ultradaikichi

Mind Game, as is the case with many of its contemporaries, is an anime that is shaped by the digital transition of the early 2000s. However, unlike other works from that era, Mind Game is not burdened by this, but freed - every frame is packed with the manic expressiveness Yuasa would come to be known for, with CG and digital effects from the highly underrated Studio 4c. The use of CG and other advantages of the digital medium are better than many modern anime. Colorful, experimental and abstract cuts, so many of which are big swings, and the overwhelming majority hit to great effect.

Watched in 35mm Cinema Scope, with the director in attendance. Yuasa-sensei, even with this being his first directorial (film) work, made some magic here. He described the freedom he felt working on it, and you can feel it just emanating from the screen. Mind Game is a truly seminal work, and one that seriously deserves all its praise.