Review of Wonderful Days (2003) by Mark W — 07 Aug 2011

I used to be a big fan of anime when I was younger but I gradually fell away from it and moved onto different styles as time went on. I never stopped liking it, I just didn't seek it out anymore. When I heard of this though, I decided to delve back into it. Unfortunately, this effort didn't reignite my interest.

In 2142, mankind's ecological rape of the planet has sparked a global catastrophe, with survivors living within Ecoban, a city whose energy is provided through the exploitation of proletariat 'diggers'. Jay (Catherine Cavadini), a young female trooper, must decide where her loyalties lie when her friend's actions threaten to destroy Ecoban... but possibly save the planet.

Very impressive animation is let down with a seriously dull storyline. In fact, I struggled to see this film to the end, it was so painfully boring. On paper it sounds good and on screen it looks superb but the pace is all wrong and ruins what could have been something special. Diehard anime fans may find plenty to enjoy from this and I enjoy a good animation as much as anyone, but this did not hold my interest in the slightest. There's no denying the beautiful animation but it's wasted and no matter how good it is, it can't save such a borefest.

If left on the television, in the background, with the sound turned down while you attend to some household chores it may serve some purpose - much in the same way that an eye-catching fish tank will. As entertainment though? It's seriously lacking.