Mars Express Review: French Animation Melds Cyberpunk with Deep Philosophy

by Tom May 3, 2024

With the audacious zeal of a rocket hurtling towards the red planet, “Mars Express” catapults audiences into a sci-fi universe where every frame is a brushstroke on a vivid canvas of animated neo-noir. Directed by Jérémie Périn, this French cinematic odyssey marries the thematic depth of “Ghost in the Shell” with the visual storytelling prowess of a cyberpunk graphic novel.

“Mars Express” is set in a 23rd-century Mars, now a sprawling metropolis that has long since surpassed Earth in allure and mystique. At the heart of this tale is private detective Aline Ruby, and her android partner Carlos Rivera—a cyborg reconstruction of her deceased human partner—adding layers of personal loss and existential wonder to their investigative escapades. The duo embarks on a seemingly routine case that spirals into a complex web of A.I. rights and corporate espionage, reflecting our contemporary anxieties about technology and automation.

The film’s animation style is a standout, effectively blending traditional 2D artistry with sophisticated cinematic techniques that evoke live-action filmmaking. The detailed environments and neon-lit cityscapes of Mars provide a backdrop that is both otherworldly and intimately familiar. Périn’s use of a hand-drawn art style accentuated by modern animation methods ensures each scene is immersive and emotionally resonant.

The narrative is dense, filled with philosophical musings on the essence of humanity and the rights of artificial beings. This thematic richness suggests that “Mars Express” might require multiple viewings to fully appreciate its nuances. The story is both a thrilling detective yarn and a thoughtful exploration of societal issues, propelled by a soundtrack that mixes electronic beats with moody jazz, enhancing the film’s brooding atmosphere.

The voice performances, led by Léa Drucker and Mathieu Amalric, are compelling, imbuing the characters with a depth that is crucial for the story’s emotional weight. The film challenges viewers with its complex characters and moral dilemmas, eschewing easy answers in favor of a narrative that invites discussion and reflection.

“Mars Express” is a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought about our future coexistence with technology. For those with a penchant for richly layered narratives and striking animation, “Mars Express” is a journey worth taking. Its ability to blend human drama with futuristic dilemmas makes it a standout in the genre, ensuring its place as a modern classic in animated science fiction.

RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Mars Express is now playing in theaters as of May 3rd, 2024.