the school and the only way to maintain order is by going outside societal norms. This has social implications as well because there are things the students have to deal with on their own, and without the guidance or support from any parental figures or educators. The movie does make an admirable effort at blending martial arts, comedy, and romance and more often than not succeeds, albeit some parts are a little cheesy.

The plot sets up the usual new guy in a strange place but also throws in some superpowers. The students versus the teachers is a rarely utilized plot device and is done on a level suitable to the world in which the movie takes place. Rather than being something like a talent show or some kind of competition, these are actual battles with serious consequences. The sub plot revolves around the enmity between Kim and Mr. Ma.  The two met at one of the schools from which Kim was expelled and they've developed a very unhealthy relationship. It adds a tense element to the story because there is more at stake here than Kim's popularity or academic success. Students who run afoul of Mr. Ma don't get sent home, they disappear.

The acting in Volcano High is very good. Each person was cast for the right part. Jang Hyuk plays our main character Kim and he really has a look that screams socially awkward new guy. At the same-time he conveys a certain aloofness that you would expect from a typical outcast. Shin Min-ah does a great job as Yu as well. We can tell from her character’s performance and how Yu interacts Jang Ryang, that there is a painful history between the two and while Yu doesn't have to explain that this relationship caused her to close off her heart, Yu is able to convey it via non-verbals. Kim Soo-roh did a very good, if unorthodox portrayal of school bully Jang Ryang. Soo-roh could have gone from a checklist of traits but rather, his take on Jang Ryang is not so much a bully as more of a hot blooded gang leader whose ambition is driving him towards something greater than what he has now. The acting also goes a long way in helping the viewer explore the relationships between the cast.

As expected of this genre, new guy Kim has a crush on popular girl Yu who used to date school bully Jang Ryang and Yu isn't all that into Kim until things go south and Kim plays the Spider-Man to Yu's Gwen Stacy only without the whole dying part. Kim and Jang Ryang get off to a bad start right from the beginning, but after seeing Kim’s threshold for pain, Jang Ryang wants him to become a Dark Oxen. This is an interesting development because although Jang Ryang doesn't like Kim, he does respect Kim's physical attributes and wants him to join his gang. Kim and Mr. Ma have an extremely tense relationship and it soon becomes clear that one of them isn't leaving Volcano High alive.

Volcano High is not a unique movie by any means. In fact there is an entire genre devoted to works like exactly like this one which spans movies, comic books, and anime. To its credit the film does a fine job at balancing lighter elements like comedy and romance with the darker elements like violence, but when you look at the genre as a whole Volcano High isn't as funny as Cromartie High, nor is it as interesting or as action packed as Crows Zero. If we look at the movie on its own, Volcano High is still a very good film that's definitely worth watching and serves as a good entry point into the high school delinquent genre. Volcano High doesn't aim to be an exceptional movie and it doesn't really have to. It's a fun film that has its feel good moments despite its dark premise.

- Jetstream Rev

Returner (2002)

In the future, the human race is nearly extinct because of a war against an alien species. Scientists narrowed down a date and location where the event might have occurred that sparked this war. Milly (Anne Suzuki), a young resistance fighter is in the middle of her mission briefing when the aliens find the base and massacre her comrades. Milly narrowly escapes through a time portal to modern day Japan where she encounters a vigilante named Miyamoto (Takeshi Kaneshiro) also known as the Returner.  It is up to Milly and the Returner to save the future by finding a way to stop the war before it starts.

While it may be true that the trope of "alien invaders show up and destroy earth" is not all that inventive, Returner adds an element of originality by placing a greater emphasis on its characters and the relationships between them. Indeed, this is a very character driven science fiction movie which is not the norm for this genre. This fact ties into a revenge subplot involving Miyamoto and Mizoguchi (Goro Kishitani) who serves as the movies primary antagonist. It might seem a little hackneyed at times but the script does an admirable job of combining Milly's story and Miyamoto's story into one cohesive, compelling narrative. This is further aided by the fact that Mizoguchi's most prominent character trait is his ambition which quickly, but believably elevates him from a petty crook to a crime boss that endangers the world.

The science fiction setting isn't done in an overly indulgent manner. There aren't any floating cars or flying motorcycles, or photon torpedoes. Apart from the time portal and a watch that can slow down time for a few seconds the technology here isn't too far removed from what we have today. The technology isn't merely there mind you - it does serve an actual purpose, but it's not the major focus of the scenes which are largely there to develop the characters and plot. Of note is that the opening scene takes place in the future but the rest of the movie, with the exception of a flashback or two, takes place in modern day Japan.  There are a wide variety of settings that fit the story well. Miyamoto encounters Mizoguchi on a ship where the latter is doing business, there is a large dining room when Mizoguchi is meeting with the other crime lords, and there is an oil rig where the final showdown takes place.  The appearance of an aerospace technologies lab fits right in and is an important setting the brings the two extremes of Returner together. With that said it bears mentioning that it is the fantastic writing which allows all of this to happen.

The enmity between Mizoguchi and Miyamoto could make a very good stand alone action film while Milly’s quest to save the world would make a good movie or anime. An impromptu quantum leap of sorts lands Milly in the very center of the conflict between Mizoguchi and Miyamoto and while it seems that she brings the problems of her future with her, she actually discovers the origins of the crisis through her interaction with these characters.

The characters and scenarios are written more realistically than one might expect for a typical sci-fi movie. Characters don't easily adjust to the events that happen around them. Also, there are no heroes in this story - in other words there are no individuals who are selflessly dedicated to a particular cause, rather we are seeing characters that are almost real people. The pressure of having to save the world does at times look to be more than what Milly is able to handle. Also, the more time she spends in the present the less inclined she feels to return to the future where things are not so great, to say the least. Miyamoto doesn't believe that Milly is from the future or that there is an alien invasion as he is far more concerned with taking revenge on Mizoguchi. Mizoguchi himself is only interested in getting to the top of the criminal underworld. None of the characters are archetypes taken to an extreme.

The script is also true to the personality of the characters themselves. Milly and Miyamoto don’t fall in love with one another simply because they are the male and female leads which in most other movies would be a substantial subplot. However, they simply do not identify with each other on those levels. They do grow closer together but not in a way that would be typical of Western cinema. The animosity between Miyamoto and Mizoguchi is the driving force of this film and the tension it carries throughout is there until the very last draw.

Our three stars played their roles with expert finesse. Takeshi Kaneshiro is not new to the business and has starred in films since 1993 so even in 2002 he was a seasoned pro. His performance in Returner is widely believed to be one of his best roles.  He really expresses that anger and hatred his character has for Mizoguchi but not in the traditional, cinematic verbals.  Rather, it is in the non-verbals such as his facial expressions and eyes that speak more than words could.  Goro Kishitani displays adequate range as Mizoguchi but it almost seems as though he's playing himself given how cool and laid-back Kishitani is known to be in real life. He does a brilliant job turning Mizoguchi into a villain you just love to hate while at the same-time bringing out qualities of style and cunning reminiscent of classic Bond villains. Anne Suzuki was simply amazing. Her voice work in anime has always been critically acclaimed and she brings that experience to this live-action role. Suzuki's performance really gave the impression that Milly had the weight of the world on her shoulders, she conveyed the frustration and at times hopelessness of this character, and at other times really brought out the heart which complimented Miyamoto's character and kept him going. Suzuki really brought out Milly's supportive side even while the character herself was one in very much need of the same relief she gave to others.

A great deal of attention was paid to the plot and how to make it all fit together. The creators were able to artistically and seamlessly blend the sci-fi story and the revenge story together into a cinematic good time. The characters also benefited from being able to have much of the spotlight all to themselves.  Milly, Miyamoto, and Mizoguchi were given the time to develop as individual characters, and interact with one another without being overshadowed by special effects or a convoluted story-line which is unlike most other movies in this genre.

Although Returner was different from what I expected, I had a good time watching this. Each of the characters were appealing in their own way and really left an impression on me, while the plot admirably wove together two dissimilar stories into a convincing narrative. True, it may not appeal to those looking for an action packed movie or those seeking a traditional science fiction movie. However, what is here is a highly entertaining story, great characters, and an ending that really stayed with this viewer. It's not the best sci-fi action movie out there but it doesn't have to be. It's an enjoyable film that still holds up after more than a decade.

- Jetstream Rev