Geekatana Anime Review: Appleseed (2004)

Took a long while but I'm finally going to review the very first Appleseed (2004) movie. Appleseed is based out of the manga of created by Masamune Shirow. Back when I first heard of Appleseed I really have no idea what it was but I am no stranger to Ghost in the Shell as it's one of those movies that cemented my love for anime movies.

Appleseed is one of those movies that introduced me to cel shading in terms of animation and this film is clearly one of the best example of cel shading masterpiece. I've already made a review of Appleseed Alpha as well and you can check that out on the link if you like.

It's a good 14 years since this animated film of a gem was released but rewatching it again for the sake of this review I must say that its still as good as the first time I've seen it years back which was a rarity.

The story revolves about Deunan Knut a soldier from the old war who now finds herself in Tartarus a paradise city where humans and genetically engineered bio robots lived. But Tartarus hides a dark secret and Deunan forgotten past holds the key to it all.

Storywise aside from the names and some certain aspect here and there the Appleseed movie couldn't be more different from the manga source material it was based upon. Even though it differs the movie does a decent way of telling its own story. Like a lot of Masamune Shirows works Appleseed borrow some biblical and religious concept and themes here and there.

As for character development I like how this movie fleshes out Deunan and Briareos relationship and whenever these two are on screen are probably the best parts of the movie. It does have the usual sci-fi end of the world cliche plot and a certain beauty and the beast theme in regards to Deunan and her partner. Although I do find Deunan character a bit OP especially when compared to other soldiers in the film. I'd even say she has the same super soldier serum Captain America has.

Graphics wise its probably one of the best cell shaded animated film ever made. The graphics are polished enough that it can still hold water compared to the animated movies of today. Some movement looks stiff but you would hardly notice them unless you're really looking. This is probably the best aspect of this film.

Music in this film matches the themes this movie is going for. From the rocking drums playing at the background of the very opening fight scenes to Deunan entrance into Tartarus this movie blends the audio and scenes near perfectly.

The only minor issue I got on this film is the heavy sci fi theme this movie goes for that is not exactly for everyone.  Most folks will probably need to watch this movie more than once to fully understand the twist and turns. Much like Masamune Shirows works Appleseed runs on concept of morality and questioning humanity in a grand scale.

Overall a really, really good movie I'd recommend to anyone who loves anime and a great story. If you're a fan of mecha and grand giant robots you will love this movie. If you like deep philosophical story then I can't recommend this movie more. Its somewhat cliche plot pulls it back from getting a perfect score for me.