Set in a stylized Poland in the near future. It's a dark time where young people seek illusions from an illegal war-game that takes place in a virtual reality. It is called "Avalon" after an island where, according to legend, the souls of the game's heroes had stranded when they had finished the game. Some players of the game create teams called "parties" to advance to higher levels, others are left brain-dead by the game. Female player Ash is one of the best players ever and seems to be able to reach the final level, called "Level of Reality". She has help from a man named Murphy, who once was in a party together with her, and an obscure man called Bishop. Now her goal is to find the "ghost", a mysterious being (looking like a little girl) that seems to be useful to take her to the final level...
This is truly a very unique film, not only in terms of story or atmosphere. It's probably the first-ever Japanese-Polish co-production in the history of movies, shot entirely with a Polish cast by famed Japanese director Mamoru Oshii. As mentioned above, the film creates an amazing and dark atmosphere, mostly because of it's weird, beautiful colors and photography. The music score by Kenji Kawai and especially the song during the opening and closing credits are absolutely wonderful. Set design, cast, special effects and cinematography are all top-notch. CGI effects in this film are among the best I've ever seen, really incredible! But having such an interesting premise, the story left me a bit confused and, yes... disappointed. After a first viewing I really couldn't see that much behind it. Although I have to admit that after repeated viewings I'll probably change my point of view on this. Footnote: There is an irritatingly disgusting scene of a man eating vegetables shown in close-up shoots. I just don't understand why this scene must be in this otherwise beautiful movie. Weird...
This is truly a very unique film, not only in terms of story or atmosphere. It's probably the first-ever Japanese-Polish co-production in the history of movies, shot entirely with a Polish cast by famed Japanese director Mamoru Oshii. As mentioned above, the film creates an amazing and dark atmosphere, mostly because of it's weird, beautiful colors and photography. The music score by Kenji Kawai and especially the song during the opening and closing credits are absolutely wonderful. Set design, cast, special effects and cinematography are all top-notch. CGI effects in this film are among the best I've ever seen, really incredible! But having such an interesting premise, the story left me a bit confused and, yes... disappointed. After a first viewing I really couldn't see that much behind it. Although I have to admit that after repeated viewings I'll probably change my point of view on this. Footnote: There is an irritatingly disgusting scene of a man eating vegetables shown in close-up shoots. I just don't understand why this scene must be in this otherwise beautiful movie. Weird...