Miss Hokusai

0726
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

0727
The District review

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

Eagle vs. Shark

0728
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

0729
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

0730
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

0731
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

0732
Black Hawk Down review

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

Swallowtail Butterfly

0733
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

0734
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

0735
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

0736
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."

Kai Doh Maru

0737
Kai Doh Maru review

"Kai Doh Maru will not deliver a tight story or well-developed characters, but if you appreciate a unique art style, moody atmosphere and technical experimentation there's plenty to look forward to."

Crows Explode

0738
Crows Explode review

"Toyoda made an impeccable sequel to Miike's first two films."

The Egoists

0739
The Egoists review

"Keibetsu turns out to be another strong addition to Hiroki's oeuvre. It's not his best film to date, but it's nice to see him try out new stuff, even when it's not all that radical."

A Chinese Ghost Story III

0740
A Chinese Ghost Story III review

"Built on quirky fantasy elements, lots of visual flair, a fun vibe and a light narrative. And if something doesn't work, the insane pacing makes sure you won't remember it for long."

Nightfall

0741
Nightfall review

"If you're familiar with the genre, don't expect any surprises."

L'Amant

0742
L'Amant review

"The subject is taboo and Hiroki's approach is unflinching, yet the result is a subtle, nuanced and touching drama that well exceeded any expectations I had up front."

Flux Gourmet

0743
Flux Gourmet review

"Flux Gourmet looks great, sports an awesome soundtrack and insane sound design, the cast is great and the mix of self-deprecating comedy feels like a breath of fresh air."

Inexorable

0744
Inexorable review

"The plot is kept pretty basic, but the performances are superb, the cinematography is polished and the score is on point, resulting in prime edge-of-your-seat cinema."

Canary

0745
Canary review

"Shiota proves himself a gifted drama director and balances cinematography, score and performances to draw the most out of the conflict between the two leads."

Paradox

0746
Paradox review

"I'm a big fan of the first SPL, the second one was a tiny letdown. Luckily Yip returned to elevate the series back to its original level."

Antenna

0747
Antenna review

"The presentation is still pretty fitting and stylish, the performances are top notch and the somewhat edgier dramatic elements give the film a unique perspective."

The Suicide Song

0748
The Suicide Song review

"I was pleasantly surprised to find a very accomplished yet eclectic film hiding underneath the cover of ghosts and suicides."

Outrage: Beyond

0749
Outrage: Beyond review

"Outrage: Beyond falls just a little short of its predecessor. Because of the fact that it feels like the middle section of a full-blown trilogy the ending isn't as convincing as it could've been."

Shinjuku Swan

0750
Shinjuku Swan review

"What Shinjuku Swan may lack in originality, it makes up for in rock-solid execution."