WOW IS THIS ACTUALLY REALLY DAMN GOOD LMAOOO!? Want to vote on what I should watch next? Click here! www.patreon.com/jamesvscinema Have a THE DAREDEVIL SEASON 3 Episode on Friday and True Detective Season 1 on Saturday Enjoy the day!
James, as a side note, the scene where Speed Racer jumps out of his car at 23:19 is an homage to the original cartoon's starting title. Speed does a very similar pose in the cartoon that was displayed here. Great call back!
That's the crazy thing with Speed Racer. Because the Wachowskis are throwing so much at you in the way of wild visuals, it's easy to miss the crazy levels of nuance in the script, the acting, the characters and the world-building. I mean, it's all well and good to show a meticulously created world, but investing it with thematic nuance and genuine emotional weight is something else altogether. And Roger Allam's "evil speech of evil" where he explains how racing REALLY works to Speed is my favourite in the genre.
My favorite of the Wachowskis films. So underappreciated. Its a piece of visual art and masterful storytelling through its visuals. Its deceptively simple.
Was going to say the exact same thing. I recommend this movie all the time! Pacific Rim had a similarly cold reception, but has been accepted more and more over the years. Speed Racer is still a tough sell to non-believers and that’s a shame.
@@dmanimousprime3858 Both pop and fun movies with a true respect in the source material and the audience made by true lovers of pop culture and Cinema (with capital "C")
Truer words... I saw this in the theater and was surprised at it being initially dismissed by critics and audiences. It's got the anime vibe and it introduced "Car Fu" making each race its own ballet. And yes, the colors are magnificent. This video makes me want to watch the DVD again. If there was a movie made for Blu-Ray and higher, this is it.
I saw this and Iron Man back to back. The latter, while at the time also great, was the start of safe, corporate storytelling solely in changing the genre focus and audience expectations. But superhero movies have on the most part killed movies that challenge authority. Don’t mess with the dollar and unadulterated corporate power.
My dad was a hardcore speed racer fan ever since he was a kid in the 70s, he had every merch and comic you could find and then some. He was a walking speed racer encyclopedia. He said this movie made him feel like a kid again. R.i.p.
The announcer in the plaid hat & yellow shirt at 9:22 is Peter Fernandez, who voiced Speed, Pops, Racer X, and a bunch of other characters in the original American version of the cartoon.
I've been telling people for years that Speed Racer is a misunderstood classic. Spectacular filmmaking with true heart and sincerity. I think the its Johin Goodman's and Susan Sarandon's heartfelt performances that ground the film. I can't praise the car.races and their surprisingly coherent spectacle enough.
The chemistry of the Racer family is a high point for me. It’s a big reason why I want to see them succeed, cause they’re so likable and have well-defined personalities.
This movie is a masterpiece, and the final race is a psychedelic fever dream. When he slides to a stop on melting wheels, it gives me chills every time.
The beautiful flying through the explosion and spiral towards the finish line, that was a goddamn masterpiece of art. The people who created that scene (and every other scene in the movie) deserve a goddamn Oscar for that
Its a shame there hasn't been anything else made with this aesthetic. This movie proves is works amazingly well, and the flow it provides is so smooth to transition from scene to scene.
Has anyone here seen Casshern? A Japanese movie also based on a Tatsunoko anime... Made before the Speed Racer movie... Very visually alike... If Speed Racer psychedelically happy, Casshern is surreally bleak...
I think it’s not the same at all but somehow Scott Pilgrim has the same vibe. Just as an overly stylistic, ridiculous movie. I also wish more movies looked like it, all the weird comic effects and colorful text on the screen
I get chills from the last race, when he starts the car and drifts. all the flashbacks and call backs from his family defines who he is. How he is bluring the world around him cause he is a artist and painting his picture all over the race track
This film is highly underrated. I will go to the wall for this one. Ahead of its time is an understatement. It's unapologetically a live action cartoon! Visually stunning!
The Wachowski siblings have such a way with CGI it’s incredible. The kept the same energy and heart as an anime does while making it live action. Following the rules of animation and applying them to love action is such a hard thing to do and they did it masterfully.
I don't expect the most powerful dialog . . . It has, literally, the best father/son moment in all of movies. And that villian monologue by Royalton, "this is my religion." It nails the mindset and attitude of unalloyed greed. "You _are_ the devil." This is my favorite "I've got five baskets of laundry to fold" movie to pop in the blu-ray player and enjoy while I get it all folded.
I adore this movie. I love how its a living anime. I love how everyone in frame is always in focus, foreground and background, just like an animation. And that end race is so thrilling my heart can barely handle it.
This is one of my all-time favorite movies and I couldn't tell you how many times I've watched it. I love the over the top colors and graphics and how the style pays homage to the anime. It's my favorite eye candy movie and had to have it as soon as it became available. Now I'm going to have to watch it again.
I know. I can't believe most people didn't like this movie. I mean, this is the closest you're gonna get to the anime, and it F'n works so well. People just don't have an eye for creativity, instead, look at other stupid sh*t that completely doesn't reflect the essence of what Speed Racer is about. This movie is gold in my books.
I know this is an old video and you may not see this, but I still like showing appreciation. Man you know that feeling you get when reminiscing on a film you’ve seen and love that makes you wanna go back and watch it again for who knows how many times, like reuniting with an old friend. I just happen to see you reacted to this in the past so I decided to watch your video breakdown before, and I’m sure I’ve mentioned it in previous comments how every video I find myself relating to you even more. Last time it was you mentioning The Breaker. The energy you bring to your videos is so infectious I find myself not only always agreeing with your breakdowns, but finding myself tearing up or smiling from the hype relating to so much. Seriously you’re like the homie I wish would be down to watch films and series with. My favorite line from you in this video “It’s like Cocaine for my brain!” That’s the very definition of this movie. That final race scene is pure dopamine injection of pure greatness. You’re revelation of Racer X identity ahah, reminds me of Sasuke learning about Itachi. Love you man, and hope you’re good man. PS: I know you probably get many recommendations like crazy, but since you seem to have truly enjoyed this film Id recommend Redline the anime film. Also Space Dandy would be a nice comedy series I think you’d be very delighted with. Thanks again for doing what you do man.
@@johnhuffines5553 A Scanner Darkly is the same. James and one other small channel. I also check for reactions to my favourite band every few weeks haha, what is life
As a person who loves motorsports and all forms of racing, this was a love letter to me. I tear up on the final lap of the last race everytime, absolutely excellent movie for gearheads and it truly incapsulates the feeling of winning
Just so you know I go through moments of remembering it but its the best and I love it that's why I found a 2 year old video to watch after watching someone else's recent reaction and fiending for more
Something I love about this movie is that its not afraid to be what it is. It embraces its unique style that really isnt like anything else. Hands down my favorite childhood movie, and still one of my all time favorites.
I grew up watching the reruns of this show along with my brothers so we were all familiar with the content and they did this movie perfectly. Even the characters look incredibly like their cartoon counterparts, especially Emile Hirsch as speed racer, incredible. But the story, action and the respect for the source material that was phenomenal. I've been saying from day one that this was a phenomenal movie and even my girlfriend and daughter who had no knowledge of the original material absolutely loved it as well.
They are always good. For example, Jupiters ascending isnt amazing but its an aestheticly amazing movie with a chill classic story, so in my opinion good. 😉😊
Fun fact the announcer in yellow blazer was Peter Fernandez. He was the voice actor of Speed Racer and the one the wrote the sheet music to the English theme song. I met him at a convention. He had a ton of things to buy at his table. I was talking about playing the piano and he reached inside his bag and pulled out the sheet music and signed it for me. It wasn’t anything he was selling and it’s one of my most treasured posessions
You made me remember how much I loved Trixie as a girlfriend in this movie. As for being true to your passion and performing for the act of bringing what you have to offer into existence; yeah, there are thousands of reactors I just stop watching because they can't (ok tens of) but I watch something from you, and it's golden. You got me tearing up about John Goodman being a great father, and he is. Keep doing what you are doing. I can't wait to see what you got for the world to see.
That final face is probably one of the best scene I will ever watch. The amount if build up being made was insane. And the fact that there were so many times were we thought "HE MIGHT LOSE THE RACE" then he ended up just CRUSHING his opponent. I wanna watch this again.
The fight scene in the gorge just sends the movie into Hell Yeah mode. If you didn't know how delicately crafted this movie was, that fight scene makes it obvious.
To this day my friends think I'm crazy for loving this movie. I saw it in the theater and kept thanking the universe I didnt have epilepsy so i could experience the movie. I bought the DVD the day it came out.
I really wish speed racer got more recognition. It was such a great movie, the last race sequence makes me feel so awesome every single time I see it to this very day. I rarely find myself tearing up at movies but that just gets me like nothing ever before
I was born in 1960 and grew up watching Speed Racer. When I heard the Wachowski’s we're working on this, I just about freaked! This is THE most perfect anime to live-action adaptation there is...just a stunning achievement! It is God-tier eye candy, filled with absolutely thrilling racing sequences, a knockout score by Michael Giacchino, solid character performances by everyone involved, and a palpable sense of FUN! The very definition of a cult classic, Speed Racer remains fresh and exciting no matter how many times you view it!
When it comes to racing, a few films worth checking out: Rush (2013), the story of Hunt vs Lauda, beautifully told about the two extremes when it comes to passion for racing (instinct vs logic), and Redline (2009), an animation 7 years in the making that breaks through what is possible with animation, with a killer soundtrack (of over 40 songs) to boot.
I genuinely feel like I'm on the brink of crying watching this. I've been cheering for this film for 14 years! You're someone that's in the same shoes as most of the people I know: they watched it when they were really young and completely passed it over. All it takes is one viewing with clear eyes to fully change your mind. This movie is incredible and quite literally one of the greatest of all time.
I really love the way you broke down the movie and how you made the viewer feel that they were a part of your mind and seeing the movie through your eyes. Definitely got my thumbs up and a subscribe.
This is one of my all-time favs. First HD movie I watched when I bought my first HD TV back in the day. The story is AMAZING, the style is GORGEOUS, the acting is ON POINT. This has been a criminally underrated movie and I love seeing other people get to experience it. :) Thanks for taking the time my man!
There is only a couple of movies that I really emotionally deeply connect with. This is one of them. And it’s not even because it’s been my favorite ever since I was a child, but the message conveyed is just so beautiful. Brings me tears at the last race every time. (Edit): yes I know it’s supposed to be an anime that was just about racing but this movie took that and made it something deeper and I love that
I remember rewatching this movie in high school, and I couldn't remember why I loved so much as a kid, and then the final scene hit. This wasn't just an over the top racing movie, this was a masterpiece of film and art in general!
The end of the first race at Thunderhead is Speed's establishing character moment. He hasn't got anything to prove. He just genuinely loves racing with his entire soul, and just wants to do what he loves. He COULD HAVE beaten Rex's lap record, quite easily, but since he has nothing to prove, it was enough for him just to know he could. Plus, that track record is the last of Rex's positive legacy, and Speed isn't willing to take that away from the brother he loved who's now gone. So he eased the throttle and deliberately missed the time. Winning isn't that important to him, and it's nowhere near as important to him as the people he loves. The other drivers drive offensively, often trying to trip everyone else and crash them... Speed DOESN'T. He drives defensively, dodging and weaving and keeping his eyes on the track. He plays fair and races honorably, because to him none of that is racing. And it gives him an edge, everyone else wipes out trying to cheat, gets wiped out, or loses speed in the attempt while Speed DOESN'T, he just keeps gaining and gaining until nobody can catch him. And all of this is SHOWN, and not told. Making it cinematic storytelling at its absolute FINEST.
What makes this even better is that later in the Casa Cristo and the Grand Prix, we see Speed is no less skilled at combat driving than he is at defensive driving. He could wipe the entire field if he really wanted to, but he doesn't.
I really love this movie. I know this is kind of a weird way to look at it, but I actually think it's a great Kung Fu film. Not in the fighting, but in the philosophy and the character journey. Reaching excellence and enlightenment through devotion to one's art. That moment at the ending, when he becomes one with all. Great stuff.
Why did people trash on this movie? it's well acted, fun, doesn't take itself too seriously, it's pro-family which as a gay dude I love, it's just good fun.
Why do you say "as a gay dude"? I'm not gay and I enjoy the same aspects of this movie that you did. What does being gay or not being gay, or anything else for that matter, have to do with liking the movie?
@@ColtonWalker073 Oh you enjoyed how handsome the main actor is and you liked the fact it was made by two trans women about the importance of loving your family even when it's somewhat non conventional? I'm glad you enjoyed those things too.
@@criss_x Jeez, dude, there's no need to get upset. But to respond, well you didn't mention any of those things in your original comment, so I won't bother answering. All I meant was, why do people always feel the need to say "as a such and such, when they talk about things like this. I see it all the time. "As a women..." "As a gay man..." Being gay doesn't play any part in any of the things you originally stated that you liked about the movie, so why mention it at all?
@@ColtonWalker073 because as a gay dude I appreciate artwork made by other people in the LGBTQ+ community and it's important to recognize them for it especially when it focuses on family. Sorry you didn't get the memo. And I'm not upset at all, I'm afraid you just didn't understand the context.
@@criss_x But none of those things were mentioned in your original comment, the one where you first said "as a gay dude." In that comment, all you mentioned liking was " it's well acted, fun, doesn't take itself too seriously, [and]it's pro-family". Being gay has no bearing on any of those aspects, it isn't relevant. I liked those aspects, simply as a human being. If you specifically mentioned the stuff about LGBT in that comment, I wouldn't have asked, because then being gay would have clear relevance to your enjoyment of the film. All I wanted to know was why you felt the need to say "as a gay dude", when being gay bore no relevance on the topic at hand. We can all, all of us humans, enjoy "Speed Racer" for what it is, when everyone feels the need to preface their enjoyment by saying "as a such and such" I think it, unnecessarily, draws lines between us and furthers the divide between different groups of people.
the announcer at the first race in the movie was the original voice actor Peter Fernandez who voiced Speed Racer of the 1960s Speed Racer English Dub version (9:19 - 9:26)who voiced Speed Racer
I am so happy you reacted to this. It's one of my all time favorite movies. I loved the points you made. I wish more people could just have fun with this movie for what it is instead of taking it so seriously. I think one of the coolest aspects of the movie was in the last race with the section of track that has the zebras. Those a still images but when they cut to a shot in the car it looks like it is moving because of the speed of the car. It's such an awesome little detail.
The transitions this movies has done are so unique and masterfully done, I have still yet to find it done anywhere close to as good. And the whole movie just has heart and style pouring out of it. I still remember watching this in theaters and it was like a rollercoatser. Especially that last race. This is still by far the best anime to live action adaptation.
Absolutely amazing to see another fan of the film. It is my number one favorite movie of all time and every day I hope to see more people recognize how beautiful and amazing this film is!
This movie aged so well. I was a freshman in college when this came out and I thought it was too colorful and too cartoony, but later realized that was the point. Soon enough, people regarded this and Kung Fu Hustle among movies that feel and look genuinely anime. I love the callbacks to the show too, like the GRX and Mammoth Car. They respected the source material and immensely improved on it.
A childhood movie that I can still watch as a grown kid. To this day, the final race scene makes me shed a tear. I love it so much and will hold it dear to my heart for the rest of my life. Thanks for the awesome reaction my man! Subscribed 🤟🏾
One of my favorite movies of all time. I watch it at least once a year usually every couple months. That final race even still gives me chills every time
Always made me sad growing up that people put this movie down. It was so insanely epic and the dialogue was amazing!!!! The final race with the flashbacks and the crowd reactions make me well up every time. Thank you for reacting to this.
I used to hang out occasionally with some of the main people who used to be in charge of running Anime Weekend Atlanta back in the 90s and 00s. And got to meet Peter Fernandez - the original voice of Speed Racer, a few short years before his passing at dinner in Atlanta away from the convention one evening. He was the quintessional gentleman. And by that I mean that he was a GENTLE MAN. You know how he introduced himself to fans that evening? "Sorry for mucking up the Japanese show so badly!" DUDE! NO!! You were the BEST!! He didn't bowl you over with "in my day..." stories. But if you ASKED, he'd tell you how they got it done back in the day. And he was FUNNY. Had us in stitches a few times! You know all those WEIRD names? And the run-on sentences? They had synopses of the plot of each episode - but NO DIRECT TRANSLATIONS! They didn't even have NAMES some of the time, so they had to come up with their own - that they would REMEMBER on the fly as they pushed out the recording and editing for each one as fast as possible. Because - the very first run of the Speed Racer cartoon series in America? That aired 5 days a week? They were only AHEAD of that curve by HOURS sometimes! So "Snake Oiler" "Inspector Detector" etc? MNEMONICS so they wouldn't forget who was who! And of course the run-on fast paced sentences was just them trying to pack in as much as possible sometimes. Japanese and American speaking cadences are sometimes VERY different. The Wachowskis did Peter a wonderful bit of justice in their film - they had him as the older gentleman Race Announcer at the first race in the film. :D And I think the Wachowskis' did something else remarkable - they made something that catered to our MEMORIES of the show - rather than to the actual show itself. You look at the original show and... let's be honest - it IS a bit crap. If you still love it as an adult, you probably love it for MST3K reasons. But they catered to the EXPECTATIONS of every one of our inner 7 year old selves and made it WORK with the LANGUAGE of Manga and Anime translated directly to live action! That's some kind of magic in itself right there. Peter Fernandez wasn't rich at the end of his life. But I think he went out a HAPPY man because of how appreciated he knew he was.
I've actually been thinking about this movie a lot, lately. Saw it in theaters, and like you, barely remember any of it. But, I have felt an urge to go back and re-watch it, so thanks for this!
Speed Racer is so unreal that it made soo much sense! It’s ultimately my favourite movie until now. Just purchased Mach 4, 5, & 6 Hot wheels for my collection cuz my old Mach 6 was broken back when I was a kid since I almost played with it everyday for more than a year. Watched it at 7 and now I’m 21
In my top five films at number three just under The Thing and Alien. It’s such a singular film. Nothing else aesthetically matches it and oh, it also has incredible heart that will make you cry tears of joy.
So glad you chose this. One of my absolute favorites. Just watched this again the other day for the 3rd time this year. Got to see it on the big screen again a few years back in 35mm.
I watched like some episodes of Speed Racer anime on Cartoon Network as little kid, and this movie was insane for me as a 8 year old, like looking back it was a bit too stylistically out there, but in terms of keeping the essence of the source material, yh this movie was amazing. Glad its getting its flowers now
7:33 it's because they made the choice make 90% of the world CGI. Even the real Practical set pieces are made in a really "out-there" aesthetic that matches the style of the CGI visuals so that all that CGI doesn't look out of place. everything looks like it fits together and so our brain adapts to where everything feels "real" until you take a step back.
Thank you for watching this. This is one of my favourite films from my childhood and it still holds a strong connection to me and thanks to you I can appreciate not just in terms of nostalgia but also editing, colours and everything else that makes it just a visual phenomenon
I’m so glad to see speed racer getting some coverage this is my favorite movie and it will never not be this video has also introduced me to your channel so it’s nice to see you like it
I love that you love this film. It’s my #1 most underrated of all time. It’s pure “popcorn” movie fun. A literal Saturday morning cartoon come to life with a wonderful score by Michael Giacchino.
I gotta love my recommendations sometimes. I absolutely love this film! Your commentary and reactions to the movie just made it even better. Definitely will be subscribing to this channel.
Thank you so much for this! Ever since I was young up till today I’ve watched this film and often I try showing people this but many still don’t like it, which is fine but it’s just such a great film and I never really could put it into words why I loved it but you did and I just really appreciate that! Great video you’ve earned a new sub and we’re only getting started. See you in the next one
Love your channel! Great reaction, I just re watched it and it hit me with the same energy you had, this film blew me away and shot to my top 5 automatically. Also I agree so much on the supporting other artists too, so mad love man, keep it up great stuff! Thank you
WOW IS THIS ACTUALLY REALLY DAMN GOOD LMAOOO!?
Want to vote on what I should watch next? Click here! www.patreon.com/jamesvscinema
Have a THE DAREDEVIL SEASON 3 Episode on Friday and True Detective Season 1 on Saturday Enjoy the day!
You should check out BOUND... the first feature from the Wachowskis. It's great.
James, as a side note, the scene where Speed Racer jumps out of his car at 23:19 is an homage to the original cartoon's starting title. Speed does a very similar pose in the cartoon that was displayed here. Great call back!
That's the crazy thing with Speed Racer. Because the Wachowskis are throwing so much at you in the way of wild visuals, it's easy to miss the crazy levels of nuance in the script, the acting, the characters and the world-building. I mean, it's all well and good to show a meticulously created world, but investing it with thematic nuance and genuine emotional weight is something else altogether.
And Roger Allam's "evil speech of evil" where he explains how racing REALLY works to Speed is my favourite in the genre.
Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow. This first total integration of Real and CGI (modern). I keep giving you requests you won't see in your polls.
My favorite of the Wachowskis films. So underappreciated. Its a piece of visual art and masterful storytelling through its visuals. Its deceptively simple.
This is without a doubt one of the most underrated and beautiful films ever made.
I can actually agree fully with this one haha
Was going to say the exact same thing. I recommend this movie all the time! Pacific Rim had a similarly cold reception, but has been accepted more and more over the years. Speed Racer is still a tough sell to non-believers and that’s a shame.
@@dmanimousprime3858 Both pop and fun movies with a true respect in the source material and the audience made by true lovers of pop culture and Cinema (with capital "C")
Truer words... I saw this in the theater and was surprised at it being initially dismissed by critics and audiences. It's got the anime vibe and it introduced "Car Fu" making each race its own ballet. And yes, the colors are magnificent. This video makes me want to watch the DVD again. If there was a movie made for Blu-Ray and higher, this is it.
That's a 10/10 to me. :)))
This film badly needs a 4k release. It is anime brought to life. Pure, unadulterated eye candy!
Yes and yes!!
YES!!! I would do terrible things to get a 4k release for this.
Bruh its definition of an amazing ANIME
Image the final scene the flag spin lol
YES!
The last race is shivers for DAYS! Just an incredible scene.
Legendary scene!
It always brings tears to my eyes, the overwelming ones
Seen it 49 times (literally) cried 49 times. It's my favorite scene in movie history.
This is movie is literally made to make you feel like a kid and it’s perfect
Exactly!!
"The US sucks at making live-action Anime adaptations"
*Speed Racer exists*
Me:Oh WORD?
FACTS
they still suck at making them anyway
I saw this and Iron Man back to back. The latter, while at the time also great, was the start of safe, corporate storytelling solely in changing the genre focus and audience expectations. But superhero movies have on the most part killed movies that challenge authority. Don’t mess with the dollar and unadulterated corporate power.
Speed Racer and Alita: Battle Angel are the two best live-action anime adaptations! They respected their source material well!
@@Kolbeck64 Alita- Battle Angel: come again?
My dad was a hardcore speed racer fan ever since he was a kid in the 70s, he had every merch and comic you could find and then some. He was a walking speed racer encyclopedia. He said this movie made him feel like a kid again. R.i.p.
The announcer in the plaid hat & yellow shirt at 9:22 is Peter Fernandez, who voiced Speed, Pops, Racer X, and a bunch of other characters in the original American version of the cartoon.
I've been telling people for years that Speed Racer is a misunderstood classic. Spectacular filmmaking with true heart and sincerity. I think the its Johin Goodman's and Susan Sarandon's heartfelt performances that ground the film. I can't praise the car.races and their surprisingly coherent spectacle enough.
Yh it is really amazing I had the games and they fun aswell
@@jiggly161 I had the Wii game
The chemistry of the Racer family is a high point for me. It’s a big reason why I want to see them succeed, cause they’re so likable and have well-defined personalities.
The ending segment of the race always sends shivers down my spine. The most underrated movie of all time!
Shivers for days!
One of the greatest final sequences in film history. -actual student of film history & a screenwriter
Not only that, it's one of the few live action anime movie adaptations that's actually great!
The Wachowski's were so far ahead of their time.
They’re aliens at this point haha
This movie is an art piece that moves tbh
This movie is a masterpiece, and the final race is a psychedelic fever dream. When he slides to a stop on melting wheels, it gives me chills every time.
The beautiful flying through the explosion and spiral towards the finish line, that was a goddamn masterpiece of art. The people who created that scene (and every other scene in the movie) deserve a goddamn Oscar for that
Its a shame there hasn't been anything else made with this aesthetic. This movie proves is works amazingly well, and the flow it provides is so smooth to transition from scene to scene.
At the same time, I am glad that others haven't tried. I would hate to see the 'tone' get butchered in an attempt to replicate it.
@@spddracer that is true enough. And Congrats on your big wins at the end 👏. The race its self and breaking the record also.
Has anyone here seen Casshern?
A Japanese movie also based on a Tatsunoko anime...
Made before the Speed Racer movie...
Very visually alike...
If Speed Racer psychedelically happy, Casshern is surreally bleak...
I think it’s not the same at all but somehow Scott Pilgrim has the same vibe. Just as an overly stylistic, ridiculous movie. I also wish more movies looked like it, all the weird comic effects and colorful text on the screen
@@specificsoup its not the same style but you are right it's the same situation where a style is proven to work but never gets used again.
I get chills from the last race, when he starts the car and drifts. all the flashbacks and call backs from his family defines who he is. How he is bluring the world around him cause he is a artist and painting his picture all over the race track
Anime moment right there!
@@JamesVSCinema facts
This film is highly underrated. I will go to the wall for this one. Ahead of its time is an understatement.
It's unapologetically a live action cartoon! Visually stunning!
Agree. That is a hill I will die on. This movie was an exceptional experience.
The Wachowski siblings have such a way with CGI it’s incredible. The kept the same energy and heart as an anime does while making it live action. Following the rules of animation and applying them to love action is such a hard thing to do and they did it masterfully.
"How about a girl defending me?"
Bruh, Alita: Battle Angel.
Period.
Neytiri in Avatar when she protects his lifeless body 👌🏼
Amazing movie!
Another perfect live action anime adaptation!
There are so few that exist!
Good god that movie was FANTASTIC! I really hope we get a sequel made!
Also an AMAZING live action adaptation.
"I don't expect a super-incredible saga... or incredible dialogue, or anything like that..."
This should be a pleasant surprise then.
I don't expect the most powerful dialog . . .
It has, literally, the best father/son moment in all of movies. And that villian monologue by Royalton, "this is my religion." It nails the mindset and attitude of unalloyed greed.
"You _are_ the devil."
This is my favorite "I've got five baskets of laundry to fold" movie to pop in the blu-ray player and enjoy while I get it all folded.
I adore this movie. I love how its a living anime. I love how everyone in frame is always in focus, foreground and background, just like an animation. And that end race is so thrilling my heart can barely handle it.
Literally is a living anime!
This is one of my all-time favorite movies and I couldn't tell you how many times I've watched it. I love the over the top colors and graphics and how the style pays homage to the anime. It's my favorite eye candy movie and had to have it as soon as it became available. Now I'm going to have to watch it again.
Hahaha I can’t blame ya!
I love it too
Another “criminally underrated” film 🔥
Yup!!
I know. I can't believe most people didn't like this movie. I mean, this is the closest you're gonna get to the anime, and it F'n works so well. People just don't have an eye for creativity, instead, look at other stupid sh*t that completely doesn't reflect the essence of what Speed Racer is about. This movie is gold in my books.
I know this is an old video and you may not see this, but I still like showing appreciation.
Man you know that feeling you get when reminiscing on a film you’ve seen and love that makes you wanna go back and watch it again for who knows how many times, like reuniting with an old friend.
I just happen to see you reacted to this in the past so I decided to watch your video breakdown before, and I’m sure I’ve mentioned it in previous comments how every video I find myself relating to you even more. Last time it was you mentioning The Breaker.
The energy you bring to your videos is so infectious I find myself not only always agreeing with your breakdowns, but finding myself tearing up or smiling from the hype relating to so much.
Seriously you’re like the homie I wish would be down to watch films and series with. My favorite line from you in this video “It’s like Cocaine for my brain!” That’s the very definition of this movie. That final race scene is pure dopamine injection of pure greatness.
You’re revelation of Racer X identity ahah, reminds me of Sasuke learning about Itachi.
Love you man, and hope you’re good man.
PS: I know you probably get many recommendations like crazy, but since you seem to have truly enjoyed this film Id recommend Redline the anime film. Also Space Dandy would be a nice comedy series I think you’d be very delighted with. Thanks again for doing what you do man.
Speed Racer is cinema magic. I'm so glad it's finally finding its audience.
This film is insanely insanely underrated. There are virtually no reactions on youtube which is a travesty. Speed Racer fires on all cylinders.
It's really just James and Imon_Snow that have reacted to it and that stinks. I check every 3ish months though just in case one got added
@@johnhuffines5553 A Scanner Darkly is the same. James and one other small channel. I also check for reactions to my favourite band every few weeks haha, what is life
As a person who loves motorsports and all forms of racing, this was a love letter to me. I tear up on the final lap of the last race everytime, absolutely excellent movie for gearheads and it truly incapsulates the feeling of winning
I think there’s a scene where in the background in speed’s house. There’s a painting of Eau Rouge and Raidillon from Spa
I really enjoyed this movie when it came out, nobody really talks about it anymore but they should!
Most definitely should!
Just so you know I go through moments of remembering it but its the best and I love it that's why I found a 2 year old video to watch after watching someone else's recent reaction and fiending for more
Something I love about this movie is that its not afraid to be what it is. It embraces its unique style that really isnt like anything else. Hands down my favorite childhood movie, and still one of my all time favorites.
I grew up watching the reruns of this show along with my brothers so we were all familiar with the content and they did this movie perfectly. Even the characters look incredibly like their cartoon counterparts, especially Emile Hirsch as speed racer, incredible. But the story, action and the respect for the source material that was phenomenal. I've been saying from day one that this was a phenomenal movie and even my girlfriend and daughter who had no knowledge of the original material absolutely loved it as well.
I sea this movie last month and it single-handlely became my favorite movie of all time for basically EVERYTHING
We need more Wachowski films! They are not always winners, but it is great to see a mainstream filmmaker take chances and make crazy choices.
I love it!
They are always good. For example, Jupiters ascending isnt amazing but its an aestheticly amazing movie with a chill classic story, so in my opinion good. 😉😊
Jupiter Ascending is a beautiful world, just the story wasn't that good.
@@JamesVSCinema I'm just gonna say CLOUD ATLAS. Just go ahead and watch it. One of the most underrated movies of all time.
@@nicolaspietrangelo5573 Cloud Atlas is another masterpiece by the Wachowskis.
Fun fact the announcer in yellow blazer was Peter Fernandez. He was the voice actor of Speed Racer and the one the wrote the sheet music to the English theme song. I met him at a convention. He had a ton of things to buy at his table. I was talking about playing the piano and he reached inside his bag and pulled out the sheet music and signed it for me. It wasn’t anything he was selling and it’s one of my most treasured posessions
You made me remember how much I loved Trixie as a girlfriend in this movie.
As for being true to your passion and performing for the act of bringing what you have to offer into existence; yeah, there are thousands of reactors I just stop watching because they can't (ok tens of) but I watch something from you, and it's golden.
You got me tearing up about John Goodman being a great father, and he is. Keep doing what you are doing. I can't wait to see what you got for the world to see.
That final face is probably one of the best scene I will ever watch. The amount if build up being made was insane. And the fact that there were so many times were we thought "HE MIGHT LOSE THE RACE" then he ended up just CRUSHING his opponent. I wanna watch this again.
The fight scene in the gorge just sends the movie into Hell Yeah mode. If you didn't know how delicately crafted this movie was, that fight scene makes it obvious.
Bro I get overwhelming chills everytime I watch the final race. Honestly I think it's one of the greatest moments ever in cinematic history
To this day my friends think I'm crazy for loving this movie. I saw it in the theater and kept thanking the universe I didnt have epilepsy so i could experience the movie. I bought the DVD the day it came out.
Love how they tell you that Racer X "isn't" Rex in the movie compared to the tv show where they tell you that he is Rex pretty much every episode.
I really wish speed racer got more recognition. It was such a great movie, the last race sequence makes me feel so awesome every single time I see it to this very day. I rarely find myself tearing up at movies but that just gets me like nothing ever before
Hell yeah! I love this movie. That final race gets to me every time.
It’s so damn well built!
I was born in 1960 and grew up watching Speed Racer. When I heard the Wachowski’s we're working on this, I just about freaked! This is THE most perfect anime to live-action adaptation there is...just a stunning achievement! It is God-tier eye candy, filled with absolutely thrilling racing sequences, a knockout score by Michael Giacchino, solid character performances by everyone involved, and a palpable sense of FUN! The very definition of a cult classic, Speed Racer remains fresh and exciting no matter how many times you view it!
The last race the last 5 minutes when he is in the zone pure chills and I have tears in my eyes everytime
When it comes to racing, a few films worth checking out: Rush (2013), the story of Hunt vs Lauda, beautifully told about the two extremes when it comes to passion for racing (instinct vs logic), and Redline (2009), an animation 7 years in the making that breaks through what is possible with animation, with a killer soundtrack (of over 40 songs) to boot.
Redline is the Speed Racer anime we've always deserved...
With a Techno & Funk soundtrack...
What more could anyone want?
Redline is a labour of love that nearly bankrupted the studio
I love how the editing and special effects don’t focus on making things look real. They focus on expressing the scene in an artistic way.
I genuinely feel like I'm on the brink of crying watching this. I've been cheering for this film for 14 years! You're someone that's in the same shoes as most of the people I know: they watched it when they were really young and completely passed it over. All it takes is one viewing with clear eyes to fully change your mind. This movie is incredible and quite literally one of the greatest of all time.
I really love the way you broke down the movie and how you made the viewer feel that they were a part of your mind and seeing the movie through your eyes. Definitely got my thumbs up and a subscribe.
This is one of my all-time favs. First HD movie I watched when I bought my first HD TV back in the day. The story is AMAZING, the style is GORGEOUS, the acting is ON POINT. This has been a criminally underrated movie and I love seeing other people get to experience it. :)
Thanks for taking the time my man!
Masterclass in film editing.
The last race makes me tear up, The Wachowski's don't get the love they deserve. Sense8 is also incredible.
Cloud Atlas is amazing
There is only a couple of movies that I really emotionally deeply connect with. This is one of them. And it’s not even because it’s been my favorite ever since I was a child, but the message conveyed is just so beautiful. Brings me tears at the last race every time.
(Edit): yes I know it’s supposed to be an anime that was just about racing but this movie took that and made it something deeper and I love that
I remember rewatching this movie in high school, and I couldn't remember why I loved so much as a kid, and then the final scene hit. This wasn't just an over the top racing movie, this was a masterpiece of film and art in general!
This was the first blu-ray I bought when I got my 50" HDTV. I knew it'd be used well. Love the movie, especially that end sequence.
Must’ve been wild!
@@lilbtyt7928 Yeah I didn't get a blu-ray for years but I always knew this would be the first thing I bought.
You and me both my man! Sammy HDTV and bluray from Best Buy. I was SHOOK!
The soundtrack to this movie is so unbelievably legendary and it doesn’t get as much love as it should imo
The end of the first race at Thunderhead is Speed's establishing character moment.
He hasn't got anything to prove. He just genuinely loves racing with his entire soul, and just wants to do what he loves.
He COULD HAVE beaten Rex's lap record, quite easily, but since he has nothing to prove, it was enough for him just to know he could. Plus, that track record is the last of Rex's positive legacy, and Speed isn't willing to take that away from the brother he loved who's now gone. So he eased the throttle and deliberately missed the time. Winning isn't that important to him, and it's nowhere near as important to him as the people he loves.
The other drivers drive offensively, often trying to trip everyone else and crash them... Speed DOESN'T. He drives defensively, dodging and weaving and keeping his eyes on the track. He plays fair and races honorably, because to him none of that is racing. And it gives him an edge, everyone else wipes out trying to cheat, gets wiped out, or loses speed in the attempt while Speed DOESN'T, he just keeps gaining and gaining until nobody can catch him.
And all of this is SHOWN, and not told. Making it cinematic storytelling at its absolute FINEST.
What makes this even better is that later in the Casa Cristo and the Grand Prix, we see Speed is no less skilled at combat driving than he is at defensive driving. He could wipe the entire field if he really wanted to, but he doesn't.
I really love this movie. I know this is kind of a weird way to look at it, but I actually think it's a great Kung Fu film. Not in the fighting, but in the philosophy and the character journey. Reaching excellence and enlightenment through devotion to one's art. That moment at the ending, when he becomes one with all. Great stuff.
Why did people trash on this movie? it's well acted, fun, doesn't take itself too seriously, it's pro-family which as a gay dude I love, it's just good fun.
Why do you say "as a gay dude"? I'm not gay and I enjoy the same aspects of this movie that you did. What does being gay or not being gay, or anything else for that matter, have to do with liking the movie?
@@ColtonWalker073 Oh you enjoyed how handsome the main actor is and you liked the fact it was made by two trans women about the importance of loving your family even when it's somewhat non conventional? I'm glad you enjoyed those things too.
@@criss_x Jeez, dude, there's no need to get upset. But to respond, well you didn't mention any of those things in your original comment, so I won't bother answering.
All I meant was, why do people always feel the need to say "as a such and such, when they talk about things like this. I see it all the time. "As a women..." "As a gay man..."
Being gay doesn't play any part in any of the things you originally stated that you liked about the movie, so why mention it at all?
@@ColtonWalker073 because as a gay dude I appreciate artwork made by other people in the LGBTQ+ community and it's important to recognize them for it especially when it focuses on family. Sorry you didn't get the memo. And I'm not upset at all, I'm afraid you just didn't understand the context.
@@criss_x But none of those things were mentioned in your original comment, the one where you first said "as a gay dude." In that comment, all you mentioned liking was " it's well acted, fun, doesn't take itself too seriously, [and]it's pro-family".
Being gay has no bearing on any of those aspects, it isn't relevant. I liked those aspects, simply as a human being.
If you specifically mentioned the stuff about LGBT in that comment, I wouldn't have asked, because then being gay would have clear relevance to your enjoyment of the film.
All I wanted to know was why you felt the need to say "as a gay dude", when being gay bore no relevance on the topic at hand. We can all, all of us humans, enjoy "Speed Racer" for what it is, when everyone feels the need to preface their enjoyment by saying "as a such and such" I think it, unnecessarily, draws lines between us and furthers the divide between different groups of people.
I'll never forget that opening night i saw this at the cinema, i was cheering at the end hitting the homie next to me : P
Hahaha that ending is honestly legendary
the announcer at the first race in the movie was the original voice actor Peter Fernandez who voiced Speed Racer of the 1960s Speed Racer English Dub version (9:19 - 9:26)who voiced Speed Racer
This movie will always be one of my favorites. Every transition and shot in the races make me feel something that very few movies have, pure joy
James: "No is probably going to be the most important word as you guys like mature."
Me: "No it isn't."
Hahaha there ya go
I am so happy you reacted to this. It's one of my all time favorite movies. I loved the points you made. I wish more people could just have fun with this movie for what it is instead of taking it so seriously. I think one of the coolest aspects of the movie was in the last race with the section of track that has the zebras. Those a still images but when they cut to a shot in the car it looks like it is moving because of the speed of the car. It's such an awesome little detail.
It is so good to finally see my childhood favorite getting some well deserved hype and respect. Underrated so hard
You should watch Tron:legacy, incredibly underrated and ahead of its time with the FX!
Oh I definitely know of Tron! I can revisit tho!
@@JamesVSCinema Hell yeah dude! Would love to know your thoughts on them
No lie, one of my favorite films of all time. So underrated. Who wouldn't want a father like John Goodman in this movie, or a mom like Susan Sarandon?
This movie is all about the feels. It brings tears to my eyes every time.
The Rex reveal at the end always gets me.
The transitions this movies has done are so unique and masterfully done, I have still yet to find it done anywhere close to as good. And the whole movie just has heart and style pouring out of it. I still remember watching this in theaters and it was like a rollercoatser. Especially that last race. This is still by far the best anime to live action adaptation.
This is my favorite film of all time. Videography, comedy, messaging. Love it
It’s all extremely stellar!
Absolutely Love this film. Criminally underrated, full on cubist masterpiece.
I’ve been defending the greatness of this movie since it came out in theaters. Absolutely loved this movie.
Absolutely amazing to see another fan of the film. It is my number one favorite movie of all time and every day I hope to see more people recognize how beautiful and amazing this film is!
This movie aged so well. I was a freshman in college when this came out and I thought it was too colorful and too cartoony, but later realized that was the point. Soon enough, people regarded this and Kung Fu Hustle among movies that feel and look genuinely anime. I love the callbacks to the show too, like the GRX and Mammoth Car. They respected the source material and immensely improved on it.
A childhood movie that I can still watch as a grown kid. To this day, the final race scene makes me shed a tear. I love it so much and will hold it dear to my heart for the rest of my life. Thanks for the awesome reaction my man! Subscribed 🤟🏾
One of my favorite movies of all time. I watch it at least once a year usually every couple months. That final race even still gives me chills every time
Always made me sad growing up that people put this movie down. It was so insanely epic and the dialogue was amazing!!!! The final race with the flashbacks and the crowd reactions make me well up every time. Thank you for reacting to this.
15:13 "bro, that transision was Edgar Wright-like"
And that's it. That why I wanna make movies.
To have fun with them.
I used to hang out occasionally with some of the main people who used to be in charge of running Anime Weekend Atlanta back in the 90s and 00s. And got to meet Peter Fernandez - the original voice of Speed Racer, a few short years before his passing at dinner in Atlanta away from the convention one evening. He was the quintessional gentleman. And by that I mean that he was a GENTLE MAN.
You know how he introduced himself to fans that evening? "Sorry for mucking up the Japanese show so badly!" DUDE! NO!! You were the BEST!!
He didn't bowl you over with "in my day..." stories. But if you ASKED, he'd tell you how they got it done back in the day. And he was FUNNY. Had us in stitches a few times! You know all those WEIRD names? And the run-on sentences? They had synopses of the plot of each episode - but NO DIRECT TRANSLATIONS! They didn't even have NAMES some of the time, so they had to come up with their own - that they would REMEMBER on the fly as they pushed out the recording and editing for each one as fast as possible.
Because - the very first run of the Speed Racer cartoon series in America? That aired 5 days a week? They were only AHEAD of that curve by HOURS sometimes! So "Snake Oiler" "Inspector Detector" etc? MNEMONICS so they wouldn't forget who was who! And of course the run-on fast paced sentences was just them trying to pack in as much as possible sometimes. Japanese and American speaking cadences are sometimes VERY different.
The Wachowskis did Peter a wonderful bit of justice in their film - they had him as the older gentleman Race Announcer at the first race in the film. :D
And I think the Wachowskis' did something else remarkable - they made something that catered to our MEMORIES of the show - rather than to the actual show itself.
You look at the original show and... let's be honest - it IS a bit crap. If you still love it as an adult, you probably love it for MST3K reasons.
But they catered to the EXPECTATIONS of every one of our inner 7 year old selves and made it WORK with the LANGUAGE of Manga and Anime translated directly to live action!
That's some kind of magic in itself right there.
Peter Fernandez wasn't rich at the end of his life. But I think he went out a HAPPY man because of how appreciated he knew he was.
The announcer in the plaid hat and yellow shirt at 9:22 - that was him
I've actually been thinking about this movie a lot, lately. Saw it in theaters, and like you, barely remember any of it. But, I have felt an urge to go back and re-watch it, so thanks for this!
Speed Racer is so unreal that it made soo much sense! It’s ultimately my favourite movie until now. Just purchased Mach 4, 5, & 6 Hot wheels for my collection cuz my old Mach 6 was broken back when I was a kid since I almost played with it everyday for more than a year. Watched it at 7 and now I’m 21
In my top five films at number three just under The Thing and Alien. It’s such a singular film. Nothing else aesthetically matches it and oh, it also has incredible heart that will make you cry tears of joy.
Factual!
At my house we watch speed racer all the time. Super underrated movie. Glad to see you bringing it on the channel sir.
It’s a great movie for family!
So glad you chose this. One of my absolute favorites. Just watched this again the other day for the 3rd time this year. Got to see it on the big screen again a few years back in 35mm.
Yeah I’m probably going to watch this again with my niece!
I watched like some episodes of Speed Racer anime on Cartoon Network as little kid, and this movie was insane for me as a 8 year old, like looking back it was a bit too stylistically out there, but in terms of keeping the essence of the source material, yh this movie was amazing. Glad its getting its flowers now
7:33 it's because they made the choice make 90% of the world CGI. Even the real Practical set pieces are made in a really "out-there" aesthetic that matches the style of the CGI visuals so that all that CGI doesn't look out of place. everything looks like it fits together and so our brain adapts to where everything feels "real" until you take a step back.
This was one of my fav movies as a kid
Good choice!
This may be my personal top ten favorite movie of all time. The fact that it wasn’t hugely popular is baffling to me!!
You pretty much summed it up James: “underrated banger”
Thank you for watching this. This is one of my favourite films from my childhood and it still holds a strong connection to me and thanks to you I can appreciate not just in terms of nostalgia but also editing, colours and everything else that makes it just a visual phenomenon
This is my favorite movie of all time & I loved this man. Thank you 🙏🏽
You wondering why you tear up to John Goodman, same as me wondering why watching this movie in full literally makes tears fall during the final race.
I’m so glad to see speed racer getting some coverage this is my favorite movie and it will never not be this video has also introduced me to your channel so it’s nice to see you like it
I love this movie so much and the bright colors. Their depiction of speed the editing. It’s a masterpiece
This entire film is amazing idc what anyone says. It is one of the few faithful adaptations to do it right. Much love to y'all 🖤
I love that you love this film. It’s my #1 most underrated of all time. It’s pure “popcorn” movie fun. A literal Saturday morning cartoon come to life with a wonderful score by Michael Giacchino.
as the anime from the 60s would always say whenever Racer X was around "Racer X who was secretly speeds missing older brother"
Wachowski's need to make more movies that they feel love for. When they love the property you can really tell!
Late to the reply but I'm glad you've seen this as an adult. This was one of my fave movies.
I gotta love my recommendations sometimes. I absolutely love this film! Your commentary and reactions to the movie just made it even better. Definitely will be subscribing to this channel.
Thank you so much for this! Ever since I was young up till today I’ve watched this film and often I try showing people this but many still don’t like it, which is fine but it’s just such a great film and I never really could put it into words why I loved it but you did and I just really appreciate that! Great video you’ve earned a new sub and we’re only getting started. See you in the next one
Your reaction to the last minute of the movie gave me chills throughout my body for like 20 seconds, this movie is amazing
Love your channel! Great reaction, I just re watched it and it hit me with the same energy you had, this film blew me away and shot to my top 5 automatically. Also I agree so much on the supporting other artists too, so mad love man, keep it up great stuff! Thank you
I’m sooo happy you rewatched this movie, it one of my favourites of all time and I’m glad you appreciate it as everyone else should