Overview"Bunraku" (2010) is a neo-noir martial arts movie directed by Guy Moshe. Embed in post-apocalyptic universe where firearms are banned, the film is built around the standard Japanese theatrical kind-- "Bunraku". The movie stars Josh Hartnett, Woody Harrelson, Demi Moore, Kevin McKidd, and Ron Perlman.
Plot SummaryThe action-packed adventure unfolds in an extravagant universe ruled by Nicola, an imperious woodcutter and criminal activity manager (played by Ron Perlman). The world of 'Bunraku' is a ruthless, post-apocalyptic world where weapons have actually been banned however criminal activity, tyranny, and murder still rule the streets. With a samurai warrior and a drifter as protagonists, the movie is a timeless tale of great versus evil.
In the tale, a nameless drifter (Josh Hartnett), who is a lover of peace and follower of 'Bunraku', steps into this disorderly world. He is privy to the harsh truths and Nicola's callous regime and joins hands with a samurai named Yoshi (played by Gackt). Together they challenge Nicola's reign, browsing through a variety of barriers and a legion of Nicola's ruthless assassins.
Design and Influences"Bunraku" is extremely elegant, with a mix of visual genres consisting of pop-up books, video games, and origami. The film smoothly handles mediums, with some real-world atmospheres and other surreal environments, efficiently combining truth with stage-like bunraku theater settings. The samurai and the drifter's battle versus the evil integrates aspects of classic westerns and memorable martial arts wildness, drawing on a variety of cinematic and cultural impacts.
Efficiency and ReceptionWhile Perlman and Harrelson provide high-standard performances, it is Hartnett who takes the audiences by surprise with his extreme portrayal. Gackt, a Japanese musician making his English-language movie debut, also impresses in his role as a brooding samurai. However, in spite of appealing performances and a visually striking backdrop, the film did not fare extremely well at package workplace and received combined reviews from critics.
Critics praised the film's special visual style and Guy Moshe's execution of such a grand idea, however others criticized it for its extremely complex plot and extreme period. Nonetheless, the movie has its moments of striking imagery and thrilling action series, making it a noteworthy entry into the neo-noir, martial arts category.
ConclusionIn short, "Bunraku" is a visually innovative, artistic fusion of a movie, merging Western and Eastern influences. Despite its overambitious plot and irregular speed, the movie still manages to leave an impression with its awesome visuals, interesting cinematic universe, and its expedition of a world where standard fight takes precedence over modern warfare. Through the medium of a distinctively theatrical style, the film brings to life an ostentatious portrayal of a dystopian world, where hope and resistance still discover a way in the middle of pervasive oppression and violence.
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