Review: Space Pirate Captain Harlock (2013)

A fully CG film from a Japanese animation studio is rare, even rarer is one that has great CG. This right here nails it. Directed by Shinji Aramaki this is basically a re-imagined and condensed version of the 1978 series by space opera pioneer Leiji Matsumoto. I haven't seen that yet but this stands firmly on it's feet as a stand alone film.

The plot starts as your typical fare for a space opera. Humanity left Earth to set up space colonies due to overwhelming growth to 500 billion people. Upon wanting to return to earth war broke out. The authoritative Gaia Sanction decided that Earth was sacred and no one should inhabit it. The war ended but one still roams space with his own mindset, a rumored immortal pirate and number one wanted criminal. He is Captain Harlock. The plot deepens as revelations about Earth are revealed, Harlocks true goal comes to the fore leading to titanic clashes that could well decide fate of the universe. I adored the twists and the take on the classic formula.

The action scenes are executed very well. From the first appearance of the Arcadia as it rams into a Gaia vessel to the crew in combat when they use mechanized suits, it's all seamless and oh so exhilarating. The first time Harlock himself gets on the move it is satisfying to the full extent and it only raises the bar from there on in. The tactical space battles in particular are stunning, the finale more so as the stakes are raised to a universal degree.

The CG I have got to say was magnificent, FFVII: Advent Children level, that good, I cannot praise it enough. The updated designs of Leiji Matsumotos iconic art style is perfect. Kei (who has the obligatory shower scene (2 thumbs up from me)), Miime and the ever recognisable Harlock all look the part. Miime in particular looks fantastic, being alien her design is the most altered but for the better, sets her apart and give her a more, well alien appearance. The design of the Arcadia, remains faithful but the realistic, gritty aesthetic of it matches the tone of the film. The voice acting is top notch as expected and the soundtrack is excellent, complements the numerous moods exquisitely. I'm not familiar with Tetsuya Takahashi's work but I'm more than willing to seek out more of his after this.

There are a couple of ever so minor flaws. A tad predictable in places in terms of path the main character takes and at times it feels a tad rushed, fitting a 42 episode series into a 2 hour film will do that. As a result it doesn't delve into the pasts of the 40 man crew of the Arcadia. Why the likes of Kei or Yattaran are there, it's alluded to but nothing comes to surface. A shame but understandable and doesn't detract from the film. Likewise the various planets, one is seen early on with a smattering of unique life. Again a series format would further explore this. The ending may irritate some as well as it doesn't give full closure, not an issue for me as I like mystery and to think up my own theories, just pointing it out as a potential negative for some.

To sum up, a phenomenal film for newcomers and fans alike. A promising example of what Toei Animation can do given the budget in spite of time restraints. Not often I praise CGI films because most haven't been that enjoyable (that includes most of Pixars offerings) and it's not often I give films a 10 but the case is so here. It ranks up there with the aforementioned Advent Children and Finding Nemo. Bring on Saint Seiya Legend of Sanctuary!

Studio: Toei Animation
Released: 2013
Available: Amazon

10/10