A Scanner Darkly
I was given advanced screen passes to this new movie tonight. I thought it was well done and a fresh way to present a story, allowing watchers to really escape into something different.
Action/Adventure, Drama and Science Fiction/Fantasy
Starring:
Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Robert Downey Jr., Woody Harrelson, Rory Cochrane
Story by: Philip. K. Dick
Directed By: Richard Linklater
Synopsis:
Set in a future world where America has lost the war on drugs, an undercover cop, Fred, is one of many agents hooked on the popular drug, Substance D, which causes its users to develop split personalities. Fred, for instance, is also Bob, a notorious drug dealer. Along with his superior officers, Fred sets up an elaborate scheme to catch Bob and tear down his operation.
I thought this film was cleverly written and very well done. The whole film was shot digitally then put through a process called rotoscoping. The effect presents an intriguing experience for watchers as the characters look like the actors but are definitely animated. As a fan of various kinds of animation I was drawn into this world and really appreciated the diversion from normal films. I think the animation effect helps watchers become more involved in the fantasy themed story as it’s set in the near future. This movie at moments reminded me of the animated classic Heavy Metal, more for it’s rogue attempt at something a little new.
I highly recommend this film, especially if you’re a fan of animation.