cdejongh-93103

The advertised premise of this series meant that I commenced watching the series with great anticipation. Unfortunately, the development of the series quickly became a disappointment in its development through typically simplistic stereotypes of people with religious beliefs - do those responsible for series with these themes ever consult with people who understand religion and religiosity? This was a great opportunity to nuance the realities of religious belief within the initial storyline, but was never achieved due to the use of religious stereotypes. Who knows what might have been with wiser type casting?

I could restate everything that is 'wrong' with this movie, but many others have already done that.

But this is one of those films that is best viewed as a whole, not the sum of it's pieces. I found that you just need to lean back and enjoy it for what it is. There are so many extremes and eccentricities ranging from extremes of comedy and solemnity, and from the serious to the ludicrous.

That said, the three leading characters are not under nor overstated and the three actors make a major contribution to the success of this movie.

Casshern is loaded with extreme depictions and characterization, as is typical of it's genre, across a lengthy storyline. One gets a sense that the film is trying to say 'something,' but leaves it to the viewer to work it out for themself. This reminded me of the original Gojira movie which utilized a extreme story to make it's point. In Casshern the same happens with the 'reveal' coming at the end - at that moment the viewer is also compelled to reflect back over the film and to reevaluate everything they have seen. For many viewers that may be the frustrating aspect of their experience. In terms of imagery, the film is rich in variety, colour and mood, well supported by a great score. Ultimately, it was a worthwhile viewing experience.