Shin SOS dai Tôkyô tankentai Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Shin SOS dai Tôkyô tankentai" exemplifies the pinnacle of high-definition video quality, embracing an exceptional 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer. This release maintains an impressive average bitrate of 35 Mbps, ensuring no detectable artifacts or significant flaws. The color palette spans both vibrant and muted tones, effectively transitioning from bright outdoor scenes to dimly lit underground sequences. The black levels are inky, with no evidence of crush or blooming, and the mid-tones exhibit a naturalistic balance. This fidelity to the source material is particularly notable in the hand-drawn backgrounds and the fluidity of CG characters, which maintain remarkable detail and texture.

The video quality extends to the meticulous detailing of the animation. Even though the 2D-style animation features a somewhat simplistic aesthetic in comparison to 3D animated productions, this Blu-ray edition excels in its technical integrity. The transfer illuminates fine details, from the accuracy of on-screen text to the precision of background elements, allowing CG character models to blend seamlessly with their surroundings. This clarity is maintained even in darker scenes where contrast and color stability shine, showcasing the subtleties without succumbing to noise or artifacting.

However, the consistently crisp outlines of the CG characters occasionally reveal minute hints of pixelation, especially noticeable on larger displays. This minor issue does not detract significantly from the overall viewing experience but may warrant attention from discerning viewers. Despite this, the Blu-ray edition of "Shin SOS dai Tôkyô tankentai" stands out as a benchmark in CG anime video presentation, delivering a visually stunning and highly detailed transfer that elevates the viewing experience.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray for "Shin SOS dai Tôkyô tankentai" fully leverages Blu-ray's capabilities, featuring its original Japanese track in Dolby TrueHD 5.1, and localized with English subtitles. While some less action-packed scenes won't push your system to its limits, the film excels in creating an eerie ambiance within underground tunnels and sewer systems. The rear channels effectively capture echoing effects, enhancing the immersive experience. Notably, dialogue remains clear and unrestrained by compression issues, ensuring that no spoken word is lost. The climactic sequences are especially engulfing, delivering a booming LFE level that underscores the tension.

Encoded at 3.0 Mbps, the Japanese Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround track initially appears cautiously mixed but quickly evolves to accommodate a series of dynamic encounters. The acoustics adapt realistically to various environments, with ambient sounds and echoes filling the rear channels effectively. Particularly striking are the sequences set in large underground expanses; flames ripple from the central channels out to the sides, shouts of panic are vividly placed across each speaker, and gunfire zips smoothly through the soundfield. The arrival of an antique tank is a standout moment—its bassy treads reverberate heavily, mechanics squeak directionally, and cannon fire fully utilizes the LFE channel, creating a palpably thrilling experience.

While the audio is impressive overall, it should be noted that the subtitles occasionally suffer from poor pacing. Sentences can flash by too quickly, and sign translations sometimes perch awkwardly on-screen. Despite this minor issue, "Shin SOS dai Tôkyô tankentai" delivers an unequivocally high-definition auditory experience that stands out within anime sound design. This Blu-ray’s audio package captivates, providing a rich soundscape that thoroughly enhances the viewing experience.

The extras on the Blu-Ray of "Shin SOS dai Tôkyô tankentai" provide a well-rounded insight into the film's creative and technical journey, making it a notable release for animé enthusiasts. Notably, all supplements maintain high definition with lossless sound, enhancing the viewing experience. The package includes an engaging and detailed Making Of featurette, divided into sections such as Design, Modeling, and Animation. This is complemented by a comprehensive commentary track featuring director Shinji Takaji, CGI director Masashi Kokubo, and chief animator Tomonari Nakajima, offering deep dives into the film's unique animation techniques. Supplemental interviews with key creators add further depth, while a short trailer rounds out the digital extras. A 12-page colored booklet provides tactile value with precise details on the film’s origins and production.

Extras included in this disc:

• Filmmakers Commentary: Insightful track featuring director Shinji Takaji and others.
• Making Of Featurette: Detailed exploration of the animation process in multiple segments.
• Creator Interviews: Thoughts and experiences from key creatives.
• Trailer: Brief promotional video for the film.
• 12-Page Colored Booklet: Offers background and detailed production notes.

"SOS! Tokyo Metro Explorers: The Next" is an intriguing blend of nostalgia, adventure, and cutting-edge animation technology. The film follows fifth grader Ryuhei and his group of friends, including his younger brother Sasuke and a mysterious girl, Momoyo, as they delve into Tokyo's subterranean passageways. Using old notes from Ryuhei's father's childhood explorations, the group discovers a hidden world inhabited by social outcasts, including a World War II soldier guarding a supposed treasure. The story taps into themes of boyish camaraderie and escapism, rendered evocatively against the bustling, tech-driven Tokyo above.

At just over 40 minutes, the film impressively balances pace and depth, though at times it feels like it might benefit from a longer runtime to flesh out subplots, such as Ryuhei’s family issues. The unique animation technique — using fully CG models colored with cel shading to mimic traditional cel animation — is both a triumph and a hurdle. While it captures the playful essence of the characters and integrates seamlessly with hand-drawn elements, moments of animation stiffness can be jarring. Despite this, the visually innovative approach sets the film apart in the anime landscape.

Director Shinji Takaji and writer Katsuhiro Otomo's collaboration ensures that "SOS! Tokyo Metro Explorers: The Next" resonates with both nostalgia and novelty. The children's exploration of abandoned Tokyo metros becomes a poignant metaphor for their quest for identity and understanding in a world brimming with both opportunity and disconnection. For fans of Otomo's previous works or those intrigued by innovative animation techniques, this quasi-sequel provides an engaging and heartfelt viewing experience, making it an essential addition to any anime collection.

"SOS! Tokyo Metro Explorers: The Next" offers a unique viewing experience that stands out in the anime landscape. Utilizing cel-shaded CGI, the film differentiates itself with a distinct visual style. While the technique may come off as technically awkward at times, it lends a fresh perspective that keeps viewers engaged. The narrative is well-paced, never feeling rushed, and creates an intriguing world deserving of a longer runtime. This Blu-ray release by Bandai Visual delivers an impressive showcase of modern animation, highlighting the creators' remarkable effort in storytelling through new animation techniques.

The Blu-ray edition features an eye-popping transfer that brings the visuals to vivid life, complemented by an extraordinary TrueHD audio track that enhances the immersive experience. The attention to technical quality ensures that both audio and visual elements are top-notch, providing a true anime showcase. Adding to its appeal, the disc includes a comprehensive collection of supplements that deepen the viewing experience and offer valuable insights into the film’s production.

In conclusion, short and sweet (unlike its title!), "SOS! Tokyo Metro Explorers: The Next" is a fine film distinguished by its unique animation style and engaging story. This Blu-ray is a prized addition for any animé fan or animation tech enthusiast, showcasing innovative techniques and a heartfelt narrative. Despite its steep price, it stands as a modest yet commendable Blu-ray Disc release, making it well worth the investment for dedicated fans.