Skye Hoshi: Anime Girl

Some times films of this type can simply feel like a pastiche or limited in they're presentation but Sky Hoshi avoids that. Whether it's the sharp direction, nicely paced script or the all-too relatable characters (Yes, even Sky Hoshi herself), Sky Hoshi manages to conjure a new form of the feel-good/mom and pop magic that Pure Magic Pictures seems to have formulated. Most importantly, it's accessible to everyone. You don't have to be an anime fan - diehard or otherwise - to enjoy it.

Like Plunder Quest and Lily Darling before it (Pure Magic Pictures previous films), Sky Hoshi both simultaneously feels of its time and something that could fit neatly next to films like Back to the Future or other 80s movies.

During a 14-hour flight, I decided to break away from Hollywood's usual fare. After back-to-back viewings of The Pursuit of Happyness and The Founder, I realized way many mainstream films follow the same formulaic patterns. Determined to find something truly unique, I came across Skye Hoshi. The intriguing cover art and description immediately caught my eye, and after watching the trailer, I decided to give it a chance. While I wouldn't describe myself as an anime enthusiast, I approached it with an open mind.

To my delight, Skye Hoshi delivered a refreshingly original story with excellent pacing that held my attention from start to finish. The film had a distinctive charm, occasionally evoking a Scott Pilgrim vs. The World vibe. Skye reminded me of Ramona Flowers, and the bands brought back similar energy. At times, it also called to mind The Secret Lives of Dorks, particularly in how it creatively wove elements of comic book culture into the narrative.

The ending was a pleasant surprise, tying up loose ends and rewarding the audience with clever callbacks and well-placed foreshadowing. The writing was genuinely sharp, with moments of humor that felt natural. The characters had depth, with strong arcs that made them memorable and relatable. Skye, in particular, stood out - sweet, (mostly) innocent, and utterly endearing. I couldn't help but wish for my own "Skye Hoshi" by the end.

Once I returned home, I ended up purchasing the Blu-ray to support this indie studio & rewatch the film at home. The music has since made its way onto my playlists, and I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel. Kudos to the writers and producers for crafting such a standout indie film - I can't wait to see what they come up with next.

The kind of film that all ages can enjoy. Skye Hoshi is well made with a very talented cast. The film exceeds in what it does well, playing to its strength through comedy and good VFX. There is even a little Rom-Com action but the film does well to not lay it on to heavy. There are plenty of moments for anime fans to enjoy. You get to experience the life and fantasies of an avid anime/manga fan or comic book reader in general. Some scenes even take place at the New York City Anime Expo where many fans venture to playout their Cosplay fantasies. Just seeing that makes it a unique experience! Not spoil but there is a plot twist that hopefully paves the way for a sequel. Go see it!

A fun, funny, engaging and entertaining movie. All the performances are right on the mark. The filming is great giving just the right sense of place and action. The music is outstanding. Kalani Hubbard is gifted. Not only did he write and direct and act in Sky Hoshi, he wrote four of the songs as well and they are really good songs.

If you are eager for a movie you can watch with your kids or your parents or grandparents with lots of laughs and suspense, no violence and a clever premise then you will surely enjoy Sky Hoshi. And it has a great message about the gifts we have been granted through the use of our senses and our heart.

Skye Hoshi features an outrageously fun plot and a talented cast. I wasn't sure what to expect with this film but ended up really enjoying it. The actors were all very well suited for their roles, and the character acting was on point at all times. Kira, Marvin, and Mr. Mario all shined bright as supporting cast, and Skye and Atom kept the improbable plot rolling smooth and believably with their dedication to the characters.

I think I will have to check out the others films by Pure Magic Pictures. They obviously put their heart and soul into this film.

I am looking forward to seeing the sequel, and dare I hope the trilogy?