Large mechas called Labors are going out of control. Does it
have something to do with the new operating system? It's up to the mobile police
to solve this problem! Directed by legendary Mamoru Oshii (Ghost in
the Shell, Jin-Roh), the first Patlabor movie is top-notch
entertainment. It has it all, the mecha designs are wonderful and animation is
top notch. The characters are very enjoyable to watch, cute Noah, wild Ohta, and
the hilariously subdued and sharp captain Goto. The story is good too, unraveling
the clues one by one, without getting too much into vague philosophical mumbo-jumbo,
or spelling things out to the audience. Some people might find the beginning slow,
but what it lacks in action, it replaces with excellent character interaction
. It's not until the final half hour when we get some real action, pumped up by
the surprisingly good soundtrack. There's also plenty of humor without being silly.
All in all, Patlabor 1 is definitely recommended as I enjoyed every second
of it.
(4.5)
