Perfect Blue Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Perfect Blue" for the North American market offers a commendable visual experience, presented in 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high definition at an aspect ratio of 1.85:1. Notably, this edition uses a brand-new restoration, which brings out the breathtaking animation in fine detail, staying true to the filmmaker’s original vision. Black levels are stable and consistent while the encode boasts a high bit-rate that avoids any compression artifacts. Some signs of aging in the film are inevitable due to its older cel animation techniques, but overall, the presentation is immersive and visually satisfying.

This release presents the entirely uncut and unrated Japanese theatrical feature, rooted in the digital remastering done for its 20th anniversary. The transfer retains a naturally filmic look, with solid black levels and a color palette true to the original intent—although color saturation lacks the vibrancy seen in other contemporaneous works like "Ninja Scroll" or "Akira." Animation details are evident throughout, although the movement can appear somewhat stiff, consistent with its OVA origins before becoming a theatrical feature. There’s no significant damage to elements, with only a few minor specks and occasional image wobble indicative of hand-drawn cel animation.

The limitations of "Perfect Blue’s" original animation are apparent; despite this, it’s an exceptional technical transfer. Fans will appreciate the nuanced details visible on repeated viewings, such as the contrast between flawed real-world characters and flawlessly drawn idols. Compared to previous DVD releases, this 20th Anniversary Remastered Edition looks fantastic. However, given the restrictions inherent in 1990s cel animation, a future 4K scan could further enhance this cult classic’s visual fidelity.

The audio presentation of "Perfect Blue" on Blu-ray is a commendable effort, offering three distinct audio tracks that cater to diverse preferences. Foremost among these is the Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound mix, which stands out for its exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and immersive quality. Dialogue is consistently clear and easy to understand, while the musical score is rendered with crisp fidelity that enhances the viewing experience. The surround elements effectively draw viewers into the story, reinforcing atmospheric tension and emotional nuances. Fans of the original Japanese audio will appreciate its superb alignment with the new high-definition visual restoration, ensuring a high-quality home viewing experience.

In contrast, the English dubbed track is presented in a lossy Dolby Digital 5.1 format. Although professionally made and featuring veteran voice actors, it lacks the lossless quality found in the Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio track. The original Japanese 2.0 mono mix, also provided in Dolby Digital, serves as an essential archival option for purists. Despite its lossy format, it preserves the original theatrical experience from the mid-90s. Both tracks maintain clear and intelligible dialogue, but for those utilizing high-end audio equipment, the Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix is unequivocally recommended for its superior sound quality.

Additionally, multiple subtitle options further enhance accessibility and enjoyment of "Perfect Blue." Viewers can choose from English subtitles, English SDH for the hard of hearing, and English captions for songs and signs only. This flexibility in subtitle offerings ensures that both purists and casual viewers can tailor their viewing experience to their preferences without sacrificing understanding or enjoyment of this classic anime film.

The Blu-ray release of "Perfect Blue" by GKIDS and Shout! Factory offers a comprehensive collection of bonus features that cater to fans and collectors alike. This edition includes a new digital transfer with original audio, a first-print o-card slipcover, and full-color inner art. Among the extras, the standout feature is the 41-minute HD lecture by Satoshi Kon, offering an in-depth analysis of his creative process. The inclusion of the original unrestored SD version serves as a nostalgic reference for long-time fans, despite the vastly improved HD restoration. Other notable features include various trailers, interviews with cast and crew, and an exclusive recording session. This Blu-ray provides an engaging and valuable insight into the making of a classic film while maintaining a professional and technical presentation.

Extras included in this disc:

• Original Standard Definition Presentation: Nostalgic non-anamorphic widescreen version.
• Lectures by Director Satoshi Kon: Three-part interview dissecting the film.
• English Credits: Credits for the English dub production.
• Angel of Your Heart Recording Session: Idol group recording session.
• Angel of Your Heart Full English Version: English version of CHAM!’s song.
• Original U.S./U.K. Trailer: Theatrical trailer in SD.
• U.K. Re-release Trailer: HD trailer for the U.K. re-release.
• Japanese Trailer: Original Japanese theatrical trailer in HD.
• Cast and Crew Interviews: Multiple interviews with Japanese and English cast.

Satoshi Kon’s "Perfect Blue" is an essential, genre-defying anime masterpiece, exploring the dark, psychological depths of fame and identity. Mima (Junko Iwao), transitioning from pop idol to actress, becomes ensnared in a web of paranoia as a stalker upends her life. The darker career choices such as nude photo shoots and the brutal rape scene in her TV role disrupt her perception of reality, leading to a breakdown where fantasy and reality blur ominously. Mima's fragile state is visually represented through stunning art direction by Nobutaka Ike, coupled with the eerie, immersive cinematography of Hisao Shirai—delivering a hauntingly breathtaking visual experience.

Musically, Masahiro Ikumi’s evocative score amplifies the narrative’s tension, utilizing electronic sounds to underscore the disturbing atmosphere effectively. The editing by Harutoshi Ogata ensures a seamless, tense rhythm that propels the complex story forward. Sadayuki Murai’s screenplay is equally impressive for its intelligence and depth, making viewers question reality alongside Mima. Directed by the visionary Satoshi Kon, "Perfect Blue" melds intense psychological thrills with a poignant critique on media culture, making it an influential landmark in mature animated storytelling akin to Hitchcock and Argento thrillers.

A dual-layered exploration of the exploitative nature of the entertainment industry, specially poignant in today's social media age, this film remains disturbingly relevant. This 20th Anniversary Edition Blu-ray offers an uncut presentation, capturing its full explicit intensity with scenes of graphic violence and nudity intact. From its intense score to breathtaking animation and masterful direction, "Perfect Blue" continues to resonate as a harrowing commentary on identity and the dark costs of fame.

Satoshi Kon's "Perfect Blue" is an anime milestone, delivering an intricate psychological thriller that profoundly explores the dark recesses of celebrity culture and identity. Set within the framework of an obsessed fan stalking a former pop idol turned actress, the film dives into themes of paranoia, identity, and the pressure exerted by millions of admiring yet scrutinizing fans. This narrative expertly presages the age of social media, where personas are constantly crafted and deconstructed under public scrutiny.

The Blu-ray release by GKIDS and Shout! Factory champions Kon's vision with a superior audio-visual presentation. The restoration work is exceptional, enhancing the film’s color palette and detail, thus enriching the viewing experience. The Blu-ray retains the raw intensity and psychological tension that make "Perfect Blue" a timeless piece. The inclusion of substantive supplemental features offers deeper insights into the making of the film and Kon’s directorial choices, which are invaluable for anime enthusiasts and film scholars alike.

Perfect Blue is perfection. This is one of the most haunting and effective anime films ever made. A horror anime which explores a dark world, Perfect Blue is one of the greatest efforts from director Satoshi Kon. A must-see masterpiece that helped to pave the way for more complex anime films to follow. While the film is often shocking, the storytelling is exquisite. The Blu-ray features a strong restoration and a nice selection of supplemental features. Highly recommended.