Happy Halloween fellow movie goers. Today’s review is a psychological Horror anime directed by the late Satoshi Kon (Paprika) known as, “Perfect Blue.” Based on the novel “Perfect Blue: Complete Metamorphosis,” the story’s about a pop singer named, Mima. She ends her singing career to become an actress. As Mina tries to make it big as respected actress, she starts to lose her grip on reality while being stalked by a creepy fan. Perfect Blue premiered at the Fantasia International Film Festival in 1997 (same year Final Fantasy VII came out) and eventually released a year later. It earned positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike.
As an anime enthusiast, I wanna share my thoughts on Satoshi’s directorial debut. What anime series or film should I review next? Please leave a comment and I’ll reply back.
Today’s review contains no crucial SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see this gem.
Perfect & Imperfect Qualities
Perfect: Voice Actors all did a decent job for their respective performances.
Satoshi Kon (may he Rest in Peace) did an excellent job directing his first film.
Fun Fact 1: Darren Aronofsky stated Perfect Blue influenced “Black Swan.” He’s also an anime fan along with Chirstopher “Chris” Nolan. Both directors are influenced by Satochi Kon’s work. “Paprika” inspired the latter’s “Inception.”
Fun Fact 2: The bathtub scene was recreated in “Requiem for a Dream.”
I’m giving Perfect Blue credit for inspiring Black Swan. Without Perfect Blue, Natalie Portman (my second favorite actress) would’ve never won an Oscar for “Best Actress.”
Animation still holds up as it brings a few elements to life including character models, fluid movement, lighting and environmental locations to life.
In the English Dub, Steve Blum (Spike Spiegel from Cowboy Bebop) voices a fan. Don’t forget Wendee Lee (Faye Valentine) voices Rumi.
The film explores the dangers of fame. A pop singer risks her public image transitioning into dark territory.
Death Scenes are very brutal. If you have a weak stomach, grab a barf bag.
Pacing felt stable for an 81-minute anime film. I was hooked since the beginning.
Mina’s pop band, Cham has a catchy song in the Opening Scene.
Mina’s stalker looks like Butthead with long hair.
Scare Factor solely relies on a spine-chilling atmosphere. It gave me the heebie jeebes. I prefer a mind screw over Jump Scares. Plus, it’s scarier than “I Know What You Did Last Summer” & Alien: Resurrection.” They were pure rubbish.
Primary Themes are Fame, Obsession, Paranoia, Delusion, Mental Illness, Duality & Identity. Each one’s handled carefully.
Jodie Foster’s mentioned. Her film, “Contact” came out in 1997.
A Plot Twist changes everything. I cannot tell all about it. See for yourself.
You can rewatch for subtle clues foreshadowing what you missed.
Imperfect: The film’s a tad dated. Mima doesn’t know how to use a computer. Nowadays, everybody owns a PC, iPad or laptop to browse the Internet.
The Final Verdict: A-
Despite one nitpick, Perfect Blue’s a near perfect anime film. If you’re looking for something scary to watch, check it out. Perhaps a double feature with Black Swan? Compare the two like apples and oranges.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 