Doesn't everybody need a break once in a while? The answer is evidently yes for Hideaki Anno, best known abroad for his meditative yet action-packed "Neon Genesis Evangelion" animation series, whose teenage heroes probed the depths of their souls as they fought to save humanity. But his new film, "Cutie Honey," has one of those titles that, like "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery," tells you you're not in for two hours of existential gloom.
Based on a 1973 manga by Go Nagai that became a popular TV show, "Cutie Honey" is a prototype for all those anime whose heroines have pneumatic bodies (encased in the tightest and skimpiest of mini-skirts) and powers that would give The Terminator pause for thought. Hollywood has produced similar heroines, most of them seemingly played by Angelina Jolie, but Honey's brand of eros -- cute and clueless -- is uniquely Japanese.
As played by Eriko Sato -- she of the big eyes and babelicious proportions -- Cutie Honey (aka Honey Kisaragi) is less the naive-but-sexy go-go girl of Nagai's imaginings and more the modern Shibuya girl, who may adopt whirly-girly looks and mannerisms but blithely ignores traditional standards of feminine decorum. Call her brainless, or her fashion sense bizarre, but Honey is one kick-ass woman -- and impossible to dislike.
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name
in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.
Your subscription plan doesn't allow commenting. To learn more see our FAQ
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.