Metropolis (2001)

[Mofo Rising]

Just got back from seeing the anime METROPOLIS at the movie theater.  Got to go out on a limb and say I highly recommend this movie.

I went into the theater knowing nothing about this movie, sole what I gathered from the picture on the poster.  This is how I recommend you see the movie.  If you like anime, and it's playing in a theater near you, go check it out.  If that's not enough for you, or you've already seen it, feel free to read the rest of my comments.

As I said, I knew nothing about the movie.  So it came as a surprise that the character style was an extreme throwback to early Japanese animation.  Think Astroboy or somesuch.  I guess it makes sense, as it's based off an old comic.  Takes a little while to get used to, at least it did for me, but it works.

The animation is top notch.  The Metropolis is alternately BLADE RUNNER and FUTURAMA.  Bright colors then film noir then sewers and industrial plants.  The first part reminds me of a Ralph Bakshi cartoon, what with the "simple" character designs running around the city to a jazzy soundtrack.  (Note: I've never liked Bakshi, but I like this movie.)

There's a lengthy setup, concerning many characters and a thick plot, and it's all set in some incredible visual sets.  (My recommendation, don't get stuck behind anybody tall.  The movie makes use of the entire screen and you don't want somebody's fat head blocking it.)

But it's the second half that kicks into high gear.  By this time I was completely hooked into the characters, as was the rest of the audience.  I can't really discuss it without giving stuff away, but the climax of the movie was amazing.  Sometimes simple is better.

Anyway, go watch the movie.  I'm going to see if I can find a copy of the soundtrack I don't have to import from Japan.

[Squishy]

Indeed, Metropolis is based on a VERY old manga comic by Osamu Tezuka--creator of Astro Boy. Speaking of which, the original Astro Boy mangas are being released in English for the first time very soon from Dark Horse Comics; I recommend them highly, but prepare yourself: the style is cartoony and cute, but the stories are most definitely NOT. The ending--it has an ending--will haunt your ass for days.

[Flangepart]

Hey, Osamu Tezuka is a master story teller. Nuff said! We should get it here in Columbus at the Drexel theater, an old style Art Deco place just right for this stuff. Glad ye got it!