This movie was unlike anything I've ever seen. This was the first film of Yuasa's I ever saw and I'll never forget it.
I usually do "the good" and "the bad"...but when I see none of the latter? It's "the good" and "some pointers".
The Good:
The writing and the animation are so whacky in a good way that it's impossible not to appreciate; Surrealism and stylistic suck is incorporated with the animation and it just gives it that kick it needs. The characters are well developed and rich in backstory, so much so that everything connects. The Aesops behind them like "Your life is the result of your own decisions" are meaningful, and the soundtrack is awesome (especially "VIVA!" which is the most vibrant and best piece in the movie, but more on that later).
The whale scenes is especially where it gets interesting; it builds the characters and explores their insecurities and flaws, ultimately helping them overcome it. Nishi and Myon exploring their feelings together is especially touching given the soft and soothing piece "Como estas" begins playing. Thats another thing: poignancy seems to be a major strength of this film.
The final scene that takes place after the famous whale escape scene complete with that crazy drumming solo shown in the trailers just ends it with a montage that indirectly explains everything while playing "VIVA!", ending the movie with a bang that no doubt had audiences clapping at the time. It's almost like a puzzle that the audience has to put together leaving them all like "Oh my god so THAT'S what happened!", and I love how Yuasa did that.
Other thoughts:
Things got a little weird in the whale scene but then again this is a very artistic film so I guess whatever they were aiming for in the good times montage didn't really appeal to me like it would to some.
Subjectivity aside, one thing I'd call out was the lack of focus on other characters outside the whale; alot of them seemed wasted and could have gotten just as much development, especially "Aniki", but...I guess they decided only 4 was important. Not the end of the world but still, wasted potential there that would have made the film even more impactful.
My main thing is the ending...after getting to attached to the characters and their growth as people, it really doesn't leave much closure sans for one character despite how upbeat it is about it. I really can't get into it without spoilers but...the film is called Mind Game, so I cant be too harsh about it. Still, ambiguity can weigh down a story more than intended.
Conclusion:
I would give this movie a 9 out of 10; a must-see if you want a zany but interesting Japanese animated film to watch. If you want a movie that makes you think and inspires you, and explores many different styles of art and surrealism? This is the film for you.
But is there really a conclusion to this review? I mean, this story has never ended.
Anime An emotionally thought-provoking Rollercoaster
This movie was unlike anything I've ever seen. This was the first film of Yuasa's I ever saw and I'll never forget it.
I usually do "the good" and "the bad"...but when I see none of the latter? It's "the good" and "some pointers".
The Good:
The writing and the animation are so whacky in a good way that it's impossible not to appreciate; Surrealism and stylistic suck is incorporated with the animation and it just gives it that kick it needs. The characters are well developed and rich in backstory, so much so that everything connects. The Aesops behind them like "Your life is the result of your own decisions" are meaningful, and the soundtrack is awesome (especially "VIVA!" which is the most vibrant and best piece in the movie, but more on that later).
The whale scenes is especially where it gets interesting; it builds the characters and explores their insecurities and flaws, ultimately helping them overcome it. Nishi and Myon exploring their feelings together is especially touching given the soft and soothing piece "Como estas" begins playing. Thats another thing: poignancy seems to be a major strength of this film.
The final scene that takes place after the famous whale escape scene complete with that crazy drumming solo shown in the trailers just ends it with a montage that indirectly explains everything while playing "VIVA!", ending the movie with a bang that no doubt had audiences clapping at the time. It's almost like a puzzle that the audience has to put together leaving them all like "Oh my god so THAT'S what happened!", and I love how Yuasa did that.
Other thoughts:
Things got a little weird in the whale scene but then again this is a very artistic film so I guess whatever they were aiming for in the good times montage didn't really appeal to me like it would to some.
Subjectivity aside, one thing I'd call out was the lack of focus on other characters outside the whale; alot of them seemed wasted and could have gotten just as much development, especially "Aniki", but...I guess they decided only 4 was important. Not the end of the world but still, wasted potential there that would have made the film even more impactful.
My main thing is the ending...after getting to attached to the characters and their growth as people, it really doesn't leave much closure sans for one character despite how upbeat it is about it. I really can't get into it without spoilers but...the film is called Mind Game, so I cant be too harsh about it. Still, ambiguity can weigh down a story more than intended.
Conclusion:
I would give this movie a 9 out of 10; a must-see if you want a zany but interesting Japanese animated film to watch. If you want a movie that makes you think and inspires you, and explores many different styles of art and surrealism? This is the film for you.
But is there really a conclusion to this review? I mean, this story has never ended.