Battlemouth

In 1977, there was an anime called Yatterman. In 2008, it was revived with a new anime series. Now, in 2009, the live-action adaptation comes out. Even though it won’t be released until March 7th in Japan, I was able to catch the world premiere at New York Comic Con. Takashi Miike and Sho Sakurai were there to present it. This is Takashi Miike’s biggest budget film, but did it pay off?

What is it about?

Gan Takasa (Sho Sakurai) and Ai Kaminari (Saki Fukuda) are the heroes that make up Yatterman. There is also Yatterwan, a dog-shaped robot that helps them fight evil, and Toybotty, a small robot that often gives advice and information. They are constantly fighting the Doronbow Gang who are following the orders of Skullobey, the “God of Thieves”, to retrieve the four pieces of the Skull Stone which is said to make any wish come true.

Is it good?

I am proud to say that this movie exceeded expectations! The movie had a good pace throughout most of film. It had a mix of different elements that just made it so interesting and engaging to watch. The movie also has some scenes that can make one question if they are seeing what they are seeing (as well as wonder how the heck it is a movie for kids). It also pulls off some effects found in anime really well. Some anime elements that were brought into the film were such things as a person’s head being larger than normal when shouting, moving backgrounds, and some ideas that you just wouldn’t imagine seeing any other way than animated. Takashi Miike kept the spirit of the show throughout the movie. Whether it be catchphrases, running jokes, or even the theme song of the show; it is all in there. I didn’t have any problems with the actors or actresses either. They had the same feel as the characters from the show and they carried the scenes well. Another thing was the breaking of the fourth wall, which Yatterman has always done. The actors did it perfectly, whether it be changing their voice or expression while looking at the camera and either making a reference or giving an explanation to the audience.

For what this movie was going for, it succeeded. It had that stupid corny humor, overreactions, and simple plot. Remember, this is a live-action adaptation of an anime that would probably be filed under gag/comedy, so you really shouldn’t be expecting anything aside from having a good time.

If you are looking for something more serious, this isn’t the movie for you. It has it’s fair share of crude jokes. The show had them, so they really are to be expected. If you can’t let your mind expand and accept some of the crazy things done in this movie, you probably won’t enjoy it.

In short, it was a fun film. Only a few scenes felt like they dragged, but nothing too major. It was hilarious, it was strange, it was visually fun to watch, I felt good watching it, and was always ready with excitement to see the next scene. That is what Takashi Miike was going for (as well as nostalgia more than likely) and he succeeded.

I can’t say for sure when this movie will see a release in the United States, but may definitely be something you want to check out!

Yatter, Yatter, Yatterman!

Rating: 9/10