The moment I saw the previews for this film I had to get a copy of this. Now with a copy in hand, here are my impressions of Christian Volckman's animated CGI film, Renaissance.
It's the year 2054 and Paris is an amalgamation of old technologies and new. Avalon is a huge megacorporation that advertises longevity treatments (although their actual process is not shown on film.) The film begins as one of Avalon's researchers, Ilona Tasuiev, is kidnapped by unknown individuals. Karas, a hardboiled policeman, is ordered to take on the case. As he gets deeper and deeper into the case, he finds that the kidnapping is far more complicated than it seems.
Renaissance is cyberpunk back at its roots: while set in the 'near' future, it takes lots of influences from the Film Noir genre. There's the female lead (Ilona's older sister,) the gloomy and oppressive environment, and the 'protagonist against the world' vibe that leads into the film's second half.
The plot is standard noir, and offers nothing new. It unfortunately does not delve much into the philosophical consequences stemming from the actions of some of the characters in the film. There is so much story potential that can be taken from the central themes of the movie: life and death. I'd also have wanted a little more character development between the two leads, but it ends up a little shallow.
The visuals makes up for that in spades. Done in motion-captured CGI, then treated to a kind of cel shaded black and white effect, it's a visual treat. It's worth seeing the movie just for the visuals. Contrasts of light and shadow really enhance the overall noir feel of the movie. It's a futuristic Paris bathed in shadow during night, and in clear white during the day.
The soundtrack can get a little too bombastic at times, but it's okay overall. Having watched the English version of the movie, the performances are decent enough. You really get into Karas (Daniel Craig) and sympathize for his character.
Renaissance is a one in a kind visual feast. While the plot may largely be uninspired, it's still worth a watch.
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