This movie is purported Japan's first attempt of the CGI graphic style in the "300" and "Sin City" school. As such, it is a respectable job.
The other characteristic of the film is more difficult for a non-Japanese audience to grasp. Goemon, whom some likens to Japan's Robin Hood, is a shinobi folk hero in 16th Century feudal, war-torn Japan. Understandably, the plot is woven in complex political situation, with real historical figures as well as fictional ones. Viewers however need to despair. Amidst political intrigue, power struggle, betrayal and treachery, and despite a multitude of characters and some inevitable confusion, the story is generally to too difficult to follow, to the extent that the audiences' ability to enjoy the movie is not impaired.
The themes are clear enough. Relationships addressed include friendship bonded from childhood, gentle romance, dubious loyalty and heroism. On a more lofty scale, it boils down to common people's hatred of war. Heading the cast are two reasonably internationally known stars EGUCHI Yosuke and HIROSUE Ryoko. The large supporting cast comprises solid, reliably veterans. The movie marries traditional epic drama with hyper-stylized spectacle – a cinematic experience that well worth a trip to the cinema.
The other characteristic of the film is more difficult for a non-Japanese audience to grasp. Goemon, whom some likens to Japan's Robin Hood, is a shinobi folk hero in 16th Century feudal, war-torn Japan. Understandably, the plot is woven in complex political situation, with real historical figures as well as fictional ones. Viewers however need to despair. Amidst political intrigue, power struggle, betrayal and treachery, and despite a multitude of characters and some inevitable confusion, the story is generally to too difficult to follow, to the extent that the audiences' ability to enjoy the movie is not impaired.
The themes are clear enough. Relationships addressed include friendship bonded from childhood, gentle romance, dubious loyalty and heroism. On a more lofty scale, it boils down to common people's hatred of war. Heading the cast are two reasonably internationally known stars EGUCHI Yosuke and HIROSUE Ryoko. The large supporting cast comprises solid, reliably veterans. The movie marries traditional epic drama with hyper-stylized spectacle – a cinematic experience that well worth a trip to the cinema.