Month: March 2022

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Akira

Movie Madness: Week Seven

Akira (Hulu, 1988 )

Based on the 6 volume manga Akira, this cyberpunk action film directed by Katsuhiro Otomohemed has amazing scenery, world-building, complex character relations, and Cel animation. I can not tell you the number of times we were speechless from the horrific brutality and realistic movements of the characters in this film. The flow of the animation really did not hold back any movement expressed by the characters. The expressions were stretched to exaggerate and perfectly sold the voice acting. Overall, the movie was breathtaking to watch… However, seeing the ratings below- something seems off. Our viewing party was very confused by the end of this film. As we watched the movie, there was a constantly reiterated statement (what the fuck) as the story progressed. Perhaps we should’ve read the manga to better fill in the bits we missed. Maybe we should’ve watched it when our brains all could focus… Most likely we are just idiots. If you like a complex and mysterious story with nostalgic anime art and movement- this might be an interesting watch.

Final Thoughts

Would you suggest this movie to people who are as unfamiliar with Akira?

Cam

The backgrounds and movement were really well-done in the movie, but the facial expressions were incredibly cursed most of the time. Also, I had no idea what was going on in the story. If you were to watch it, I would suggest watching it with someone who knows what the plot is, or else you’re going to likely be very confused as to what the Frankenstein babies are.

Eric

How about no?

Lauren

Unless you have read the manga or have someone who knows what’s going on to watch it with you- no.

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Monster House

Movie Madness: Week Six

Monster House is a movie I’m sure we all vaguely remember. From the scary story of a possessed house to the awkwardly stylistic visuals; Monster House leaves an impression on its viewers. Despite its weird renders of 3D characters, the story stands out from the rest of what Sony Pictures has produced. A suspenseful movie for kids is not something that hasn’t really been done in the states since the early 2000s (with the exception of Paranorman). However, the animation in the movie falls flat. Whenever you see characters run there’s not as much weight or sure speed defined. The energy behind the character’s actions seemed lifeless and not snappy enough to fool the eye. The facial expressions are also a bit questionable. The faces expressed between characters didn’t seem to fully sell the interaction. I understand that the style of the film doesn’t fully lean into the cartoonish expressions we are used to. However, I think they could’ve gotten away with a bit more exaggeration. Despite its faults in clunky animation, the voice actors, character dynamics, and overall story really save it. If you’re a person who likes suspense and a fondness for something that looks like a hybrid of claymation and 3D- this is a movie for you.

Final Thoughts

What did you think of the visual style for this movie?

Cam

The movement matched with the animation style was really weird and a little unsettling. That being said, I still found it to be overall funny

Eric

Visually, the movie isn’t that appealing and can be very weird, however the sheer amount of comedic value that the animation style adds is very good, if you want to make fun of a movie.

Lauren

Personally, I don’t really enjoy this movie a lot due to the weird visual styles of the characters. The hair seems especially jarring.

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Kung Fu Panda 2

Movie Madness: Week Five

Kung Fu Panda 2 (Netflix 2011)

Kung Fu Panda was a great hit in both America and China’s box office. Director Mark Osborne and John Stevenson reveal that Chinese cultural accuracy was one of the most important elements in making Kung Fu Panda. From that dedication and attention to detail came a flood of success and later a sequel. The Kung Fu Panda trilogy has a memorable animation style using 3D and 2D animation. With these stunning techniques came heartwarming morals for kids to learn: be yourself and to allow yourself to heal. Both Kung Fu Panda and Kung Fu Panda 2 are great wacthes for any martial arts lover. However, I believe the sequel really takes the cake for its attention to detail in 2D shadow puppets and emotional 2D flashback scene.

Final Thoughts

How do you think the second movie compares to the first?

Cam

The 2D scenes were so well done. I’m very happy they showed Po’s backstory because Mr Ping is a natural treasure.

Eric

Overall, even though I still preferred the first movie, I enjoyed the change with Shen having more of a reliance on weapons and the mental battle and the humor in some of the scenes.

Lauren

For a while I always favorited the first movie over the second. Now, I see both on the same ground considering the villains being different types of challenge for Po. Shen is a great mental opponent to go against.

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Shrek 2

Movie Madness: Week Four

Shrek 2 (Netflix 2004)

One of these films was going to be covered, it was inevitable. Shrek 2 is a movie everyone is well acquainted with. Released in 2004 by Dreamworks, Shrek 2 was a film most college students grew up with. Riddled with pop culture and music, Shrek 2 stands out as one of the most successful and meaningful sequels in animation. The story builds off and perfectly continues the lesson of self-worth and belonging. The most amazing thing I think Shrek 2 did was perfectly incorporate and give time to new characters. The balance of character development and exposure made the new cast joining seem all the more important to the plot. The 3D animation holds up and stays consistent with its earlier predecessor from 2001. The animation, while less stylistic to media previously covered, is still fun and exciting to watch from the expressive voice cast and well-paced story. If you haven’t seen Shrek 2 but enjoy quick humor and spoof fairytales this is a great movie to watch.

Final Thoughts

Who is the best character in Shrek 2?

Cam

Fiona’s dad was my favorite character. Almost every line he said was hilarious and convincing, due to how good the voice actor was. Also, he’s a frog.

Eric

The best character in Shrek 2 is Puss in Boots, there is no reason or logic for why, it simply just is.

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Lauren

Fairy godmother, she is one of the most iconic villains in animation. She could sing, run a potion business, and be super evil. 10/10 character.

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Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro

Movie Madness: Week Three

Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro (Neflix 1979)

Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro is an older, but tasteful film for review this week. Released in 1979, and based is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Monkey Punch. Lupin the Third follows master thief Arsène Lupin, the grandson of Arsène Lupin, the gentleman thief of Maurice Leblanc’s series of novels. Following foreign animation in movies is something that is not often covered in American culture. (With the exception of the Studio Ghibli Films). The introduction really draws viewer in and immediately throws them into the action. Little to no information on the characters is shared but the story was easy to follow and pick up character traits as it progressed. That alone speaks volume for a great movie. The pacing, score, and expressions stick out and sell the emotion and stakes throughout the movie. Animation style taken in comedic and dramatic scenes made this movie’s charm stick out through years of other films we have seen.This is one of the best films we have covered to date!

Final Thoughts

What did you like about Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro?

Cam

I’ve seen Lupin III for the third time within the span of a year. I love it. The music makes me boogie.

Eric

I liked how well defined and vibrant it was in each environment, how much action there was, and how the police officer yells “Luuuppiiiinnnn!!!”

Lauren

I first saw this film while taking my animation history course. Needless to say, it made an impression. I even covered it in a short video going over foreign animated movies. I’d suggest it to anyone who likes heist movies and jazzy music.