The Sky Crawlers
Director: Mamoru Oshii
Actors: Rinko Kikuchi, Ryô Kase, Shôsuke Tanihara
PlotIn an alternate reality where the world appears to be at peace, war is a spectacle staged by corporations to satiate the populace's need for conflict and entertainment. The pilots engaged in these battles are known as "Kildren," genetically engineered adolescents who remain forever young and are destined to fly and die. Among them is a skillful pilot, intrigued by his existence and the endless cycle of aerial combats. His daily life is a blend of the thrill of dogfights and the mundane moments in between, hinting at a deeper longing for understanding and connection.
The arrival of a new, enigmatic pilot at the base throws the equilibrium of the protagonist's life into disarray. This pilot, seemingly unperturbed by the prospect of eternal youth and imminent death, begins to influence him, sparking questions about his own existence and the true nature of the world they inhabit. Together, through their interactions and the relentless progression of combat, they start to uncover the grim reality behind their perpetual warfare, leading to an exploration of memory, humanity, and the possibility of a life beyond the endless sky battles.
Writers: Hiroshi Mori, Chihiro Itô
Release Date: 02 Aug 2008
Runtime: 122 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: Japan
Language: Japanese
Home Video Reviews
Impressive disc with standout CGI and audio, intriguing yet polarizing anime; worth renting.
Read our review of The Sky Crawlers Blu-ray to find out more