Sunday, December 5, 2010

Fantastic Planet (1973)



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Review:

In this magical world, humans (known as Oms) are relocated to the bottom of the social ladder, and split into two groups; domesticated and non-domesticated. The domesticated Oms become no better then house pets, and their very existence is determined by their ability to entertain their captors (a super-intelligent alien race, know as the Draags.) Once taken in, the Oms are given special collars that make escape from the Draags nearly impossible, without the inevitability of death.

While the domesticated Oms are classified as expendable entertainment, the non-domesticated Oms emerge as a growing threat to the Draags existence. They reproduce at an alarming rate, and form nomadic tribes that travel in search of ways to liberate themselves from the Draags oppressive rule. Even though their oppressors tower over them, the Oms do not fear using violence to prove their dominance. And flourish on a savage planet with unforgiving landscapes and creatures that intend to destroy them.

The life of one particular Om (Terr) is examined, from his imprisonment as an infant, to his relationship with his owner, an unusually sympathetic Draag child, known as Tiwa. And the events that lead to his eventual escape with an object treasured by his masters. A device that the Draags wear, during meditation that infuses them with vital knowledge.

Once liberated from the Draags, Terr brings the sacred object to the attention of the non-domesticated Oms.

Looks like it's time for an uprising.

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In Conclusion:

Written by René Laloux, and directed by Roland Topor (who helped create the Panic Movement with Alejandro Jodorowsky and Fernando Arrabal) create an intriguing film, based on a sci-fi novel from the 50s. Beautifully illustrated, with a pseudo-psychedelic soundtrack. And creatures that could only be created by someone under the influence of mind altering substances.

This film is amazing!

Highly recommended!

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Screen Captures: (All Screen Caps are taken by me, please do not use without my permission)



3 comments:

Phantom of Pulp said...

Your joining my blog has referred me to yours. I like it. Fantastic Planet is one of my favorite films. It has an electric vibe.

Toxaemia said...

I really appreciate the comments. I think your blog is amazing! You had me at Suehiro Maruo :P

Phantom of Pulp said...

Suehiro Maruo had me at Su. Thanks for your kindness. You would probably enjoy the Toshio Saeki and Antoine Bernhart posts, too.