“Scarlet” is an anime twist on Shakespeare’s Hamlet, but it doesn’t quite capture the magic of the original. The story starts with Scarlet (played by Mana Ashida) wandering a haunting otherworld, seeking revenge on her uncle Claudius (Koji Yakusho). He killed her father, King Amlet, and married her mother, Gertrude (Yuki Saito). While the gender switch sounds fresh, the plot takes unexpected turns that can confuse viewers.
Directed by Mamoru Hosoda, “Scarlet” has elements reminiscent of his earlier film, “Belle.” Both films showcase stunning visuals and complex themes. Scarlet’s life in a palace full of golden luxury takes a dark turn when she witnesses her father’s murder. Fueled by anger, she trains to kill Claudius, but her revenge plan backfires when she inadvertently poisons herself.
“Scarlet” unfolds like an odyssey. After her death, Scarlet finds herself in a purgatory between realms. Despite feeling defeated, a wise woman informs her that Claudius is also there, amassing an army of the dead. This revelation sparks Scarlet’s determination to confront him, and she scavenges for armor to protect herself in this treacherous land.
A unique twist occurs when Scarlet meets Hijiri (Masaki Okada), a pacifist paramedic from the future. His gentle nature clashes with Scarlet’s thirst for revenge, raising questions about violence and empathy. This dynamic adds depth, yet the film struggles to deliver its message effectively. While it hints at themes of forgiveness, it often feels like it skims over the surface.
Critics have noted that “Scarlet” grapples with the idea of vengeance but fails to make a strong emotional impact. The interactions between characters sometimes lack depth, leading to moments that feel flat. When a group of marginalized individuals take a stand against Claudius, the imagery feels powerful but lacks political nuance. Instead of building a meaningful narrative, the film frequently pauses, losing the viewer’s emotional connection.
Interestingly, a study by the Japan Animation Creators Association found that many young viewers enjoy stories of resilience and transformation. “Scarlet” hints at these themes but doesn’t fully commit. As audiences look for engaging content that resonates with their experiences, films like “Scarlet” must find ways to connect more profoundly.
In conclusion, while “Scarlet” offers a visually stunning experience, its lack of emotional clarity and depth may leave viewers wanting more. Perhaps in its ambition to blend art with storytelling, it loses sight of the very emotions that could make it memorable.
