This was notably the directorial debut for filmmaker Norman England, who has otherwise seemingly spent a lot of time in the industry in one capacity or another. Just as the modest production values and practical effects betray the low budget, the post-production effects also indicate the comparatively scarce resources, and are furthermore easily dated to the 2000s. Please note that none of this is specifically a mark against the movie - I find it irksome that "low-budget" is commonly held to mean something is inherently bad. Practical effects will always be preferable to digital wizardry, and those here look just swell in my book; where digital wizardry is less than perfectly seamless, whatever the reason, that's not inherently bad, either, and sometimes it's quite fitting for a piece. These are worthwhile observations to make, I think, just as other facets (like the soundtrack) further date the flick, and still it's all just part and parcel of a silly, fun-loving romp that's just here for a good time. And you know what? I think 'The idol' is excellent!
Clocking in at under one hour, England and Kaneko Jiro's story is fairly simple as a toy figure of extraterrestrial origin finds its way to Earth and into the life of nerdy collector Ken, and strange things begin to happen. Most every element of the production similarly shows its age and limited financial backing, or possibly the relative inexperience of those contributing. Yet whatever reflections we might make about the look and feel, the fact is that this little feature is quite well done exactly as it is, and moreover, it's utterly delightful! The cast is unfailingly charming and ably meets the needs of the tiny tale, with special commendations for primary star Sasaki Jin, and Hayase Erina. (Do also note a small appearance by effects maestro Yamazaki Takashi.) I actually very much admire England's direction, and Takaoka Hiroo's cinematography; some small moments are unexpectedly smart. Likewise, the screenplay is kind of brilliant, with some wonderfully clever ideas in the narrative and scene writing, and some meaningful themes woven in. 'The idol' may be a low-grade picture of no particular renown, and it would be easy to pass it by, but that would be a mistake in my opinion.
I can see the love and hard work that was poured into these fifty-three minutes, not to mention the skill and intelligence, and for as splendidly entertaining as it is, there is also a welcome earnestness underlying the outward ridiculousness. Scrutinizing the more fantastical visuals is beside the point when they look as good as they do: while the bulk of the title is very down to Earth, with lovely work from all to bolster the verisimilitude, where the props, costume design, sound effects, tangible creations, production design and art direction, and even computer-generated imagery are sparingly employed to more whimsical ends (chiefly at, well, the end), I for one think the result looks terrific. The rock and pop may be easily dated but the tunes are still catchy, and I like Otani Kow's complementary score. Really, from top to bottom the film may not look like much, but the heart and sincerity is undeniable, and I fully recognize the love and care that went into it to make it both highly enjoyable and softly substantive. What more could we ask for?
Don't let the unassuming appearance put you off. This is a really good time, with fine work from all involved to bring it to life, and as far as I'm concerned it is a tremendous success. Diminutive in size and scope, the result is actually a blast to a degree that no few bigger and longer movies can only wish they could achieve. I find 'The idol' to be an unlikely gem of a mini sci-fi comedy, and I'm happy to give it my high and hearty recommendation!
