Tekkonkinkreet
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TITLE Tekkonkinkreet
DIRECTOR Michael Arias
STUDIO Studio 4°C
YEAR 2006
COUNTRY Japan
FILM REVIEW by Howard Leigh
"Tekkonkinkreet" directed by Michael Arias and based on the manga by Taiyō Matsumoto, is a visually stunning and thought-provoking animated film that delves into the complexities of human nature and urban life. Set in the fictional city of Treasure Town, the story unfolds through the eyes of two orphans, Black and White, as they navigate the gritty streets and face a series of challenges that test their bond and resilience. With its unique blend of striking visuals, intricate storytelling, and profound themes, "Tekkonkinkreet" stands as a captivating piece of animation that leaves a lasting impact on its viewers. The film centers around the contrasting personalities of Black and White, two street urchins who form an unlikely brotherly bond. Black, the older and more street-smart of the two, serves as the guardian and protector of the younger and more innocent White. Together, they inhabit Treasure Town, a bustling and decaying metropolis filled with vividly eccentric characters and dangerous underworld forces.
As Treasure Town becomes the target of gentrification and gang violence, Black and White find themselves caught in a whirlwind of chaos and self-discovery. Their lives intersect with a multitude of colorful characters, including yakuza members, corrupt police officers, and a mysterious girl named Kimura. The narrative unfolds as a blend of gritty action, introspective moments, and surreal dream sequences, leading to a climactic battle for the soul of Treasure Town itself.
One of the film's strengths lies in its nuanced character development, as Black and White undergo profound transformations throughout their journey. Black, initially portrayed as a hardened and cynical street urchin, gradually reveals layers of vulnerability and empathy beneath his tough exterior. His protective instincts toward White evolve into a complex mix of love and fear, as he grapples with his own inner demons and the responsibility of being a guardian.
On the other hand, White embodies childlike innocence and wonder, often seeing the world through a lens of purity and imagination. His imaginative nature becomes a driving force in the story, offering moments of respite and hope amidst the harsh realities of Treasure Town. As the events unfold, White's resilience and unwavering belief in the power of friendship become integral to the film's exploration of resilience and the pursuit of dreams.
“The film is an audiovisual feast that amalgamates diverse influences into a harmonious and visually striking tapestry. Its reverence for the source material is evident in its artistic choices, paying homage to Matsumoto’s distinctive style and Yuasa’s visionary approach. ”
From a technical standpoint, the movie excels in various aspects, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry of its animation team. The film employs a unique visual style that combines hand-drawn animation with stunning digital backgrounds, resulting in a gritty yet vibrant portrayal of Treasure Town. The attention to detail in the city's architecture, graffiti-covered walls, and atmospheric lighting creates a visually immersive experience that enhances the film's narrative impact.
Drawing inspiration from the original manga, the film embraces the raw and untamed artistry of Matsumoto's work, evoking the same captivating and messy sketchbook style found in his renowned creations like "Ping Pong" and Masaaki Yuasa's anime adaptation. The influence of Yuasa himself can also be felt in the film's design, as Shojiro Nishimi, a key animator and designer for both "Mind Game" and "Tekkonkinkreet," infuses the visuals with a shared sensibility. This homage is further emphasized by the inclusion of fleeting clips from "Mind Game," an affectionate nod to Arias' creative roots and a testament to the film's homage to its influences.
Treasure Town, the backdrop against which the narrative unfolds, transcends cultural boundaries, becoming a melting pot of diverse influences that defy traditional expectations of a Japanese setting. Rather than resembling a strictly Japanese locale, the city takes on the essence of a captivating hybrid, evoking the vibrant energy of Hong Kong and the rich tapestry of Istanbul. Through the incorporation of various Asian languages on street signs and buildings, the film portrays a place untethered by a dominant force, a city where lost souls converge. The meticulous attention to detail in the background designs elevates them beyond the confines of traditional anime, creating an indelible impression on viewers and serving as the film's most remarkable feature.
Moreover, the action sequences are meticulously choreographed, showcasing fluid animation and dynamic camerawork. Each movement feels weighty and impactful, adding a layer of excitement and tension to the film's action-oriented moments. The film's dream sequences are particularly noteworthy, employing abstract and symbolic imagery to explore the characters' subconscious thoughts and emotions.
The film's beauty alone is reason enough to watch it. The generally bright palette and soft visuals serve as a striking contrast to the dark themes, almost as if the world itself were aligned with the children. The character design, particularly that of Black and White, is enchanting. From the scar slashing across Black's right eye as a foreboding warning to White's hat shaped like a bear's head, with his mischievous face peeking through, the attention to detail adds depth to their personalities and enhances their visual appeal.
In essence, the film is an audiovisual feast that amalgamates diverse influences into a harmonious and visually striking tapestry. Its reverence for the source material is evident in its artistic choices, paying homage to Matsumoto's distinctive style and Yuasa's visionary approach. Meanwhile, Treasure Town emerges as a testament to the film's commitment to defying expectations, transcending cultural boundaries to create a unique and immersive world. With its intricate details and masterful execution, the film leaves an indelible mark on the viewer, showcasing the boundless possibilities of animation as a medium of artistic expression, a masterful animated film that defies genre conventions, weaving together elements of drama, action, and surrealism into a visually stunning and emotionally resonant narrative. Its exploration of themes such as friendship, identity, and the dichotomy of urban life leaves a profound impact on the viewer. Through its well-developed characters, thought-provoking storytelling, and technical brilliance, "Tekkonkinkreet" stands as a testament to the power of animation as a medium for storytelling and artistic expression.
