I’ll admit up front that I am a fan of Takashi Miike. That’s
not to say he hasn’t made a movie that I wasn’t a huge fan of but for the most
part I’ve been satisfied with the films I’ve seen that he’s made. Add TERRA
FORMERS to that list.
Based on the Manga of the same name the story takes place in
the future where the population of Earth is so large that scientists are
looking at colonizing Mars. In an effort to alter the makeup of the planet they
send out a form of cockroach that will change the planet to make it hospitable
to humans, altering the air and land on the planet.
500 years later in 2599 a new project is set in motion. A
team is selected to rid the planet of these cockroaches in order for humans to
take it for themselves. The team is formed of various criminals, individuals
who if killed will not be missed by anyone. In addition to that each one has
been genetically transformed to align with different species of insects to help
in their conquering Mars.
When they arrive they discover that the cockroaches are not
what they expect, no tiny bugs crawling along waiting to be stepped on. Instead
the roaches have grown and morphed into humanoid form, stand about 8 feet tall
and aren’t going to go without a fight. Members change, members fight, members
die and in the end…well you’ll have to watch to discover the ending.
Along the way the effects reign supreme here with some
amazing visuals showing that the US is not the only group of film makers that
can do this sort of thing and do it right. Miike combines a solid science
fiction story with the effects to make it not only an interesting film but an
action packed one as well.
The depth of story is amazing and worth noting here. This
isn’t as simple at it seems at the start with government plots going on beneath
the surface, characters who aren’t who or what they seem to be and the roaches
not being what is expected either. All of this combines to make a story well
worth enjoying.
Arrow is releasing this film and as is always the case with
them they’ve done an amazing job. The film is offered in 1080p hi def and looks
great. The extras include a making of feature length documentary, extended cast
interviews, footage from the 2016 Japanese premiere, outtakes, an image
gallery, the theatrical and teaser trailers, a reversible sleeve and for the
first pressing only a fully illustrated collector’s booklet with new writing on
the film by Tom Mes.
If you’re a fan of Miike then you’ll find this an absolute
must for your collection. If you enjoy science fiction then this is one to add
to your collection as well. In any event this is a movie to be enjoyed with
repeat viewings. I know I’ll be doing so.
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