The most expensive Anime ever produced, Katsuhiro Ôtomo's long awaited follow-up to Akira, Steamboy is possibly the most elaborate animated film ever produced in Japan. Ten years in the making, Steamboy has over 180,000 drawings and in excess of 400 CGI cuts, be sure not to miss it!
Set in Victorian England, this epic action adventure story involves a young inventor called Ray (Anne Suzuki). One day Ray receives a mysterious metal ball from his scientist grandfather, Lloyd (Katsuo Nakamura). From that moment on, Ray is plunged into a world of incredible intrigue and adventure. The metal ball is in fact a "steam ball", the heart of a mysterious and ominous "steam castle" and the secret key to a force of unparalleled power. But there are several powerful institutions eager to capture the steam ball and Ray must determine which of these organizations means good and which means evil.
The ensuing fight for the steam ball traverses land, sea and air and propels Ray into the most exciting adventure of his life. With his own father and grandfather at odds over the progress and meaning of science, Ray must try and determine for himself what he believes and ultimately whom he can trust, as the future lies in his young hands.
Special Agent Matti
Steamboy is like a cross between Around the world in 80 days, The league of extraordinary gentlemen and Boy's own annual. It's a hooting-good happy fun time adventure that's full of action, colour and movement. The animation is great, the storyline is great, the concept is great. The only drawback is that it's more than 2 hours long and young kids might not be able to sit still for that long. Still, you could always superglue them to the seat.
Also, it's kind of freaky to have English characters with Anglo names talking to each other in Japanese. I like freaky. Woo hoo!
If you want an education in how to make movies, go and see Steamboy.
PG (Medium level violence)
126 minutes (2:06 hours)
Film: 21 October 2004
