‘Sakuran’ & ‘Helter Skeltor’ Blu-ray Reviews (88 Films)
88 Films have been putting out some truly super-deluxe Blu-ray releases of classic Asian cinema, and their OBI Strip editions continue to be among the most eye-catching. For those unfamiliar, an OBI strip is a narrow band of paper that wraps around the spine or edge of Japanese vinyl records, CDs, or Blu-rays, typically displaying label details, catalogue numbers, and barcode information.
88 Films’ take on the format uses striking gold-foil OBI strips that really pop, giving each release a premium look that stands out on any home-video shelf. The latest titles to receive the OBI treatment come from director Mika Ninagawa, with both Sakuran and Helter Skelter arriving as part of this stylish line.
Sakuran:
Ancient Edo’s legendary Yoshiwara red-light district is brought back to life in Sakuran, the dazzling debut of acclaimed photographer Mika Ninagawa (Helter Skelter), based on the popular manga by Moyoco Anno. Rockstar Anna Tsuchiya (Kamikaze Girls) is Kiyoha, sold into a brothel at a tender age and put to training as a courtesan. As Kiyoha’s rebellious spirit and renowned beauty provoke the jealous rivalry of the other girls in the establishment, the possibility of romance raises its head, but can love provide a genuine possibility of escape for a young woman in her position, in a refined sensual world where looks and deportment are everything? With its super-saturated colors and striking art design, Sakuran is a delicious feast for the eyes.
Helter Skelter:
Top model and fashion idol Lilico (Erika Sawajiri) is used to being the centre of attention – the living epicentre of her own universe and of a multimedia-saturated hyperreality in which everything is airbrushed and color-adjusted to perfection. When she begins to suffer traumatic side effects from her repeated illegal cosmetic surgery sessions, she finds fame comes at a cost, as she is plunged into a nightmarish world where her sense of self-image and identity begins to fracture.
88 Films have transferred Sakuran and Helter Skelter to Blu-ray in 1080p, presented in 1.85:1 aspect ratio. There are two audio tracks in a Japanese language 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and a Stereo track. These are complete with new English Subtitles.
88 Films always put their best foot forward with their releases, and these OBI Strip Blu-rays are no exception. The picture quality is crisp and clean, with no visible damage or issues noticed during playback, making both films look fantastic in high definition. Alongside the strong transfers, 88 Films have also included a solid selection of bonus features, adding even more value to these releases. Take a look below at what’s included on each disc…
Sakuran Bonus Features:
- Audio Commentary by Josh Slater-Williams
- Brand New Filmed Introduction by Amber T.
- Still Gallery
- Trailers
- Booklet Essays by Jasper Sharp
- Original and Newly Commissioned Artwork by Luke Insect
Helter Skelter Bonus Materials:
- Audio Commentary by Tori Potenza and Amber T.
- Interviews with Erika Sawaji and Director Mika Ningawa
- Behind the Scenes footage of the making of Helter Skelter
- Production Site press conference
- Japanese Premiere Stage Greeting
- Opening Day Stage Greeting
- Taipei Film Festival Introduction by Mika Ninagawa
- Stills Gallery
- Teasers and Trailers
- Booklet Essay by Violet Burns
- Original and Newly Commissioned Artwork by Luke Insect
With the addition of audio commentaries, booklets, interviews, and the striking artwork by Luke Insect, 88 Films have put together Blu-ray releases that feel truly special. These aren’t just great presentations of the films themselves, but beautifully produced packages that look fantastic on display and even feel like collectable pieces of art in their own right.
***** 5/5
If you love Asian Cinema, these two upcoming Blu-ray releases from the visionary director Mika Ninagawa are a must-own – especially given that these are the super deluxe OBI Strip editions!
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