Wada ventures off to China to investigate a potential Jade mine. There, he encounters a somewhat sentimental yakuza who joins the adventure through China with him. They are led to the mine by Shen and as their journey goes deeper, they find something even more magical than mine they are searching for: village people who claim they can fly.

Review: THE BIRD PEOPLE IN CHINA is one of the most compelling films Miike has created. Fans of Miike films might be shocked that it doesn’t contain his extreme violence and sexuality. The flying body parts, outrageous sex and odd humor is completely gone. The film contains sheer purity from the beginning to the end. Because of this reason, BIRD PEOPLE might be disappointing for those expecting excess craziness. But if you’re simply looking for a good film, this is a treasure.

It really shows that Miike is capable of making any type of film. Not only does he make no-budget films with nothing into fun fares (FUDOH, DEAD OR ALIVE) but he also makes films that audiences can feel for(ZEBRAMAN, KATAKURIS). Without a doubt he is one of the most exciting directors working today. Unlike most of his films, it is easy to emotionally connect to the characters in this film. Its initial sympathy for characters soon turns into an understanding of their souls.

Masahiro Motoki’s portrayal of Wada is another reason that’s easily to connect to his character. He is convincing, sometimes too convincing. Clearly developed his change of senses and feels on greed, desire and purity throughout the film is magnificent. With strong performance and simple direction, the story unfolds with tremendous believability. Audiences will be drawn helplessly to the heart of characters and story. And Miike’s regular collaborators help to achieve this as well. The music score perfectly fits the tone and mood of the film.

That said, the film is a pure fable for adult who are tired of this disconcerning world. The simplicity and purity of this emotional journey truly touches the heart of the audience.

DVD DETAILS

Video: presented in anamorphic widescreen aspect ratio of 1.85:1, the transfer is nice but a little soft through entire film. Dirt and specs are visible here and there but it is very minor. Overall for the film like this, decent work has been done. It was bit disappointing to see imbedded Japanese subtitles whenever Cantonese is spoken on screen.

Audio: this supports the Japanese Dolby Digital 5.1 with optional English subtitles. For a film like this, it is nice mix with clear dialogue. Nothing to be impressed about.

Special Features

Audio Commentary by Tom Mes: Commentary by Japanese film expert.

Bio / Filmographies: for director Miike and three main cast

Promotional material: a collection of poster and press material

Original Theatrical trailer

Takashi Miike Interview: 15 mins short but extremely insightful interview with Takashi Miike.  It is as interesting as any interview he provides.

Previews: trailers of Miike films by Artsmagic release include SHINKUKU TRIAD SOCIETY, RAINY DOG and LEY LINES.

Annie Laurie: contains lyrics to two different versions of the song