The Scarlet Review: An Anime Twist on Hamlet
Sony Pictures Classic presents a bold reimagining of Shakespeare's classic.
Filmmaker Mamoru Hosoda, known for his time-bending narratives, takes us on another journey through dimensions in his latest anime feature, 'Scarlet'. With a unique twist on the timeless tale of Hamlet, Hosoda explores the depths of revenge and forgiveness in a stunning visual spectacle.
A Tale of Two Worlds:
Hosoda's signature style shines as he employs different animation techniques to depict distinct worlds. The 'real' world is brought to life through breathtaking 2-D animation, meticulously detailing the architecture and fashion of a 16th-century European kingdom. In contrast, the digital realm, 'Otherworld', is rendered in vibrant 3-D, creating a space where time converges and cultures collide.
A Royal Tragedy:
The story begins in Elsinore, where Princess Scarlet's life takes a dark turn. Her uncle, Claudius, frames her father for treason and murders him, setting Scarlet on a path of vengeance. But as she trains to kill Claudius, fate intervenes, and she finds herself in the mysterious Otherworld, a realm between life and death.
A Journey of Self-Discovery:
Accompanied by Hijiri, a nurse from modern-day Japan, Scarlet embarks on a quest across the Otherworld. But this is more than just a physical journey; it's a path to self-discovery. Hosoda's narrative explores the complexities of revenge, asking what if Hamlet's ghost had urged forgiveness instead? Scarlet's challenge is to decide whom she must forgive.
A Flimsy Adaptation:
While drawing inspiration from Shakespeare and the works of Akira Kurosawa, 'Scarlet' falls short as a faithful adaptation. The film breezes through the Hamlet-inspired setup, focusing more on the Otherworld. This shift in narrative emphasis may leave some viewers unsatisfied, especially those expecting a traditional retelling.
Visual Splendor, Narrative Stumbles:
The animation is undeniably stunning, with fluid character movements and a seamless blend of 2-D and 3-D styles. The real world's 2-D scenes are particularly awe-inspiring. However, the narrative struggles to find its rhythm, particularly in Scarlet's quest, which lacks the urgency needed to fully engage the audience.
A Message of Forgiveness:
'Scarlet' introduces Christian themes of forgiveness and life after death. Otherworld, neither Heaven nor Hell, challenges Scarlet's beliefs. Through her journey, she learns that true revenge is living well, and forgiveness is not just for others but also for oneself. But this profound message is somewhat diluted by the film's messy storytelling.
A Mixed Experience:
'Scarlet' is a visually captivating anime with a unique premise. However, its narrative shortcomings may leave viewers divided. And this is the part most people miss—is 'Scarlet' a brilliant reinterpretation or a missed opportunity? The film raises questions about the nature of adaptation and the balance between visual splendor and storytelling.
What do you think? Is 'Scarlet' a masterpiece or a misstep? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss this anime's place in the world of Shakespearean adaptations!
Release Dates:
'Scarlet' is set to captivate audiences in Japanese theaters on November 21, 2025, and will later enchant American viewers on February 6, 2026.
