The first aspect that is noted within this movie is the animation projection. It is called interpolated rotoscope, meaning that the film was first camera-shot and then animated over the original footage. This is what gives the story its dreamlike quality. The way the film was made is the perfect medium for this story, and I believe it delivers something especially unique.
The film tells the story of a new earth dystopia where millions of people have been hopelessly addicted to a drug dubbed Substance D, derived from a small blue flower. In response to the mass addiction, the government adapts an extremely high-tech surveillance system that not only includes the technological advancements of cameras and sound-bugs and a coat-like garment that allows the wearer to remain completely free of identity, but under-cover agents working to detect addicts and dealers.
Our protagonist, Bob/Fred/Arctor, is an under-cover agent who has in fact become addicted to Substance D himself. The plot unfolds as Arctor confuses his daily job with real-life drug-world submersion.
This movie is fairly obscure but should be given tons of credit for animation, plot, conversation and wonderful characterization. The drug-induced conversations often dabbled with extreme paranoia that most often take place in the home of Arctor and his housemates are extremely entertaining. The characters jump from the screen, each one reminding you of someone you may know. And the perfect exemplification of a life filled with drug addiction is definitely to be appreciated. Viewers will walk away from this film both stunned and holding a new perspective on drugs and government, drug-free and addicted alike.
Rating = 9/10
