Book of the Dead

Well, what to say about this film? Supposedly about Tokyo’s underbelly, and described as a techno trip, it is really a film about the Tibetan Book of the Dead. It’s a film that left me with many conflicting thoughts.

Yes, it’s highly original. Yes, most of it is a feast for the eyes. Yes, the story works fine although it is rather predictable, because the complete story line is divulged within the first ten minutes or so. But it’s so long, and the middle bit just goes on and on and is very repetitive and that spoils the movie big time, for me anyway.

In fact, it was so long and drawn out that I didn’t manage to see it in one go, and although I couldn’t really be bothered to see the final half hour of it on my second day of viewing, I’m glad I still plucked up enough courage to do so, because the final ten minutes or so sort of redeemed the whole experience.

I’m not really selling it, am I?! Halfway through I was certain I was going to reward it only 2 stars, but having seen the whole thing now, I’ll be less harsh and give it a 3 out of 5. If you like originality, and you’re open to a new, wild and colourful experience, then do see this film. Just make sure you’ve got enough drinks and snacks and whatever to get you through the middle part.

Adrian