The music choices for the background are fantastic but it's difficult to discern most of the lyrics to look them up. Is there somewhere I can find a playlist of the songs you've used?
Pssst. Breadsword. I've watched the Overture of this video over a hundred times now; I've been counting. This, and your work in general, has helped me turn my writing into a therapeutic, cathartic exercise. You've helped me process the death of loved ones, the loss of a long term girlfriend, the maintenance of important relationships, the discovery of new loves, the entire process Empedocles describes. Your voice has been a lantern through the fog. Thank you. Keep it up.
you probably dont care but does anybody know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account? I stupidly forgot my password. I would appreciate any help you can offer me!
Satoshi Kon is one of the greatest directors of all time. I want him to go back to work. I don't care if he's dead. He's too ingenious to use that as an excuse to stop creating.
No no, china is where you need. Explore the forests and bring your blade. I recommend a Jian, but a dao will do. You must slay a death wizard to inherit his power. fear liches. Bring a Jiangshi, goofy vampires shall aid you, and provide your army after you gain the Power
i think the scene that stood out to me the most was when mima was choosing what foot to step off the train with, with ultimately having no choice because some dude behind her pushes her forward as he rushes away, symbolising how the life of an idol is dictated by the public, the idol becoming a mirror of what the people want, in a perfect form, free from impurities
Yo don’t let the fact that this vid didn’t hit 2M like the Treasure Planet vid keep you from spending time analyzing masterpieces like Kon’s work. You literally opened my eyes to how unbelievably dense this film is in its grammar. Stellar stuff keep at it.
Yo I wanted you to know that I come back to this comment pretty regularly for motivation and I hope you know how impactful this was, especially when I dropped this video. Thank you 🖤
@@BREADSWORD Hey man, I just came across your channel, and I'm definitely here to stay. You do an amazing job on your analyses, you make great observations and express your points very comprehensibly, you certainly have a knack for language, and you sprinkle in just enough humour (both orally and visually) to make it funny and entertaining without having it clash with the overall tone of the video. Oh and your voice is incredibly soothing and pleasant to listen to. 😅 It's clear that these videos have a great amount of work put into them. It shows. I really appreciate you and hope to see more great pieces like this one in the future! Keep up the amazing work! Lots of love from Czech Republic ❤ Edit: ...Okay, there's just one detail I need to complain about... There are too many misconceptions and myths about Dissociative Identity Disorder out there, so I get the confusion, but I have to point out that this movie has absolutely nothing to do with it. This is _not_ what DID is at all. DID is not a psychosis, it actually develops to help the person survive. I'm not gonna get into it here, but I recommend looking it up. Otherwise great vid!
@@BREADSWORD Men, im a teacher of composite and master in literature and this video and the other three i used them in class to make example of what a video essay and an analisis of animation is. i grateful that you made this series, and i really hope some day you feel like making the other two kon's pieces that you left. Amazing job, i'm sure Kon will happy and proud of this series!
Some food for thought. I realized after watching this last time and I’ve watched perfect blue maybe over 10 times now. Satoshi shows us that when Rumi is under her delusion, she sees herself literally as Mima, we even see this when she’s in the hospital at the end. I was also told by other fans to pay close attention to the details of her bedroom because it’s revealed that Rumi recreated her room to be as identical as possible to Mimas. My theory for this is whenever they show “Mima” in the recreated room it’s actually still just Rumi, but we’re seeing her delusion of herself as Mima. When we see the murders occur, we see “Mima” brutally stabbing her victims, but by the end we ultimately know that the real Mima isn’t the one committing the murders. Rumi sees herself as Mima when killing and we also see her wake up as Mima the next day. I’m almost certain the entire scene where Mima finds the bloody clothes in her closet is just Rumis delusion of finding the clothes in her own recreated Mima closet and the paparazzi that swarms the door isn’t really there either. Even the phone call from Tadokoro makes more sense in this scene if you see that character as Rumi instead. Your brain kind of wants to reject how insane Rumi truly is.
I just want to let you know that you probably singlehandedly kept me from failing an English research paper, and probably the course too (it was worth like 40% of our semester grade), so thanks. I had to analyze symbols in The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams, and was really struggling to come up with any decent ideas that weren't also going to be covered by everyone else and their grandmother, the like glass unicorn and etc., and it wasn't until I saw the name of a song that was supposed to play in the background during the climax of the play (La Golondrina, a song about missing one's homeland playing in the memory of a man remembering the event that pushed him to abandon his sister without a way to support herself, which he regrets for the rest of his life) and thought to look it up because of the point you made about the song that plays during the bomber crew scenes in Dr. Strangelove. From there, I was on a roll, and while I probably could have done alright on my own, thinking of that connection you made helped me get past a bad writer's block and write a paper I'm actually pretty proud of. Thx, love you bb but no homo tho
This is the warmest comment I think I've ever gotten dude I'm so happy I could in any way positively impact anyone. I'm sure your paper was excellent! Thank you so much!
girls poop too Alright. I'm actually considering adapting it into a video essay thing breadsword-style and posting it to my main account. I really love film analysis (and plays are close enough imo), and while I don't think I could support myself doing that alone, I want to branch out into doing it as a hobby. I'm gonna be done with finals soon, and will have about a month of free time after that, so depending on how much effort I decide to put into it compared to my normal shitty gameplay compilation stuff, I should post it sometime before June. If you're genuinely curious about it, I can try to remember to link you to it when I'm done, but I'm like 94% sure you were just joking and don't really care, so whatever.
Cheekki Brikki I was just joking, but I'm truly happy that you have something that you are passionate about. Most people in this life don't. Even though I was originally giving you shit. I would like to know if you make a video essay. That is my weakness Have a good one
-Oh,new Breadsword Video, ill watch it in my break. -Its gone. Well. Alright. - 1 o Clock in germany , hard workday, finally time to sleep and... -oh its back. - Sleep is overrated
Holy shit. I've been a fan of this movie for months, and I had no clue about half of the delusions described here. This genuinely clears up a plot hole or two I didn't really think much on. This video is amazing.
One reason why Kon surrounds his reds with "blues and greens" in the film is because, on the Red-Green-Blue color wheel, red and cyan (=an equal mix of blue and green light, often seen by people as "light blue" or "ice blue") are complementary colors; they work really well together while contrasting one another. The red-cyan color scheme has been used as a visual shorthand in horror cinema ever since Blood and Black Lace in 1964 to communicate danger to the audience. Really, watch any visually great horror film and look for scenes that are surrounded by cyan or blues and greens; having blood get spilled in the scene is usually imminent.
I was worried for a second, thinking that you had gotten a strike against you. I was like, 'Noooooooo, not my other SuperEyepatchWolf!' But you didn't, so I'm good.
Are you implying Me-mania is Tarakuro?!!! Breadsword, you are the reason I'm taking cinema appreciation this semester. Thank you sir. Edit: I also noticed that Rumis wide apart eyes and Tarakuros asymmetrical eyes are features extremely exaggerated in Memania.... Hmmmm....
Nice video! I've watched a lot of videos analyzing Perfect Blue, but so far they're all just kinda lacking to me, because none of them ever mention how Mima's gender plays into the story. The type of hollow, feverish love between the idol Mima and her fans that you talk about really reminds me more of possession, which is why I think it's so important really consider the fact that Mima is a woman. Her gender is just as integral to her story as her being an idol is, and in fact, I'd say those two things are linked inextricably. Consider the definition of an idol. An idol is, like you said, a young girl who's every word and action are regulated to make her the perfect image of feminine innocence. Idols are defined, at least in part, by their girlishness. This is all done so that she appeals and sells to men. She's manufactured to be bought by them. Mima's male fans feel entitled to the persona she's put on, so she's forced to act in accordance with what they think of her. They possess both only her imagine, and the control over how she lives her life. Think back to the first time Mima logs on to Mima's Room, and sees someone else re-writing the narrative of her life. There, control is taking from her and given to her persona, which was made to the liking of her male fans. Their possession and control seeps deep into her personal life. The fear of possession is a distinctly feminine fear. It's the result of an undeniable history of oppressive and possessive gender relations (which honestly still exists in one form or another today. Just consider how the toxic idol culture depicted in Perfect Blue exists in the real world now.) The loss of self, and control over the self, experienced by a woman when other people project things on to her, appears again in the film separate from Mima's idol persona. When she allows herself to be photographed nude, and then expresses grief and regret over it, it's a sign not that she longs for the days when she was an innocent idol again, but that she's just traded in one marketable image of herself for another. At that point, she's being sold not as an idol, but as a sex symbol, which is so obviously objectifying that I don't even think I need to explain it. It's not really an escape from the toxic culture that she was trying to run from when she quit being an idol. She's just traded in girlish innocence for hypersexual objectification, wherein she's still being packaged as possess-able product to men. It just acts as a statement of how pervasive the attitude of possession is throughout media. Perfect Blue wouldn't be Perfect Blue without all of this being such a big part of the film, so a discussion about the role of love and it's perversions in the film wouldn't be complete without taking into account the role of Mima's gender in her struggle.
Damn mima just hopped out of the proverbial frying pan of childhood innocence and into the hyper-sexualized fire of an adult sex icon’s life. When she couldn’t handle all the bullshit that was thrown at her she got burned.
Kon is one of those greats that passed far earlier than they should have. His works are all on such another level that use the medium to its absolute extent. Perfect Blue really resonates with me, I still have notebooks filled with writings from my early highschool days in which I realized I was putting on a mask for every situation, saying what people wanted to hear rather than being true to myself. I had a time in which I had no idea who I truly was and felt as though I was this shallow empty husk. It was in working through those emotions that I learned to be true to myself. So whenever I see a fractured psyche it really hits home.
You are one of the only youtubers that I can watch with no idea of the subject material, and I know that I will be impressed with the analysis you place upon it. I literally can't wait for the next video, no matter what film you dissect.
You should watch the film tho. stopped halfway through the video to do just that and it makes you even understand his theory more(or even form your own opinion)
I just realized, that the outfit that mima dresses in as her idol image has the same colors as the lotus, a symbol of purity and longevity. Made just for their audience. I've learned quite a bit from the mellenium actress video that also plays into this movie😊
After seeing a lot of UA-camrs who don't put that much effort into their work and just shit out average videos on a basis, its amazingly refreshing to see someone like you put months of effort into videos with amazing scripts and presentation. You deserve so much more subs.
I personally saw Mima's story as a journey of gaining control. Once mi-mania and Rumi are gone, Mima has control over her life for the first time in likely her entire life. Her delusions were likely brought about from having to keep on a false persona. So another part of her journey was about accepting who she truly is and not letting others determine who she is.
Man I watched this video about 1 year ago or so. The breakdown is amazing man. This is one of my favorite animated movies. The ending still makes me tear up “ life is just a cycle of reds.. and blues” so true. Thank you dawg
I'm really surprised how you didn't mention the fact that we never see Mima in the end of the film without sunglasses on; she only takes them off in a reflection, and it's only her reflection that speaks and says the line, "of course I'm real!" and it would've been nice to go more into detail about how else red has been used in the film, tho it admittedly would've extended the video length
Forgot to say because I just accepted it as a given but great video as always! Satoshi Kon is my favourite director and this video was great at exploring the depth of what is arguably his best film
This is beautiful, please be the dude at my funeral to tell the story of my life. The way you talk is just so relaxing but its so fluent and intelligent. Well done my friend can't wait for the next 4 parts
Yesterday, I put this video on at work for background noise while I got a few things done, and ended up just watching this video while “looking busy” to everyone else. This is a wonderful look at Perfect Blue!
The sound editing of this essay is jarring. Stereo is so on point I couldn't figure out I was actually listening to music, until I removed my headset and realized the room was silent.
"I'm really smart, and this is Satoshi Kon and why love is all you need." What a start to a video. You have the most fascinating vocal range that you stay in during your videos. Never going to high or too low and your pace is consistent in it's inconsistencies speeding up and slowing down for emphasis. And now I'm just talking out of my butt because this video was so smartly written and I don't want to be that dumb guy who watched this video. I love that beginning though and the ridiculousness of proclaiming yourself smart without changing your tone or pace. I love it so much. There is no emphasis on "I'm really smart" which makes it seem even more tongue in cheek than if there had been emphasis. But then you prove that you really are really smart... and now I'm just confused. Is it the most brilliant intro I've ever heard or is it a conceit spoken with such confidence that it bears no emphasis whatsoever. The fact that I'm having this argument with myself clearly means that whichever option is correct contains the later option. I super am into that intro.
Finally watched this movie today after hearing how much Aronofsky uses its references in some of his movies. After it was over I couldn't wait to look up some analysis videos and this was by far my favorite one. Thanks for the work you put into this. It's really amazing to watch this kind of passion go into understanding an artist's art. I'm sure Satoshi would be proud to know 20 years later people were still discovering his work and truly appreciating it. Best of luck with everything you put your mind to. respect.
Breadsword, I don't even know this film or had little interest in the topic at all. I watched because you are SO GOOD at what you do. You explain the film and it's inner dynamics perfectly. I started off not knowing anything about the film, and now I'm motivated to watch it. Don't stop making videos, they are fantastic.
So, this is post is going to be long and rambling, but I had a lot of thoughts (naturally, since it's such a thought-provoking video!). 1. I want to challenge your conclusion that the ending is a happy resolution. I would never have noticed the overexposure thing without help, but now that you mention it, in that scene, there's that harsh, over-exposed sunlight back-lighting Mima in the rear-view mirror. Not to mention the fact that, though it appears to be Mima speaking the last line, the voice that comes out of her mouth is Rumi's. The line is, "I'm the real thing," which... I don't think it's meant to be taken ironically. I think the point (one of Kon's major themes, actually) is that delusions, fiction, and dreams ARE real -- they may not be the same as the things they're emulating, but they exist objectively within us, and are just as real to us as the world around us. (In fact, we can never really be sure what objective reality really is, beyond the fact that we know our own subjective experiences). But I'm getting off topic. It's important that Mima is speaking to a reflection, an image, as if it were someone else (the audience, too, sees not the real Mima, but that reflection). Not to mention, there are associations between reflections and delusions about identity throughout the movie. The colors at the end might represent growth and tranquility like you said, but! Mima is cut off from them. She's sitting in a car, which is separated from the outside reality to begin with... And further, her image is contained in the frame of the mirror, an image of reality that has no actual substance. Oh! And now that I look at it, that overexposed sunlight is ONLY in the mirror. So yeah, the fact that she's focused on her image in the mirror, and not the vibrant world outside, is not a good sign. Oh, and I see, too, at the end of the video, that it's also overexposed when Mima is walking outside the clinic, past the nurses to her car. 2. Wait, her sir-name is "Kirigoe?" That can be written with the characters for "cut" and "voice," implying that Mima is a person who's voice has been cut off.There's no way that wasn't intentional. Ever since I first saw the movie a year ago, I've also had this suspicion that the name "Mima" is a play on the word "meme." If Mima is a light for other people, then those people become mirrors that reflect a false image of herself back onto her. She internalizes that image -- images, plural, actually -- and they start to mutate and take on a lives of their own own, and eventually warping the real person into the shape of the reflections. In other words, Mima is taken over other people's perceptions of her. Those perceptions are based on the virgin/whore false binary, which... Well, again, they're based on other people's perceptions and projections onto women. Women may try to emulate them, but that image is far more simplistic than a real person. Mima fragments because those are the only two roles she knows to play, but she can't fit into either of them. I'm looking forward to your criticism of "Millennium Actress," because I feel a close personal connection to that movie. It's interesting to compare the two movies, because the heroines of both are actresses. What makes them different? It's that, while Mima is defined and controlled by others, Chiyoko's roles are all expressions of her truest self. Genya does idolize her, but what he loves about her is something he saw in her, not something he projected onto her. He follows her, aids her, and wants to capture her on film, but he never makes decisions for her. It's worth noting that the use of the name "Chiyoko" there reinforces the idea that Kon put emphasis on names -- the obvious characters for "Chiyoko" here would be "thousand," "generation," and "child"/"woman." Anyway, even though I disagreed with one or two points, this is fantastic criticism! I never would've thought of Kon's movies in terms of love... In fact, I wasn't even familiar with the idea of love/struggle as a duality. Come to think of it, that idea is awfully meta. I mean, if love and struggle are constantly attracting and repelling each other... It's almost like love and conflict are different versions of the same thing, since they both involve a coming together. But I digress. I didn't notice the musical cues (your conclusions about Tatekuro made my jaw drop), and I thought that the use of red probably indicated danger or delusion. I kind of wonder, now, too, since you pointed it out, what cuts on hands represent? If we see Tarakuro with bandages on his hands, and then Mima cutting her hands when she breaks a glass, both in delusion... Surely, there's some kind of connection? The first thing that comes to mind for me is that hands represent agency, but... Damn, I need to watch this film again!
Interesting, you could similarly apply that analysis to the end (or all of Black Swan, hwich follows largely the same themes and plot beats). The love/conflict thing is key seeing as conflict is always deemed necessary as a catalyst for any narrative, but we should think about what the true instigator of any conflict, be it literal or figurative, actually is. I think his makes a lot of people uncomfortable, just as we dislike examinin the motives of designated 'villians' in films whose mode of thinking and motives often mirror that of the protagonist. Surprised no one has mention the use of red and blue in MKUltra and/or similar mind control techniques considering how Japan's idol culture is considered a perfect example of howt he entertainment inustry contols and enslaves musical artists.
What you said about Mima being helpful to other people and then changing herself to fit that projected image is exactly why Mima reminded me of Shinji from Eva, even when I first watched the movie. I also noticed the thing about the ending scene and wrote a comment on it, but you articulated much better than I. Nice job. One thing I would add is that when she passes by the nurses, they mention that “there’s now way the REAL Kirigoe Mima would show up here!” and that it must be a look alike. There was absolutely no reason to include that short, 5 second scene unless there was a distinct purpose. I’m not sure entirely what that reason is, but it definitely has to do with delusions and real vs. fake Mima.
Regarding point 1, it's possible that the "illusion" of this scene isn't in the identity of the person (aka, it's indeed Mima herself) but in how she perceives herself. In a matter of shots she should have become a confident and "cool" person? Nah, I don't buy it. It's simply her perception of herself. She "won" her challenge with herself, regained compure and control of her mind... but just a little bit. She still lives in a distorted reality, but in a distorted one that is now positive, becoming a potential sign of change in her condition as a whole.
Love every single thing you post, but this one might be my favorite so far. I'm beginning to explore Mr. Kon's filmography and I'm adoring it. I'll be watching and rewatching in your order.
You should watch Magnetic Rose if you haven’t already. It was penned by Kon and predates Perfect Blue. It’s part of the anthology film titled “Memories”. I believe that it would fit perfectly into this video series of yours. It also deals with themes of love and how it can warp people. It’s honestly one of my favourite films, sometimes I feel it’s even above his other works. I really hope you look into it!! :)
I love these videos so much. They're so genuinely interesting. I can tell how much effort you put into each video and it's amazing. They're so genuinely entertaining and I love grabbing a snack, huddling under some blankets, and watching them.
Videos like yours, that pay attention to silent but consistent storytelling, give me hope. I pause movies/shows just to rant about how much I like a few second's details and include easily skipped details in my writing/art because I know someone will love them just as I was excited to create it. It's easy to be only detached so no one can ridicule you for appreciation, so Thank you, especially for doing this with one of my favorite directors.
I don't normally comment or like or anything for anyone, but I have to say, of all the content I've seen on youtube, you may be my favorite...by far. How you progress your ideas and argument, with expertly timed quips and jokes to keep it from getting too heavy all while keeping the viewer's interest, is phenomenal. I'm not big into anime, so I don't really know why I chose to make my statement here, but here it lies. I think you've become my favorite creator, you say and do the things I've always wished I could, and you do it impressively professional as well. Thank you. - A fan P.S. Strangelove was my favorite video if you care. Amazing. I talk to my friends and video production teacher (he's a fan of the film too) about it all the time.
I was a child when I first watched Perfect Blue and it was emotionally devastating then, over a decade of skulking through the gutters of this country has taught me how true to life it is.
Fantastic video. I love this film and felt that I understood it (or understood how I interpreted it) but this is a whole new way to experience this film in ways I never imagined. Very well done!
When you think you’ve watched every theory about Perfect Blue & think you’ve heard every wild explanation to understand the film to its fullest, this video shows up. Once again bending the entire reality of this film.
Perfect Blue also ushered me into my love for Satsohi Kon and it is not just my favorite movie by him. It is my favorite movie. Period. I have watched this movie more times than I can count in both English and the original Japanese. I am so taken aback after watching your video. Its almost as if I've never seen the movie at all and I CAN NOT WAIT for my next viewing of the film. I never even thought about the use of light or the absence of a voice to point to the psychotic nature of a scene. I never even thought about the use of music and how that might indicate who is actually present in a scene versus who I am being shown. Its interesting because the film was mad with the intention that we would never know what is reality, a dream, a thought, a flashback, a delusion. Its meant to disorient and I thought I had it all figured out. Your analysis has kicked open an entire new door for me, and I can't wait to explore. This analysis was absolutely brilliant. You sir, are a gentleman and a scholar and the world is a better place with you in it.
I've been a huge anime fan all my life! I can't believe I just learned about Perfect blue and Ito's horror Mangas! Thank you so much for introducing me to new stuff! I just watched Perfect Blue for the first time last night, and I love horror and rarely get scared by it these days, but watching this movie last night gave me fear and dread like I haven't felt since I was a child! The rape scenes are triggering as a sexual assault survivor myself, it put me right in her shoes and as she protected herself from her stalker, I cheered for her so hard!
What I love about this breakdown, is that it doesn't just work with idols. It says a lot about how people in general can see people in a romantic way and how many types of media enhance the rose colored shades
I have never seen this movie and I never will because I don’t have the guts to but damn every video essay or analysis about it gets me hooked and this one has officially become my number 1 favourite
Another masterpiece. Great analysis whilst keeping me as hooked as a pig at the butcher’s, caught feels for this movie and will have to delve into it and the other works of Kon now thx
you'd think the first to bat would be paranoia agent. Also fun fact Satoshi Kon was oblivious to Idol culture the idol sub narrative some at the courtesy of Mr. Kon's Co-writer
holy christ i gotta rewatch this film huh. this is an incredible and thorough analysis that highlights a lot of how the film continuously destabilizes its own reality. the music analysis and how it reveals/throws doubts on which characters are in the scene is particularly really good
I've watched this about three times now and each time "Light and dark, good and evil, Yin and Yang, Dave N Buster's" gets me each time and i literally go back to hear it over and over again. Love your stuff man can't wait for part 2.
I was so wrapped up in what was happening when I first watched Perfect Blue that it didn't even occur to me that Rima might be sketchy but when she when full psycho that one line about her being an idol came rushing back to me. You blew my mind with the stalker guy really being one of her agents but thinking back on it it makes a ton of sense given that their dead bodies are shown together. I kept trying to think of weird convoluted explanations for that. I spent so much time thinking about what was supposed to be real, what was in Mima's mind, and what might have been a different character's delusions. I'm going to have to watch this movie again and pay attention to the saturation.
The color theory at play in this film has been something I have felt intuitively. But now I realize I never "noticed", and you sir have changed this film forever for me as well as the rest of Kon's catalog!
Fantastic part 1 Definitely one of your more niche videos So it's probably going to have a much lower view count and that's a shame The nightmare theme song revelation was actually terrifying Thanks for uploading I tend to procrastinate watching videos on UA-cam but out of all the videos I've seen while indulging in this terrible habit if mine this one is by far the best both in subject matter and delivery and convinced me to binge this man's work once I finish all my finals So like in 8 hrs from when I post this
I love the anime not because of its arstyle but because of the amazing attention to details, the execution of its themes, how they connect to each other and how it talks about issues that are still relevant to this day.
This brought me to tears, the sheer quality of this video. I feel like it's said so much, often empty and exagerated - but *thank you* ....for this analysis. It's opened up my mind, inspiration and appreciation is pumping through my blood... I'm entirely grateful for your channel, and I hope you can feel it.
The way you write/ speak is so beautiful, its very personal and intelligent and it's honestly an inspiration on how I want to eventually write. This was hands down the best and most interesting video I have ever watched. I was choking up just cause the video is so beautiful in theory. Please never stop doing these type of things.
The reason I finally got around to watching Satoshi Kon's works, was so I could watch Breadsword's video essays on them. Absolutely amazing vid. Can't wait to watch the next one.
Wish I found your channel years ago but regardless these are some of my favorite analysis videos on UA-cam and you cover some of my favorite films, shows and directors (Kon to be exact) - I hope you find the time and are in a good headspace to start uploading again, I'm sure there are many others like myself who'd love to see your videos. *_YOU STILL HAVE TIME FOR PART 4 & 5!_*
I gotta stop watching these at 5 am. My brain can fully appreciate the beautiful analysis of the work and reflect on how It changes the way I see myself as a person at the same time. Good shit.
Thank you, just thank you. I’ve never watched perfect blue but this video was thoroughly and utterly breathtaking. From your perfect analysis to the complex use of vocabulary there was not one moment in the video that I was not engaged. Amazing, keep up the great work!
Your videos are the most calming, comforting, honest, intelligent and easiest to watch content I've seen in far too long a time. Keep doing you, I'll eat up anything you put out
Always a pleasure to hear these films so expertly dissected and presented in such a brilliant and talented way. Mr.Sword, you have got my permanent respect and whenever i get the notification that you’ve posted something it makes me smile, because i know that I’ll have a long, quality experience when I get home. Thank you. You are one quality human being.
finally watched perfect blue, had this in the back of my mind the entire time cuz i wanted to watch this since you put it out but had never seen the film, and honestly you're completely right, i totally thought you were gonna reference the haddaway song
Great video! Learned smth new about the film. Really didn't notice the exposure thing. I just thought that it's normal to have inconsistent exposure throughout an anime film made with old technology :^) The only thing I have to point out though, is that RED and BLUE is not a complementary color scheme. RED and BLUE is a warm cold color contrast (Probably THE most warm cold contrast you can get). A Complementary contrast would be RED and GREEN or BLUE & ORANGE. A Triadic one for example is RED, BLUE & YELLOW, which we see in the movie. I'm also a big Satoshi Kon fan, btw ^^
I've seen this film twice & there are SO many details you pointed out that absolutely flew over my head. Thank you for the insanely detailed & thoughtful video!! Just watched paprika for the second time but I think perfect blue deserves a third (& a fourth & a fifth) watch next. And I'll be applying some more color theory to paprika during the third viewing
The background music is very muffled, I had to take off my headphones because I thought someone was playing music in my house. It's scaring me but I love it!
This video is a perfect representation of “The curtains were blue” lol. I’ll be honest. I think you may have added a bit of context and meaning to what could have just been framing; especially in the color theory portion. I also think that the interpretation of Me- mania not existing and instead his theme being for Tadokoro a little bit of a stretch… Otherwise excellent video as always. This movie certainly deserved a deep dive and your passion for the craft is apparent throughout.
That's a really interesting take on Perfect Blue! I always thought that the contrast going on was between "the film" and "the film within the film", so I'll be really interested to see how my perspective on it changes when I re-watch it with all of this in mind.
The first and only time I watched this was when the pandemic first started (very isolated) and I was high... this movie low key fucked me up. this analysis is insane dude you're amazing, I really need to rewatch!! I just thought the changes in exposure was just a reflection on the time it was made 😭
I am amazed by your analysis. Thank you for publishing it and enlightening me to the complexities of this category of cinematic art. Incredible stuff. Can hardly wait to rewatch Perfect Blue and then check out more of your video essays. Thanks again!
Am I currently writing a research paper on perfect blue for my university animation course? yes. Am I wishing we have research links on this video? yes. Will I use this video AS a research source? ABSOLUTELY. (thank you this video is stunning
I have been experiencing dissociation for a quarter of my life due to childhood neglect, and Satoshi Kon was always my favourite director but i never thought to correlate my love of his work with my dissociative tendencies..........before this video essay. So much now makes sense now, wow!
Definitely one of my new favorite youtube channels, I'm almost upset I didn't discover you a year from now when there could be more content to binge... Keep up the sick work
dude this is fantastic. you are great. i cant wait for the next episode but i dont want it rushed either. take your time and craft another masterpiece of an analysis
PATREON: bit.ly/2GhaUMJ
TWITTER: bit.ly/2FvQGBq
DISCORD: bit.ly/2NFLQRA
The music choices for the background are fantastic but it's difficult to discern most of the lyrics to look them up. Is there somewhere I can find a playlist of the songs you've used?
Pssst. Breadsword. I've watched the Overture of this video over a hundred times now; I've been counting. This, and your work in general, has helped me turn my writing into a therapeutic, cathartic exercise. You've helped me process the death of loved ones, the loss of a long term girlfriend, the maintenance of important relationships, the discovery of new loves, the entire process Empedocles describes. Your voice has been a lantern through the fog. Thank you. Keep it up.
Can you please link the music you use in the background. Some I know some i can shazam and some I cant. Thanks a bunch love the content.
you probably dont care but does anybody know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account?
I stupidly forgot my password. I would appreciate any help you can offer me!
@Michael Kyrie instablaster =)
Satoshi Kon is one of the greatest directors of all time. I want him to go back to work. I don't care if he's dead. He's too ingenious to use that as an excuse to stop creating.
This would require the work of a necromancer...
Brian Collins you called?
Quick someone go to Africa and Study Necromancy
No no, china is where you need. Explore the forests and bring your blade. I recommend a Jian, but a dao will do. You must slay a death wizard to inherit his power. fear liches. Bring a Jiangshi, goofy vampires shall aid you, and provide your army after you gain the Power
@@Surteronarto Im sorry :'(
i think the scene that stood out to me the most was when mima was choosing what foot to step off the train with, with ultimately having no choice because some dude behind her pushes her forward as he rushes away, symbolising how the life of an idol is dictated by the public, the idol becoming a mirror of what the people want, in a perfect form, free from impurities
Yo don’t let the fact that this vid didn’t hit 2M like the Treasure Planet vid keep you from spending time analyzing masterpieces like Kon’s work. You literally opened my eyes to how unbelievably dense this film is in its grammar. Stellar stuff keep at it.
Technicolor Gaming that’s what success often is: fat tails.
This man is right!
Yo I wanted you to know that I come back to this comment pretty regularly for motivation and I hope you know how impactful this was, especially when I dropped this video. Thank you 🖤
@@BREADSWORD Hey man, I just came across your channel, and I'm definitely here to stay. You do an amazing job on your analyses, you make great observations and express your points very comprehensibly, you certainly have a knack for language, and you sprinkle in just enough humour (both orally and visually) to make it funny and entertaining without having it clash with the overall tone of the video. Oh and your voice is incredibly soothing and pleasant to listen to. 😅 It's clear that these videos have a great amount of work put into them. It shows. I really appreciate you and hope to see more great pieces like this one in the future!
Keep up the amazing work!
Lots of love from Czech Republic ❤
Edit: ...Okay, there's just one detail I need to complain about... There are too many misconceptions and myths about Dissociative Identity Disorder out there, so I get the confusion, but I have to point out that this movie has absolutely nothing to do with it. This is _not_ what DID is at all. DID is not a psychosis, it actually develops to help the person survive. I'm not gonna get into it here, but I recommend looking it up. Otherwise great vid!
@@BREADSWORD Men, im a teacher of composite and master in literature and this video and the other three i used them in class to make example of what a video essay and an analisis of animation is. i grateful that you made this series, and i really hope some day you feel like making the other two kon's pieces that you left. Amazing job, i'm sure Kon will happy and proud of this series!
Some food for thought. I realized after watching this last time and I’ve watched perfect blue maybe over 10 times now. Satoshi shows us that when Rumi is under her delusion, she sees herself literally as Mima, we even see this when she’s in the hospital at the end. I was also told by other fans to pay close attention to the details of her bedroom because it’s revealed that Rumi recreated her room to be as identical as possible to Mimas. My theory for this is whenever they show “Mima” in the recreated room it’s actually still just Rumi, but we’re seeing her delusion of herself as Mima. When we see the murders occur, we see “Mima” brutally stabbing her victims, but by the end we ultimately know that the real Mima isn’t the one committing the murders. Rumi sees herself as Mima when killing and we also see her wake up as Mima the next day. I’m almost certain the entire scene where Mima finds the bloody clothes in her closet is just Rumis delusion of finding the clothes in her own recreated Mima closet and the paparazzi that swarms the door isn’t really there either. Even the phone call from Tadokoro makes more sense in this scene if you see that character as Rumi instead. Your brain kind of wants to reject how insane Rumi truly is.
Light and dark.
Good and evil.
Yin and yang.
*d a v e & b u s t e r s*
Abbie R I loved that part
I was reading this and started laughing my ass off when I read the and
God and Satan, Sol and Ky, Ragna and Jin, Akira and Ryo, Dragon and Tiger. Amuro and Char, Dante and Virgil and so on.
That part was cringe in my opinion, but the actual content of this guy's video is amazing.
Absolutely fantastic
SAME TO YOU MY FRIEND KEEP UP THE HOT VIDS
BREADSWORD FUCK YEAH BOI ❤️
I just want to let you know that you probably singlehandedly kept me from failing an English research paper, and probably the course too (it was worth like 40% of our semester grade), so thanks.
I had to analyze symbols in The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams, and was really struggling to come up with any decent ideas that weren't also going to be covered by everyone else and their grandmother, the like glass unicorn and etc., and it wasn't until I saw the name of a song that was supposed to play in the background during the climax of the play (La Golondrina, a song about missing one's homeland playing in the memory of a man remembering the event that pushed him to abandon his sister without a way to support herself, which he regrets for the rest of his life) and thought to look it up because of the point you made about the song that plays during the bomber crew scenes in Dr. Strangelove. From there, I was on a roll, and while I probably could have done alright on my own, thinking of that connection you made helped me get past a bad writer's block and write a paper I'm actually pretty proud of.
Thx, love you bb but no homo tho
This is the warmest comment I think I've ever gotten dude I'm so happy I could in any way positively impact anyone. I'm sure your paper was excellent! Thank you so much!
Cheekki Brikki
Post it, or it never happened
Have a good one
girls poop too Alright. I'm actually considering adapting it into a video essay thing breadsword-style and posting it to my main account. I really love film analysis (and plays are close enough imo), and while I don't think I could support myself doing that alone, I want to branch out into doing it as a hobby. I'm gonna be done with finals soon, and will have about a month of free time after that, so depending on how much effort I decide to put into it compared to my normal shitty gameplay compilation stuff, I should post it sometime before June. If you're genuinely curious about it, I can try to remember to link you to it when I'm done, but I'm like 94% sure you were just joking and don't really care, so whatever.
Cheekki Brikki
I care, and I'd love to see that. Hit me with the link when it's up. I'll watch it for sure.
Cheekki Brikki
I was just joking, but I'm truly happy that you have something that you are passionate about. Most people in this life don't.
Even though I was originally giving you shit. I would like to know if you make a video essay. That is my weakness
Have a good one
-Oh,new Breadsword Video, ill watch it in my break.
-Its gone. Well. Alright.
- 1 o Clock in germany , hard workday, finally time to sleep and...
-oh its back.
- Sleep is overrated
Holy shit. I've been a fan of this movie for months, and I had no clue about half of the delusions described here. This genuinely clears up a plot hole or two I didn't really think much on. This video is amazing.
yo I main Roadhog too also thank you for the kindness
NP.
One reason why Kon surrounds his reds with "blues and greens" in the film is because, on the Red-Green-Blue color wheel, red and cyan (=an equal mix of blue and green light, often seen by people as "light blue" or "ice blue") are complementary colors; they work really well together while contrasting one another.
The red-cyan color scheme has been used as a visual shorthand in horror cinema ever since Blood and Black Lace in 1964 to communicate danger to the audience. Really, watch any visually great horror film and look for scenes that are surrounded by cyan or blues and greens; having blood get spilled in the scene is usually imminent.
"Light and dark, good and evil, yin and yang, Dave and Buster's." Was a good line
Big Baby Bread had to re-up because I'm an idiot and initially posted this at like 2am on accident. Love you guys!
And I'd still watch it again.
Joke's on you because it's 2am right the fuck now.
Ok ignore my comment asking if you deleted that i just did
BREADSWORD love you too keep the irregular content flowing like water
I was worried for a second, thinking that you had gotten a strike against you. I was like, 'Noooooooo, not my other SuperEyepatchWolf!' But you didn't, so I'm good.
Are you implying Me-mania is Tarakuro?!!! Breadsword, you are the reason I'm taking cinema appreciation this semester. Thank you sir.
Edit: I also noticed that Rumis wide apart eyes and Tarakuros asymmetrical eyes are features extremely exaggerated in Memania.... Hmmmm....
That’s what I’m thinking as well.
Ikr, I never thought about that
Nice video! I've watched a lot of videos analyzing Perfect Blue, but so far they're all just kinda lacking to me, because none of them ever mention how Mima's gender plays into the story. The type of hollow, feverish love between the idol Mima and her fans that you talk about really reminds me more of possession, which is why I think it's so important really consider the fact that Mima is a woman. Her gender is just as integral to her story as her being an idol is, and in fact, I'd say those two things are linked inextricably. Consider the definition of an idol. An idol is, like you said, a young girl who's every word and action are regulated to make her the perfect image of feminine innocence. Idols are defined, at least in part, by their girlishness. This is all done so that she appeals and sells to men. She's manufactured to be bought by them. Mima's male fans feel entitled to the persona she's put on, so she's forced to act in accordance with what they think of her. They possess both only her imagine, and the control over how she lives her life. Think back to the first time Mima logs on to Mima's Room, and sees someone else re-writing the narrative of her life. There, control is taking from her and given to her persona, which was made to the liking of her male fans. Their possession and control seeps deep into her personal life.
The fear of possession is a distinctly feminine fear. It's the result of an undeniable history of oppressive and possessive gender relations (which honestly still exists in one form or another today. Just consider how the toxic idol culture depicted in Perfect Blue exists in the real world now.) The loss of self, and control over the self, experienced by a woman when other people project things on to her, appears again in the film separate from Mima's idol persona. When she allows herself to be photographed nude, and then expresses grief and regret over it, it's a sign not that she longs for the days when she was an innocent idol again, but that she's just traded in one marketable image of herself for another. At that point, she's being sold not as an idol, but as a sex symbol, which is so obviously objectifying that I don't even think I need to explain it. It's not really an escape from the toxic culture that she was trying to run from when she quit being an idol. She's just traded in girlish innocence for hypersexual objectification, wherein she's still being packaged as possess-able product to men. It just acts as a statement of how pervasive the attitude of possession is throughout media.
Perfect Blue wouldn't be Perfect Blue without all of this being such a big part of the film, so a discussion about the role of love and it's perversions in the film wouldn't be complete without taking into account the role of Mima's gender in her struggle.
This is such a fantastic comment, and something I've been thinking about since I watched the film.
This....Is really a deep comment and I like ur opinion
Damn mima just hopped out of the proverbial frying pan of childhood innocence and into the hyper-sexualized fire of an adult sex icon’s life. When she couldn’t handle all the bullshit that was thrown at her she got burned.
Holy shit, I can’t believe this comment hasn’t been hearted. This shit is incredible.
damnn good point which most analyses have left out
Kon is one of those greats that passed far earlier than they should have. His works are all on such another level that use the medium to its absolute extent. Perfect Blue really resonates with me, I still have notebooks filled with writings from my early highschool days in which I realized I was putting on a mask for every situation, saying what people wanted to hear rather than being true to myself. I had a time in which I had no idea who I truly was and felt as though I was this shallow empty husk. It was in working through those emotions that I learned to be true to myself. So whenever I see a fractured psyche it really hits home.
Junjito ito slug girl did this to me as well
You are one of the only youtubers that I can watch with no idea of the subject material, and I know that I will be impressed with the analysis you place upon it. I literally can't wait for the next video, no matter what film you dissect.
You should watch the film tho. stopped halfway through the video to do just that and it makes you even understand his theory more(or even form your own opinion)
I just realized, that the outfit that mima dresses in as her idol image has the same colors as the lotus, a symbol of purity and longevity. Made just for their audience. I've learned quite a bit from the mellenium actress video that also plays into this movie😊
After seeing a lot of UA-camrs who don't put that much effort into their work and just shit out average videos on a basis, its amazingly refreshing to see someone like you put months of effort into videos with amazing scripts and presentation. You deserve so much more subs.
I personally saw Mima's story as a journey of gaining control.
Once mi-mania and Rumi are gone, Mima has control over her life for the first time in likely her entire life.
Her delusions were likely brought about from having to keep on a false persona. So another part of her journey was about accepting who she truly is and not letting others determine who she is.
Man I watched this video about 1 year ago or so. The breakdown is amazing man. This is one of my favorite animated movies. The ending still makes me tear up “ life is just a cycle of reds.. and blues” so true. Thank you dawg
I'm really surprised how you didn't mention the fact that we never see Mima in the end of the film without sunglasses on; she only takes them off in a reflection, and it's only her reflection that speaks and says the line, "of course I'm real!"
and it would've been nice to go more into detail about how else red has been used in the film, tho it admittedly would've extended the video length
Forgot to say because I just accepted it as a given but great video as always! Satoshi Kon is my favourite director and this video was great at exploring the depth of what is arguably his best film
@@s-e-e-k-i-n-g I think it's a conscious choice to convey the fact that Mima finally is herself, free of delusion even when looking in the mirror.
Actually in the sub that line at the end is done by Rumi's voice actress, leaving the viewer with a hint of doubt as to what is still real.
@@sosayweall_jpg no way! thats so cool
@@sosayweall_jpg eh, it's still a rumour and has not been confirmed
This is beautiful, please be the dude at my funeral to tell the story of my life. The way you talk is just so relaxing but its so fluent and intelligent. Well done my friend can't wait for the next 4 parts
Yesterday, I put this video on at work for background noise while I got a few things done, and ended up just watching this video while “looking busy” to everyone else. This is a wonderful look at Perfect Blue!
The sound editing of this essay is jarring. Stereo is so on point I couldn't figure out I was actually listening to music, until I removed my headset and realized the room was silent.
"I'm really smart, and this is Satoshi Kon and why love is all you need."
What a start to a video. You have the most fascinating vocal range that you stay in during your videos. Never going to high or too low and your pace is consistent in it's inconsistencies speeding up and slowing down for emphasis. And now I'm just talking out of my butt because this video was so smartly written and I don't want to be that dumb guy who watched this video. I love that beginning though and the ridiculousness of proclaiming yourself smart without changing your tone or pace. I love it so much.
There is no emphasis on "I'm really smart" which makes it seem even more tongue in cheek than if there had been emphasis. But then you prove that you really are really smart... and now I'm just confused. Is it the most brilliant intro I've ever heard or is it a conceit spoken with such confidence that it bears no emphasis whatsoever. The fact that I'm having this argument with myself clearly means that whichever option is correct contains the later option.
I super am into that intro.
Finally watched this movie today after hearing how much Aronofsky uses its references in some of his movies. After it was over I couldn't wait to look up some analysis videos and this was by far my favorite one. Thanks for the work you put into this. It's really amazing to watch this kind of passion go into understanding an artist's art. I'm sure Satoshi would be proud to know 20 years later people were still discovering his work and truly appreciating it. Best of luck with everything you put your mind to. respect.
he doesn't use references unfortunately he completely copies it. I don't like that director. Kon even has a interview showing exactly that
Breadsword, I don't even know this film or had little interest in the topic at all. I watched because you are SO GOOD at what you do. You explain the film and it's inner dynamics perfectly. I started off not knowing anything about the film, and now I'm motivated to watch it. Don't stop making videos, they are fantastic.
his little comment about his sleeping girlfriend is filled with so much sweet adoration can we appreciate that real quick?
So, this is post is going to be long and rambling, but I had a lot of thoughts (naturally, since it's such a thought-provoking video!).
1. I want to challenge your conclusion that the ending is a happy resolution. I would never have noticed the overexposure thing without help, but now that you mention it, in that scene, there's that harsh, over-exposed sunlight back-lighting Mima in the rear-view mirror. Not to mention the fact that, though it appears to be Mima speaking the last line, the voice that comes out of her mouth is Rumi's. The line is, "I'm the real thing," which... I don't think it's meant to be taken ironically. I think the point (one of Kon's major themes, actually) is that delusions, fiction, and dreams ARE real -- they may not be the same as the things they're emulating, but they exist objectively within us, and are just as real to us as the world around us. (In fact, we can never really be sure what objective reality really is, beyond the fact that we know our own subjective experiences). But I'm getting off topic. It's important that Mima is speaking to a reflection, an image, as if it were someone else (the audience, too, sees not the real Mima, but that reflection). Not to mention, there are associations between reflections and delusions about identity throughout the movie. The colors at the end might represent growth and tranquility like you said, but! Mima is cut off from them. She's sitting in a car, which is separated from the outside reality to begin with... And further, her image is contained in the frame of the mirror, an image of reality that has no actual substance. Oh! And now that I look at it, that overexposed sunlight is ONLY in the mirror. So yeah, the fact that she's focused on her image in the mirror, and not the vibrant world outside, is not a good sign. Oh, and I see, too, at the end of the video, that it's also overexposed when Mima is walking outside the clinic, past the nurses to her car.
2. Wait, her sir-name is "Kirigoe?" That can be written with the characters for "cut" and "voice," implying that Mima is a person who's voice has been cut off.There's no way that wasn't intentional. Ever since I first saw the movie a year ago, I've also had this suspicion that the name "Mima" is a play on the word "meme." If Mima is a light for other people, then those people become mirrors that reflect a false image of herself back onto her. She internalizes that image -- images, plural, actually -- and they start to mutate and take on a lives of their own own, and eventually warping the real person into the shape of the reflections. In other words, Mima is taken over other people's perceptions of her. Those perceptions are based on the virgin/whore false binary, which... Well, again, they're based on other people's perceptions and projections onto women. Women may try to emulate them, but that image is far more simplistic than a real person. Mima fragments because those are the only two roles she knows to play, but she can't fit into either of them. I'm looking forward to your criticism of "Millennium Actress," because I feel a close personal connection to that movie. It's interesting to compare the two movies, because the heroines of both are actresses. What makes them different? It's that, while Mima is defined and controlled by others, Chiyoko's roles are all expressions of her truest self. Genya does idolize her, but what he loves about her is something he saw in her, not something he projected onto her. He follows her, aids her, and wants to capture her on film, but he never makes decisions for her. It's worth noting that the use of the name "Chiyoko" there reinforces the idea that Kon put emphasis on names -- the obvious characters for "Chiyoko" here would be "thousand," "generation," and "child"/"woman."
Anyway, even though I disagreed with one or two points, this is fantastic criticism! I never would've thought of Kon's movies in terms of love... In fact, I wasn't even familiar with the idea of love/struggle as a duality. Come to think of it, that idea is awfully meta. I mean, if love and struggle are constantly attracting and repelling each other... It's almost like love and conflict are different versions of the same thing, since they both involve a coming together. But I digress. I didn't notice the musical cues (your conclusions about Tatekuro made my jaw drop), and I thought that the use of red probably indicated danger or delusion. I kind of wonder, now, too, since you pointed it out, what cuts on hands represent? If we see Tarakuro with bandages on his hands, and then Mima cutting her hands when she breaks a glass, both in delusion... Surely, there's some kind of connection? The first thing that comes to mind for me is that hands represent agency, but... Damn, I need to watch this film again!
Interesting, you could similarly apply that analysis to the end (or all of Black Swan, hwich follows largely the same themes and plot beats). The love/conflict thing is key seeing as conflict is always deemed necessary as a catalyst for any narrative, but we should think about what the true instigator of any conflict, be it literal or figurative, actually is. I think his makes a lot of people uncomfortable, just as we dislike examinin the motives of designated 'villians' in films whose mode of thinking and motives often mirror that of the protagonist. Surprised no one has mention the use of red and blue in MKUltra and/or similar mind control techniques considering how Japan's idol culture is considered a perfect example of howt he entertainment inustry contols and enslaves musical artists.
What you said about Mima being helpful to other people and then changing herself to fit that projected image is exactly why Mima reminded me of Shinji from Eva, even when I first watched the movie.
I also noticed the thing about the ending scene and wrote a comment on it, but you articulated much better than I. Nice job. One thing I would add is that when she passes by the nurses, they mention that “there’s now way the REAL Kirigoe Mima would show up here!” and that it must be a look alike. There was absolutely no reason to include that short, 5 second scene unless there was a distinct purpose. I’m not sure entirely what that reason is, but it definitely has to do with delusions and real vs. fake Mima.
Regarding point 1, it's possible that the "illusion" of this scene isn't in the identity of the person (aka, it's indeed Mima herself) but in how she perceives herself.
In a matter of shots she should have become a confident and "cool" person? Nah, I don't buy it.
It's simply her perception of herself. She "won" her challenge with herself, regained compure and control of her mind... but just a little bit. She still lives in a distorted reality, but in a distorted one that is now positive, becoming a potential sign of change in her condition as a whole.
Love every single thing you post, but this one might be my favorite so far. I'm beginning to explore Mr. Kon's filmography and I'm adoring it. I'll be watching and rewatching in your order.
You should watch Magnetic Rose if you haven’t already. It was penned by Kon and predates Perfect Blue. It’s part of the anthology film titled “Memories”. I believe that it would fit perfectly into this video series of yours. It also deals with themes of love and how it can warp people. It’s honestly one of my favourite films, sometimes I feel it’s even above his other works. I really hope you look into it!! :)
Did this video just flipped my perception on my favorite anime movie, which I've seen twice?
This video is an essay on Perfect Blue and I loved it!
I love these videos so much. They're so genuinely interesting. I can tell how much effort you put into each video and it's amazing. They're so genuinely entertaining and I love grabbing a snack, huddling under some blankets, and watching them.
Guess im watching again
Videos like yours, that pay attention to silent but consistent storytelling, give me hope. I pause movies/shows just to rant about how much I like a few second's details and include easily skipped details in my writing/art because I know someone will love them just as I was excited to create it. It's easy to be only detached so no one can ridicule you for appreciation, so
Thank you, especially for doing this with one of my favorite directors.
32:22
people who havent watched the film watching this like
Good one
thank you, got a genuine laugh outta me
I don't normally comment or like or anything for anyone, but I have to say, of all the content I've seen on youtube, you may be my favorite...by far. How you progress your ideas and argument, with expertly timed quips and jokes to keep it from getting too heavy all while keeping the viewer's interest, is phenomenal. I'm not big into anime, so I don't really know why I chose to make my statement here, but here it lies. I think you've become my favorite creator, you say and do the things I've always wished I could, and you do it impressively professional as well. Thank you. - A fan
P.S. Strangelove was my favorite video if you care. Amazing. I talk to my friends and video production teacher (he's a fan of the film too) about it all the time.
I was a child when I first watched Perfect Blue and it was emotionally devastating then, over a decade of skulking through the gutters of this country has taught me how true to life it is.
You were homeless?
@@diamondsrubies1964 Maybe, but most of my friends are very poor and I go urban exploring in the abandoned places all over.
Fantastic video. I love this film and felt that I understood it (or understood how I interpreted it) but this is a whole new way to experience this film in ways I never imagined. Very well done!
When you think you’ve watched every theory about Perfect Blue & think you’ve heard every wild explanation to understand the film to its fullest, this video shows up. Once again bending the entire reality of this film.
I'll say it again...this right here is PURE GOLD!!!
Perfect Blue also ushered me into my love for Satsohi Kon and it is not just my favorite movie by him. It is my favorite movie. Period. I have watched this movie more times than I can count in both English and the original Japanese. I am so taken aback after watching your video. Its almost as if I've never seen the movie at all and I CAN NOT WAIT for my next viewing of the film. I never even thought about the use of light or the absence of a voice to point to the psychotic nature of a scene. I never even thought about the use of music and how that might indicate who is actually present in a scene versus who I am being shown. Its interesting because the film was mad with the intention that we would never know what is reality, a dream, a thought, a flashback, a delusion. Its meant to disorient and I thought I had it all figured out. Your analysis has kicked open an entire new door for me, and I can't wait to explore. This analysis was absolutely brilliant. You sir, are a gentleman and a scholar and the world is a better place with you in it.
I've been a huge anime fan all my life! I can't believe I just learned about Perfect blue and Ito's horror Mangas! Thank you so much for introducing me to new stuff! I just watched Perfect Blue for the first time last night, and I love horror and rarely get scared by it these days, but watching this movie last night gave me fear and dread like I haven't felt since I was a child! The rape scenes are triggering as a sexual assault survivor myself, it put me right in her shoes and as she protected herself from her stalker, I cheered for her so hard!
“Perhaps the more important question to ask is, how is love?” -Drax
What I love about this breakdown, is that it doesn't just work with idols. It says a lot about how people in general can see people in a romantic way and how many types of media enhance the rose colored shades
I have never seen this movie and I never will because I don’t have the guts to but damn every video essay or analysis about it gets me hooked and this one has officially become my number 1 favourite
Another masterpiece. Great analysis whilst keeping me as hooked as a pig at the butcher’s, caught feels for this movie and will have to delve into it and the other works of Kon now thx
you'd think the first to bat would be paranoia agent.
Also fun fact Satoshi Kon was oblivious to Idol culture the idol sub narrative some at the courtesy of Mr. Kon's Co-writer
holy christ i gotta rewatch this film huh. this is an incredible and thorough analysis that highlights a lot of how the film continuously destabilizes its own reality. the music analysis and how it reveals/throws doubts on which characters are in the scene is particularly really good
Omg I've never though about her manager that way. You truly opened my eyes to another layer of the movie. Thank you so much, love your work.
I've watched this about three times now and each time "Light and dark, good and evil, Yin and Yang, Dave N Buster's" gets me each time and i literally go back to hear it over and over again. Love your stuff man can't wait for part 2.
Continuously amaze me with the high quality of your videos and how deep they are. Truly amazing man keep up the amazing work
This entire vid is just the conspiracy board meme image and it is magnificent. Great work.
I was so wrapped up in what was happening when I first watched Perfect Blue that it didn't even occur to me that Rima might be sketchy but when she when full psycho that one line about her being an idol came rushing back to me. You blew my mind with the stalker guy really being one of her agents but thinking back on it it makes a ton of sense given that their dead bodies are shown together. I kept trying to think of weird convoluted explanations for that. I spent so much time thinking about what was supposed to be real, what was in Mima's mind, and what might have been a different character's delusions. I'm going to have to watch this movie again and pay attention to the saturation.
The color theory at play in this film has been something I have felt intuitively. But now I realize I never "noticed", and you sir have changed this film forever for me as well as the rest of Kon's catalog!
Damn the muffled Wild is the Wind Nina Simone in the background at the start is an excellent choice
Fantastic part 1
Definitely one of your more niche videos
So it's probably going to have a much lower view count and that's a shame
The nightmare theme song revelation was actually terrifying
Thanks for uploading
I tend to procrastinate watching videos on UA-cam but out of all the videos I've seen while indulging in this terrible habit if mine this one is by far the best both in subject matter and delivery and convinced me to binge this man's work once I finish all my finals
So like in 8 hrs from when I post this
the artstyle is much of its time and cannot be duplicated in this day and age which is why people like this movie
I love the anime not because of its arstyle but because of the amazing attention to details, the execution of its themes, how they connect to each other and how it talks about issues that are still relevant to this day.
This brought me to tears, the sheer quality of this video. I feel like it's said so much, often empty and exagerated - but *thank you* ....for this analysis. It's opened up my mind, inspiration and appreciation is pumping through my blood... I'm entirely grateful for your channel, and I hope you can feel it.
My class might watch Satoshi Kon this semester so I'm rewatching one of my favorite UA-cam series again
dude your videos are masterpieces. the argument, the songs, the references, the scenes you choose. well done man
The way you write/ speak is so beautiful, its very personal and intelligent and it's honestly an inspiration on how I want to eventually write. This was hands down the best and most interesting video I have ever watched. I was choking up just cause the video is so beautiful in theory. Please never stop doing these type of things.
Tight. You talked about my favorite movie, you're the best baquette blade this side of the Mississippi.
Your audio channelling for voice and music is top notch
what is love? BREADSWORD dont reupload, dont reupload no more
BrancaLeone I though he posted part 2 😢
Absolutely love this! Top tier content, and deserving of wayyyy more attention.
Totally agree!
The reason I finally got around to watching Satoshi Kon's works, was so I could watch Breadsword's video essays on them. Absolutely amazing vid. Can't wait to watch the next one.
Wish I found your channel years ago but regardless these are some of my favorite analysis videos on UA-cam and you cover some of my favorite films, shows and directors (Kon to be exact) - I hope you find the time and are in a good headspace to start uploading again, I'm sure there are many others like myself who'd love to see your videos. *_YOU STILL HAVE TIME FOR PART 4 & 5!_*
Spectacular analysis. I honestly didn't even understand this movie until this video
I gotta stop watching these at 5 am. My brain can fully appreciate the beautiful analysis of the work and reflect on how It changes the way I see myself as a person at the same time. Good shit.
R.I.P. Satoshi Kon. Your movies mean so much to me
Thank you, just thank you. I’ve never watched perfect blue but this video was thoroughly and utterly breathtaking. From your perfect analysis to the complex use of vocabulary there was not one moment in the video that I was not engaged. Amazing, keep up the great work!
Your videos are the most calming, comforting, honest, intelligent and easiest to watch content I've seen in far too long a time. Keep doing you, I'll eat up anything you put out
I love Satoshi Kon so so much and love your reviews...been watching them for years and can't wait for the day that you review Paprika.
Always a pleasure to hear these films so expertly dissected and presented in such a brilliant and talented way. Mr.Sword, you have got my permanent respect and whenever i get the notification that you’ve posted something it makes me smile, because i know that I’ll have a long, quality experience when I get home. Thank you. You are one quality human being.
I swear you deserve all the subscribers ever for the amount of work you put into these. Literally made a Patreon just for this channel.
3:50, this is where lame turds would end their video, but that was just your thesis. I love that you make such long videos
C. E. Abrams 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Easily one of the best analysis videos on Satoshi Kon and Perfect Blue out there. Keep up the good work
finally watched perfect blue, had this in the back of my mind the entire time cuz i wanted to watch this since you put it out but had never seen the film, and honestly you're completely right, i totally thought you were gonna reference the haddaway song
more genuine note this video rocks even after all this time
So glad I found this channel, you looked at the film from angles others didn't think of and it's so refreshing to see.
Great video! Learned smth new about the film. Really didn't notice the exposure thing. I just thought that it's normal to have inconsistent exposure throughout an anime film made with old technology :^)
The only thing I have to point out though, is that RED and BLUE is not a complementary color scheme. RED and BLUE is a warm cold color contrast (Probably THE most warm cold contrast you can get). A Complementary contrast would be RED and GREEN or BLUE & ORANGE. A Triadic one for example is RED, BLUE & YELLOW, which we see in the movie.
I'm also a big Satoshi Kon fan, btw ^^
Never even seen Perfect Blue and now it's a favourite movie? Huh? (absolutely enjoyed this video by the way)
This movie definitely is a 9/10 film .Definely one of the movies he has done
please
never ever stop being the greatest content creator on this website
I've seen this film twice & there are SO many details you pointed out that absolutely flew over my head. Thank you for the insanely detailed & thoughtful video!! Just watched paprika for the second time but I think perfect blue deserves a third (& a fourth & a fifth) watch next. And I'll be applying some more color theory to paprika during the third viewing
The background music is very muffled, I had to take off my headphones because I thought someone was playing music in my house. It's scaring me but I love it!
*Holy Sh1t man!* 29:36 My mind was blown. Thanks for making this was a brilliant analysis. I had to subscribe, can't wait for episode 2
I'm obsessed and in love with the aesthetic of your videos 😁🥰
This video is a perfect representation of “The curtains were blue” lol.
I’ll be honest. I think you may have added a bit of context and meaning to what could have just been framing; especially in the color theory portion. I also think that the interpretation of Me- mania not existing and instead his theme being for Tadokoro a little bit of a stretch… Otherwise excellent video as always. This movie certainly deserved a deep dive and your passion for the craft is apparent throughout.
Wow. I feel like I completely misread the film's foundations after watching this. Thank you for making this. It's a very refreshing perspective!
That's a really interesting take on Perfect Blue!
I always thought that the contrast going on was between "the film" and "the film within the film", so I'll be really interested to see how my perspective on it changes when I re-watch it with all of this in mind.
The first and only time I watched this was when the pandemic first started (very isolated) and I was high... this movie low key fucked me up. this analysis is insane dude you're amazing, I really need to rewatch!! I just thought the changes in exposure was just a reflection on the time it was made 😭
God, it's nearly 3 AM and here I am, watching your video. Subscribed to you after Treasure Planet, and that's what I've been waiting for. Cheers
I am amazed by your analysis. Thank you for publishing it and enlightening me to the complexities of this category of cinematic art. Incredible stuff. Can hardly wait to rewatch Perfect Blue and then check out more of your video essays. Thanks again!
Am I currently writing a research paper on perfect blue for my university animation course? yes. Am I wishing we have research links on this video? yes. Will I use this video AS a research source? ABSOLUTELY.
(thank you this video is stunning
God you are honestly one of my all time favorite UA-camrs. Your videos never cease to amaze me
I have been experiencing dissociation for a quarter of my life due to childhood neglect, and Satoshi Kon was always my favourite director but i never thought to correlate my love of his work with my dissociative tendencies..........before this video essay. So much now makes sense now, wow!
Definitely one of my new favorite youtube channels, I'm almost upset I didn't discover you a year from now when there could be more content to binge... Keep up the sick work
dude this is fantastic. you are great. i cant wait for the next episode but i dont want it rushed either. take your time and craft another masterpiece of an analysis