88 Films have been releasing some super deluxe Blu-rays of Asian cinema. Their OBI Strip releases are so awesome. For those that don't know an OBI Strip is a narrow band of paper that wraps around the spine or edge of Japanese vinyl records, CDs, or Blu-rays. It serves as a way to provide information such as labels, catalog numbers, and barcodes.
88 Films OBI Strips are gold foil and literally pop making this Blu-ray look absolutely stunning on a home video library shelf. The next OBI Strip releases from from director Mika Ninagawa. These releases are Sakuran and Helter Skelter.
Sakuran: Ancient Edo's legendary Yoshiwara red-light district is brought back to life in Sakuran, the dazzling debut of acclaimed photographer Mika Ninagawa (Helter Skelter), based on the popular manga by Moyoco Anno. Rockstar Anna Tsuchiya (Kamikaze Girls) is Kiyoha, sold into a brothel at a tender age and put to training as a courtesan. As Kiyoha's rebellious spirit and renowned beauty provoke the jealous rivalry of the other girls in the establishment, the possibility of romance raises its head, but can love provide a genuine possibility of escape for a young woman in her position, in a refined sensual world where looks and deportment are everything? With its super-saturated colors and striking art design, Sakuran is a delicious feast for the eyes.
Helter Skelter: Top model and fashion idol Lilico (Erika Sawajiri) is used to being the centre of attention - the living epicentre of her own universe and of a multimedia-saturated hyperreality in which everything is airbrushed and color-adjusted to perfection. When she begins to suffer traumatic side effects from her repeated illegal cosmetic surgery sessions, she finds fame comes at a cost, as she is plunged into a nightmarish world where her sense of self-image and identity begins to fracture.
88 Films have transferred Sakuran and Helter Skelter to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in 1.85:1 aspect ratio. There are two audio tracks in a Japanese language 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and a Stereo track. These are complete with new English Subtitles.
88 Films always put there best foot forward with there releases and this OBI Strip Blu-rays are no different. The picture quality is crisp and clean and there is no signs of damage that I saw while screening these films. But in addition to great looking transfers, 88 Films added some great bonus features. Take a look at what is included on these releases.
Sakuran Bonus Features:
* Audio Commentary by Josh Slater-Williams
* Brand New Filmed Introduction by Amber T.
* Still Gallery
* Trailers
* Booklet Essays by Jasper Sharp
* Original and Newly Commissioned Artwork by Luke Insect
Helter Skelter Bonus Materials:
* Audio Commentary by Tori Potenza and Amber T.
* Interviews with Erika Sawaji and Director Mika Ningawa
* Behind the Scenes footage of the making of Helter Skelter
* Production Site press conference
* Japanese Premiere Stage Greeting
* Opening Day Stage Greeting
* Taipei Film Festival Introduction by Mika Ninagawa
* Stills Gallery
* Teasers and Trailers
* Booklet Essay by Violet Burns
* Original and Newly Commissioned Artwork by Luke Insect
With the addition of audio commentaries, booklets, interviews and the amazing artwork of Luke Insect, 88 Films has created Blu-rays that are stunning. And even serve as pieces of art.
If you love Asian Cinema these two upcoming Blu-ray releases from the visionary director Mika Ninagawa are a must own. And especially with these being the super deluxe OBI Strip edition. You can pre-order these Blu-rays by heading over to MVD Shop. Pick up your copy of Sakura and Helter Skelter today!
Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) these Blu-rays from 88 Films receive....
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