Critique of Pinocchio (1996)
In the realm of underground Japanese cinema, the 1991 film "964 Pinocchio" stands as a cult classic in the cyberpunk subgenre of horror. Directed by Shozin Fukui, this provocative film is a sensory overload that veers away from conventional storytelling, offering instead an experience that is often incomprehensible, causing discomfort and disorientation that becomes horror.
The film's protagonist, 964 Pinocchio, is a memory-wiped cyborg sex slave, accompanied by Himiko, another character who shares a similar fate. Together, they embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind their condition and take revenge on Pinocchio's former owners.
The first thirty minutes of the film are surprisingly calm and grounded, setting a deceptive tone before the story descends into chaos and psychosis. Fukui's use of handheld camera work and distorted lenses adds to the sense of instability, creating a world that feels unpredictable and unsettling.
The film's running time is approximately 97 minutes, with about a third dedicated to manic screaming and disorienting visuals. The sound design is abrasive, filled with distorted industrial noise, mechanical screeches, and warped vocal loops. A strange and frequent use of vomit, enough to be noteworthy, further adds to the film's unsettling atmosphere.
Comparisons to Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989) are common, with 964 Pinocchio considered its spiritual successor. Both films share themes of technological fusion with the body, dystopian urban environments, and psychological or existential horror. Other key films to consider are Meatball Machine, Helter Skelter, and Ghost in the Shell, all of which offer their own unique takes on the cyberpunk horror genre.
Shinya Tsukamoto, a renowned figure in Japanese cinema, reportedly encouraged Fukui to direct his own feature. What emerged is one of the most confrontational entries in Japanese cyberpunk cinema, a film that challenges its audience and leaves a lasting impact.
In conclusion, 964 Pinocchio is a daring and unconventional film that pushes the boundaries of the cyberpunk horror genre. For those who seek a unique and immersive cinematic experience, this film is not to be missed.
Entertainment enthusiasts should consider adding "964 Pinocchio" to their list of must-watch films, especially those with an interest in the cyberpunk subgenre of horror. The film's unprecedented use of manic screaming, disorienting visuals, and abrasive sound design creates an immersive and challenging cinematic experience.
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