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Movie: Speed Racer
Director: Wachowski Brothers
Actors: Emile Hirsch, Susan Sarandon, John Goodman, Christina Ricci, Matthew Fox, Paulie Litt, Chimps Willy and Kenzie
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Speed Racer is based on the Japanese anime from the 60s, the first of its kind which was successful on an international level, especially in The States. The Wachowski brothers, creators of The Matrix Trilogy, wanted to make something completely different for a change. And they did it with Speed Racer, cause it's their first family-friendly flick! No men in leather trench coats, with sunglasses and a lot of guns, nope, this time the story centers on a young man, named Speed Racer (Emile Hirsch), who's got one passion, and that's racing his Mach 5. Speed follows the same tracks of his idol, his racing brother, who died in a mysterious car crash. When Speed turns down a very tempting offer from Royalton Industries, his career seems to be over. Royalton (Roger Allam) comes up with a dangerous plan to eliminate Speed Racer once and for all. Speed isn't impressed though and fights back with the support of his family; Pops (John Goodman), Mom (Susan Sarandon), his girlfriend Trixie (Christina Ricci), little brother Spritle (Paulie Litt) and the chimp Chim-Chim!
It's pretty obvious from the get go, that the Wachowski brothers want to create a real family flick. The gritty scif-fi look from The Matrix, is replaced by a highly colorful spectacle without too much suspense, but with a moral undertone. Speed Racer is also packed with revolutionary, groundbreaking visual effects. I am really impressed by their creation of a live-action anime, which stays loyal to the classic series. The result is a powerful visual experience, with the unique car races as one of the highlights. Unfortunately, the brothers have some problems in finding the right overall tone and balance. On one hand they want to keep it light and fun, but on the other hand, they also want to keep it more serious and intense, emphasizing on the moral family-message. However Speed Racer is, despite the long ride, very entertaining with truly amazing, groundbreaking shots. I gotta hand it to 'em, they did deliver a fun summer blockbuster, and this time, for the entire family!
Written by Reggy 06/05/08
© wb 2008
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