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Reviews
Bakuretsu toshi (1982)
Cyberpunk Pioneer
I'd like to start this comment section by first off saying I do enjoy and appreciate to a certain extent the cinematic agenda of "cyberpunk cinema". I really enjoyed Fukui's "Rubber's Lover" and I appreciate the aesthetic genius of films like "Tetsuo", "Pinocchio 964", even the recent "Bottled Fools". But with that said and done, that is basically what all these films are, simply aesthetically pleasing. That statement reaches its height with this earlier film called Burst City by cyberpunk pioneer Sogo Ishii. With so clever, innovative and kinetic cinematography Ishii just creates a clash between Mad Max and Rock n Roll High School. There is no substance to this style, not even some of the obscure images that one may be used to from seeing Tsukamoto's earlier films. And actually in some ways, Burst City's style obstructs the viewer from any type of cohesion so what ensues is total anarchy. I was really excited about seeing this early film from Ishii too because I first really enjoyed the psychological thriller "Angel Dust" and then came to enjoy his return to form in "Dead End Run" but "Burst City" turned out to be a major disappointment.
Batoru rowaiaru (2000)
Awesome
A new law has been passed in the not too distant future of Japan that allows groups of delinquent high school children to be kidnapped and forced to compete in a Battle Royale where the last person alive is allowed to leave and rejoin society. They put on a deserted island and all given random weapons. Also they have tracking devices around their necks that, if a competitor walks into the wrong area, will explode. This film boasts a most interesting concept that has had Japan and the whole world up in arms. Its been banned in 12 countries and tagged with a strong category III rating in Japan. But the film is FAR from all gore as the concepts, thoughts and ideals of the characters are brought out in a very artistic manner thanks to great directing from Fukasaku Kinji.
[9.5\10]
Nang Nak (1999)
An extremely artistic thriller
An extremely artistic thriller is probably the best description of this Thai urban legend about the most loyal wife who serves her husband even after she has died. This film has drama competing with the likes of classics like Bichunmoo and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The suspense aspect is not too shabby either with great music and outstanding character depth.
[9.0\10]