The Mystery of Rampo

0701
The Mystery of Rampo review

"With its wonderful cinematography, outstanding score and enigmatic lead, Okuyama serves a puzzling trip through the mysterious mind of one of Japan's most prestigious horror writers."

WXIII: Patlabor the Movie 3

0702
WXIII: Patlabor the Movie 3 review

"The animation is strong, the art style detailed, the soundtrack a real treat. And how often do you get to see mechs battle it out against a giant monster in a future-realistic setting?"

The Detective

0703
The Detective review

"Oxide Pang succeeds again in making a visual masterpiece, although less experimental and in your face as his other films."

Dogville

0704
Dogville review

"I never liked von Trier's Dogme obsession, as it largely contradicts my own views on cinema. Luckily the man suffers from a rather short attention span."

Love in the 1980s

0705
Love in the 1980s review

"If you're familiar with Chinese dramas then you'll feel right at home watching Love in the 1980s."

Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy

0706
Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy review

"A superb cast, intriguing characters and electrifying conversations paint a picture of likeable, 3-dimensional people who find themselves in somewhat awkward situations."

The Monster

0707
The Monster review

"The Monster is one of the best straight-up horror films I've seen in the past couple of years. It's creepy, it's dark and tense from start to finish."

The House That Jack Built

0708
The House That Jack Built review

"His latest is a strange but gratifying mix of drama, horror and comedy, with enough shock value to force some to leave while also showing enough wit to draw laughs from the ones that persist."

Adoration

0709
Adoration review

"Adoration is a very impressive film that feels like a complete and unique experience, thriving on sublime cinematography, a perfect score and amazing central performances."

Incredible But True

0710
Incredible But True review

"Dupieux's absurdist comedy is on full display here, the performances are on point and while I didn't fully vibe with the styling I can't but admit that the film has its own, unique style."

The Flowers of War

0711
The Flowers of War review

"The Flowers Of War borders on sentimentality and poses as a very epic endeavor. It's Zhang's magnificent direction that erases any major critiques, turning the film into a proper epic spectacle."

Suzume

0712
Suzume review

"The animation is sublime, the art style alluring, the fantasy elements are elaborate and well-executed and even though there's a lot of plot to cover, the pacing is slick."

Once Upon a Time in Shanghai

0713
Once Upon a Time in Shanghai review

"Between the stunning cinematography, the impressive fight scenes and the fast-paced plot it's hard not to like at least some part of Once Upon a Time in Shanghai."

The Isle

0714
The Isle review

"While a little rough around the edges, there are many moments of raw beauty, contrasting cruelty and tenderness in a way only Ki-duk can, creating one of the most contorted romances ever put on film."

Miss Hokusai

0715
Miss Hokusai review

"Sarusuberi: Miss Hokusai is a much needed entry in the anime feature film segment. It isn't based off of a big, popular franchise."

The District

0716
The District review

"That said, there is still plenty to enjoy here."

Eagle vs. Shark

0717
Eagle vs. Shark review

"There's loads of quirky comedy, the delivery is dry and disorienting, but the characters have soul and even though the film keeps throwing problems their way, it never gets too heavy-handed."

Crows Zero II

0718
Crows Zero II review

"Crows Zero II will probably appeal to the people who liked the first film and can bear a second, almost identical, serving."

Vengeance

0719
Vengeance review

"A very solid film in all departments, allowing you to sink back into your couch and let the film drift over you like a warm, dark blanket."

The City of Lost Souls

0720
The City of Lost Souls review

"It doesn't ruin a film like The City of Lost Souls, but it does take away part of the appeal. There's still plenty of fun to be had with this film though."

Black Hawk Down

0721
Black Hawk Down review

"Black Hawk Down is dense, chaotic and exhausting, fueled by strong camera work, slick editing and perfect pacing."

Swallowtail Butterfly

0722
Swallowtail Butterfly review

"An ambitious, raw, vibrant and energetic gem, sporting fine cinematography, a great soundtrack and some stand-out performances that all help to give birth to a unique universe."

Vibrator

0723
Vibrator review

"It's not an audiovisual wonder, and it may skip over some expectations of the road movie genre, but the characters are appealing and layered, while the performances are beyond stellar."

Inugami

0724
Inugami review

"Inugami offers a unique trip through Japanese folklore, serving rural mysticism and respect for tradition with fine cinematography, a beautiful score and solid performances."

Birds Without Names

0725
Birds Without Names review

"A powerhouse performance by Yu Aoi, some rather stylish visuals and a highly atmospheric soundtrack make this a standout entry that highlights Shiraishi's talents."