Mirror Mask

When I saw the Matrix, I knew it was a fresh orginal style that many other movies would copy.

When I saw Mirror Mask, I knew it was a fresh original style that no one else would dream of copying.

Both have their merits, but there's something to be said about have a strikingly original design and method of storytelling that stands on its own. It doesn't need sequels or spinoffs. It just exists in its own world, and I was loving every minute of it.

I hope the people that made this movie (the story behind that is on the DVD extras) continue to make more originals like this.

In terms of production, I would compare this to Sin City- both shot mostly in blue/green screen sets, with lots and lots of CG. Both claim to have low budgets, much higher than a pro-sumer like myself could afford, but inspiring that this type of visual is being attempted. These days movies are either hyper-realistic or children's cartoons. There's not much in between.

I really hope that this type of movie becomes the US equivalent of Japan's Anime. We'll never have the likes of Akira or Ghost in the Shell made in America as just animation. The box office killed this with movies like Final Fantasy. Too bad. But the hybrid of live and CG is new, fresh and has a chance to grow. At least I can hope. :)