Angel Sign

About This Movie

So, 'Angel Sign' is an interesting piece, especially for fans of manga. It's Masatsugu Asahi’s unique approach to filmmaking, stitching together various short stories, which gives it this fragmented but cohesive feel. The prologue and epilogue are crafted by Hojo himself, who brings a personal touch to the narrative. The various directors for the shorts mean you get a bit of everything—styles vary quite a bit, which can be jarring but also refreshing. The practical effects are pretty notable too, with a nice blend of traditional techniques and that manga aesthetic. It’s definitely a slower burn in parts, but its tone has this contemplative quality that sticks with you. If you like experimental storytelling, this one’s worth a look.

Runtime: 100 minutes, released on DVD and Blu-rayFeatures a mix of directors for different segmentsPractical effects used throughout for a unique aestheticBased on works by manga creator Tsukasa Hojo