Is this the new generation’s answer to old cult favorites like TETSUO THE IRON MAN? Simple answer: Yes. ELECTRIC DRAGON 8000oV is a stylish, hyperkinetic film that we can easily categorize as an instant cult hit.

Just what the hell is this movie is about? Tadanobu Asano (ZATOICHI) and Masatoshi Nagase (THE HIDDEN BLADE) play energetic superheroes who are trying to destroy each other. Simple, right? But just how do they get their superpowers? They freaking charge up their powers by anything electric, like a wall socket, an electric chair and a power plant. Isn’t that alone good enough to merit a watch? Of course!

There isn’t much to ELECTRIC DRAGON – heck, DOLEMITE might have a better storyline – because the film is all about style. And that’s okay, especially considering its running time (the film runs a little shorter than an hour). Director Sogo ishii’s style is outrageous and extreme. Yes it is somewhat very much an experimental film than anything. Sometimes it feels that is has more style than required, but we overlook it, and simply enjoy it for its insanity: a 100-percent visually oriented film that doesn’t bother getting hampered down with story. There is also a cool Buddha mask in the vein of PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, not to mention a funky punk-electric guitar noise and a kick-ass fight scene at the end.

In other words, ELECTRIC DRAGON 80000V is the opposite of the ultimate chick film! It’s one loud hour that brings a new meaning to the word “madness.” –Shogo

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 25th, 2006 at 8:34 am and is filed under DVD Reviews. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.