Movie top list: 551 to 575

"It's decidedly cheesy, nonsensical and grotesque, but Kitamura's smart blend of vintage and modern makes it a grand spectacle that honors one of Japan's most iconic monsters in the best way possible."

"Kawamori presents a worthy and classy tribute to the genius of Miyazawa, a film that may not be your average biography, but is much better because of it."

"It's short, it packs quite a punch and even though I had some minor gripes, the pacing, the visual quality and the kick-ass lead character make it very easy to forget about these minor quirks."

"Hiroki made a pretty brave move here, incorporating new elements from other genres into his movies without changing anything of his trademark style."

"Both leads offer great performances, the cinematography is strong, the soundtrack on point and the cat and mouse game between the two protagonists is simply riveting."

"Necromentia belongs to the best Barker adaptations not written by Barker himself. If you like Barker's visions of demons and netherworlds, there's a big chance you'll love Teo's Necromentia."

"The second time around I was little let down by the acting performances of the secondary cast. For a film that puts more focus on drama than usually the case, that's somewhat of a problem."

"The Moss is not a wildly original film, but executed so well that it impresses from the very first seconds right until the final credit fades from the screen."

"The drama is flimsy, the music too melodramatic. Visually, it's a good watch, but the prime attraction are the battles, which don't disappoint at all."

"The pleasant cinematography and extraordinary setting, the lovely score and the relatable themes make this one of Kim's most accessible films, perfect if you need an entry into his oeuvre."

"The animation is superb, the characters are charming, it's fun to explore the fantasy realm and the pacing is nigh perfect. Good, old-fashioned Ghibli quality in other words."

"Falling somewhere between the world of commercial and arthouse cinema, the film may have some trouble finding an appreciative audience, luckily there's been plenty of positive buzz."

"Plaza knows how to deliver a fun, action-filled zombie flick that harbors some kick-ass gore and a few very funny moments."

"The cinematography is lovely, the plot is intriguing, the film is overflowing with weird and ridiculous details and the actors are on top of their game, all adding to the otherworldly experience."

"The sense of adventure, wonder and delight is what set this film apart, combined with a great eye for detail and perfect pacing it makes for a sprawling, joyous fantasy film."

"The lush cinematography and outstanding soundtrack set the stage for a bristling, touching relationship drama, the superb performances seal the deal."

"The economic running time, the use of superb athletes, the visual imagination and the overall first-grade production values make Tai Chi Zero one of the more entertaining films of 2012."

"If you think films like Terminator Salvation need a solid storyline and well-developed characters, you would do best to stay away from this film."

"A somewhat gritty but heartfelt and compassionate look at an underexposed part of Japanese youth culture, appropriately stylized and building up to a memorable finale."

"Ujicha's passion is beyond question. The unique animation style, the grotesque art style, the off the wall plot and the immense scale of Ujicha's undertaking make this an experience like no other."

"An extremely well-balanced album film, where the entrancing music and stylish visuals feed off each other, combining into an invigorating and encompassing experience."

"In the end, L is another typical Shimoyama film."

"A strong, visceral and aptly executed allegory. A rough ride that combines beauty and darkness in a way that invariably links them together as an inescapable part of the human condition."

"There are moments of sheer genius here, hidden away in a film that comes off just a little to modest for its own good."

"Pink and Gray is a pretty great film, but some familiarity with the director will definitely help you to appreciate it to its fullest."