Terra Formars

It’s so rushed that you can't form any kind of bond with the characters and you don't care when they die. I suppose in the prequel some of the deaths were much more interesting and emotional, but it just doesn't work here when they die on a treadmill without the viewer being able to get to know them properly. That's why I was affected when they showed the backstory of one of the crew (I don't count Ito and Takei, that was kind of a joke), though it didn’t quite fit. Apart from proving that Japan has made progress with special effects, this doesn’t have anything to offer. Even though it has such a great cast, none of them can express themselves properly and basically everyone is either a maniac or one of those Shōnen-esque goodguys who scream when injustice happens and then stand up to "evil". Basically the only character I liked was Honda Ko, but that would also be because he was portrayed by Oguri Shun, who knows how to shine in a small space. A weak 3 stars. I'd say the viewer who will enjoy this the most is the one who knows the premise, all the relationships, and the past, present, and future of the characters... (19/10/2016)

Takashi Miike is simply my favorite creator, and basically anything he directs is interesting to me. Indeed, it's becoming increasingly evident how drawn he is to manga, but it's also clear how masterfully he handles the visual and technical aspects of filmmaking. This is just a great watch. Sure, the story may not be anything special, but visually, it's captivating to me. (22/11/2016)