Anime movies from the 80s and 90s have a distinct look that stands out compared to modern-day anime. The CEL animation, attention to detail, and depth of colours and shadows really bring the worlds to life.
Introduction to “Neo Tokyo”
“Neo Tokyo” (1987) is an anthology film directed by three renowned figures in the anime industry—Rintaro, Yoshiaki Kawajiri, and Katsuhiro Otomo. This trio of directors is known for pushing boundaries in terms of animation, storytelling, and thematic exploration. Each of the three short films within the anthology has its own style, tone, and story, giving viewers a unique experience as they move through the film.
What Sets “Neo Tokyo” Apart from Modern Anime?
“Neo Tokyo” is a prime example of the detailed, hand-drawn animation techniques characteristic of the 80s and early 90s, before the digital era became prevalent in anime. The use of traditional CEL animation gives the film a distinctive visual texture—one that stands out compared to the sleek, computer-generated styles we often see today. The rich colors, painstakingly detailed backgrounds, and intense shading bring each of the three segments to life in a way that feels immersive and captivating.
For anime enthusiasts who appreciate older, classic anime, “Neo Tokyo” is a treat. The experimental animation techniques, combined with complex narratives, offer a glimpse into the artistic risks anime creators were willing to take during the 1980s, a period of innovation and bold storytelling in the industry.
The Three Stories of “Neo Tokyo”
The anthology consists of three distinct stories, each bringing its own flavor of sci-fi, surrealism, and commentary on humanity’s future.
Construction Cancellation Order (Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo) The final segment, directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, takes a satirical look at automation and human reliance on machines. The story follows a man sent to shut down a massive construction project run entirely by robots. However, the machines refuse to accept his orders, leading to a tense and thought-provoking confrontation. Otomo, known for his work on “Akira,” infuses this short with a biting commentary on technology and the dystopian future it might create. While the animation isn’t as flashy as “The Running Man,” the clean, efficient design of the robots and the cold, industrial atmosphere contribute to a chilling and impactful story.
Labyrinth Labyrinthos (Directed by Rintaro) The first segment, directed by Rintaro, follows a young girl and her cat as they explore a strange and eerie carnival-like world. This story blends surrealism and fantasy with an eerie, dreamlike atmosphere. Rintaro’s use of distorted visuals and symbolism feels more experimental, leaning heavily on tone and mood rather than a straightforward narrative. The message here can be somewhat elusive, which may leave some viewers feeling disconnected. The animation, though, is captivating, with intricate designs and a haunting quality that keeps you intrigued even when the story feels difficult to grasp.
The Running Man (Directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri) Yoshiaki Kawajiri’s segment shifts gears with a more grounded, intense story. This short focuses on a futuristic death race, where racers with special abilities compete in dangerous, high-speed contests. The animation in this segment stands out for its dynamic movement and detailed background design, especially when showcasing the visceral power of the race and the toll it takes on the racers. It explores themes of human obsession and the cost of power, resonating with those who enjoy psychological thrillers. The vibrant colors and precise line work enhance the tension and excitement, making it a visual masterpiece of 80s animation.
Visual Innovation and Experimental Techniques
What truly makes “Neo Tokyo” a standout film is its willingness to push the boundaries of animation. Each director brings a different approach, from surrealism and psychological tension to dystopian satire. Rintaro’s use of dreamlike, abstract visuals, Kawajiri’s focus on dynamic, kinetic action, and Otomo’s cold, efficient designs combine to create a film that feels artistically innovative. “Neo Tokyo” is often praised for its visual creativity, with many sequences standing out for their sheer attention to detail and complexity.
Themes and Messages
While each story in “Neo Tokyo” is unique, they all share an underlying exploration of the relationship between humanity and the technological future. Whether it’s the obsession with speed and power in “The Running Man” or the dangers of automation in “Construction Cancellation Order,” the anthology delves into themes that still feel relevant today. It examines the thin line between human ambition and self-destruction, the cost of technological advancement, and the surreal nature of our desires and fears.
“Neo Tokyo” doesn’t offer easy answers or clear resolutions. Instead, it presents a set of ideas and images that linger in the viewer’s mind long after the credits roll. The abstract and experimental nature of the film may not be for everyone, but for those who enjoy complex, multi-layered stories, “Neo Tokyo” is a fascinating exploration of sci-fi through the lens of anime.
Who Should Watch “Neo Tokyo”?
Who Should Watch “Neo Tokyo”?
If you’re a fan of classic 80s anime, “Neo Tokyo” is a must-watch. Its unique blend of experimental animation and thought-provoking storytelling makes it stand out among other anime anthologies of the era. Even if you’re new to older anime, this film is worth checking out simply for its visual artistry and the creative risks it takes.
For fans of directors like Katsuhiro Otomo (best known for “Akira”) or Yoshiaki Kawajiri (famous for “Ninja Scroll”), “Neo Tokyo” offers an early glimpse of their distinctive styles and thematic concerns. Each story provides something different, making the film feel fresh and unpredictable throughout.
Conclusion: Why “Neo Tokyo” Deserves Your Attention
“Neo Tokyo” is not just an anime film; it’s an artistic experiment that challenges the conventions of both storytelling and animation. While the first story may feel abstract or hard to follow for some, the latter two segments bring a more concrete narrative and thematic focus, especially in terms of visual engagement. The animation is stunning, even by today’s standards, and the themes remain surprisingly relevant in our current world of rapid technological advancement and growing automation.
For anime fans, especially those who enjoy the classics from the 80s and 90s, “Neo Tokyo” is a film that should not be missed. It may not have the mainstream recognition of titles like “Akira” or “Ghost in the Shell,” but its influence on the genre and its bold artistic vision make it a hidden gem worth watching. So, put it on your watchlist—you won’t regret it.
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