Zëiram 2, released in 1994, is the sequel to 1991's Zëiram, both directed by Keita Amemiya. The movies are about an unstoppable space monster with a Ridley Scott Alien-like Noh Maskface head that pokes out and bites its prey, and the efforts of intergalactic space bounty hunter Iria, played with beauty and charm by Yuko Moriyama, to destroy the beast. I first came across the world of Zeiram via the Sci-Fi Channel's Saturday anime block of programming, where they showcased the anime series Iria, a spin-off of the Zëiram films in anime form. It wasn't until years later with the internet that I discovered Iria was based off of a series of live action films, and even longer until I was able to watch them. I bought the two-disc "Zëiram Duology" for more money than I would care to admit off of eBay, released from Tokyo Shock.
The plot of Zëiram 2 isn't exactly Shakespeare, and I don't want to spend time summarizing it. The item I want to focus on is the film's brilliant production design. From the design of Iria's costumes (by legendary artist Katsua Terada!), her weapons, the monster and technology designs, and even the film's opening sequence, I am completely engrossed and enamored. It is like the best of Blade Runner and Alien combined with Japanese folklore and mythology, and some Power Rangers thrown into the mix.
A peek at the opening credits.
I love being transported to this world, seeing the technology, aliens and monsters that inhabit it. The film does take place on earth, which I assume is a budgetary restraint, part of me wishes the entire film was off world, but alas, these exciting creatures and characters all travel to earth for their adventure, and Iria enlists the help of two ordinary Japanese electricians.
Sweet!
While the action is a little goofy at times, the costumes on occasion rubbery, the humor at times overly broad, I find this movie to be better than the sum of its parts, and find the designs and the world created to be satisfying on a level that a lot of big budget movies fail for me. I wanted to write about this movie because I am sad that it is not more available on streaming and physical release, I am not really one to pirate movies or torrent, but for fans of Sci-Fi and the like I think this is a gem that many people would find enjoyable.
