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Metropolis
メトロポリス
2001 107 min Japan PG-13 0+
★7.3
Animation, Science Fiction
Director: Rintarô
💬 Based on the comic
«Metropolis»
byOsamu Tezuka
Trailers
EN
Teaser
Description
In the midst of societal conflict in the futuristic city of Metropolis, Kenichi and his uncle Shunsaku Ban set out to uncover the mystery behind the first human-like robot, Tima.
Budget:
$15M
US Gross:
$722,932
Worldwide:
$4.04M
Starring
Toshio Furukawa
Actor
Scott Weinger
Actor
Yuka Imoto
Actor
Awards
Saturn Awards 2003
— Best DVD Edition
Key opinion
Metropolis is widely praised as a visual and auditory achievement, featuring a distinct retro-futuristic aesthetic and a soulful jazz score. However, opinion is deeply divided on the narrative quality, with some viewers finding it a profound philosophical parable while others dismiss the plot as clichéd, disjointed, and populated by shallow characters.
| Production | The film features a stunning, meticulously detailed visual style that successfully blends classic hand-drawn animation with early 3D elements to create a unique cityscape. | |
| Score | The jazz-infused soundtrack provides a sophisticated, soulful atmosphere that elevates the overall cinematic experience. | |
| Theme | The narrative explores complex, relevant philosophical questions regarding humanity, robotics, and societal structures that linger long after the film ends. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay is highly divisive; proponents see a poignant, ambitious parable, while critics argue it suffers from thin character development, predictable tropes, and a disjointed, information-heavy flow. | |
| Production | The artistic design, which pairs mature, serious themes with a stylized, sometimes cartoonish or Disney-esque character aesthetic, leaves viewers torn between appreciating its originality and finding the tone jarring. |