A reluctant hero, who is not seen as a hero, and is starving to be a hit on Japanese TV. Are you confused yet? I was very confused for the first 10 minutes of this insane but outstanding movie. This is the most bizarre adult adaptation of a Japanese Monster movie I have ever seen. Taking the entire genre and wrapping it into a documentary is brilliant and hilarious to boot.

Highlights

This film opens as a documentary of Big Sato, or Big Man Japan. He is an everyday human that can transform himself into a giant when monsters decide to drop by and reek a little havoc. The first 10 minutes set the entire story up. It provides a glimpse into the mind of this strange convoluted man. There several great references to things getting bigger when needed and they become more relevant later in the movie.

Big Sato does not have any public support and is seen as more of a problem than a saviour. He is called to fight off strange monsters that show up and tend to cause trouble and destruction. These monsters are the most bizarre that I have ever seen. The strangest is the Eye Throwing Monster. It uses its Eye as a weapon. The eye is attached to a long cord that the monster retracts back into itself. Wild stuff here. There are other monsters, from Baby Monsters to some strange Stink Monster that looks like a flower and is out for sex. Each of the encounters with the Monsters is utterly crazy.

There is also Big Sato's grandfather "The Fourth". He was Big Man Japan before Big Sato and plays an important role in the story. He also like to get more involved and longs for his days of youth. When he regains his youth is hilarious and adds another dimension to what could happen if the wrong person can become a giant.

 

Overall

 

I am sure you can tell that I liked this move, and in fact I loved this film. Well, to put it mildly, I would say that it has jumped to my top 10 list. There is so much great material in this film, that I was confused and delighted at the same time. The parody of the entire genre is over the top and also plays right into the absurdity of how fickle the public can be. The film explores the possibilities of a long running family tradition and legacy, and how the culture has changed to make something to be proud of into a thing of disgust and weakness.

There is so much about this film that makes me want more that it is difficult to point out a single issue that stands out. I would have to say that the affection of the public is at the center of the film and is given some teeth when Big Sato's wife and daughter are brought into the plot. There is a pointed commentary on how people can be shallow and unable to see the real glory of this man.

The most confusing part of the film is the ending, but it also is one of the strongest segments of the film. It turns the plot on its ear and leaves the viewer saying, "What just happened". It may not have been this films shinning moment, but it does throw a punch at Japanese Kid TV.

For anyone who likes comedy and Japanese Monster Movies, this film is a must. For everyone else, I would say check this out, you will be glad you did.

 

ComicsOnline gives Big Man Japan, 5 out of 5 expanding seaweed pellets.