|
 |
Title: Metropolis
UK Distributor:
Columbia Tristar Home Entertainment
BBFC Certificate: PG
Suggested Retail Price (SRP): £19.99
Running Time: 106 mins (approx.)
Audio Options: English DTS & 5.1,
Japanese 5.1
Subtitles: English, English (Hard of
Hearing), English (US)
Reviewer: Tom (Webmaster)
|
Based on the classic manga by the late Osamu Tezuka (Astro
Boy) , written by Katsuhiro Otomo (Akira) and directed by Rintaro (Galaxy
Express 999), Metropolis is a visual feast combining cel animation with CGI and
all the time maintaining a retro look which remains faithful to the original
manga.
The original manga was inspired by Fritz Lang's 1926 film masterpiece of the
same name, but the very few similarities. As you will see.
The film introduces you to the tri-level world of Metropolis, the most advanced
place in the world, also to the place robots play in this society. This is all
controlled by Duke Red who has instructed a scientist to build the most advanced
robot ever to succeed him and have the power to control the entire world. The
awakening of the robot, Tima, is interrupted by Rock - Duke Red's adopted son -
who will not have a robot follow his 'father' and will stop at nothing to
destroy Tima. He destroy the place and scientist which created Tima, but Tima
survives and is found by the Kinichi-San - the young nephew of a Japanese
detective. The pair quickly become friends but are constantly pursued by Rock
and Duke Red.
The animation of Metropolis is incredible. The combination of old and new
provide a unique look that is stunning throughout. One of the stand-out moments
is when it starts snowing in Metropolis. The effect caused is nothing short of
breathtaking.
The conclusion is one that you will never forget. I won't give anything away,
but it will stay in your head for a long time. It's moving and the film's
message of humanity comes across.
Also worth a mention is the soundtrack, again it is superbly retro and fits
right in with the film. Every piece of music goes perfectly with the scene in
question.
This film is by far one of the best anime ever made. It's right up there with
Akira and Princess Mononoke in my opinion and destined to be in top ten lists.
___________________________________________________________________________
|
