Matrix directors Andy and Larry Wachowski's updating of a cult 1960s anime. Born into a family of racing nuts, 18-year-old Speed Racer (Emile Hirsch) is taking the racing world by storm. Racing his father's designed 'Mach 5', a gadget laden speed machine, his combination of fearless talent and sheer aggression has led him to be the talk of the racing fraternity. Fiercely loyal to his family, Speed Racer's main aim is to emulate his late brother Rex's (Scott Porter) achievements, and win the tough cross-country rally, 'The Crucible,' in which his brother died. But when he turns down a lucrative offer to drive for rival Royalton Industries, he soon discovers that they fix the outcome of all the major races in the country. Now, with Royalton out to stop him at all costs, he realises he must win every race, including 'The Crucible', if he is to defeat Royalton and save the family business.
R**E
brilliant fun for the whole family
Having seen this on one of the movie channels a year or so ago i decided to buy it @ under a fiver on blu ray i felt it was a bargain. The story as many reviewers before me have pointed out is a pretty straight forward well worn one and does work well.However the main reason for buying this was not to re watch it at my leisure but thanks to the amazing colours & eyepopping visuals that take place during the races,show how amazing high definition films can truly be.I have several friends who are still on the fence regarding blu-ray & the whole HD Debate & i find the best way to showcase the quality that HD can truly capture is encapsulated in the film speed racer. The Watchowski brothers (now known as the watchowski siblings as one of them is currently aiming to go through gender re-assignment proceedure)are masters in pushing the CGI & visual effect envelope as with the blu ray box set of the matrix trilogy which also shows off to a lesser level the wonders of HD speed racer with its Fully CGI Raceways & the explosions of colour from carribean sea blue to sickly Candy cane pink & the million colours in between really turns the OTT Meter up to 11!!Thats not to take anything away from the film 4 stars for that but thanks to the full use it makes of the HD format it knocks it up to a full 5!
N**K
Simply incredible...two words....'buy it'!
I'll keep this review simple - this blu-ray is easily the best piece of visual entertainment I have ever seen and you have to buy it!Whilst the story is relatively predictible, it is the way it was told that makes this an absolute must have for any blu-ray/hd tv owner. It comes across as more of a piece of moving visual art rather than a movie. Borrowing heavily from the SpeedRacer comic book, the colour in this movie simply has to be seen to be believed - everything is pumped up to the max and looks incredible.The racing itself looks stunning and it fizzes along so quickly you miss so much of it. I bought this disc because I reckoned it would look amazing in HD and it certainly does. The depth of the image is awesome and the backdrops look 3d.This is premium grade demo disc material for showing off your high-def rig to family and friends...don't hesitate, buy it today and enjoy!
C**Y
A Vibrant, Underrated Visual Masterpiece
Speed Racer is a dazzling explosion of color, energy, and heart that captures the spirit of the classic anime while delivering a wholly unique cinematic experience. Directed by the Wachowskis, this film is an unapologetically bold and innovative take on the world of high-octane racing, blending live action with hyper-stylized CGI to create a visual feast.Emile Hirsch shines as Speed Racer, perfectly portraying the passion and determination of a young racer driven by love for his family and his craft. Christina Ricci’s Trixie is charming and supportive, while John Goodman and Susan Sarandon add warmth as Speed’s devoted parents. Matthew Fox's mysterious and brooding Racer X provides a strong foil to Speed’s idealism.The film’s storytelling is straightforward yet emotionally resonant, anchored by themes of family, loyalty, and integrity in the face of corruption. The racing sequences are jaw-dropping, with their kaleidoscopic visuals and gravity-defying action that feel like an adrenaline-fueled video game brought to life.The Blu-ray release amplifies the film’s vibrant aesthetic, delivering stunning picture quality and immersive sound that make every race track and high-speed turn leap off the screen. The extras offer great behind-the-scenes features that showcase the groundbreaking technology and creativity behind the film.Speed Racer may not have been a box-office hit, but it’s a cult classic in the making, perfect for fans of visually stunning films and anyone seeking a fun, heartfelt ride. Don’t underestimate this gem—it’s a thrill from start to finish! Highly recommended.
F**E
Drugs for your eyes.
Forget about the story as you know whats going to happen at the end about a young car driver driving for an independent family company.. oh theres races?? hmmmm is he going to come first??! of course he is... but for the people missing the actual point of the film is entertainment.The action sequences are flashy,your television spits out colours you never knew possible and your eyes are in for a real treat in all things graphics and speed of the animation.. yes the story does suck.. and anything that includes a pet chimp (rise of the planet of the apes doesnt count here!!) you know you cant take this film seriously.Some parts slow right down and sometimes you just wish some races would finish (mountain pass being a boring one coupled with fighting... sighs..) but all in all,esp blu ray its worth getting for the action set pieces and cranking up the volume..switch your brain off too... :D
S**R
Anime as film. Film as anime
The wachowskis clearly know and love the subject matter and throw it at the screen in living breathing colour. Less a film, and more an experience.
F**D
Banal
It's amusing to see the level of defensiveness of other reviewers who for some reason found this movie entertaining. I say good for them but have to state that the critics are right. This is a terrible script, a boring story and visually pointless. Don't get me wrong, I love stupid popcorn movies when they're done right but this is just wrong on every level. There's nothing to see here, there really isn't. I think you can tell who you should believe when 'other reviewers' start defending the Wachovski's cash in sequels to the Matrix which were equally dumb and tedious and served only to prove that the original was a great idea and a fluke. I think we can thank the cinematographers and fight co-ordinators for that one.So... don't bother. Simply put, there's much better nonsense out there that will actually be entertaining. It may sound extreme but this could be the worst film I've seen this century!!
F**Y
Great film
Brilliant family film highly recommendpurchased used arrived in perfect condition.
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