Tokyo Loop (2006)

Directed by: Nobuhiro Aihara, Taku Furukawa, Takashi Ito, Toshio Iwai, Joji Kuri, Tomoyasu Murata, Kei Oyama, Masahiko Sato, Mika Seike, Maho Shimao, Kotobuki Shiriagari, Tabaimo, Keiichi Tanaami, Atsuko Uda, Miohi Weda, Atsus Yamamura | 75 minutes | animation

“An ode to the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo”, is how the animation feature ‘Tokyo Loop’ is described. However, when you see the 16 animated films interwoven together, you start to doubt to what extent the expression “an ode to” applies to this. After all, it seems that not all films portray the city positively. For example, we see a film in which the dog poo problem is discussed in a comical way and a film in which violence in the underground is depicted in a symbolic way. Symbolism appears to play an important role in a large part of these animation films. And whether this is typically Japanese or not, this makes one animation extra interesting, but the other quite elusive or even annoying.

However, ‘Tokyo Loop’ is also described as follows: “celebration of 100 years of animation in Japan. Sixteen artists explore the boundaries of the medium inspired by the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo.” This is more in line with the material presented. Because that can be said about the majority of these films, the limits of what is possible with animation are occasionally explored. We are treated to all kinds of techniques, which some animation enthusiasts will probably lick their fingers at.

This versatility is also what almost kills ‘Tokyo Loop’. Although at least a third of the individual fragments are definitely worth watching and another third is good, there are also five films that make you wonder what is so special about this. The films are frankly so different that you wonder why they were put together in the first place. When you arrive at the last fragment ’12 O’Clock’ after about seventy minutes of animation, you’ve about had it and although the hallucinatory images try to make you forget the time, you keep your focus on the hands of the clock. clock, hoping they will reach 12 soon. It’s time.

Because of some of the separate animations – in which the viewer is confronted with his own perception – and partly due to the sparkling electronic sound ‘Tokyo Loop’ is nevertheless a must to watch. However, it wouldn’t be a problem if the different animations could be viewed separately. Perhaps a DVD release can offer a solution in the future.