J

Alternate Titles: 人狼

Original Japanese Release Date: 1998

Episode Length/Run-time: 101 minutes

Summary:

As a member of the Capital Special Forces in a futuristic city and society Kazuki Fuse is sent out constantly to “keep the peace” even if it results in bloody struggles and civilian casualties.  One day when he is pursuing some rebel forces he comes across a young girl with bombs strapped to her chest.  Despite his attempts to talk her down he becomes the witness of a suicide bombing which shakes him to the core.  As he is trying to mentally and physically get back on his  feet he finds himself being involved more and more with another girl, who happens to be the sister of the original bomber.

Review:

My, what big teeth you have.

My, what big ears you have.

My, can they kill this plot device anymore?

This movie starts out blood pumping, heart racing intense.  How could it not when someone literally kills themselves within the first 10 minutes of the movie.  But after that the movie just seems to end up dragging.  References to little red riding hood are overused and tired before the movie is even halfway through.

That being said though, the rest of the movie is well done.  Interesting, thought provoking and with good characters it was a well-done production overall.  The style is realistic, interesting and gritty, giving the world an appropriately dark feel to it.

Mamoru Oshii (creator of Ghost in the Shell) also did the screenplay which is obvious to the casual viewer in it’s quality and care.

Overall a good movie despite the over-use of the Red Riding Hood symbolism.

[starrater]