Space Battleship Yamato

Yes, the anime series and the animated movie's way old. It's a cult classic. And if you don't already know the storyline, you've probably been hiding under a rock somewhere. Now, I won't mince words in saying that I'm partial towards this particular show, because it's something from my younger days, and really...I do tend to like over the top narratives. If it's going to be a movie, I don't seriously expect realism and coherent storylines.

This particular rendition has some differences from the original anime, especially noticeable in the romance sequence they've thrown in. It seriously annoys me, how the makers of these shows are so fond of throwing a romance in to increase viewership. Sex sells, but really...that's just unprofessional aboard the Yamato =p

Jibe aside, the over the top of self sacrifice, xenocide and reasonably dramatic space battles is everything I expected. Granted, the special effects aren't quite top notch, but it's clear that the creators made some effort to provide some iconic scenes from the original anime. I appreciate that very much. Overall, however, the look and feel remains somewhat plasticky and seems to lack the high budget realistic oomph that I've come to expect. Of course, that could be due to a creative decision, but that's how it comes across to me.

Narrative is...well...every bit as strong/weak as the original, with the invariable weakness of romance thrown in. For some reason, whenever there's a crisis, the lovers invariably embrace and talk sweet nothings while the fate of the world is at stake. It annoys me, and note this for the record. Guys, get a room. You can always make out after you get home from the suicide mission which you people invariably survive anyway.

Overall I'd say the movie gets 7/10 from me. Marked down for the romance, though I regard the plot holes as part and parcel of a live action movie that at least tries to stay faithful to the original material. The movie's not bad, but I'm pretty sure it's really for the old faithfuls.