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DVD Reviews => The "Marathon" reviews => Topic started by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 12:06:32 AM

Title: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 12:06:32 AM

Critter's Animated Film Marathon

List of Films Reviewed

Watched: 29 Films with 5/5: 10

(1937) Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101889.html#msg101889) -5/5
(1951) Alice in Wonderland (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg99163.html#msg99163) – 5/5
(1988) Akira (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102984.html#msg102984) – 5/5
(1991) Beauty and the Beast (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg134733/topicseen.html#new) - 3½/5
(1992) Aladdin (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg98446.html#msg98446) – 3/5
(1992) FernGully: The Last Rainforest (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105322.html#msg105322) 5/5
(1995) Balto (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg107337.html#msg107337) – 4/5
(1995) Pocahontas (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg99175.html#msg99175) – 5/5
(1995) Toy Story (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.135.html) – 5/5
(1998) Mulan (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105060.html#msg105060) - 4½/5
(1998) The Prince of Egypt (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg107342.html#msg107342) - 3½/5
(2000) The Emperor’s New Groove (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101224.html#msg101224) – 3/5
(2001) Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg104867.html#msg104867) - 2½/5
(2002) Ice Age (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102283.html#msg102283) – 2/5
(2005) Final Fantasy VII Advent Children: Complete (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101236.html#msg101236) - 3½/5
(2006) The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102173.html#msg102173) – 4/5
(2007) Ratatouille (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,6505.msg117849/topicseen.html#new) – 5/5
(2008) Kung Fu Panda (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg95703.html#msg95703) – 4/5
(2008) Monsters vs Aliens (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105617.html#msg105617)- 3½/5
(2008) Ponyo (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102043.html#msg102043) – 3/5
(2008) WALL•E (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg112003.html#msg112003) – 5/5
(2009) Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg109635.html#msg109635) - 3½/5
(2009) 9 (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg99530.html#msg99530) - 3½/5
(2009) Coraline (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg100457.html#msg100457) – 5/5
(2009) Fantastic Mr Fox (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102417.html#msg102417) – 4/5
(2009) Up (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg103437.html#msg103437) – 5/5
(2010) How To Train Your Dragon (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg107956.html#msg107956) 4/5
(2010) Toy Story 3 (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.150.html) – 5/5
(2010) Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg128268/topicseen.html#new) – 4/5

List of Animated Series Reviewed

Watched: 6 Series with 5/5: 1

(2001) Noir (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105767.html#msg105767) - 5/5 (26 episodes)
(2004) Elfen Lied (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102614.html#msg102614) - 3½/5 (13 episodes)
(2004) Mai-HiME (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101944.html#msg101944) - 4/5 (26 episodes)
(2006) Black Blood Brothers (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg103744.html#msg103744) - 3/5 (12 episodes)
(2006) Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg106190.html#msg106190) - 4/5 (26 episodes)
(2007) ICE (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102538.html#msg102538) -1/5 (3 episodes)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Touti on October 07, 2009, 01:16:48 AM

If you're gonna watch Ice Age you might as well include Ice Age 2 :)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 01:29:34 AM

Added :)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: richierich on October 07, 2009, 01:59:44 AM

One of the better ones I've seen for this genre is UK effort - Valiant
http://www.ezydvd.com.au/item.zml/785445

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 02:54:48 AM

Added Valiant.
Also just on a side note I don't believe animation to be a 'genre'. It's a medium in which a film is made and animated films can be any genre, from horror to comedy. Therefore 'animation' itself should not be considered a genre but more of a format.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Boomstick98 on October 07, 2009, 04:21:29 AM

Well, if your gonna watch the South Park movie you may as well watch Beavis and Butthead: Do America. Juvenile I know, but I still find it hilarious. :laugh:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on October 07, 2009, 08:12:53 AM

How about Kiki's Deliver Serive? Spirited Away? I know there are a few more by that director, but I can't remember the titles at the moment.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: snowcat on October 07, 2009, 10:35:36 AM

The Ant Bully
Barnyard
Spongebob Square pants movie
Beowolf
Fly me to the moon
Hoodwinked
Igor
Jimmy Newtron
Resident Evil Degeneration (I wouldn't count it as anime as its CGI)
TMNT

and if your going to watch Plague Dogs, watch the uncut version its funny to see the scene that was cut out.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 11:09:08 AM

Are you talking about that shot from above where you see the man after being attacked by the dogs, lots of blood etc? I've seen the uncut version before I think.

Also thanks for the suggestions.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: snowcat on October 07, 2009, 11:41:10 AM

(click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 11:49:49 AM

Yeah that's the one Iv'e seen. Although I think I watched it on TV, I'll have to try track down a DVD version somewhere.

Quote

How about Kiki's Deliver Serive? Spirited Away? I know there are a few more by that director, but I can't remember the titles at the moment.

Those are both anime films from Studio Ghibli. I stated at the start of the thread that I didn't want anime in this marathon as I would prefer it to be it's own separate marathon.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Achim on October 07, 2009, 12:49:08 PM

Quote from: Critter on October 07, 2009, 02:54:48 AM

Also just on a side note I don't believe animation to be a 'genre'. It's a medium in which a film is made and animated films can be any genre, from horror to comedy. Therefore 'animation' itself should not be considered a genre but more of a format.

You won't get an argument on this forum :thumbup:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on October 07, 2009, 12:54:30 PM

Quote from: Achim on October 07, 2009, 12:49:08 PM

Quote from: Critter on October 07, 2009, 02:54:48 AM
Also just on a side note I don't believe animation to be a 'genre'. It's a medium in which a film is made and animated films can be any genre, from horror to comedy. Therefore 'animation' itself should not be considered a genre but more of a format.
You won't get an argument on this forum :thumbup:

But if you do want an argument, we know just the place! :laugh:

Seriously, just echoing Achim. You're absolutely right.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 01:02:51 PM

Haha trust me an argument is the last thing I want... you know the place hey? :P

By the way on the topic of this marathon I will probably watch my first film for it later this week and was wondering if someone could explain how I get those star icons that are used to rate out of 5. I also notice people change them according to them (aka skulls for horror) and I would really like one to rate with in this marathon. Although I think I would prefer to stick to the old stars more than anything.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: richierich on October 07, 2009, 01:16:33 PM

You could be really clever, and use an animated star for your scores??

1 = (http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/8726/starhat.gif)
2 = (http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/8726/starhat.gif)(http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/8726/starhat.gif)
3 = (http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/8726/starhat.gif)(http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/8726/starhat.gif)(http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/8726/starhat.gif)
etc etc

can't animate the half mark though ;D
(http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/5400/starhathalf.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 01:23:17 PM

Thanks Rich those will be perfect. ;D

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: RossRoy on October 07, 2009, 05:10:36 PM

Quote from: Rich on October 07, 2009, 01:16:33 PM

can't animate the half mark though ;D
(http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/5400/starhathalf.gif)

I wouldn't be so sure ;)
(http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5400/starhathalf.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on October 07, 2009, 09:41:21 PM

That star is cute.

I have to try to get a half version of the one I'm using again. I tried once and it didn't come out right. Though it has been a long time since I've done much with graphics that way...I've forgotten a few things.. :laugh:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: RossRoy on October 07, 2009, 10:09:23 PM

Do you mean this one?

(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/1971/mariehhalf.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: richierich on October 07, 2009, 10:19:02 PM

Quote from: RossRoy on October 07, 2009, 05:10:36 PM

Quote from: Rich on October 07, 2009, 01:16:33 PM
can't animate the half mark though ;D
(http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/5400/starhathalf.gif)

I wouldn't be so sure ;)
(http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5400/starhathalf.gif)

spill the beans clever clogs........

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: RossRoy on October 07, 2009, 10:28:23 PM

Quote from: Rich on October 07, 2009, 10:19:02 PM

Quote from: RossRoy on October 07, 2009, 05:10:36 PM
Quote from: Rich on October 07, 2009, 01:16:33 PM
can't animate the half mark though ;D
(http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/5400/starhathalf.gif)

I wouldn't be so sure ;)
(http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5400/starhathalf.gif)

spill the beans clever clogs........

Adobe ImageReady CS2 (I think it comes with Photoshop).. With it you can reduce the Canvas to 50% size, which affects all frames of the animated GIF.. So just save that as a GIF and Viola!

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 10:50:40 PM

Thanks Ross that will come in handy.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on October 08, 2009, 07:00:29 AM

Quote from: RossRoy on October 07, 2009, 10:09:23 PM

Do you mean this one?

(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/1971/mariehhalf.gif)

Yes that is what I meant. Thanks so much. :)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 09, 2009, 10:40:58 AM

Kung Fu Panda

(http://www.uwid.wroc.pl/FOTKI/kung%20fu%20panda.jpg)

Year: 2008

Director(s): Mark Osborne, John Stevenson

Run Time: 88 minutes

Plot: In the Valley of Peace, Po the Panda finds himself chosen as the Dragon Warrior despite the fact that he is obese and a complete novice at martial arts.

Cast:
Jack Black – Po
Dustin Hoffman – Shifu
Angelina Jolie – Tigress
Ian McShane – Tai Lung
Jackie Chan – Monkey
Seth Rogen – Mantis
Lucy Liu – Viper
David Cross – Crane
Randall Duk Kim – Oogway

DVD Extras:
•   Filmmakers Commentary
•   Meet the Cast
•   Pushing the Boundaries
•   DreamWorks Animation Video Jukebox
•   Theatrical Trailers
•   Be a Kung Fu Master
•   Do You Kung Fu?
•   “Kung Fu Fighting” Music Video by Cee-Lo
•   Learn the Panda Dance
•   Po Around the World
•   Po’s Power Play (DVD ROM)

My Thoughts

This is the third time I have watched this DVD since I got it and I also saw this film at the cinema and am still enjoying each time as much as the last. This is one of the most visually stunning animated films I’ve seen. The animation is flawless from that beautiful traditionally animated opening to the CGI throughout. The attention to detail in every scene of this film makes it truly a joy to watch and the action scenes, especially one or two in particular are extremely fast paced and exciting. I usually don’t like DreamWorks films that much but in my mind this is their first films since ‘Shrek’ that really stands out... almost to PIXAR standards... almost.

While aesthetically pleasing from start to finish I feel a couple of things stopped this film living up to its full potential such as the amount of characters who seemed main, but hardly had any screen time or dialogue. Most of the furious five themselves only had one or two short lines the entire film. While the character development for the two or three main characters was fantastic I feel the film could have benefited with some more focus on the other characters, which also could have pulled up the very short run time a bit.

Overall the imagery and score of every scene in this film is breathtaking and while the humour is still a bit childish the storyline is something which I feel all ages can enjoy as it is quite light-hearted entertainment. I am still waiting however for DreamWorks to make a film with a more deep and meaningful message much like most that can be seen in PIXAR films. While ‘Kung Fu Panda’ seems a step in the right direction they are still not quite there.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 09, 2009, 10:42:07 AM

Could someone please tell me what the best way to get smaller DVD covers for the these reviews is? I looked all over Google images and this was the smallest I could find. I still think it's too big.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: richierich on October 09, 2009, 10:59:45 AM

Quote from: Critter on October 09, 2009, 10:42:07 AM

Could someone please tell me what the best way to get smaller DVD covers for the these reviews is? I looked all over Google images and this was the smallest I could find. I still think it's too big.

In google images, search kung fu panda dvd

choose +show options

a new choice column comes up

under any size, select exactly

you will then be given a choice to select by size.
I used 150 width by 200 height as example, and got lots of hits to choose from.

(http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/4570/kungfupanda.jpg)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 09, 2009, 11:37:54 AM

Ahh thanks Rich, I spent ages fiddling with the size in Goodle images but never thought to use 'exactly'. 150x200 works well. :thumbup:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on October 09, 2009, 09:42:49 PM

Hey Critter, saw this today on Empire and thought you'd like it... :D

Animation Who's Who (http://www.empireonline.com/features/animation-studios-profiles/)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 10, 2009, 12:22:51 AM

Ah wow thanks Jon I do like that article. I love seeing all the different studios summerized like that.

On a side note I just notice that I spelt 'Goodle' in my last post. I dont even want to change it haha, pretty sure my favourite typo ever :hysterical:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on November 23, 2009, 02:39:32 AM

Aladdin (Limited Edition)

(http://images.digitalmedianet.com/2004/Week_49/890bg0tj/story/aladdin.jpg)
This isn’t the right cover but I couldn’t find the one I had.

Year: 1992

Director(s): Ron Clements, John Musker

Run Time: 86 minutes

Plot: Aladdin, a street urchin, accidentally meets Princess Jasmine, who is in the city undercover. They love each other, but she can only marry a prince.

Cast:
Scott Weinger – Aladdin
Robin Williams – Genie
Linda Larkin - Princess Jasmine
Jonathan Freeman - Jafar

DVD Extras:
•   Lyric Book
•   Music Modes
•   Downloadable Song

My Thoughts
This is the first time I have watched this film in years and I thoroughly enjoyed it. While not one of my top Disney classics Aladdin still delivers many memorable characters, such as the always wonderful Genie voiced by Robin Williams and great songs such as ‘A Whole New World’ .Many of the backgrounds in this film, especially of the Palace are outstanding and the animation is flawless as always coming from Disney. As I haven’t seen this since I was a child watching it on a small TV I found the colour of many scenes to be breathtakingly beautiful as I have never seen it in such clarity before like I did on my TV now. One thing I found lacking however was the lack of special features. I only have the one disc edition that is labeled on the cover as ‘Limited Edition’ yet it had next to no bonus features. All it really had was the ability to watch the movie in sing-along-mode and that’s it.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 08, 2009, 06:25:28 AM

Alice in Wonderland (Special Edition)

(http://popcritics.com/movies/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/alice_in_wonderland-150x200.jpg)

Year: 1951

Director(s): Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson

Run Time: 75 minutes

Plot: Alice stumbles into the world of Wonderland. Will she get home? Not if the Queen of Hearts has her way.

Cast:
Kathryn Beaumont - Alice
Ed Wynn - Mad Hatter
Richard Haydn - Caterpillar
Sterling Holloway - Cheshire Cat
Jerry Colonna - March Hare
Verna Felton - Queen of Hearts
J. Pat O'Malley - Tweedledee / Tweedledum / The Walrus / The Carpenter
Bill Thompson - White Rabbit / Dodo

DVD Extras:
•   Original Mickey Mouse Animated Short: Thru The Mirror
•   “Alice Daydreams In The Park”
•   “Operation Wonderland” Featurette
•   Early Art Concepts, Galleries, Storyboards

My Thoughts
Out of all the classic Disney’s this has always been one of my favourites. While I don’t know if any film adaption can ever really live up to Lewis Carroll’s original work this one surely does the novel justice for me. In this film I think the surrealism has been captured perfectly and some scenes such as the Mad Tea Party are close to being some of my favourite animated scenes of all time. I think the strangeness is nicely balanced with an element of humour here and the voice acting and character design are fantastic, such as the Cheshire cat who nicely resembles Tenniel’s original illustrations for the novel. While Alice may not be as much of a musical as many other Disney films I find the songs rather enjoyable and ones that have stayed with me since I was a child. Out of all the Alice adaption’s I have seen this is my favourite, I guess we will have to wait and see if Burton’s upcoming version can impress me as much as this classic Disney flick. The extras on this DVD were also quite good and I enjoyed looking through the concept art and storyboards of the film.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 08, 2009, 11:06:46 AM

Pocahontas (Musical Masterpiece Edition)

(http://www.gamehead.com.au/images/products/thumbs_lrd/musical-masterpiece-pocahontas-dvd-movies-dvmmpo.jpg)

Year: 1995

Director(s): Mike Gabriel, Eric Goldberg

Run Time: 81 minutes

Plot: The daughter of a Native American tribe chief and English soldier share a romance when English colonists invade 17th century Virginia.

Cast:
Irene Bedard - Pocahontas (voice)
Judy Kuhn - Pocahontas (singing voice)
Mel Gibson - John Smith
David Ogden Stiers - Governor Ratcliffe / Wiggins
John Kassir - Meeko
Russell Means - Powhatan
Christian Bale - Thomas
Linda Hunt - Grandmother Willow

DVD Extras:
•   Lyric Book
•   Music Modes
•   Downloadable Song

My Thoughts
Unfortunately with this DVD I accidently got the “Musical Edition”, the same I did with Aladdin which is annoying because it has no special features aside from lame music things. Oh well, that aside the film is still there in all its glory and what a glorious film it is! Pocahontas is another of my favourite Disney’s and always has been. Everything in this film is stunning, the story, the backgrounds and the moving and memorable songs that appear throughout the film. One of the things I like the most is Pocahontas herself, she is such a strong character and I think a great role model for children, one of my favourite Disney characters for sure.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 10, 2009, 10:16:57 AM

9

(http://axiomsedge-scifi.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/9-movie-poster.jpg)

Year: 2009

Director(s): Shane Acker

Run Time: 79 minutes

Plot: A post-apocalyptic nightmare in which all of humanity is threatened.

Cast:
Christopher Plummer - 1
Martin Landau - 2
John C. Reilly - 5
Crispin Glover - 6
Jennifer Connelly - 7
Fred Tatasciore - 8
Elijah Wood - 9
Alan Oppenheimer - The Scientist

DVD Extras:
• Saw at Cinema

My Thoughts
I saw this film today hardly knowing anything about it apart from the fact that it has Tim Burton’s name attached and it was based on a short film. I found 9 quite enjoyable but also underwhelming in many ways. The visual side of the film was outstanding, I found it quite refreshing to see a dark and somewhat gritty computer animated film come from America instead of the constant flow of films with their bright colours and cute characters (even though I do like these most of the time). The detail in the landscape created and the design of both the leading characters and the evil, junk yard type monsters was inspired, it actually made me want to get out a sketch pad and start drawing the minute I got home.

Another high point for me was the excellent voice acting and the high standard of sound effects throughout the film. The sound effects especially made the fight scenes genuinely exciting for the most part and even allowed for a few unexpected jumps. While I found this film visually outstanding what let it down for me was the plot, which felt almost rushed as the film progressed and didn’t seem to be going anywhere. There were no subplots through this film, just one straight story which I found to be quite repetitive. Although I found the plot somewhat diminished I feel this film is a great step for Western mainstream animation. It’s proof, perhaps somewhat guided by the success of WALL·E that animation does not have to be all about comedy set within clean cut colourful words of cute characters.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i48.tinypic.com/zkswmx.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 21, 2009, 12:35:09 AM

Coraline

(http://i43.tower.com/images/mm113462892/coraline-dakota-fanning-dvd-cover-art.jpg)

Year: 2009

Director(s): Henry Selick

Run Time: 96 minutes

Plot: An adventurous girl finds another world that is a strangely idealized version of her frustrating home, but it has sinister secrets.

Cast:
Dakota Fanning – Coraline Jones
Teri Hatcher – Mel Jones/ Other Mother/ Beldam
Jennifer Saunders – Miss April Spink
Dawn French – Miss Miriam Forcible
Keith David – The Cat
Robert Bailey Jr – Wybie Lovett
Ian McShane - Mr Bobinsky

DVD Extras:
•   Deleted Scenes
•   The Making of Coraline
•   Feature Commentry
•   Voicing the Characters
•   Creepy Coraline

My Thoughts
This is my first blu-ray DVD and one that is also watchable in 3D. I have never seen 3D at the cinema, let alone in my own home and I found this to be quite a fun feature. The only problem is that while watching it in 3D the colour of the film becomes quite distorted and everything has a sort of yellow/green tinge to it which could get annoying. It was worth it though to have certain objects literally jumping out of the screen at you. The 2D blu-ray version, while maybe not as thrilling as the 3D is still stunning in its own right as the true colour of the film is magnificent in many scenes.

I have seen this film before but when I watched it the first time it was of poor quality at a friend’s house (think a downloaded movie streaming through a TV. I enjoyed it then but I enjoy it so much more when seeing it to its full potential. As a fan of Henry Selick’s work ever since I saw The Nightmare Before Christmas I was looking forward to this film quite a bit. I love the stop-motion animation technique and am glad to see it is making somewhat of a comeback, what with The Fantastic Mr Fox soon to be released.

Aside from the visual beauty of this film I find the story to be compelling, especially after the dark turn in the second half. I’m also glad that Selick didn’t appear to hold back on the frightening elements of the film considering that it was marketed at children in it’s release. Coraline herself is a fantastic character for young girls especially, she is strong, brave and doesn’t take crap from anybody, yet she is also human and shown to make many mistakes. I think characters like these are important for young children who are watching these films.

Aside from Coraline herself the other characters in this film are rich and diverse in creativity. Whether it be the strange and wise talking cat, the spider like Russian performer who lives upstairs, or the two obese women obsessed with dogs who live downstairs. I enjoyed every character in the film immensely and can see myself watching this film time and time again, in both 2d and 3d.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Achim on December 21, 2009, 05:30:49 AM

God review of this wonderful film.

I watched the 2D version only and thought the colors were great. I then kept hearing about the color-loss in the 3DF version and will therefore probably never watch it. Except maybe for a few minutes just to see what it's like.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 21, 2009, 08:45:55 AM

Thanks Achim. I actually saw Avatar in 3D today and the 3D was immaculate. I got to keep the glasses from that too which were quite different to the ones that came with Coraline. I thought I would be smart and use the ones I got with Avatar for Coraline but when I tried it just made it blurry... :thumbdown:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Achim on December 21, 2009, 01:16:17 PM

Quote from: Critter on December 21, 2009, 08:45:55 AM

Thanks Achim. I actually saw Avatar in 3D today and the 3D was immaculate. I got to keep the glasses from that too which were quite different to the ones that came with Coraline. I thought I would be smart and use the ones I got with Avatar for Coraline but when I tried it just made it blurry... :thumbdown:

Coraline's 3D on Blu-ray is different because current TV and players cannot handle the 3D presented in cinemas these days; that will change next year. It is presented with old-style 3D using different colors for each eye, just not red and green as usual. In the cinemas Coraline used the same technique as Avatar.

Avatar will be released on Blu-ray in "2D" first, I assume because too few people will have the new technology at the time. A later release will then add the 3D; once a sufficient amount of households have the needed equipment.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 21, 2009, 01:19:20 PM

Thanks for this info Achim, I figured it might be something to do with a different 3D set up to those used for our TV's at home. After seeing Avatar and knowing 3D's real potential I can't wait for 3D in the household. I can only imagine how expensive it will be though for that type of technology upgrade.... might have to wait a long time. I only this year got my first flat-screen TV.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Achim on December 21, 2009, 01:22:53 PM

TV would have to a new one, but I understand the PS3 can be upgraded through firmware.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: snowcat on December 21, 2009, 01:24:01 PM

Of course that TV would cost alot for its first few years to... and probably wouldn't be worth it for a long time.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 21, 2009, 02:00:26 PM

I felt that was the same way with Plasma, LCD screens. I only just got my first ones and since I waited so long they have fixed most of the problems they had to begin with, such as the burning of logos etc onto the screens that sometimes occured.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: snowcat on December 21, 2009, 02:04:21 PM

Yeah, its the same with pretty much everything, it starts expensive and gradually falls in price.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 02, 2010, 12:08:11 AM

The Emperor’s New Groove

(http://images.play.com/covers/95004m.jpg)

Year: 2000

Director(s): Mark Dindal

Run Time: 75 minutes

Plot: Emperor Kuzco is turned into a llama by his ex-administrator Yzma, and must now regain his throne with the help of Pacha, the gentle llama herder.

Cast:
David Spade – Emperor Kuzco
John Goodman – Pacha
Eartha Kitt – Yzma
Patrick Warburton – Kronk
Wendie Malick – Chicha

DVD Extras:
•   Deleted Scenes
•   Music Video
•   Dance Sequence
•   Game
•   Featurette
•   Theatrical Trailer
•   Audio Commentary
•   Sting Music Video

My Thoughts
I have always enjoyed this film a lot and feel it carries a different style, both visually and story-wise to many previous Disney films. I think that the story however is somewhat weak for the most part, as well as quite predictable as the film progresses but what makes this film so lovable is the comedy. There is a fast pace throughout much of this film and some of the most exciting scenes are pulled together with excellent comic timing which often left me, and the friend I was watching it with laughing out loud for a long time. There are many random things that happen in these faster scenes, and while they don’t always make logical sense, or sense to the main storyline, they are hilarious. This is the type of animated film that many of my friends sill quote from when they are younger as it has so many great one-liners as well as visual jokes. The highlight for me, as always has been the character of ‘Kronk’ portrayed by Patrick Warburton who steals almost every scene he is in and usually has all the funniest lines.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 02, 2010, 02:30:49 AM

Final Fantasy VII Advent Children: Complete

(http://i48.tinypic.com/289k21y.jpg)

Anime Type: Movie

Year: 2005 (original release) 2009 (blu-ray ‘complete’ version)

Director: Tetsuya Nomura

Plot: An ex-mercenary is forced out of isolation when three mysterious men kidnap and brainwash the city's children afflicted with the Geostigma disease.

My Thoughts:

I first watched this film a long time ago on a small TV in bad quality and had a hard time understanding the plot. This new blu-ray version clears up a lot of things… and not just the amazing picture quality, but the story as well. Apparently when this film was first released in its shorter version, a lot of content had been taken out, making the story harder to follow than it should be. This lead a lot of people to start complaining that unless you have played the video game series of which the film is based, then there is no way you could understand what is going on. I have personally never played any Final Fantasy game that I can remember, but being an anime fan I can of course recognize many of the famous characters from the series. That being said, I found this extended version of the film fairly easy to follow, with the exception of not always knowing who some of the more minor characters are and what their back story is. It is clear that a lot of the back stories of these characters are indeed told in the video games but the fact that I didn’t know them didn’t seem to be a vital point to the plot.

Overall I found this film very enjoyable. I think the English dubbing was not as good as it could have been but I found the small, white subtitles hard to read for this one so for the most part I just kept the English on. The animation is of course, outstanding and has only been enhanced further with this blu-ray transition. Both the characters and the environments were flawless throughout the entire film, enough to leave one speechless at the beauty created within these computers. Advent Children has managed to do what WALL•E also achieved, and that is to make dust and grim beautiful. Both films involve lengthy scenes set in broken down worlds, worlds that are collapsed and dying, yet within these scenes the artists have still managed to bring a beauty into the film which I admire.

I believe the visuals and action-packed fight scenes defiantly over ride the story of the film, but that is almost to be expected of a film based on a video game series. Obviously playing the games would have enhanced the experience of watching this film but even though I haven’t I still enjoyed it.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 10, 2010, 12:40:36 PM

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

(http://i43.tower.com/images/mm113426370/snow-white-seven-dwarfs-adriana-caselotti-dvd-cover-art.jpg)

Year: 1937

Director(s): David Hand

Run Time: 80 minutes

Plot: Snow White, pursued by a jealous queen, hides with the Dwarfs; the queen feeds her a poison apple, but Prince Charming awakens her with a kiss.

Cast:
Roy Atwell – Doc
Adriana Caselotti – Snow White
Eddie Collins – Dopey
Pinto Colvig – Sleepy/Grumpy
Billy Gilbert – Sneezy
Otis Harlan – Happy
Lucille La Verne – Queen/Witch
Scotty Mattraw – Bashful

DVD Extras:
•   “The Princess and the Frog” Sneak Peek
•   Snow White Returns
•   Deleted Scenes
•   The One That Started It All
•   “Someday My Prince Will Come” By Tiffany Thornton
•   Audio Commentary With Walt Disney
•   Dopey’s Wild Mine Ride Game
•   Animation Voice Talent
•   Disney Through The Decades
•   “Heigh Ho” Sing- Along
•   “Heigh Ho” Karaoke

My Thoughts
Here is the film that started it all, the film that was undoubtedly not only a milestone in animation but in cinema in general. This is a film that influenced such movies as the Wizard of Oz, which in turn influenced other titles such as Star Wars and so on and so forth. I have even heard and read that Citizen Kane was inspired by Snow White in some ways but I am yet to discover how. While watching Snow White I have nothing but the highest of admiration towards it, the story itself, classic though it is, is defiantly not one I would call a favourite of mine, in fact there are not many of the ‘princess’ Disney films that I love. In that case then, why is it that I am always so drawn to this film, and why I have watched it over and over in my teenage years, indeed many more times than I ever did as a child. For me it is the history, and the story behind the story that I find the most fascinating and the most inspiring.

Originally called ‘Disney’s Folly’ by critics at the time, hardly any dared to believe that such a thing as a full length feature cartoon could be successful. Disney had been told time and time again that cartoons were good for five or six minutes but anything longer than that an audiences would tire of it, and also their eyes would hurt from watching such bright colours. Disney however would have none of this and was determined to make the film, despite the odds being well and truly stacked against him which is what I find so inspiring. At the time money was being poured into the Disney animated shorts, but being short films hardly anything was coming back. Disney knew that to further animation in the world of cinema full-length films were needed, and he was indeed correct.

There was no doubt that if Snow White was unsuccessful at the cinemas, then the Walt Disney Animation Company would close down. Four years, hundreds of people and thousands of dollars were poured into this film in somewhat of a gamble. No one even believed that the film would do as well as it did, and in fact a lot people were rooting against it. If this film had not set the course for the world of full-length animated feature then where would we be today, would there be a PIXAR, a DreamWorks or would there even be Disneylands? The film itself is visually stunning, as always with Disney films and the animation is flawless which is brought to life even further with the use of the multi-plane camera that Disney himself pioneered. For anyone who got this DVD I highly recommend checking out the special features. The extras on the film are amazing and I enjoyed watching the history not only of Snow White, but of the Disney company itself. One thing that I found most outstanding of the features was the audio commentary of the film with Walt Disney himself, it was something that was put together over three decades and was amazing to listen to.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on January 10, 2010, 02:22:25 PM

Quote from: Critter on January 10, 2010, 12:40:36 PM

Here is the film that started it all, the film that was undoubtedly not only a milestone in animation but in cinema in general. This is a film that influenced such movies as the Wizard of Oz, which in turn influenced other titles such as Star Wars and so on and so forth. I have even heard and read that Citizen Kane was inspired by Snow White in some ways but I am yet to discover how.

Citizen Kane is kind of like Snow White turned inside out, upside down and then finally presented as real. In both films, you can find references to loss of childhood/innocence, ambition and dreams. Both have ideas about what you see, or what is trapped in, a reflection; Kane's globe and of course Snow White's enchanted mirror.

Nice review of an incredibly important film, Sophie. :thumbup:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 10, 2010, 10:36:39 PM

Thanks for clearing that up Jon and I'm glad you like the review. I have always considered it one of the most important in my collection.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 11, 2010, 04:17:49 AM

Mai-HiME

(http://i47.tinypic.com/2cen12q.jpg)

Anime Type: TV (26 Episodes)

Year: 2004

Director: Masakazu Kohara

Plot: Thirteen girls, each with the ability to materialize "Elements" and summon metallic guardians called "Childs" have been brought to Fuuka Academy to battle mysterious creatures called Orphans. Each with a different personality and background, they must decide who they truly care about and why they fight.

My Thoughts:
I just finished this anime and thoroughly enjoyed it which I must admit I wasn’t expecting. I didn’t have high expectations going into this series and I must admit that for the first few episodes I found it entertaining, yet drearily repetitive, almost as if the same plot was playing every episode (think Scooby Doo). Somewhere through the series though there was a major change within the plot and in one episode the show went from average entertainment to a much more serious show that I found I was unable to stop watching. Everything was turned upside down at this part of the series and we got to really explore all the characters, their struggles and the real meaning of their relationships with each other, and those around them in a way that was not seen in the first part of the series. The final episode of the series was actually a little bit of a let-down for me but I enjoyed all the episodes leading up to it so much that I am rating it highly.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 12, 2010, 07:53:45 AM

Ponyo

(http://i45.tinypic.com/10xcy8j.jpg)

Anime Type: Movie

Year: 2008

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

Plot: The story is loosely based on the Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Mermaid", about Ponyo, a tiny fish-girl who dreams of being human. She is washed ashore and rescued by a boy, Sosuke, but despite their friendship she has to return to the oceans. Undeterred, Ponyo uses a spell to transform into a human girl, unaware of the dire consequences of the powerful magic.

My Thoughts:
While not quite having the same impact as some of Miyazaki’s previous work (Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke), Ponyo was still a fantastic and fun little film that is worth a look for any Ghibli fans. The story of Ponyo is aimed at a younger audience than many of the previous films but the imagery in this one is so outstanding that it may even surpass some of the other films. This is one of the more beautiful anime films I have seen. The hand drawn animation was flawless and brought the ocean world and all its wonderful creatures to life, as well as some very convincing and exciting storm/ tsunami scenes. I watched this film with the English dubbed voices and thought it was quite good, I was looking forward to the English cast that involved actors I like such as Cate Blanchett and Tina Fey and I think they did the job well. I am however probably going to watch the Japanese version at some point. Overall this film was a wonderful visual feast brought together through the vivid imagination of one of the greatest animators of our time.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 14, 2010, 03:09:12 AM

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

(http://i46.tinypic.com/8x0as0.jpg)

Anime Type: Movie

Year: 2006

Director: Hosoda, Mamoru

Plot:The power to travel through time... It can be used for the good of humanity, or just selfishly abused. While many may fantasize about obtaining such a power, it has become nothing less than reality for otherwise-normal schoolgirl Konno Makoto.

After a fated event, her life takes a turn for the extraordinary. Though she initially uses her power to literally "leap" into the past and change little things in order to make her life easier, she soon has to face the fact that changing the past can have drastic consequences.

My Thoughts:
This was a very entertaining and enjoyable film. I loved the contrast within the storyline of quite dark and gritty scenes as well as many light-hearted and often quite funny scenes. The clean and simple character animation worked well with the fantastic and largely detailed backgrounds which gave the film a strong atmosphere, and indeed, some scenes (one in particular) were eerily beautiful. The storyline of this film was one of many twisting paths and was quite complex, for that matter I feel it is a film I will have to watch more than once to really understand it fully. The Japanese voice acting in the film was very relaxed and suited all the characters well which gave them all believable personalities.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 16, 2010, 03:03:23 AM

Ice Age

(http://i48.tinypic.com/29c5bhx.jpg)

Year: 2002

Director(s): Chris Wedge

Run Time: 81 minutes

Plot: Set during the Ice Age, a sabertooth tiger, a sloth, and a wooly mammoth find a lost human infant, and they try to return him to his tribe.

Cast:
Ray Romano – Manfred
John Leguizamo – Sid
Denis Leary – Diago
Jack Black - Zeke
Goran Visnjic – Soto

DVD Extras:
•   Audio Commentary
•   Making of Ice Age
•   Gone Nutty, Scat’s Missing Adventure
•   Sis on Sid
•   Interactive Character Galleries
•   Trailers
•   International Clips
•   Six Deleted Scenes

My Thoughts
A great family animated film for me is one that I can watch now as a 19 year old and enjoy it just as much as I did while I was a child. Ice Age is not one of those films. I watched this recently with a 2 and a 3 year –old who proceeded to get bored and do other things but I watched it to the end. When I was younger I did like this film, but now I just don’t see the appeal. The animation itself is not great, in fact it’s quite crude and basic. This could of course be put down to the times. But then again, Toy Story, which was made years before it still looks fantastic today. The story itself is quite sweet but the humour strewn throughout the film I hardly find funny at all now, in fact I almost find it more of a turn off if anything. I have not seen the sequels for this film, although I will probably check them out for this marathon to see if the films improve at all. Overall this is a great film for younger kids but not something I will go out of my way to watch again.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Jimmy on January 16, 2010, 12:45:15 PM

I've watched this one with my two little nephews a little bit after Christmas and surprisingly I've appreciated it. It was a good laughing time for the 3 of us. Certainly enjoy it more than The Chipmunk movie they decided to watch after. but contrary to my brother I didn't have to go watching the new one with a bunch of kid at the theatre...

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on January 16, 2010, 01:22:18 PM

I love Ice Age! But the sequel was weak and silly. Haven't bothered with the third one.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: snowcat on January 16, 2010, 08:08:48 PM

Quote from: Jon on January 16, 2010, 01:22:18 PM

I love Ice Age! But the sequel was weak and silly. Haven't bothered with the third one.

I agree Ice Age is a good solid film with a good solid story, with charm! I dislike both sequels, I think it would have been fine as a stand alone film... but alas I think the same for the Land Before Time.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Kathy on January 16, 2010, 09:14:10 PM

My name is Kathy and I like sequels. :tease:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: snowcat on January 16, 2010, 09:21:40 PM

Lol :p I like Sequels sometimes... just not the ice age ones.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 17, 2010, 01:26:39 AM

A lot of people do like Ice Age, as it appears most of you do but it's just one of those films that I don't like very much. Doesn't really appeal to my personal tastes.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Rogmeister on January 17, 2010, 02:12:38 AM

I have the first 2 Ice Age movies but haven't seen them yet. I guess I'll have to get to them soon. I also like a lot of animated films though I don't know that I'll do an an imated marathon. :tv:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on January 17, 2010, 07:36:53 AM

I like the Ice Age movies

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 17, 2010, 09:06:27 AM

Quote from: Rogmeister on January 17, 2010, 02:12:38 AM

I have the first 2 Ice Age movies but haven't seen them yet. I guess I'll have to get to them soon. I also like a lot of animated films though I don't know that I'll do an an imated marathon. :tv:

As you have probably all realised by now I use the term 'marathon' very loosley in terms with this animated/anime thing. I call it a marathon when really itt's turning more into a continous and ongoing thread that I will just keep updated. And more animated films are coming out everyday, who knows if I will ever finish it.

Quote

I like the Ice Age movies

I won't deny that the Ice Age films are popular, I hear that the latest Ice Age film beat out both the Dreamworks and PIXAR films in the box office during 2009.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Tom on January 17, 2010, 10:26:20 AM

Quote from: Critter on January 17, 2010, 09:06:27 AM

As you have probably all realised by now I use the term 'marathon' very loosley in terms with this animated/anime thing. I call it a marathon when really itt's turning more into a continous and ongoing thread that I will just keep updated. And more animated films are coming out everyday, who knows if I will ever finish it.

The same thing happened to me with my Weekend Movie Marathon: Time-travel Movies (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,646.0.html) thread. It started out as a weekend marathon, but now I use it for every time-travel movie that I review.
I should rename the thread someday. I also was thinking, that I move my not so random reviews to separate threads, like anime reviews, Bollywood reviews and superhero movies reviews.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 17, 2010, 10:34:12 AM

I certainly understand how they can just grow Tom. At the moment I just have three, one for films I see at the cinema, one for animated and anime and one for random DVD watching. I've thought of moving this one out of the marathon section since that isn't really what it is anymore (I'm not sure if it ever was) but frankly I'm not sure how. I'm finding it a lot easier just to keep it here. Although I might someday change the title from marathon to reviews.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Jimmy on January 17, 2010, 12:44:28 PM

Quote from: Tom on January 17, 2010, 10:26:20 AM

I also was thinking, that I move my not so random reviews to separate threads, like anime reviews, Bollywood reviews and superhero movies reviews.

Please no... I'm lazy and I will have to redo all your link in the review table if you do that :whistle:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 17, 2010, 12:46:11 PM

Jimmy I have been meaning to ask. If I have a film that can go in two different catagories, for example, today I saw an animated film in the cinema. Should I put it in my animated films thread or my seen in the cinema one? Or would it not matter if your list if I put it in both and you just added it once?

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Jimmy on January 17, 2010, 12:57:52 PM

You can do it any way you want ;D
I take always the first written for the link, the problem, and this isn't a big one, is when you delete them without telling me to move them on another topic. Sometimes it's not that much works like when you have done it, but if Tom do the same it will be since he had a lot of reviews.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Tom on January 17, 2010, 02:38:59 PM

Quote from: Jimmy on January 17, 2010, 12:44:28 PM

Quote from: Tom on January 17, 2010, 10:26:20 AM
I also was thinking, that I move my not so random reviews to separate threads, like anime reviews, Bollywood reviews and superhero movies reviews.
Please no... I'm lazy and I will have to redo all your link in the review table if you do that :whistle:

I would of course leave the old reviews also in my old thread. I had thought of that, because I didn't want to burden you with such a big task ;)
Also deleting the old reviews would make the discussions worthless. I wouldn't want that.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 18, 2010, 01:05:31 AM

Fantastic Mr Fox

(http://www.vh1.com/sitewide/promoimages/movies/f/fantastic_mr_fox/poster/150x200.jpg)

Year: 2009

Director(s): Wes Anderson

Run Time: 87 minutes

Plot: Angry farmers, tired of sharing their chickens with a sly fox, look to get rid of their opponent and his family.

Cast:
George Clooney – Mr Fox
Meyrl Streep – Mrs Fox
Bill Murray – Badger
Jason Schwartzman – Ash
Owen Wilson – Coach Skip
Eric Chase Anderson – Kristofferson

DVD Extras:
• Unavailable

My Thoughts

I am a huge fan of Roald Dahls children’s books. I have read all of them and still read them today, and unlike some others of the film adaption’s based on them, I think that if Dahl was alive today he would really be proud of this one. Fantastic Mr Fox has everything a film based off such a great book should have, it’s funny, charming, unusual and most importantly captivating from start to finish. Mr Fox himself is portrayed throughout the film as a lovable anti-hero who at times had the whole cinema laughing out loud, and at other times had us all close to tears in some of the more touching scenes. This is Wes Anderson’s first animated film, and only the second of his works I have seen. I am know hoping to go back through his filmography and watch many more of his works as I have enjoyed the films I have seen of his so much.

The voice acting in this film was sensational, the voices just sounded so natural and never felt forced or false and this gave the character puppets within the stop-motion animation a truly believable life around them. The film was visually stunning, with fantastic detailed backgrounds and characters, every tiny little detail from a spoon to a chair was carved for the film in miniature scale which shows how much time and effort was really put in, and it pays off. Stop-motion animation was said to be a dying art some time ago but with the successes of such films as Coraline, Mary and Max and now Fantastic Mr Fox I think it is safe to say that this great art form is safe in the filmmaking business.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 19, 2010, 03:35:58 AM

ICE

(http://i46.tinypic.com/15chwsg.jpg)

Anime Type: OVA (3 Episodes)

Year: 2007

Director: Kobayashi, Makoto

Plot: By A.D. 2010, all men have died off quickly due to a dramatic change in the environment and an unknown contaminant. The population decreased to the lowest number ever seen...until only the women were left alive.

My Thoughts:
A friend of mine lent me this 3 episode OVA anime on the basis that I have in the past like sci-fi anime, especially those with Yuri themes throughout. This one however was just too weird for me, I felt that the story was under developed the whole time and that I didn’t get to know the characters well enough to even care about them, or in fact sympathize with them at all. Out of all three episodes there were only a couple of scenes that I actually enjoyed and aside from those I just spent the whole time thinking that the show has to get better, but it didn’t. Visually there were some neat designs and the backgrounds were at times stunning, but as far as post-apocalyptic and sci-fi anime goes this one is defiantly not on the top of my list.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 20, 2010, 02:10:21 PM

Elfen Lied

(http://i48.tinypic.com/flvaq0.jpg)

Anime Type: TV (13 Episodes)

Year: 2004

Director: Kanbe, Mamoru

Plot: The Diclonius, a mutated homosapien that is said to be selected by God and will eventually become the destruction of mankind, possess two horns on their heads and have a "sixth sense" which gives them telekinetic abilities. Due to this dangerous power, they have been captured and isolated in laboratories by the government. Lucy, a young and psychotic Diclonius, manages to break free of her confines and brutally murders most of the guards in the laboratory where she is being held, only to be shot in the head as she makes her escape. She survives, falling off a cliff into the ocean and manages to drift along to a beach where two teenagers, Kouta and Yuka, discover her. Having lost her memories, she was named after the only thing that she can now say, "Nyuu," and the two allow her to stay at Kouta's home. However, it appears that the psychotic side of Lucy is not dead just yet...

My Thoughts:
Now this is a bloody, brutal mess of a show. Without a doubt one of the most gruesome anime I have seen, and I have seen some pretty messed up ones. Elfen Lied leaves nothing to the imagination as characters with supernatural powers and psychotic ways tear each other’s limbs off, these characters also happen to be young girls just to add to the disturbance. It is within these characters multiple personalities and visits to their past however that make this show so compelling. It may be violent yes, but Elfen Lied is not just mindless excuse for violence, instead , I found myself actually caring for these characters and involved with their various plights throughout the series.
Within this series themes such as hate, rage and inhumanity drive one of the most intriguing plotlines I have watched in an anime yet. As the story progresses we discover more and more about all of the characters and how they are all connected to each other in mysterious ways. These connections are explored through ways such as flashbacks. Flashbacks sometimes annoy me in anime but I felt they used just the right amount here so that they didn’t become tiring.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on January 20, 2010, 03:30:50 PM

hmmm... ever seen Legend of the Overfiend? That is worthy of a BAN THIS SICK FILTH Daily Mail headline if ever there was one! I wonder how Elfen Lied compares?

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: goodguy on January 20, 2010, 04:21:14 PM

Quote from: Jon on January 20, 2010, 03:30:50 PM

I wonder how Elfen Lied compares?

Especially with such a sweet title that inevitably makes me think of that saccharine Ferrell comedy. :laugh:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Tom on January 20, 2010, 05:44:32 PM

Elfen Lied is a great anime. Two years ago they even had special screenings of it in a cinema in Munich. Even though I already had seen it, we went to see it. And took some along who didn't know it yet.
I am also reading the manga. Soon the last volume of the manga is released here in Germany :)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 20, 2010, 11:50:24 PM

Quote from: Jon on January 20, 2010, 03:30:50 PM

hmmm... ever seen Legend of the Overfiend? That is worthy of a BAN THIS SICK FILTH Daily Mail headline if ever there was one! I wonder how Elfen Lied compares?

Hmm I have never even heard of Overfiend but now I am interested in seeing it. I am watching another quite violent anime at the moment which I will probably review when I finish.
It's another one that involves all quite young characters who...

(click to show/hide)

It does actually have pretty good storyline though so I am just going through the gore.

Tom I'm jealous of those special screenings in Munich. I live in such a lame area where they never do cool things like screen anime. I'm glad you liked Elfen Lied though, I agree that it's great.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on January 21, 2010, 12:36:46 AM

I used to follow the Anime/Manga craze when it hit the UK in the early to mid-90s. There were a bunch of established movies us newbies were only just catching up with; Akira was the classic, of course, but also Crying Freeman, Fist of the North Star, Ninja Scroll, etc. It quickly became apparent how relaxed the Japanese writers were about violence and nudity and how it actually made the story work properly. I remember loving the Anime of Street Fighter II, specifically because of a near-rape scene. Such cold violence against women in a cartoon? Brilliant. That said, Legend was something else and the stories of how much survived the BBFCs scissors were intriguing.

What I find surprising is that according to the Wikipedia Anime section (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legend_of_the_overfiend#Overview_of_the_anime), the version I saw was already a cut-down version of the original three parts! I'm curious about seeing it properly now. I wonder if it still has the power to shock?

Oh wow, I've found the Chun Li scene! Enjoy...

And this brings back memories. It was on the start of all Manga Entertainment video releases... :P

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 21, 2010, 04:15:18 AM

Hey Jon that first link didn't work, something to do with not being available in my country. That Chun Li vs Vega fight was great though, really makes me want to watch Street Fighter. And that manga trailer really reminded me of some of the AMV Hell stuff I have seen. If you haven't watched any AMV Hell movies I highly recommend it, they are all on youtube and comprise of clips from 20 seconds up to a couple of minutes, but there are so many that two of the AMV Hell movies go for over an hour. They are, as the titled suggest just AMV's but instead of just using music they use sound bites from everything, such as The Simpsons, Martin Luthur Kings speech and even clips of Hitler.

Here are three of my faves.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: snowcat on January 21, 2010, 08:27:09 AM

Jon I always felt that rape scene in Ninja Scroll only stayed because of what happens afterwards

also, the Street Fighter animes are quite weird... not as bad as the Van Dam though. :/

¬_¬ that trailer used to give me the creeps! I have the Guyver on 12 videos... and a double VHS version of Akira that advert haunts me :K (sadly my VHS doesn't work :'()

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 24, 2010, 01:19:27 AM

Akira

(http://i50.tinypic.com/11awjo7.jpg)

Anime Type: Movie

Year: 1988

Director: Otomo, Katsuhiro

Plot: In the year 2019, thirty-one years have passed since the outbreak of World War III. In Neo-Tokyo, all authority is waging a never-ending struggle against the underground that virtually rules the shattered city. A top-secret child with amazing powers of the minds breaks free from custody and accidentally gets a motorcycle gang involved in the project. The incident triggers psychic powers within one of the members, Tetsuo, and he is taken by the army and experimented on. His mind has been warped and is now on the path of war, exacting revenge on the society that once called him weak.

My Thoughts:
Akira is an outstanding film from its opening seconds to its final, climactic scenes. The cel animation in the film is amazing and to this day is some of the best animation of this format I have seen. I watched this film last night for the first time and then this morning woke up and re watched several scenes that I just had to see again. Akira presents a truly devastating plot which could really have a strong effect on the viewer. This effect is heightened even more throughout the film by the attention to detail used that really brings the setting, Neo Tokyo to life. Neo Tokyo is a city who wields a crumbling society living amongst violence, terrorism and corruption and can easily be compared to other messed up cities such as Gotham.

Throughout Akira there are fast-paced action scenes, some truly frightening parts, scenes that are genuinely scary and disturbing and everything in between. It is almost a rollercoaster of a film as you travel with Tetsuo along his tragic story of human experimentation and his efforts to prove his worth to the world. I have not read the manga for this film, although I now want to track it down but I have heard that the manga has the possibility of clearing up the storyline somewhat. This may be true but without having read it I found the story easy enough to follow, I feel the manga would maybe just add more depth to some parts.

I found Akira somewhat refreshing as a sci-fi anime that differs from most others of this genre. This was sci-fi set in a realistic environment, unlike many other sci-fi anime within the mecha or space realms of anime. The music and sound effects of this film are another amazing factor too it and added a sense of realism and strong atmosphere through all of the scenes. The soundtrack especially was fantastic and I would like to try and track down a copy. I don’t know why I waited so long to watch this wonderful film but I can see it fast becoming one of my favourite animated films and I look forward to watching it time and time again in the future.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on January 24, 2010, 02:27:36 AM

Great review, Sophie! :thumbup:

Quote from: Critter on January 24, 2010, 01:19:27 AM

I watched this film last night for the first time and then this morning woke up and re watched several scenes that I just had to see again.

That's exactly how I felt when I first saw it. And when I finally watched it again after some years just recently for that review, but for the umpteenth time anyway, it was still an exhilarting experience. Those opening scenes are sublime.

I have a couple of anime soundtracks, this one included. Well worth tracking down. It's absolutely nuts, but addictive! :laugh:

The Manga is huge, like many. The Japanese think nothing of publishing a book the size of a telephone directory for a relatively tiny price! I read it some years ago because it was serialised in a magazine called Manga Mania that exploited the new craze for a few years. Oh, yeah, that reminds me; I have a feeling I can make you quite jealous. That magazine ran a competition once in which I was a runner-up and I won...

(click to show/hide)

;)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 24, 2010, 02:57:08 AM

Quote

Four original Akira painted cells with underlying sketches...

:o

When you said you had a feeling you could make me jealous I think you underestimated just how jealous that was. I'm actually considering breaking into your house to steal such an amazing piece of art work. I can't believe you won something like that, talk about a fantastic prize. That would have to be worth a lot wouldn't it?

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on January 24, 2010, 03:23:42 AM

Quote from: Critter on January 24, 2010, 02:57:08 AM

Quote
Four original Akira painted cells with underlying sketches...

:o

When you said you had a feeling you could make me jealous I think you underestimated just how jealous that was. I'm actually considering breaking into your house to steal such an amazing piece of art work. I can't believe you won something like that, talk about a fantastic prize. That would have to be worth a lot wouldn't it?

:-[

I wouldn't have thought so, because these are simply character frames, so there would have been hundreds of them. And they were picked at random, so some people might not find them interesting (though I suspect I'm not alleviating your desire! :laugh:). They're full size cells, but with a relatively small image, so no background. Still, I find them more interesting, because it's part of the real animation process. Each one has a paper underlay with a sketch version of the image, and one includes a sketch of the next frame on the underside. I assume that's where the animator can keep flipping the corner to check the progress.

I'll try and take some pictures of them one day and tease you further... ;)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 24, 2010, 03:29:59 AM

I was just about to day that I would love to see photos of them. I understand that there would have been thousands of character animation cells but the thought of having one to me is almost too exciting. There is a gallery in Melbourne that sells a lot of old animation cells. I've always wanted to head up and check it out but Ive never had the chance. I have looked at their website though and it has some interesting stuff.

http://www.silverkgallery.com.au/ (http://www.silverkgallery.com.au/)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on January 29, 2010, 01:05:53 PM

Up

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_E5cSkRNNzuk/SoXLOY10m0I/AAAAAAAAGFY/Y-grWQZt6LU/s200/UpDVD.jpg)

Year: 2009

Director(s): Pete Doctor

Run Time: 96 minutes

Plot: By tying thousands of balloon to his home, 78-year-old Carl Fredricksen sets out to fulfill his lifelong dream to see the wilds of South America. Right after lifting off, however, he learns he isn't alone on his journey, since Russell, a wilderness explorer 70 years his junior, has inadvertently become a stowaway on the trip.

Cast:
Edward Asner – Carl Fredrickson
Cristopher Plummer – Charles Muntz
Jordon Nagai – Russell
Bob Peterson – Dug/ Alpha
Delroy Lindo – Beta
Jerome Ranft – Gamma

DVD Extras:
•   “Dug’s Special Mission” – Short Film
•   “Partly Cloudy” – Short Film
•   Adventure Is Out There
•   The Many Endings Of Muntz
•   Disney DB Live
•   Global Guardian Badge Game
•   Married Life
•   8 All- New Documentaries
•   DVD Feature Film

My Thoughts
This is not my favourite Pixar film but it sure is close. As usual Pixar deliver another solid winner with Up. This film contains some of the most heartbreaking scenes I have seen in any film, animated or not and that is just in the first 20 minutes. The film is not all tears and sorrow though as it also delivers some unique and quirky characters who provide some of the funniest scenes I have seen from Pixar. However the balance between happy and sad is managed exceptionally well. The emotional impact throughout the film is undying however and how they manage to capture so much within a wordless montage is just another example of why Pixar are at the top of their game.

The film is visually flawless and like all other Pixar films carries small jokes and references to their other films without which is always a fun feature in each one. The thing that really gives this film it’s spark is the mismatched team of lead characters; A grumpy old man, an 8 year old explorer, a rare giant bird and a talking dog. Very few storytellers could take such a random group of characters and make it work so well, yet in Up everything fits perfectly together and I am at trouble finding even one flaw within the film. The musical score was amazing and so vivid and prominent throughout the film that it was almost a character itself. I cannot wait to watch the special features of this DVD and go behind the scenes yet again of one of my favourite filmmaking companies in the world.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on February 01, 2010, 10:33:54 PM

Black Blood Brothers

(http://i46.tinypic.com/x3sltu.jpg)

Anime Type: TV (12 Episodes)

Year: 2006

Director: Otomo, Katsuhiro

Plot: Ten years after the Holy War in Hong Kong, Mochizuki Jirou, aka the Silver Blade, and the lone hero who fought and defeated the Kowloon Children despite the loss of his lover, returns to Japan with his young brother, Mochizuki Kotarou. The two quickly discover that the Kowloon Children who survived the Holy War are seeking to infiltrate the "Special Zone" ,a thriving city protected by an invisible barrier that will not allow Kowloon Children entrance, unless they're invited. Red Bloods refers to the humans; Black Bloods are the vampires, and the Mochizuki Brothers are Old Blood, the last descendants of an elite clan of vampires. When Kotarou is abducted by one of the Kowloon Children, Jirou has no choice but to fight once more.

My Thoughts:
Black Blood Brothers is the first vampire anime I have watched and hopefully not the last as I know the vampire genre is very popular within anime. This is a 12 episode series so I watched it all in about 4 days and found it to be an okay series but nothing outstanding. The series is based off a manga and I feel that if I read the manga I could have enjoyed this a lot more than I did, as the biggest problem I had was that I sometimes got lost with the storyline, or had trouble knowing who characters were. I actually had to Google certain characters to read up on a back story of them as while a lot of detail seemed present in the manga, a lot was taken out in the anime. This was a story where I found understanding the background of the characters almost crucial as well which is why I found it disappointing that I had to go and research it on my own.

This anime did have its high points though, I quite enjoyed the set up of the episodes how every one started with small flashbacks of the characters, I also loved the art of the backgrounds and thought the character design was fantastic. Another highlight for me was that while this was a vampire show it didn’t follow a classic route of vampires versus humans, instead there were many different types of vampires, some trying to protect humans and others trying to kill them so it was often the vampires fighting amongst each other in the show. Overall I enjoyed watching this series but wish that they put more detail into the story, perhaps made it longer than 12 episodes and gave us more plot and character development.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on February 04, 2010, 10:10:12 PM

Hope you don't mind me butting in, but I thought this a nice place to post something of interest to you animation geeks... ;)

This is a fairly interesting, if cursory history of some of the scandals Disney has faced in regards to various films. Strange, they don't include the Jessica Rabbit one. :laugh:

Empire: Disney Controversies (http://www.empireonline.com/features/disney-controversies-true-or-false/default.asp)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: snowcat on February 04, 2010, 10:30:30 PM

;) Roger Rabbit isn't a Disney film... its under the touchstone label.... Disney didn't want to be associated with it...even now its still Touchstone branded

...Most of those I had heard before... just Lady and the Tramp and Pochantus I hadn't.... I was surprised they didn't have the lion king "sex" thing in.

...I have to admit... I have seen the Whiter Wilderness and I always thought it was funny that they had to pretty much push those poor lemmings off the cliff XD

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on February 04, 2010, 10:47:01 PM

Quote from: Emma (snowcat) on February 04, 2010, 10:30:30 PM

;) Roger Rabbit isn't a Disney film... its under the touchstone label.... Disney didn't want to be associated with it...even now its still Touchstone branded

...Most of those I had heard before... just Lady and the Tramp and Pochantus I hadn't.... I was surprised they didn't have the lion king "sex" thing in.

...I have to admit... I have seen the Whiter Wilderness and I always thought it was funny that they had to pretty much push those poor lemmings off the cliff XD

I thought most people were aware by now that The Lion King "sex" thing actually said SFX (which it clearly does) and that the special effects people put it in. They also edited it out in recent DVD releases.

Quote from: Jon on February 04, 2010, 10:10:12 PM

Hope you don't mind me butting in, but I thought this a nice place to post something of interest to you animation geeks... ;)

This is a fairly interesting, if cursory history of some of the scandals Disney has faced in regards to various films. Strange, they don't include the Jessica Rabbit one. :laugh:

Empire: Disney Controversies (http://www.empireonline.com/features/disney-controversies-true-or-false/default.asp)

Thanks for the list Jon, some of those such as The Song of the South and The Rescuers one I haven't read before so it was interesting to see.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on February 04, 2010, 10:48:54 PM

My pleasure! I also looked for Mark Kermode's review of the new one, but it isn't anywhere "linkable" yet. It's brief, but I think you'll be pleased by some of his comments.

Quote from: Emma (snowcat) on February 04, 2010, 10:30:30 PM

;) Roger Rabbit isn't a Disney film... its under the touchstone label.... Disney didn't want to be associated with it...even now its still Touchstone branded

Of course it isn't! :slaphead: I was so engrossed in "animated scandals" my brain failed. There's no need to even say Disney didn't want to be associated; of course they didn't, it was sodding Warner characters! Jeez, where are my bloody tablets? :stars:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: snowcat on February 04, 2010, 11:07:50 PM

Quote from: Critter on February 04, 2010, 10:47:01 PM

Quote from: Emma (snowcat) on February 04, 2010, 10:30:30 PM
;) Roger Rabbit isn't a Disney film... its under the touchstone label.... Disney didn't want to be associated with it...even now its still Touchstone branded

...Most of those I had heard before... just Lady and the Tramp and Pochantus I hadn't.... I was surprised they didn't have the lion king "sex" thing in.

...I have to admit... I have seen the Whiter Wilderness and I always thought it was funny that they had to pretty much push those poor lemmings off the cliff XD

I thought most people were aware by now that The Lion King "sex" thing actually said SFX (which it clearly does) and that the special effects people put it in. They also edited it out in recent DVD releases.

..Yeah... it didnt actually say anything.... it was pure coincidence it even said SFX...

...I thought they would have added seeing as they had the "good teenagers take off the clothes" and the "little mermaid priest incident."

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on February 22, 2010, 12:48:09 AM

Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within

(http://i50.tinypic.com/t99y8p.jpg)

Anime Type: Movie

Year: 2001

Director: Sakaguchi, Hironobu
Plot: A planet is overrun by a mysterious group of creatures that infect and destroy all life on Earth. Only the determination of a single woman to find a cure will prevent the world from slowly being eaten away. Yet there are those from within who are impatient for results and will do anything to win this war.

My Thoughts:
This film felt a little flat for me, the realistic animation and visual side was fantastic yet I felt very detached from the characters for a lot of the film. I don’t know exactly why this was, the plot of the film was interesting, quite different from the other Final Fantasy film and presented a completely different world. Indeed this one very much reminded me of Aliens with a bit of Halo thrown in. The visual side and amazing design of this film, combined with a couple of nice action scenes made it an interesting watch, but nothing that will really stick with me for a long time.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i48.tinypic.com/zkswmx.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on February 25, 2010, 12:28:17 PM

Mulan

(http://gfx.filmweb.pl/po/05/39/539/6900799.2.jpg)

Year: 1998

Director(s): Tony Bancroft, Barry Cook

Run Time: 88 minutes

Plot: To save her father from death in the army, a Chinese maiden secretly goes in his place and becomes one of China's greatest heroes in the process.

Cast:
Ming-Na – Mulan (voice)
Lea Salonga – Mulan (singing voice)
Migual Ferrer – Shan-Yu
Harvery Fierstein – Yao
Eddie Murphy – Mushu
Pat Morita – The Emperor

DVD Extras:
•   Lyric Book
•   Music Modes
•   Downloadable Song

My Thoughts
It has been quite a long time since I have watched Mulan, and while I have always loved the film I seem to have forgotten just how fantastic it is. I watched it tonight for the first time in a long time and was truly blown away by it. Mulan is one of Disney’s most daring stories, especially considering that it is based off a Chinese legacy and China has known to be quite touchy about these controversial topics. When I say legacy I refer to an ancient Chinese poem about a girl named Mulan who follows a loosely similar journey to the character in the film, to this day however no one is sure if the poem is factual or not. After researching a little I found out that Mulan did have a very limited release in China however I didn’t find what their actual reception to the film was. Either way watching this film is still a fantastic viewing experience.

Considering most Disney films are made with a young audience in mind they did not really hold back with this one and that is something I admire. While it may not be overly violent some scenes are still quite haunting, such as images of villages in flame and battlefields strewn with the bodies of hundreds of dead soldiers. Aside from that the film is filled with scenes of stunning beauty, such as the wonderfully drawn landscapes of ancient China. And then there is the sublime, the massive Hun army charging down a snowcapped mountain on horseback, the leader of the Mongolians holding the Emperor hostage in The Forbidden City with thousands of Chinese citizens looking on. These images are both memorable and amazing for the sheer scale of them achieved within hand-drawn cell animation.

Another high point of the film is the music, and not only the fantastic songs, as like most Disney films this is a musical, but also the beautiful score that can be heard throughout the film. This Eastern inspired music delivers the perfect background for the film and enhances the atmosphere to a large extent. The films story of a girl breaking out in a male-dominated society and proving her worth, even though it could cost her life is admirable, and for the most part I feel told quite well. It really is a film for empowering young girls and women into believing that they are strong and can be whatever they want to be. While this message may not be as relevant today in most Western countries I still feel this is an important film for both young girls and boys to watch.

While I have to admit that some parts towards the end of the film, when all the men learn their ‘lesson’ about treating women equally did come off as a bit cheesy, the message is still there however and it’s a good one. While the film obviously has quite a serious plot and many darker moments there is still humour here, most of which is provided by Eddie Murphy’s character ‘Mushu’. I feel that the humour is well timed and even had me laughing out loud a fair few times, as well as feeling as if it added to the film, rather than cheapening it as these ‘clown’ characters sometimes can. Although the exception to that being the ‘ancestor party’ scene towards the end of the film which I did feel was a bit cringe-worthy and unnecessary.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on March 01, 2010, 11:50:36 AM

FernGully: The Last Rainforest

(http://gfx.filmweb.pl/po/81/46/98146/6909724.2.jpg)

Year: 1992

Director(s): Bill Kroyer

Run Time: 76 mins

Plot: The magical inhabitants of a rainforest called FernGully fight to save their home that is threatened by logging and a polluting force of destruction called Hexxus.

Cast:
Tim Curry – Hexxus
Samantha Mathis – Crysta
Christian Slater – Pips
Robin Williams – Batty Koda
Grace Zabriskie – Magi Lune
Geoffrey Blake – Ralph
Robert Pastorelli - Tony

DVD Extras:
• None

My Thoughts
Now here is an animated film that pushed forward a strong environmental message before it become the ‘in’ thing to do with this medium. Even though now it seems almost every second animated film has some environmental message I still feel none have been as powerful as FernGully. The message is strong, but not annoyingly in your face such as Happy Feet, but also not too small that it is unrecognizable.

The strange thing about this film is that humans aren’t the direct antagonists here, a large oil consuming monster named Hexxus is, of whom the humans unknowingly help along in his campaign to destroy nature. Because of this the audience is lead to feel sorry for the oblivious people in the film, despite the fact that it is they who are helping this monster destroy the Earth.

Batty Koda voiced by Robin Williams is an incredible character in this film, not since The Plague Dogs has a character of animal testing had such a prominent role in a film. Confused and disorientated this bat who had escaped from a science labs with a wire sticking out of his head delivers some of the film’s most outstanding moments. Such as a song that may sound upbeat when it first starts but once you actually pay attention to the lyrics you realize it is a gruesome tale of what happened to him under the hand of humans, “They used and abused me, battered and bruised me, red wires, green wires stuck em right through me”. I never noticed just how powerful these song lyrics were when I watched this as a child, but now I can fully appreciate it.

Aside from the strong message there are hardly enough words to describe how beautiful I consider this film. Set in an Australian rainforest the scenery and depiction of its wildlife is amazing, as well an amazing soundtrack which makes some scenes so magical and strong. The atmosphere in this film is created so well that I can practically feel the forest of FernGully sometimes.

Yes, this film is Avatar before it was Avatar, the stories are very similar (as it is too many other films). While Avatar was amazing in the cinema it is something that I can see get boring quickly, I can’t even imagine myself buying Avatar on DVD as the reason I feel I liked it so much was only because it was on the big screen and 3D. FernGully however is a film that I have already been watching my entire life but get excited again before each viewing.

I know I don’t usually put extras into my reviews but I found one of the scenes from this film on YouTube that I consider to be its most powerful. I have seen this film many times but to this day I can’t watch this scene without getting Goosebumps.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Tom on March 01, 2010, 06:42:02 PM

I have never seen this movie. The only thing I know about it is through this review (http://thatguywiththeglasses.com/videolinks/thatguywiththeglasses/nostalgia-critic/4191-ferngully) done by Nostalgia Critic and Nostalgia Chick. They seem to have the complete opposite opinion on this movie.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on March 01, 2010, 11:29:31 PM

Haha I watched some of that review, I couldn't get through all of it though, that guy was just so in your face and I found him a bit annoying. Still everyone has different opinions of every film, I dislike a lot of the ones with the strong environmental messages but I think FernGully's is fantastic.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on March 04, 2010, 05:44:32 AM

Quote from: Tom on March 01, 2010, 06:42:02 PM

I have never seen this movie. The only thing I know about it is through this review (http://thatguywiththeglasses.com/videolinks/thatguywiththeglasses/nostalgia-critic/4191-ferngully) done by Nostalgia Critic and Nostalgia Chick. They seem to have the complete opposite opinion on this movie.

Not even the recent remake?

Avatar, I think it's called, by a guy names Cameron.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Tom on March 04, 2010, 05:54:36 PM

Quote from: Achim on March 04, 2010, 05:44:32 AM

Quote from: Tom on March 01, 2010, 06:42:02 PM
I have never seen this movie. The only thing I know about it is through this review (http://thatguywiththeglasses.com/videolinks/thatguywiththeglasses/nostalgia-critic/4191-ferngully) done by Nostalgia Critic and Nostalgia Chick. They seem to have the complete opposite opinion on this movie.
Not even the recent remake?

Avatar, I think it's called, by a guy names Cameron.

No, I am one of the very few people who didn't watch Avatar. Usually if a film has too much hype and I myself am not caught up in it early on, I refuse to watch it in the cinema. Even though everyone I know recommends it to me, I still have not the urge to watch it.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on March 04, 2010, 09:09:44 PM

That's exactly how I am. The more hype I hear, the less I want to see it! I made the effort with Avatar because I wanted to have an informed opinion on this generations "3D revolution".

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on March 05, 2010, 05:54:06 AM

Quote from: Tom on March 04, 2010, 05:54:36 PM

No, I am one of the very few people who didn't watch Avatar.

29, I read.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on March 06, 2010, 10:14:09 AM

Monsters vs Aliens

(http://www.667shopping.com/upload/20090605132744Monsters%20vs.%20Aliens.jpg)

Year: 2009

Director(s): Rob Letterman, Conrad Vernon

Run Time: 94 minutes

Plot: When a meteorite from outer space hits a young woman and turns her into a giant monster, she is taken to a secret government compound where she meets a ragtag group of monsters also rounded up over the years.

Cast:
Reese Witherspoon – Susan Murphy / Ginormica
Seth Rogen – B.O.B
Hugh Laurie – Dr. Cockroach Ph. D
Will Arnett – The Missing Link
Kiefer Sutherland – General W.R. Monger
Rainn Wilson – Gallaxhar
Stephen Colbert – President Hathaway
Paul Rudd – Derek Dietl

DVD Extras:
• Filmmaker Commentary
• Modern Monster Movie Making
• The Tech of MONSTERS VS. ALIENS
• Deleted Scenes:
• DWA Music Video Juke Box
• Trailers: >
- How To Train Your Dragon
- Penguins of Madagascar
- Shrek The Halls
- Secrets of the Furious Five
• MONSTERS VS. ALIENS Activision Game trailer
• B.O.B.’S BIG BREAK (in Monster 3D & 2D) bonus movie, plus more out-of-this-world features:
• Karaoke Music Party: > “More Than A Woman” with B.O.B.
• “Born To Be Wild” with Dr. Cockroach Ph.D. & The Missing Link
• “I Will Survive” with Ginormica
• Paddle Ball Game in Monster 3D
• DVD-Rom (2D): > MONSTERS VS. ALIENS Activision Game Demo with Cheat Code
• Creature Feature Fun Factory

My Thoughts
I have never been the biggest fan of DreamWorks computer animated films but I must say that I was pleasantly surprised by this one, much like I was with Kung Fu Panda. I wasn’t expecting much going into this film as I find that DreamWorks films are usually flashy animation chock full of pop culture references and corny jokes. Now Monster’s Vs Aliens did have a few corny jokes throughout, but unlike most other DreamWorks films I found myself laughing out loud for a lot of the film.

Strewn throughout the film are some subtle, and some not so subtle references to almost every sci-fi and monster film I have seen. Some of these work very well and others such as a missile with ‘E.T Go Home’ written on it being shot at the Aliens are just well, lame. Almost all of the main characters in this film were quite lovable despite their varying appearances. The animation was fairly standard for DreamWorks, I didn’t see it in 3D but I heard it was good. In the end this wasn’t an outstanding animated film but it was a lot of fun and quite funny in a lot of parts.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on March 09, 2010, 02:12:34 AM

Noir

(http://i45.tinypic.com/2gtagqc.jpg)

Anime Type: TV (26 Episodes)

Year: 2001

Director: Mashimo, Koichi

Plot: Mireille Bouquet is a professional assassin, and a very good one at that. But when she follows up an e-mail from a young Japanese girl named Yumura Kirika, inviting her to take "a pilgrimage to the past", her life becomes even more dangerous than it already is. Now, with a haunting melody invoking the memory of an event long past, Mireille and Kirika decide to work together to find the truth about a thousand year old organization that has controlled both of their lives since before they were born. And the only clue in their search, the only thing Kirika remembers about herself, becomes their working codename: a name designating an ancient fate, of two maidens who reign over death--Noir.

My Thoughts:
This series is the first in a trilogy of “Girls with guns” anime by Koichi Mashimo. I highly enjoyed this one and will now be tracking down the others. Noir is a fantastic piece of assassination work, but unlike most films or TV concerning assassins, the characters here are both female and aged 15-20. In fact the younger female assassins are almost reminiscent of Natalie Portman in Leon.

Noir is a stunning anime, set in Paris the backgrounds of the city, both day and night are beautiful, but it is not only Paris that looks amazing. Being a show about high class assassins we travel the world somewhat through the show, we see the streets of Russia, beautiful temples in Taiwan and even parts of Venice among other locations, each area looks just as fantastic as the last too.

The plot of this anime starts strong, then has a slight lull a couple of episodes in here I found it to be a bit dull, it soon picks up however to an extremely intriguing plot that really doesn’t full make sense until you have watched the show to the last episode. One thing I found interesting about the show, which is also very unusual for anime is that even though most of the episodes are high on violence, we never see any blood for the whole time. There are knife fights, sword fights and most importantly, amazing shoot outs every episode yet all of them are executed within a bloodless manor, the most gruesome parts here are hidden from the audience. That’s not to say however that the show isn’t violent, the two young female assassins in the lead are professional killers and I would say their body count for the whole show would have to be in the hundreds.

The music throughout this show was fantastic, one of the highlights for me and really suited each of the characters and all the different locations. If there is one thing that bothered me about the show it would have been the almost emotional void of the lead characters for large parts of the series, but in the end that is their characters, people who can kill without feeling anything for their victims. Overall though this is one of the better short anime series I have seen, I can definitely see myself watching this one again.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: RossRoy on March 09, 2010, 04:10:47 AM

I love Noir! I found it to be a marvelous series. I love how it develops the characters, and the mystery surrounding it.

I also watched Madlax recently (part of the trilogy you mention I think). I was a bit disappointed, but it might have to do with how high the bar was set by Noir.

But I have a question - what's the third part of the trilogy? (and 2nd is Madlax isn't it) I'd be very interested to hunt it down myself.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on March 09, 2010, 04:51:47 AM

First is Noir, second is Madlax and the third is a series about Bounty Hunters called El Cazador de La Bruja (I hope I spelt that right). So far I have only seen Noir but I would love to track down the other two.
From what you say the standard might drop from the first one but I will probably watch them all anyway, I'm glad you also liked Noir. :thumbup:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: dfmorgan on March 10, 2010, 12:32:14 PM

:thanks: Sophie for the review and Sébastien for the endorsement :clap:.

I have now ordered both Noir and Madlax

Dave

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on March 10, 2010, 12:42:07 PM

No worries Dave, I think you will like Noir, it's a fantastic series. As far as Madlax goes I am still yet to see it myself, but I am hoping to get my hands on it soon.
:thumbup:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on March 16, 2010, 11:39:44 AM

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni

(http://i40.tinypic.com/zodmdf.jpg)

Anime Type: TV (26 Episodes)

Year: 2006

Director: Kon, Chiaki

Plot: After moving into the quiet town of Hinamizawa, Maebara Keiichi spends his days blissfully in school often playing games with his local friends. However, appearances can be deceiving. One fateful day, Keiichi stumbles upon news of a murder that had occurred in Hinamizawa. From this point on, horrific events unfold in front of Keiichi, as he soon learns his close friends may not be all that they seem. Based on the amateur mystery game by 7th Expansion, the story is told in a series of different scenarios.

My Thoughts:
Where do I even begin describing Higurashi… basically, if I thought Elfen Lied was a gruesome anime well, it has nothing on this show. Higurashi is based around a group of young people (we never really find out their ages but my guess would be 10-14) and what they go through living in the small and somewhat remote town of Hinemizawa. A town which is apparently cursed by an ancient God.

Imagine taking a handful of young, cute colourful characters and putting them in a room together, only to come back an hour later and find they have all hacked and tortured each other to death. Now do that same thing again and again, only it’s okay, because every time these horrific events unfold, we get one step closer to understanding, why the hell they happened.

Higurashi’s plot is told in violent bloody chapters, chapters in this series can be anywhere from 4-6 episodes long. Each chapter begins from the start of the series, almost as if we keep going back in time, but every time the circumstances and outcomes change dramatically, but a running theme within each chapter is insanity. Eventually, one or more characters (this changes for each chapter) becomes overrun with paranoia and turns into a murderous vengeful being, there’s murder, suicide, and lot’s of torture in a large amount of the episodes, definitely not an anime for the faint hearted. What makes a lot of these scenes even more disturbing is that it is the cute, young school aged characters who are the ones doing this.

From what I have said so far, Higurashi might sound like just some excuse for piles of animated violence, but I found it to be more than this. The plot line that repeats itself differently is intriguing, and a lot of the show plays out as a murder-mystery which leaves you watching through all the violence just because you want to know what happens, and who did it.

Visually the backgrounds in Higurashi are a major highlight for me, they are beautiful, although I did not like the character animation that much, I found it’s almost over simplistic style not quite right for this anime, although in a way that made it almost more eerie. The sound effects and music were also great, the eerie sound of cicadas and crickets can be heard in almost all of the outdoor scenes which really creates a strong atmospheric feel to the show. This anime is definitely not for everyone as it contains many highly disturbing themes, but it is highly interesting at the same time, I would recommend it to anime fans.

Also, this anime has probably my favourite opening and closing credits.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on April 01, 2010, 12:02:24 AM

Balto

(http://i43.tower.com/images/mm106971812/balto-kevin-bacon-dvd-cover-art.jpg)

Year: 1995

Director(s): Simon Wells

Run Time: 78 minutes

Plot: An outcast half-wolf risks his life to prevent a deadly epidemic from ravaging Nome, Alaska.

Cast:
Kevin Bacon – Balto
Bob Hoskins – Boris the Goose
Bridget Fonda – Jenna
Jim Cummings – Steele
Phil Collins – Muk and Luk
Jack Angel – Nikki

DVD Extras:
•   Making of Balto
•   Theatrical Trailer
•   ET Trailer

My Thoughts
I grew up reading Gary Paulsen’s novels about the harsh arctic world of competitive dog sledding and because of that I have always had a keen interest in the Iditarod race across Alaska. Balto tells the history of this race and why the race is run along that track. While the plot of the film may be a slightly glamorized and sways from the true story several times it does follow the story of what actually happened, even if somewhat loosely. There was a dog named Balto, and he did lead a dog sled team halfway across Alaska with precious medicine needed to stave off death back at home for a lot of children.

Many things are added in the film, such as Balto’s background as being a half wolf half dog and also his rivalry with another dog in the film, Steele. These additions make for an interesting story which is told in superb animation. Many of the race scenes are exciting and there are a few funny characters which younger kids are bound to love. The story has many sweet moments as well as a few scenes that are quite sad. Some images in fact, such as Balto witnessing the local wood worker building small sized coffins for all the children of the town are very sad indeed.

This will always be one of my favourites out of the animated films that enjoyed as a young child and still enjoy just as much now. I am looking forward to watching it many more times in the future.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on April 01, 2010, 12:46:52 AM

The Prince of Egypt

(http://i43.tower.com/images/mm107004971/prince-egypt-val-kilmer-dvd-cover-art.jpg)

Year: 1998

Director(s): Brenda Chapman, Steve Hickner

Run Time: 99 minutes

Plot: An Egyptian prince learns of his identity as a Hebrew and, later his destiny to become the chosen deliverer of his people.

Cast:
Val Kilmer – Moses
Ralph Fiennes – Rameses
Michelle Pfeiffer - Tzipporah
Sandra Bullock – Miriam
Jeff Goldblum – Aaron
Helen Mirren – The Queen
Patrick Stewart - Seti

DVD Extras:
•   The Making of the Prince of Egypt
•   “When You Believe” Multi Language Presentation
•   Basics of Animation “Chariot Race”
•   Focus on Technical Effects
•   THE PRINCE OF EGYPT Art Gallery
•   2 Theatrical Trailers

My Thoughts
When it comes to DreamWorks animated films, especially their computer animated range I usually end up disappointed. Out of their entire collection of computer animated films so far, there has really only been a couple I have enjoyed. Earlier DreamWorks films however, when they were still traditionally animated delivered us a few gems, The Prince of Egypt is in my opinion one of their best. Being DreamWorks first animated film it is apparent that within Prince, they were trying to find their own unique style, something that stood apart from Disney’s traditionally animated movies and still be successful in its own right. I’m not quite sure how successful this film was when it first came out and I know that many people see a similar style to the Disney films, such as making it a musical. Many aspects of it however stood out to me as quite different to Disney, particularly the style of character animation and design. Although it was a first effort, the film was made extremely well, many of the scenes are beautiful and flawless.

The Prince of Egypt is first and foremost a bible story, and almost anyone I know could tell you that I am the least religious person ever. I in fact try to steer clear from most religions yet I do find some religious stories interesting, in a purely fictional way. This is one such story which I find quite interesting, Moses freeing the Hebrews from Egypt. Now I have never closely studied the Bible, or haven’t for many years anyway so I do not know how close this film sticks to the original story, I did however find some parts disturbing. Within the film the Egyptians kill all the first born sons of the Hebrews, then later in the story Moses, with the power of God does the same thing back to Egyptians. This does not seem right to me, especially coming from this so-called ‘God’ who is supposed to be some sort of holy savior, this act of ruthlessly killing innocent children on his behalf just seems wrong to me. Even if it was for revenge it just doesn’t seem like a very Godly act at all, and if anything it just reassures in my mind why I dislike most Catholic and Christian religions so much.

Aside from that however I have always found this film quite enjoyable, it is a musical which I love in an animated film and I thought the songs were excellent, as well as greatly enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Ancient Egypt. On an interesting note, I discovered that this film was banned in Egypt.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on April 13, 2010, 08:00:22 AM

How To Train Your Dragon

(http://www.entertainmentwallpaper.com/images/photo/how_to_train_your_dragon.jpg)

Year: 2010

Director(s): Dean DeBlois, Chris Sanders

Run Time: 98 minutes

Plot: A hapless young Viking who aspires to hunt dragons becomes the unlikely friend of a young dragon himself, and learns there may be more to the creatures than he assumed.

Cast:
Jay Baruchel – Hiccup
Gerard Butler – Stoic
Craig Ferguson – Gobber
Christopher Mintz-Plasse – Fishlegs
America Ferrera – Astrid
Jonah Hill - Snoutlout

DVD Extras:
• Saw in Cinema

My Thoughts
Now now DreamWorks, where did this come from? A film with a fantastic storyline, no copious amounts of unneeded pop culture references and hardly any toilet humour. Is this really a DreamWorks film? I had to keep asking myself that while watching this latest effort. DreamWorks do indeed seem to be improving their game lately, what with the very decent Kung Fu Panda and now this. I still don’t think they have a made a film that is quite as PIXAR worthy as some people seem to think but they sure are coming close, which in my books is quite a good thing.

How To Train Your Dragon was a surprisingly heartfelt and exciting film, with stunning visuals as many of the action or flying scenes with the dragons were superb, and while the film may not have quite the lasting impression of say, Up it was still highly entertaining, and a fun fast-paced film without ever feeling too childish. I myself have never read the books this film is based on but that doesn’t seem to matter at all as I still highly enjoyed it. The fact that the main Dragon ‘Toothless’ bears a striking resembles to Disney’s ‘Stitch’ as they were designed by the same person bothered me at first, but I soon came to love the creature in the film.

I saw this in 3D and feel that the 3D actually enhanced this film, unlike a lot of the other 3D efforts out at the moment. The story was clever and while being quite straight-forward and easy to follow it still had a nice couple of twists which you didn’t expect from the start. I felt the ending was maybe a little overly happy, going with a traditional happy ending to appease the kids but overall a great animated film, one which I would love to see again.

My Rating
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Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 13, 2010, 01:48:15 AM

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs

(http://i44.tinypic.com/1z17bme.jpg)

Year: 2009

Director(s): Phil Lord, Chris Miller

Run Time: 90 minutes

Plot: The most delicious event since macaroni met cheese. Inspired by the beloved children's book, the film focuses on a town where food falls from the sky like rain.

Cast:
Bill Hader - Flint Lockwood
Anna Faris – Sam Sparks
James Caan – Tim Lockwood
Andy Samberg – ‘Baby’ Brent
Bruce Campbell – Mayor Shelbourne
Mr T. – Earl Deveraux

DVD Extras:
- Directors' Commentary with Bill Hader
- Interactive "Splat" Button (Throw Food at the Screen While You Watch the Movie!)
- A Recipe for Success: The Making of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
- Key Ingredients: The Voices of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
- Flint's Food Fight Game - Enhanced for Blu-ray
- Extended Scenes
- Early Development Scenes
- Progression Reels with Introductions by Visual Effects Supervisor Rob Bredow
- Interactive "Raining Sunshine" Sing-A-Long
- “Raining Sunshine” Music Video by iCarly's Miranda Cosgrove
- Behind the Scenes of Miranda Cosgrove's "Raining Sunshine" Music Video
- Make It Rain Food

My Thoughts
I was quite surprised by this film. I went into it really not expecting much at all, which in the end probably let me to enjoy it more. Cloudy was a lot funnier than I expected it to be. While watching it I found myself laughing out loud a lot of times throughout the film. I thought the voice acting was pretty good, if a little over the top at times, such as the character played by Mr. T.

While I expected a farfetched story what I got was even more wacky than I ever imagined. Especially towards the end of the film where the entire plot basically turned into the ending of Independence Day. As a vegetarian the idea of giant steaks and meatballs falling from the sky isn’t exactly inviting for me, although I think the fact that one scene had giant, people-eating chickens
made up for that.

This film for me has great re watch value, it’s funny, very light-hearted and not something you exactly have to have your brain in 100% when you watch it. This is the second film from Sony Pictures Animation that I have liked, the first being Surf’s Up. The studio has seemed a bit hit-and-miss so far but I am looking forward to what they will be releasing in the future.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5400/starhathalf.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on May 13, 2010, 06:25:49 AM

Reviewer Mark Kermode also enjoyed it more than he had expected. He likened it to "animated Davids Lynch for kids" :laugh: I am looking forward to see it sometime soon.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 13, 2010, 06:30:13 AM

That's an interesting idea Achim. I can't personally see where Cloudy is similar to Lynch's works, although I probably haven't seen enough of his films to recognise it.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on May 13, 2010, 06:34:50 AM

Quote from: Critter on May 13, 2010, 06:30:13 AM

That's an interesting idea Achim. I can't personally see where Cloudy is similar to Lynch's works, although I probably haven't seen enough of his films to recognise it.

I kept mentioning the chicken scene

(click to show/hide)

which remotely reminded him of a scene in Eraserhead. Beyond that just some of the whacky ideas...

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 13, 2010, 06:41:31 AM

Quote from: Achim on May 13, 2010, 06:34:50 AM

Quote from: Critter on May 13, 2010, 06:30:13 AM
That's an interesting idea Achim. I can't personally see where Cloudy is similar to Lynch's works, although I probably haven't seen enough of his films to recognise it.
I kept mentioning the chicken scene
(click to show/hide)
the chicken are not alive, are they?
which remotely reminded him of a scene in Eraserhead. Beyond that just some of the whacky ideas...

(click to show/hide)

I haven't seen Eraserhead myself but it wouldn't surprise me if it was some sort of reference. Then entire film was jam packed full of references to various other films.

Do you have a link to Kermode's review? I would like to check it out.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on May 13, 2010, 07:20:05 AM

Quote from: Critter on May 13, 2010, 06:41:31 AM

Do you have a link to Kermode's review? I would like to check it out.

I am sorry, I gave youtube and google a quick whirl, no luck.

Problem is: This is a radio show. I listen to it while it's released as a podcast, which is removed from iTunes again after only a few short weeks, so there is no backlog I can refer to you either. A written verison may not even exist. Since they also live-stream, some of the reviews are shown on YouTube as excerpts, but I couldn't find one for Meatballs.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 13, 2010, 07:55:27 AM

That's fine, thanks heaps for trying anyway.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: W0m6at on May 20, 2010, 04:27:03 AM

I'd love to see what you think of A Scanner Darkly (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0405296/). It's rotoscoped (filmed live-action which is then "drawn over" to produce creepily realistic animation). I'll probably return later with more suggestions, but that one stands out for me.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 20, 2010, 04:52:39 AM

I have actually seen parts of A Scanner Darkly before, it's just one of those films that I have caught parts of here and there but never actually seen the whole thing. Visually it was alright, but truthfully the whole thing sort of annoyed me a bit. I mean if you are going to film the whole thing with actors then why make it an animated film at all? It works fine sometimes to film actors then animate if need be, like in things like Avatar, but it just seemed uneeded in Scanner. It was almost like they couldn't make up their mind between a live-action and an animated film. That being said though I won't cast proper judgement on it until I have watched the entire film.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: W0m6at on May 20, 2010, 05:05:50 AM

Quote from: Critter on May 20, 2010, 04:52:39 AM

I have actually seen parts of A Scanner Darkly before, it's just one of those films that I have caught parts of here and there but never actually seen the whole thing. Visually it was alright, but truthfully the whole thing sort of annoyed me a bit. I mean if you are going to film the whole thing with actors then why make it an animated film at all? It works fine sometimes to film actors then animate if need be, like in things like Avatar, but it just seemed uneeded in Scanner. It was almost like they couldn't make up their mind between a live-action and an animated film. That being said though I won't cast proper judgement on it until I have watched the entire film.

It actually works really well for the material. It leaves you uncertain what is real and what isn't... it blurs the lines, and leaves you feeling a little uneasy throughout. Also, it allows for seamless blending when something unusual happens. Since the whole film is about Bob Arctor (Keanu Reeve)'s mental breakdown, it helps to empathise with him. It's certainly not simply a gimmick.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on May 20, 2010, 09:01:56 PM

Quote from: W0m6at on May 20, 2010, 05:05:50 AM

Quote from: Critter on May 20, 2010, 04:52:39 AM
I have actually seen parts of A Scanner Darkly before, it's just one of those films that I have caught parts of here and there but never actually seen the whole thing. Visually it was alright, but truthfully the whole thing sort of annoyed me a bit. I mean if you are going to film the whole thing with actors then why make it an animated film at all? It works fine sometimes to film actors then animate if need be, like in things like Avatar, but it just seemed uneeded in Scanner. It was almost like they couldn't make up their mind between a live-action and an animated film. That being said though I won't cast proper judgement on it until I have watched the entire film.

It actually works really well for the material. It leaves you uncertain what is real and what isn't... it blurs the lines, and leaves you feeling a little uneasy throughout. Also, it allows for seamless blending when something unusual happens. Since the whole film is about Bob Arctor (Keanu Reeve)'s mental breakdown, it helps to empathise with him. It's certainly not simply a gimmick.

Absolutely agree. I thought the same as you, Sophie, but when I finally watched it and you see what the story is about, it works brilliantly. Very interesting sci-fi film. :thumbup:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 20, 2010, 11:56:36 PM

I will definitely bump it up my list and watch it properly next time instead of just little bits. I think my friend might actually have it, so I will try watch and review it soon.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on May 28, 2010, 01:23:12 AM

Seems as good a place as any! :laugh:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 28, 2010, 02:00:15 AM

:laugh:

Wow, I sure am thankful for the English translations of that song. Especially the voice of King Louie.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: W0m6at on May 28, 2010, 02:23:42 AM

AFAIK, I didn't find this on these forums and just forget where I got it from, but apologies if that's what I've done.

I've not seen this myself, so can't offer an opinion, but apparently it's photographs manipulated and then animated. Should present a really unsettling experience.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 28, 2010, 02:30:14 AM

Thanks for posting that Wombat, I hadn't heard of this one before but now I am really eager to view it. That animation is amazing, slightly unsettling like you said, but amazing none the less. It certainly has a unique look about it, like stop-motion but with real images.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on May 28, 2010, 06:32:33 AM

Quote from: Jon on May 28, 2010, 01:23:12 AM

Seems as good a place as any! :laugh:

Well, that's what I saw in the cinema as a kid and that what I listened to all the time (owning the "audiobook" LP). The voice is form a then-quite-well-known actor called Klaus Havenstein. For me hearing the original for the first timewasthe oddone out ;)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 31, 2010, 02:31:28 AM

WALL•E

(http://i45.tinypic.com/3126xq0.jpg)

Year: 2008

Director(s): Andrew Stanton

Run Time: 98 minutes

Plot: In the distant future, a small waste collecting robot inadvertently embarks on a space journey that will ultimately decide the fate of mankind.

Cast:
Ben Burt – WALL-E/M-O
Elissa Knight – EVE
Jeff Garlin – Captain McCrea
Fred Willard – Shelby Forthright
John Ratzenberger – John
Kathy Najimy – Mary
Sigourney Weaver – Ship’s Computer

DVD Extras:
•   BURN-E (Short Film)
•   Presto (Short Film)
•   Deleted Scenes
•   Animation Sound Design: Building Worlds From The Sound Up
•   Audio Commentary

My Thoughts
This is a film that I enjoyed so much when it was first released that I saw it four times in the cinema. Three of which were all in the space of one week. I have since watched it again on DVD but it has been a while so I felt due for another viewing. I am still yet to watch this film on blu-ray but my DVD in a blu-ray player enhances the quality already and certainly does the film justice. I am looking to purchase the blu-ray of it in the future though.

Where do I even begin with such a fantastic story, Pixar has yet again set the bar for animated films monumentally high with WALL-E. This is a perfect example of how much credit Pixar gives to young people. The idea of having a film with two protagonists who can’t even speak, save for a few words, and an opening 30 or so minutes with almost no dialogue at all may seem crazy for a film that many will see as being primarily aimed at children. Most children however, do have the understanding and the concentration to sit through something like this and enjoy it just as much as a lot of the adults who saw it would. Animated films for kids don’t need to be all fart jokes and bright colours to keep them entertained, which is something a few animation studios are yet to learn.

Not that WALL-E is without it’s humour of course, many of the robots within the film are hilarious, as each of the non-human characters seem to have more personality than all the humans in the film put together. Like many films coming out now, WALL-E has messages of environmentalism and conservation, themes and messages which have been prominent in many films as subtext, yet here there is nothing subtle about it. In WALL-E we as humans are slapped in the face with having once again destroyed planet Earth. Only here we have destroyed it to such a degree that we can no longer even live on it. Earth as it is in the film is an amazing setting and offers some truly haunting yet stunning scenes. Pixar have managed to make dust beautiful in the Earth scenes as cityscapes of nothing but dust, piles of garbage and old rundown buildings are brought to life.

The characters themselves are wonderful in both personality and design. EVE is a credit to the animation team especially. Here we have a character that is essentially a floating white orb. Yet the amount of emotion and the large expression range, combined with the wonderful sound effects means that us as the audience are never at a loss to understand what she is thinking, and feeling. While the big sweeping scenes in space are visually stunning, I think that where the team shone the most is actually the close-ups in the film. Especially that final close-up between EVE and WALL-E towards the end. During this moment the fact that these characters are robots, are in a film, or aren’t real does not matter at all. These close ups bring a type of life to the character that makes you believe they really are right there in front of you.

I really could go on forever with this film, but I’ll wrap up this review with a final mention of the music. The soundtrack to the film was stunning in every scene, and the inclusion of songs from ‘Hello Dolly’ was a fantastic idea that worked perfectly in the film. WALL-E was not only one of Pixar’s finest hours, but computer animated films in general.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on May 31, 2010, 03:08:15 AM

WALL-E fascinated me because of the photography faults. The way the animators had the computer controlled virtual camera mimic the weight and speed of a real camera, so there are lots of depth of field tricks and focus pulls, etc. There's a great piece on the disc I am sure you will have seen, where they asked a traditional cinematographer to help them and he found it funny because they were using all the problems that photographers have spent the last century trying to hide!

Just shows how Pixar never stop thinking. Absolutely superb film. Didn't think they could go any higher and they pull Up out of nowhere. Ratatouille was exactly shabby either! Learned not to trust them now, except to make stunning films and continue to be the finest film studio producing today, live action or not.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 31, 2010, 03:16:25 AM

I do remember seeing something about that Jon. I love the irony that computers like to make everything perfect, so they had to teach the computers to make mistakes becuase that's what they wanted.

The next Pixar film I am looking forward to the most is 'Brave'. Not that I don't love their sequels so far, becuase I do but it's always they new, stand-alone stories that I find are their best. And Brave seems to almost creepily involve many things that I love. I mean really, Pixar film about a female archer! It's like they knew I existed and made it for me :P.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on May 31, 2010, 03:19:09 AM

Oh yeah! You'll probably hate it. :laugh:

Actually, is that even possible? ;)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 31, 2010, 03:23:58 AM

I highly doubt that I will ever really hate any Pixar films, but who knows where the future will take them. The day I hate a Pixar film will be a sad day for mankind.
But hell, if I do end up hating Brave then I owe you a drink :P... for your clever prediction an all.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on May 31, 2010, 03:26:20 AM

Hell, I'm saving a screen capture of this page! :hysterical: :tease:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on May 31, 2010, 03:44:41 AM

:laugh:

I remember seeing that part about putting in the problems Jon. I watched more extras on the second WALL-E disc after I watched The Pixar Story.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on May 31, 2010, 03:49:30 AM

We've talked about it before too. When Emma started the Firefly/Serenity thread, because I seriously believe that Whedon hasn't been given the respect deserved for starting this attitude that it's ok to make your expensive CGI look like crap, so to speak!

http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5935.0.html

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on May 31, 2010, 03:52:01 AM

It's funny that you bring up Firefly right now. I was just about to say that many of the camer angles, zooms etc of the spaceships in WALL-E reminded me greatly of the same use of camera in Firefly.

Marie, as you can see from the special features list in my above review... I am desperatly starved of WALL-E features. I don't know how but I ended up with the worst WALL-E DVD ever. The packaging sucks, it is only one disc, and it has hardly any extras. Oh how I await the day when I will own it on blu-ray.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on May 31, 2010, 04:20:51 AM

There are all sorts of goodies on the 2 disc DVD version. I think all that stuff is on the Blu-ray too. With Pixar movies, the extras are always so interesting. At least for me.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 02, 2010, 10:01:07 AM

I have recently done some major renovations on the front page of this marathon where I am keeping track of everything. It was getting too clustered and crowded there so I simplified everything and also minimized it quite a bit. But now I have come to a stage where I would like to hyperlink all of the film/show titles to where the review is in this thread. It's quite embarrassing as I have already once asked for help on this matter while I have been here but well... I have forgotten how to do it again. :bag:
I would love it if someone would be kind enough to explain this process to me... again. :-[

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Jimmy on June 02, 2010, 10:58:28 AM

Here it is Sophie ;D
Complete table for all your reviews in this thread. Juste paste everything starting with [table in your first post. If you don't understand something in it just ask.

P.S : don't forget you must quote my reply to get the code.

Years	Title	Rating
2008	Kung Fu Panda (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg95703.html#msg95703)	4
1992	Aladdin (Limited Edition) (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg98446.html#msg98446)	3
1951	Alice in Wonderland (Special Edition) (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg99163.html#msg99163)	5
1995	Pocahontas (Musical Masterpiece Edition) (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg99175.html#msg99175)	5
2009	9 (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg99530.html#msg99530)	3.5
2009	Coraline (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg100457.html#msg100457)	5
2000	The Emperor’s New Groove (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101224.html#msg101224)	3
2009	Final Fantasy VII Advent Children: Complete (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101236.html#msg101236)	3.5
1937	Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101889.html#msg101889)	5
2004	Mai-HiME (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg101944.html#msg101944)	4
2008	Ponyo (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102043.html#msg102043)	3
2006	The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102173.html#msg102173)	4
2002	Ice Age (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102283.html#msg102283)	2
2009	Fantastic Mr Fox (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102417.html#msg102417)	4
2007	ICE (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102538.html#msg102538)	1
2004	Elfen Lied (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102614.html#msg102614)	3.5
1988	Akira (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg102984.html#msg102984)	5
2009	Up (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg103437.html#msg103437)	5
2006	Black Blood Brothers (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg103744.html#msg103744)	3
2001	Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg104867.html#msg104867)	2.5
1998	Mulan (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105060.html#msg105060)	5
1992	FernGully: The Last Rainforest (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105322.html#msg105322)	5
2009	Monsters vs Aliens (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105617.html#msg105617)	3.5
2001	Noir (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg105767.html#msg105767)	5
2006	Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg106190.html#msg106190)	4
1995	Balto (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg107337.html#msg107337)	4
1998	The Prince of Egypt (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg107342.html#msg107342)	3.5
2010	How To Train Your Dragon (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg107956.html#msg107956)	4
2009	Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg109635.html#msg109635)	3.5
2008	WALL•E (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5602.msg112003.html#msg112003)	5

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 02, 2010, 01:19:35 PM

Thanks Jimmy, I never have quite figured out how to use tables here so this is helpful. :bow:

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on June 07, 2010, 09:35:00 PM

Hey, Sophie. Empire have posted a link to a Pixar feature on how they made the Day & Night short to accompany Toy Story 3. Clever stuff. They never stop thinking, do they? :thumbup:

http://www.empireonline.com/news/story.asp?NID=28064

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 08, 2010, 12:58:37 AM

Thanks for that Jon. There seems to be a lot of these around at the moment. I'm subscribed to Empire Australia and the latest issue had a three page spread on Toy Story three, then another three page article on Cal Arts, and then right after that pages of original art from Tim Burton :laugh:. It's like they made the issue for me.
In all the excitment about Toy Story 3 I have completely forgotten about the new short that is attatched to each film! So thanks for this reminder, even more to be excited about now.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on June 10, 2010, 12:36:03 AM

Ok. This is weird. But strangely, I find that reassuring that someone like Verbinski isn't following trends!

http://www.empireonline.com/news/story.asp?NID=28088

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 10, 2010, 01:03:18 AM

Well that was... interesting. I hadn't even heard of this film until now, since I know nothing of the plot I can at least say I like it's visual style so far.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Antares on June 10, 2010, 01:32:57 AM

Quote from: Jon on June 07, 2010, 09:35:00 PM

Hey, Sophie. Empire have posted a link to a Pixar feature on how they made the Day & Night short to accompany Toy Story 3. Clever stuff. They never stop thinking, do they? :thumbup:

http://www.empireonline.com/news/story.asp?NID=28064

They never fail to amaze me with the concepts they create. That looks like it's going to be the best short yet.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 29, 2010, 03:09:47 AM

Toy Story

(http://i45.tinypic.com/2e4dgmc.jpg)

Year: 1995

Director(s): John Lasseter

Run Time: 80 min

Plot: A cowboy toy is profoundly threatened and jealous when a fancy spaceman toy supplants him as top toy in a boy's room.

Cast:
Tom Hanks – Woody
Tim Allen – Buzz Lightyear
Don Rickles – Mr Potato Head
Jim Varney – Slinky Dog
Wallace Shawn – Rex
John Ratzenberger – Hamm
Annie Potts – Bo Peep
John Morris – Andy

DVD Extras:
• Making of Toy Story
• Short film: Tin Toy

My Thoughts
Toy Story is ultimately the beginning of the Pixar legacy as we know it today. Sure there were short films before this, but this is the first one that really reached out to the mainstream audience. And what a marvelous film it is. To start with, this film is visually stunning which is quite an accomplishment for such a new filmmaking medium. How is it that this film, made 15 years ago still looks great today, even better than some of the other computer animated films being turned out. Compared to newer Pixar films there are a couple of minor noticeable imperfections within the animation that we wouldn’t except from them today, but Toy Story still holds its own visually.

Of course I could go on forever about how beautiful it looks, but in the end a great film comes down to a great story, and storytelling is what Pixar do best. Toy Story sets up a method of storytelling that we will come to know and love over the years throughout all their films, and it is a method that really speaks to everyone. The fact that a film about talking plastic children’s toys has come to be loved equally by not only children, but adults as well shows the true magic of Pixar’s ability to reach an audience. These may be targeted as family, or children’s films but unlike some other children’s films Pixar do not talk down to kids, which is what I believe to be a major part of their success.

The characterization in a film where the characters are inanimate objects is crucial to it’s success, we have to care about these toys and in the end we do. There are some funny parts in this film, but some extremely emotional scenes as well, which is something that will carry on with all three of the films. It’s in these emotional scenes that it is proven just how much we have come to care for these little plastic characters.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Antares on June 29, 2010, 05:13:11 AM

Do you think that Disney will some day pull a Lucas with this film? You know, completely redo the animation.

Discuss...

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 29, 2010, 05:17:31 AM

If they do I dearly hope I will be long dead before it happens :laugh:.

At this point I can't imagine them doing it. Pixar is Disney's poster child, they realised that their films were getting worse and worse so now they rely on Pixar for actual decent films, while they take care of the merchendising. I believe if we were going to see old animation remakes we would have seen some already by now, I mean they have been making animated films since the 1930's and still no remakes of old-style animated redone with flashy effects. Also, every Pixar film is visually on a higher level than most Disney ones. If I was going to see them redo the animation on anything it would be of some of their own, not of Pixar films.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Antares on June 29, 2010, 05:20:14 AM

No, what I meant was bringing the images up to date so that Toy Story 1 looks as good as 2 & 3.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 29, 2010, 05:23:13 AM

Oh sorry I completely misunderstood that. :-[.

I'm not sure, the possibility for a digital remaster of this film isn't out of the question, the animation still looks pretty good by today's standards but I could see it happening maybe in the future. I can picture some sort of 10th Anniversary box set of digitally remastered Toy Story films. That seems like something Disney would do.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Antares on June 29, 2010, 05:25:42 AM

Also, I was looking at this thread and noticed something. Being such a fan of animation, have you ever seen Yellow Submarine?

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 29, 2010, 05:28:46 AM

I have unfortunatly not seen that one. I love animated films but have seen not nearly as many as I would have liked to. I am using this thread and the list in the first post as a way to try and get a move on in terms of how many more I need to watch.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Antares on June 29, 2010, 05:32:23 AM

Then you definitely need to find it. It is one of the most strikingly creative and beautiful animation films ever.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 29, 2010, 05:33:43 AM

Thanks for the tip, I will add it to my list of animated films I need to watch. It is a very long list but I am slowly getting there.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Antares on June 29, 2010, 05:35:46 AM

I don't know if it is planned for a Blu-Ray release, but it is the kind of film that screams for that kind of treatment.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 29, 2010, 05:37:47 AM

So are you a Beatles fan or did you just like that film? If you are a fan then what did you think of Across the Universe? I thought it was an interesting film but I'm always looking for real Beatles fans opinions of it, as they are often very... varied.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Antares on June 29, 2010, 05:44:27 AM

The first moment that I can recall in my life, was the Beatles on Ed Sullivan back in February of 1964. I was 3 1/2 at the time. I remember the girls screaming.

Have never seen the film you mentioned though.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 29, 2010, 06:17:12 AM

You should check it out sometime, it's a musical based entirley off Beatles songs. I think there is something like 30-40 songs in the whole film. I didn't care for the story too much but I loved the visual look of the film.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on June 29, 2010, 06:52:31 AM

I sure would watch it if they updated the visuals of Toy Story to, let's say, the standard of Toy Story 3. As long as greedo still shoots first and they don't fill "empty spaces" with new toys it's all good, I say.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 30, 2010, 02:14:38 PM

Toy Story 3

(http://i49.tinypic.com/3y2b6.jpg)

Year: 2010

Director(s): Lee Unkrich

Run Time: 103 min

Plot: Woody, Buzz, and the rest of their toy-box friends are dumped in a day-care center after their owner, Andy, departs for college.

Cast:
Tom Hanks – Woody
Tim Allen – Buzz Lightyear
Don Rickles – Mr Potato Head
Jim Varney – Slinky Dog
Ned Beatty – Lotso
Joan Cusack - Jessie
Wallace Shawn – Rex
Jodi Benson – Barbie
Michael Keaton - Ken
John Ratzenberger – Hamm
John Morris – Andy

DVD Extras:
• Saw at Cinema

My Thoughts
The original Toy Story was a film that was never even intended to have a sequel when it was first made, yet here we are 15 years later with two extra films and one of the best film trilogies I have ever had the pleasure to witness. Toy Story 3 achieves something that, even as a long time Pixar fan I would not have thought possible, and that is that it not only lived up to the previous two films, but in my opinion it also surpassed them.

This film literally has everything, but let’s start at the beginning. The opening scene of Toy Story 3 is probably now my favourite opening of any Pixar film. It is exciting and action-packed on a massive scale and reintroduces us to all of our favourite characters in excellent style. Unlike some films though that open with a bang, this one doesn’t falter throughout and keeps us entertained until it’s closing moments.

While watching this film I cried, more than once, I laughed, I was on the edge of my seat and I witnessed quite a few heart-racing moments. To say that Toy Story 3 is an emotional ride is almost an understatement. I saw this film in 3D and I believe it helped to enhance, and not hinder the film. I have always found that 3D works better with animated films and it was used in quite a subtle way, adding another dimension to the film while not being intrusive to our viewing experience.

Along with all the old toys that we have all come to know and love this film introduces us to many new characters, but I never felt like it was too many new faces to handle. One of the new characters in particular I believe to one of Pixar’s best villains ever, but I won’t go into two many details there.

Overall this is certainly one of the best films, if not the best film of the year and I cannot wait to buy it when it comes out on blu-ray. Pixar seem to never let us down and just continue to rise with each film, let us hope that they don’t let us down in the future.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: W0m6at on June 30, 2010, 02:21:56 PM

Have you considered watching some Ralph Bakshi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ralph_Bakshi)?

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on June 30, 2010, 02:54:07 PM

I have seen some Ralph Bashki. I have Wizards and once saw about half of Fire and Ice. I plan to watch more of his films and review them all on here at some point but as you can probably tell, I am an extremly slow reviewer, so who knows when that might be. :-[

I can tell you know though that from what I have seen I have mixed feelings about Bashki's work. I like the way he mixed with the different mediums in his animation, but from what I saw in Wizards I feel that he was going the wrong way about trying to make adult fantasy animation.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on June 30, 2010, 04:18:30 PM

Quote from: Critter on June 30, 2010, 02:14:38 PM

This film literally has everything, but let’s start at the beginning. The opening scene of Toy Story 3 is probably now my favourite opening of any Pixar film. It is exciting and action-packed on a massive scale and reintroduces us to all of our favorite characters in excellent style.

I have mentioned it before, I think. If you now go back and rewatch the first one it is very interesting to see how similar the openings are.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on June 30, 2010, 09:25:16 PM

Quote from: Achim on June 30, 2010, 04:18:30 PM

Quote from: Critter on June 30, 2010, 02:14:38 PM
This film literally has everything, but let’s start at the beginning. The opening scene of Toy Story 3 is probably now my favourite opening of any Pixar film. It is exciting and action-packed on a massive scale and reintroduces us to all of our favorite characters in excellent style.
I have mentioned it before, I think. If you now go back and rewatch the first one it is very interesting to see how similar the openings are.

I think it is kind of similar to the opening in Toy Story 2 as well..that one has the video game, but it is still an...imagined look at what is going on.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on July 01, 2010, 02:19:07 AM

Yes similar scenes, but I think that the entire train saga was beautifully done, and very excited as well. Certainly my favourite out of the openings.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on July 01, 2010, 03:39:53 AM

Ohh...I forgot to ask before....what did you think of the new short Day & Night?

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on July 01, 2010, 03:51:12 AM

I loved Day & Night, I thought it was beautifully crafted and those final moments with that voice over was magical. The way they combined 2D and 3D animation together was just very clever and the story of those two personalities, completely opposite bonding was fantastic.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on July 01, 2010, 03:52:39 AM

The voice over stuff worked really well.
I think that is the most creative short Pixar has done.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on July 01, 2010, 06:16:23 AM

I agree that Night & Day was very creative and well executed. The twist at the end, while actually quite predictable, is clever and surprised me nonetheless.

However, I don't feel it has the same rewatchability as, let's say, One Man Band.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on July 01, 2010, 06:31:25 AM

My favourites of the shorts so far have been For the Birds, One Man Band and Lifted.

I have the Pixar Short films collection DVD, volume 1.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on July 01, 2010, 08:59:54 AM

Quote from: Critter on July 01, 2010, 06:31:25 AM

My favourites of the shorts so far have been For the Birds, One Man Band and Lifted.

I would list the same three.

Quote

I have the Pixar Short films collection DVD, volume 1.

Me too. Awesome DVD, with some good special features too.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on July 01, 2010, 09:07:29 AM

I loved Lifted...and Presto...the one with the magician and his rabbit.

I don't have that DVD..I'll probably pick it up sometime.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on September 04, 2010, 10:32:01 PM

Hey, Sophie. Have you seen the Newt conception artwork that Pixar have released, as they have discontinued production of the film?

https://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=206933&id=35245929077&page=2

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 17, 2010, 12:18:26 AM

I wish they did Newt instead of Cars 2.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: W0m6at on October 17, 2010, 02:45:12 AM

Quote from: Jon on September 04, 2010, 10:32:01 PM

Hey, Sophie. Have you seen the Newt conception artwork that Pixar have released, as they have discontinued production of the film?

https://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=206933&id=35245929077&page=2

Looks cool! Shame it was abandoned.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 17, 2010, 03:29:48 AM

Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole

(http://i52.tinypic.com/16iy5br.jpg)

Year: 2010

Director(s): Zack Snyder

Run Time: 90 min

Plot: When a young owl is abducted by an evil Owl army, he must escape with newfound friends to seek out the legendary Guardians to stop the menace.

Cast:
Emily Barclay - Gylfie
Abbie Cornish - Otulissa
Essie Davis - Marella
Adrienne DeFaria - Eglantine
Joel Edgerton - Metalbeak
Deborra-Lee Furness - Barran
Helen Mirren - Nyra
Ryan Kwanten - Kludd

DVD Extras:
• Saw at Cinema

My Thoughts
This is without a doubt the best 3D I have seen in the cinema since Avatar. LOTG was a visually stunning film from start to finish, and I was literally in awe of how amazing the 3D was. It seems lately that 3D is just being slapped on as an afterthought for most films, and I’m finding that it generally doesn’t look very good, especially in live-action films. Computer animated films seem to deal with 3D better, and it ends up actually enhancing the experience instead of just hindering it. Of all the 3D animated films I have seen however, this would be very close to the best. I even jumped in my seat at one stage when something seemed to fly past the corner of my eye.

LOTG is quite exciting for me for many reasons, one of them being that it was made by Animal Logic, an Australian, Sydney-based animation and effects company. While it is technically an American film helmed by director Zack Snyder, there is an undeniable Australian essence to this piece. Not only was it made here, but many of the characters in the film have Australian, or some even New Zealand accents. Also, the film includes Australian wildlife such as Tasmanian Devils and Echidnas which was a thrill to see, as well as a nice surprise. Despite this the film isn’t actually set in Australia, it is set in a unique fantasy world.

Talking animals in computer animated films is something that many people seem to be getting sick of, but it is something that I personally love. As someone who spent all of her years as a child pouring over every single book in the Redwall series, I see talking animals as a fantastic medium of fantasy storytelling, and if done well I never get sick of it.

While breathtakingly beautiful, and computer animation on par with Pixar’s best, I must admit that this film did have its faults. Its sheer beauty could distract some people from a sometimes predictable plotline, and some rather cringe worthy dialogue with many corny lines. I have never read the books this film is based on, and I think that’s why I sometimes had trouble remembering which owl was which, but the story was very enjoyable for me overall, and the action scenes were outstanding, and definitely not for young children as it does get very violent.

A sample how visually stunning this film is (I recommend you watch in 1080p):

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on October 17, 2010, 03:47:31 AM

I want to see this one..though with everything that has been going on around here lately, I haven't had a chance so far.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 17, 2010, 03:49:44 AM

It looks amazing in 3D Marie, but if you miss out I'm sure it will be just as good on DVD or Blu-Ray. I'm already planning to get it on Blu when it comes out.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on October 28, 2010, 10:32:16 PM

Hey Sophie, check this out: Empire's Top 50 Animated Characters (http://www.empireonline.com/features/50-greatest-animated-characters/default.asp?film=50)

What a brilliant choice for number 1! ;D

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on October 29, 2010, 12:19:35 AM

Haha I love number 1! Such an amazing choice. I was worried as I didn't agree with some of them on the list but overall it was very fun to look through . Especially because they chose such good images to represent each one.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on October 29, 2010, 06:09:05 AM

Interesting list. I like number 1 too. :)

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Achim on October 29, 2010, 07:47:53 AM

Cool how they adeded the reader vote of a selection should be higher or lower :thumbup:

Good choice for #1. Obviously there are other contenders, but they have to finalize it somehow...

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on November 27, 2010, 11:01:20 AM

http://www.slashfilm.com/awesome-toy-story-3-oscar-campaign/

You can tell this is the work of corporate Disney and not Pixar itself. Of course TS3 should get a best picture nod, but I think this is going about it the wrong way and drawing too much attention to the issue. If it should happen it should happen naturally. I personally find the "Best Animated Film" category in the Oscars to be very annoying. Ever since the category started not one animated film was even nominated for Best Picture, and why should it when it has a category all of it's own? If they got rid of the animated category altogether then I think it would be a more even playing field.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on November 27, 2010, 11:32:51 AM

Up was nominated for Best Picture last year.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on November 27, 2010, 11:35:17 AM

Yeah that's true. And apart from that the only other one was Beauty and the Beast which was before the Animated Picture category was introduced. Up was similar to TS3, both being Pixar films that a lot of people wanted to win Best Picture. In the end I still think the Animated film section should be removed.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: goodguy on November 27, 2010, 11:55:02 AM

I'm still not over the fact that the Academy choose Ratatouille over Persepolis as best animated feature. I know it is silly to get worked up over stuff like this because there are countless similar examples in all categories. Still, I'm a little fed up with all the hype about Pixar. Now, I haven't seen Toy Story 3 and maybe this is the one that lives up to it, but somehow I doubt it. Guess what? After that recent discussion with Jon, I finally watched Wall-E and found it to be a nice enough and enjoyable movie, technically flawless, but otherwise nothing very special.

Sorry for the rant, but Pixar is dangerously close to becoming to me what Tarantino or Twilight are to others around here.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on November 27, 2010, 12:08:04 PM

Fair enough, we all seem to have our little things that just drive us insane. Those were good examples, some people here may like Twilight while others hate it, very similar thing with Tarantino. It's almost like these things have the extremes, you either really love them or really hate them. As for Pixar I obviously love almost everything they have ever done, and always have. I also try to keep up with animation in all forms however, including not only the big budget massive hits. Films like Waltz with Bashir, Persepilis, The Secret of Kells etc (although I haven't gotten to that one yet) are some of my favourite animated films. I love them just as much as I love the big budget ones, and in many cases I love them more than the bigger films. I've seen obscure animated films from every corner of the globe, and from all different times since the beginning of animated feature films in the 1930's yet for me Pixar still stands strong, and very close to the top amongst them all. I suppose I will just always be a huge Pixar fan, but not for a second do I let them overshadow all the smaller animated films and companies out there. While they may have a bigger impact and larger budget than the others I find that their stories are often simply the best. Of course they are visually also the best, but I have seen many stunning animated films that had terrible plots, so for me it's always Pixar stories that are the winners.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on November 27, 2010, 01:54:12 PM

Quote from: goodguy on November 27, 2010, 11:55:02 AM

I'm still not over the fact that the Academy choose Ratatouille over Persepolis as best animated feature. I know it is silly to get worked up over stuff like this because there are countless similar examples in all categories. Still, I'm a little fed up with all the hype about Pixar. Now, I haven't seen Toy Story 3 and maybe this is the one that lives up to it, but somehow I doubt it. Guess what? After that recent discussion with Jon, I finally watched Wall-E and found it to be a nice enough and enjoyable movie, technically flawless, but otherwise nothing very special.

Sorry for the rant, but Pixar is dangerously close to becoming to me what Tarantino or Twilight are to others around here.

Thanks for giving it a try though. :thumbup: You have to think, I suppose, where we are coming from. For me Wall-E is astonishing because it's so technically advanced without losing heart. I've talked at length before about how important it has been along with Firefly for developing "organic" CGi.

I absolutely agree with Sophie and it seems a shame to get angry about Pixar who have been one of the most optimistic, open and honest studios at work today. "Hype" is such a misplaced word in their case. Think about what they have achieved, especially when their target audience is under 9. Contrary to popular belief, I do actually understand where the anti-Tarantino brigade are coming from, I simply don't agree. Pixar though have done more to advance animation as a genre than anyone recently. :shrug:

Wall-E is a silent movie for a good portion of its running time; Ratatouille has a hero who is clearly nuts; Toy Story 3, builds on genuinely dark stuff in the first two movies to deliver a story about death; and Up has an 80-something hero and starts with a heartbreaking montage of his life.

They never pick easy, they never pick safe. Apart from Cars, maybe, or even Monsters Inc. Persopolis and the like are incredible, but will always be marginal. I can never deny Pixar's success because what they do is essential. They're making truly advanced movies for a mainstream audience. Look at the state Disney was in before Toy Story came along. They'd been making generic crap for several years.

I don't agree that the Academy should drop the Animation category because the approach to making live action and animation is so different. My current favourite film of the year is Bad Lieutenant and while I'm not sure it deserves Best Picture of the year yet, it wouldn't be fair on either film to be nominated against one another. By the way, I don't know if BL has even been acknowledged for a possible nod, I'm just using it as an example.

However, Sophie, do you realise that the campaign is very normal? All the studios start releasing "For your consideration" posters around this time. It's one of the points against the Oscars overall, because whenever someone says "why didn't such and such get a nomination?", it's probably because the studio behind it didn't do as good a campaign as the other guys. Cynical, but true.

Trailers for Academy voters basically. If you don't hit 'em over the head with it, they won't know it's there.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: goodguy on November 27, 2010, 02:31:36 PM

I suppose my view is a bit skewed. I do not watch that many animated films, so Pixar has come to be a stand-in for mainstream animation when, as you said, it probably is superior to most other mainstream stuff. But for me it marks just the baseline of a good movie and constantly falls flat against films I really do get excited about.

Speaking for example of Wall-E as a silent film: I watched it as a double feature together with Blood Tea and Red String, which also happens to be a film without dialogue, although stop motion puppet animation in this case. It's another one of those one-woman, obsessive kitchen-table projects. It is shot on 16mm, it is technically imperfect and the animation is jerky at times. But it is wildly imaginative and morbidly beautiful and I absolutely adore it.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: goodguy on November 27, 2010, 04:40:48 PM

BTW, here is the trailer for the above-mentioned Blood Tea and Red String (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0827498/) by Christiane Cegavske. It's probably not your thing, since you already found Sita too "pretentious", but who knows...

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on November 27, 2010, 05:36:31 PM

Actually that looks fascinating!

My approach to animation is the same as art in general. The visuals demonstrate the talent and creativity of the artist, which makes me interested in what they have to say. Or the story/message grabs me first and the animation could be very crude, but adds to the overall power.

Take a famous piece of modern art for example: Tracey Emin's "My Bed" might well have had some deep social commentary buried in a metaphorical image, but a messy bed takes no talent to create and I find any praise for her hollow and false, so I can't give her message any credibility.

Sita is nothing like that, of course, the animation is a valid expression, but I needed it to be supported by characters and a story I cared about. Which I most certainly did not. I found Sita pretentious because the story didn't grab me and the visuals therefore appeared lazy; cardboard cut-outs having inane conversations is not my thing!

Now that trailer shows even at its crudest, the work is brilliantly detailed and photographed. It looks fantastic. And the story comes over like a proper grown-up fairy tale, which I would enjoy.

It reminds me in some [very small!] ways of The Fantastic Mr. Fox. If you have enjoyed Wes Anderson's previous work, like The Royal Tenenbaums and Rushmore, it is essential viewing. The animation is again, rather crude in may ways, but the detail is astonishing, just like his live action work. Anderson's trademark emotion and atmosphere is enhanced by the visuals in a wonderful way.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on November 28, 2010, 12:16:10 AM

Quote from: Jon on November 27, 2010, 01:54:12 PM

I don't agree that the Academy should drop the Animation category because the approach to making live action and animation is so different. My current favourite film of the year is Bad Lieutenant and while I'm not sure it deserves Best Picture of the year yet, it wouldn't be fair on either film to be nominated against one another. By the way, I don't know if BL has even been acknowledged for a possible nod, I'm just using it as an example.

The only reason I don't like the animated category is that I feel a film should win best picture regardless of it's medium. Sure Up was nominated last year, and Toy Story 3 will most likely be nominated this year but that probably just shows that people are starting to realise just how long it's been since animated films were nominated for Best Picture. And why should they be nominated them when they have their own special little category that they can easily be lumped into? To me it's almost like saying that these animated films aren't worthy of being next to the live-action counterparts so they set up their own award of lesser glory. We all know that Best Picture is the big one, but up until the last two years what animated film has even had a chance? The only other animated film to ever even be nominated for Best Picture was Beauty and the Beast, and that was before the best animated category was started. And when it was started animated films conveniently stopped being nominated for Best Picture as they were suddenly all lumped away in a smaller award.

Quote from: Jon on November 27, 2010, 01:54:12 PM

However, Sophie, do you realise that the campaign is very normal? All the studios start releasing "For your consideration" posters around this time. It's one of the points against the Oscars overall, because whenever someone says "why didn't such and such get a nomination?", it's probably because the studio behind it didn't do as good a campaign as the other guys. Cynical, but true.

I wasn't aware that such campaigns were normal, although now that you mention it I did once see a film called 'For Your Consideration' that was a parody of this type of thing. It just seemed a little excessive to me, especially if the films ends up not being nominated then they would look silly.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Dragonfire on November 28, 2010, 06:15:12 AM

Studios have been doing campaigns to push for nominations for years. Even some of the smaller, independent type releases receive some of it.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Najemikon on November 28, 2010, 03:43:34 PM

Quote from: Critter on November 28, 2010, 12:16:10 AM

The only reason I don't like the animated category is that I feel a film should win best picture regardless of it's medium. Sure Up was nominated last year, and Toy Story 3 will most likely be nominated this year but that probably just shows that people are starting to realise just how long it's been since animated films were nominated for Best Picture. And why should they be nominated them when they have their own special little category that they can easily be lumped into? To me it's almost like saying that these animated films aren't worthy of being next to the live-action counterparts so they set up their own award of lesser glory. We all know that Best Picture is the big one, but up until the last two years what animated film has even had a chance? The only other animated film to ever even be nominated for Best Picture was Beauty and the Beast, and that was before the best animated category was started. And when it was started animated films conveniently stopped being nominated for Best Picture as they were suddenly all lumped away in a smaller award.

That's certainly the ideal, but you have to remember you're dealing with a prejudiced lot. Animation = kids is still going to be the basic thought running through a lot of peoples heads. More than anyone, Pixar are breaking it down, while of course there has always been adult animation anyway.

Even then I would keep them separate for several reasons. It isn't that they are not worthy of being next to live action, it's that the methods in creating them and the reasons for creating them are very different. It's possible for an animated film to be created by one person over a very long time (that clip Matthias posted is by someone who worked on it for 13 years!) while live action is a collaboration (and usually a compromised one) involving dozens of people. That has a massive impact on the result and I don't think it would be a fair contest.

It's not a rule, of course, on either side, but it's also more likely live action will respond to the Zeitgeist than animation will. Persopolis and Waltz With Bashir do, but think of Pixar, because they've been most likely to win recently and it's Toy Story 3 you want to win this time. What is Toy Story 3 actually about? Growing old, death, nostalgia, friendship. All marvellous, make no mistake, because they are timeless. Look at recent Best Picture winners though; The Hurt Locker studies what its like to do the most dangerous job in the world now, and is therefore politically and socially relevant. And Crash was controversial because it won over Brokeback Mountain and so it seemed like the Academy was more interested in racism than homosexuality, but at least both were current issues about how attitudes affect lives.

This is why genre films often fail to be nominated (no Kick Ass this year!), unless they capture Hollywood's history and get the voters feeling nostalgic for the old days (Unforgiven, Gladiator, even bloody Titanic).

The final point to make is that Best Picture is not a popularity contest. Just because Toy Story 3 has been reviewed as the best film of the year (and it certainly could be), doesn't make it the most important. I like to look at the Best Picture as an indicator of what direction cinema is following and how film-makers will respond. If Up had won last year that would have told me nothing about the state of cinema as a whole and lets face it, animation rarely inspires producers of other genres.

That's why I was so disappointed they rewarded Titanic, but on the other side I was very reassured that they denied Avatar. The Hurt Locker represented something so much more important, both artistically and thematically.

Title: Re: Critter's Animated Film/Anime Marathon
Post by: Critter on December 28, 2010, 05:04:51 AM

Beauty and the Beast

(http://i53.tinypic.com/312h4ow.jpg)

Year:1991

Director(s): Gary Trousdale & Kirk Wise

Run Time: 84 min

Plot: Belle is a girl who is dissatisfied with life in a small provincial French town, constantly trying to fend off the misplaced "affections" of conceited Gaston. The Beast is a prince who was placed under a spell because he could not love. A wrong turn taken by Maurice, Belle's father, causes the two to meet.

Cast:
Paige O'Hara – Belle
Robby Benson – Beast
Richard White – Gaston
Jerry Orbach – Lumiere
David Ogden Stiers - Cogsworth / Narrator
Angela Lansbury - Mrs. Potts
Bradley Pierce - Chip

DVD Extras:
•   Music & More (Sing-A-Long track)
•   Audio Commentary
•   Deleted Scenes
•   Music Video
•   Backstage Disney *Diamond Edition*
•   Classic DVD Special Features

My Thoughts
This is a brilliant film that was born at Disney right in the middle of one of the studios biggest peaks. I feel a lot of nostalgia towards this film as it was one that I really loved as a child, but unlike a lot of other Disney films I actually haven’t watched this much as a teenager. Watching it again really took me back to those times when I used to love it and watch Disney films every single day. Despite the fact that I still thoroughly enjoyed this film I can’t help but notice that it doesn’t have quite the lasting impact on me as many other Disney films do, I still enjoy it, but I am not quite blown away by it.

Like most animated Disney films this one is a musical and has some very memorable songs such as ‘Be My Guest’ which are now quite famous and part of the Disney legacy. Aside from just the songs the musical score itself is magical and one that I really love. I think this film suffers slightly from the pacing which feels really rushed. I think maybe a slightly longer run time would have helped flesh out the characters and story a bit more here. I think there is an extended edition somewhere but I haven’t seen it yet so this review is based purely on the theatrical version.

The look of this film is great with especially stunning background art of the French countryside which is where the film is set. The character design is also very well done and I think the look of the beast is great, a nice mix that looks almost like a giant lion crossed with a wolf.

Overall this is a great film, but not one of my all-time favourite Disney’s. I can see myself watching it again in the future though, especially for the nostalgia of my childhood that it brings to me.

My Rating
(http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://i37.tinypic.com/vxnq5u.gif) (http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5400/starhathalf.gif)

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DVD Reviews => The "Marathon" reviews => Topic started by: Critter on October 07, 2009, 12:06:32 AM