Review of Steamboy (2004) by Bryan G — 02 Aug 2005

[font=Courier New][i]Akira[/i] is one of the greatest Anime movies ever made. There is no denying that fact. It has wowed audiences ever since its debut in 1988. I am a huge fan of this film, even though I don?t fully understand it. But the look and feel of the film is enough to leave you marveled enough to know you?ve seen a great film.

That is how I feel about [i]Steamboy[/i]. This is the second film from Katshuhiro Otomo. Though this film takes a much less violent route as far as storytelling, both films are very similar. Both deal with young men facing against adults and their sinister doings.

But I must say I like [i]Steamboy[/i]?s take on it slightly better. While [i]Akira[/i] will be seen as a much more important film later on in history, Steamboy creates a better sense of who these characters are. You begin to feel for the world that exists in this film. And in part, begin to feel for these characters.

The struggle among three generations of one family is simply amazing. And although not all of them may share views that you would see as the right ones, their characters still remain fascinating. I love it when even the villains are likeable, but still evil enough for you to want them to lose.

The film does take an odd turn about halfway through it. It has a powerful story filled first half, but ends with an explosive battle in the end. This may turn some off, but to me it made sense. The first half discussed the power these people had, and the second half showed exactly what this power was capable of.

There is a great deal of human emotion in this film, like most Animes. That is why I like this form of film. American?s treat their animated features as kid?s stuff. But Anime isn?t afraid to make an adult story, that is still enjoyable for kids.

Some might not feel this film likes up to [i]Akira[/i]?s power, and they may be right. But this is a damn good movie that left me stunned and impressed. Beautiful artwork blended with stunning music and some great performances make this a movie worth seeing again and again.[/font].