DVD Corner

Paprika 4K UHD Steelbook Review

“Paprika” is visually stunning, but lacks character. 

Based on the novel by Yasutaka Tsutsui, 2006’s “Paprika” is a sci-fi anime film about dreams that predates “Inception.” The plot revolves around the DC Mini device- a machine that allows the user to enter dreams. Psychiatrist Dr. Chiba (who is part of the project’s research team) is using the machine illegally for her patients as a form of therapy. In the dream world, she becomes the titular redhead avatar Paprika. 

The plot starts to thicken when DC Mini users begin to act unstable which leads to the revelation that someone (possibly within the company) is stirring up trouble for their own personal gain. Worse still, the line between reality and fantasy begins to blur and pose dangerous consequences. 

Directed by the late great influential Satoshi Kon (best known for classics like “Perfect Blue” and “Tokyo Godfathers”), “Paprika” is a trippy tale about dreams, reality, psychology, and science. Kon’s film takes full advantage of the animation medium with truly stunning and stylish visual imagery involving everything from a circus and dolls to Tarzan and a parade. Anyone with an interest or passion for animation would treasure the visual element alone.

Where the movie stumbles a bit is with the confusing plot that feels like its need of a few rewrites (not to mention more clear cut details). The plot also tends to overshadow the characters. Yes, there’s some rewarding elements here (particularly with Chiba and Tokita’s arc), but you’re left wanting more heart and depth from the characters.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p. How does it look? Viewers can expect the animation to shine in 4K.

Audio Tracks: Japanese Dolby Atmos and English, Spanish, Japanese, Cantonese, French, German, Spanish, Thai and Italian 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The Atmos track is nothing short of lively while the English dub is satisfactory if you wish to go that route.

Extras:
* Digital copy
* Blu-ray copy
* “Restoring Paprika” featurette (the only extra on the 4K).
* Domestic and International trailers
* Storyboard comparisons
* “The Dream CG World”- Interview with DP Michiya Kato about CGI.
* Commentary by director Satoshi Kon, producer Morishima, and film composer Susumu Hirasawa.
* “Tsutsui And Kon’s Paprika”- Interviews with Satoshi Kon and Yasutaka Tsutsui.
* “A Conversation About The Dream”- A roundtable discussion with Satoshi Kon, Yatsutaka Tsutsui, and voice actors Megumi Hayashibara and Toru Furuya.
* “The Art Of Fantasy”- Art director Nobutaka Ike discusses animation styles.

February 17, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Anime, Paprika 4K Review, Paprika Movie, Satoshi Kon