Rating: R
Starring:
Daniel Craig as Barthélémy Karas (voice)
Catherine McCormack as Bislane Tasuiev (voice)
Romola Garai as Ilona Tasuiev (voice)
Jonathan Pryce as Paul Dellenbach (voice)
Ian Holm as Jonas Muller (voice)
Special Features:
The Making of “Renaissance” Featurette
Other Info:
Widescreen (2.35:1)
Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
French Language
French and Spanish Subtitles
Running Time: 105 Minutes
Synopsis:
The following is from the DVD cover:
“‘Renaissance’ is a breakthrough sci-fi thriller for a new millennium. Dare to enter a bold vision of the future in the tradition of ‘Blade Runner’ and ‘Sin City’ – drenched with state-of-the art animation and a gripping story. It’s 2054 Paris and the city lives in the shadow of corporate giant, Avalon, which sells the irresistible promise of ‘ageless beauty.’ The sudden kidnapping of a gifted young scientist draws a tough-as-nails cop into a twisted underworld of corporate espionage, genetic research and organized crime. Featuring the stellar voice talents of Daniel Craig (‘Casino Royale’), Jonathan Pryce (‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ trilogy) and Ian Holm (‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy).”
“Renaissance” is rated R for some violent images, sexuality, nudity and language.
Mini-Review:
“Renaissance” was certainly a pleasant surprise for me. While the plot was pretty much your standard “evil corporation vs. cop in the future” storyline, it had a lot going for it. First of all, there’s the impressive design of Paris in 2054. There are amazing buildings, impressive glass walkways, and cool vehicles. From the sewers to the skyscrapers, it’s all wonderful eye candy. And the mixture of classical architecture and modern technology is pretty cool.
The next notable thing about “Renaissance” is the animation. It combines the black and white palette of “Sin City” with the photo-real animation of “A Scanner Darkly.” It’s a bit hard to take in at first but as the film progresses it becomes less and less distracting. The animation is particularly impressive in the action scenes. You’re treated to a cool car chase and several gun battles. It’s all well choreographed and as good as anything in a live action film. When combined with the very impressive, epic score the result is a grand, futuristic action adventure.
If you liked “The Animatrix” or “Blade Runner,” I think you’ll find “Renaissance” well worth checking out. Fans of Daniel Craig will also be impressed by his voice performance in this movie.
There’s only one bonus feature on this DVD. It’s “The Making of ‘Renaissance'” Featurette and it runs 26 minutes. It’s also in French with English subtitles. They discuss the design of the world, the development of the film, the voice casting, etc. They also acknowledge the “Blade Runner” inspirations of the film.
