This film is very deceptive, though it is from the initial seemingly pop anime that it branches into an extremely complex, intellectually mind bending film dealing with such themes as identity, reality and dreams: These are but a few of a plethora ripe for the picking.
Perfect Blue is a film that I strongly wish for everyone who enjoys any of the above listed genres to watch. The production values, script, characterizations, overall presentation, and incredible plot twist(s) make this film remarkable, memorable, and so very unique that it practically redefines the genre of psychological horror. It is horror in the intellectual sense, rather than a generic, extreme psychopath who resorts to violence as is the common idiosyncrasy within slasher films these days. I have nothing against them- I just sometimes like to watch a film that challenges my intellect.
The nudity, while may be a bit much for some people's taste, serves well amongst the use of juxtaposition in a specific scene. While movies pertaining to delusions and protagonists getting reality mixed and confused with dreams - i.e. unable to differentiate between the two - may seem a bit cliché to those who are well versed in psychological drama, the presentation and characterization make this just amazing. A stand alone classic, up there with Psycho by acclaimed director Alfred Hitchcock.
What made me watch this back when it was first released in America was the premise and genre, and I had actually thought little of it. However, upon watching it for a third time, I was more confused though more enmeshed- The very use of foreshadowing, literal juxtapositions with the T.V. killer drama mystery and the actual killer drama mystery that is the film Perfect Blue is all so clever and brilliantly executed.
Unfortunately though, with the X amount of times I have seen this film, there are many elements that are still confusing, like loose ends of a rope that are never tied; and it is understandable from some critics why the end is sort of a cop out. Regardless, if you feel like watching an extremely unorthodox anime, then by all means, check this one out.
