Animelovers, prepare to make space in your collection as fan favorite filmPaprikais receiving a new limited edition 4K release, available from February 20. The re-release will see the classic animated thriller upscaled toUltra HD, presented in a steelbook casing alongside a slew of special features. Originally released in 2006, theSatoshi Kon-directed film delves into a realm of fantasy and imagination as a detective and therapist unite, in an endeavor to recover a stolen device which allows scientists to enter and record a subject’s dreams, before it falls into the hands of a so-called “dream terrorist.”
Based upon the eponymous 1993 novel byYasutaka Tsutsui, and subsequent 2003Manga adaptation,Paprikaexplores the subconscious in a mind-bendingvisual feast, fit for viewing in the highest resolution possible; the upcoming release will include a new featurette named “RestoringPaprika” chronically the remastering process. This will be joined by other special features exploring the film’s stunningly psychedelic visuals, entitled “The Dream CG World” and “The Art of Fantasy”, alongside storyboards and original drawings from the film’s production. The edition will also include filmmaker commentary and a making-of documentary. The new release will include both Japanese and English audio options.
An Influential Classic
Paprikawas the fourth and final film by filmmaker Kon prior to his death in 2010, following 1997’sPerfect Blue, 2001’sMillennium Actress, and 2003’sTokyo Godfathers. Certified “Fresh” on review aggregator siteRotten Tomatoesthe film holds an impressive score of 86%. Grossing $944,915 outside of Japan, the film is regarded as one of the country’smost influentialexports of the 00’s; fans and critics alike have oftnoted similaritiesbetween the animated feature andChristopher Nolan’s 2010 blockbusterInception. The film is notably set to receivea live action TV adaptationhelmed byBirds of PreydirectorCathy Yanfor Amazon Studios and Hivemind. The upcoming series was described byDeadlineto be a “character-driven sci-fi series with a mind-bending narrative.” Joining Yan as executive producer on the project isAsh Sarohia,Masi Oka, andJason F. Brown.
As well as directing the film, Kon wrotePaprika’s screenplay alongsideSeishi Minakami, whileSatoki Toyodaserved as co-producer.Jungo MarutaandMasao Takiyamaare credited as the film’s executive producers. The film’s voice cast includesMegumi Hayashibara,Toru Emori,Katsunosuke Hori, andToru Furuya. The new limited edition 4K Ultra HD release ofPaprikawill be available for purchase from February 20.
