Plot: What’s it about?
After World War II, Japan had to make some decisions and in this dimension, we know they became more peaceful in nature. But in an alternate realm, Japan took some different options to deal with things, ones that led down a much darker path. As domestic crisis looms thanks to civil unrest, the government has to find a solution and decides to implement a special task force to handle the domestic “terrorism” issues. This band of soldiers will not operate within the normal parameters of a police force or military team, it will run under special rules that don’t limit the actions it can take, to ensure success. This group is the Wolf Brigade, a select force of skilled warriors to end the public unrest and protests, especially the ones that involve a dangerous cult. The conflict between the Wolf Brigade, the protesters, the normal police forces, and the innocent masses causes many lives to be lost, battles to be fought, and people to be torn apart. But within this large scale war of sorts, it all comes to down to single people and the choices they make, which is where Jin-Roh focuses, on one man and one woman, both right in the heat of the battles…
This is easily one of the best anime releases in a long while, which is not a surprise, given some of the talent involved. Mamoru Oshii (Avalon, Ghost in the Shell) is the most famous name of the list, but Jin-Roh is loaded with gifted filmmakers. Jin-Roh has a very good premise and has a lot of small touches, but never gets confusing or hard to follow, even for anime rookies. This is a dark, often depressing look into an alternate future, one where sorrow and destruction reigns above all else. A film with this kind of bleakness is not for everyone, but don’t assume it is overly violent or exploitative, as that isn’t the case. You’ll see some violent content, but it fits within the storyline and is not used for shock value, not in the slightest. In addition to the broad scope of the story, the smaller moments are able to shine and the focal love story is well told, thanks to a slow, subtle approach by the filmmakers. Of course, all of these elements come through via some excellent animation that pulls you into the storyline, especially in the darker moments. I cannot recommend Jin-Roh enough, it is a superb film that is not only a masterwork of anime, but also of film in general. In other words, if you’re at all interested, make sure you add Jin-Roh to your collection.
Pioneer has issued Jin-Roh in two separate forms, this deluxe three disc set and a single disc edition. The price difference is rather large, but the single disc has no extras and no CD soundtrack, so even casual fans will want to upgrade here. A lot of times, most of the extras from the special editions are also found on the normal editions, with just the CD soundtrack as an exclusive (as in Anchor Bay’s limited Argento sets), but that is not the case here. The single disc version is just the movie and has no extras, so this special edition is just that, a very special release aimed at fans. But if you’re just mildly interested, the single disc will suffice, though you might kick yourself for missing out down the road. In either case, Jin-Roh is a great anime release that deserves a look from all those interested and with two options, everyone should be able to get what they’re after here. I commend Pioneer for their hard work on this set and while the price is steep on the special edition, I think the film warrants that kind of investment.
Video: How does it look?
Jin-Roh is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. This is a clean, sharp looking visual treatment that is almost flawless, with only a minor issue or two keeping it from being reference level. The print shows no signs of wear or marks in the least, while compression is excellent and never presents serious worries. I did see a couple small instances of shimmer, but nothing to be concerned about. The film’s muted color scheme is preserved here and looks terrific, with all the visual intentions intact. As this is a dark film in terms of visuals, contrast is crucial and in this transfer, black levels are smooth and refined throughout. The shadows show just enough detail, never murky or overly bright, which is excellent news. All in all, a top notch transfer in all respects and let’s hope to see more work of this level from Pioneer in the future.
Audio: How does it sound?
The original Japanese soundtrack is available via dual 5.1 options in Dolby Digital and DTS, which is great news and of course, I hope to see DTS on more future anime releases from Pioneer, without a doubt. Although both tracks are solid and worthy options, the DTS track has an edge in most areas and is the track of choice here. The music seems more expansive and effective in the DTS mix, while subtle audio is also more refined and between those two enhancements, it is more than enough reason to go DTS on this one. The audio is terrific in both tracks however, with clean dialogue, smooth sound effects, and the amazing music score in fine form, no real complaints to lodge on either side. This release also includes an English Dolby Digital 5.1 track, as well as optional English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
A second disc houses all the of the bonus materials, starting off with a forty-five minute interview with the filmmakers. The interview traces Jin-Roh from concept to execution, with a lot of information on the small details, like how the material evolved, the animation process, and even how the filmmakers were able to get the movie produced. This is an extensive and insightful piece, with no fluff or promotional time, just a superb interview session that fans should love. You’ll also find over one hundred pieces of production artwork, an English language trailer, and four Japanese theatrical trailers. The real draw however, lies in the inclusion of the film’s soundtrack CD, which is exclusive to this release. As I mentioned above, Jin-Roh has an excellent musical score and that makes this CD priceless, so fans cannot afford to miss out.
