There are four completed and released Appleseed movies adapting Masamune Shirow’s manga series. These range from traditional cel-shaded animation to cutting-edge CGI, each offering a distinct visual and narrative take on the iconic cyberpunk world.
Unpacking the Appleseed Cinematic Universe
Masamune Shirow’s Appleseed, a manga series blending cyberpunk action, philosophical musings on humanity, and compelling characters, has captivated audiences since its inception. Its enduring popularity has naturally led to numerous adaptations, with the cinematic realm offering some of the most visually striking and narratively engaging interpretations. Understanding the breadth and order of these Appleseed movies is essential for any fan seeking to fully immerse themselves in this complex universe.
Appleseed (2004): The CGI Pioneer
The first Appleseed movie, released in 2004, was a landmark achievement in CGI animation. Directed by Shinji Aramaki, it pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the medium, employing a sophisticated cel-shaded CGI style that aimed to mimic the look of traditional anime while leveraging the power of modern technology. The film adapts the early portions of the manga, focusing on Deunan Knute’s arrival in Olympus and her partnership with the cyborg Briareos Hecatonchires. It set the stage for future adaptations and established a visual vocabulary that continues to resonate within the Appleseed franchise.
Appleseed Ex Machina (2007): A Visual Masterpiece
Following the success of the first film, Appleseed Ex Machina, released in 2007, upped the ante in terms of visual fidelity and artistic ambition. Once again directed by Shinji Aramaki, and featuring a striking visual design overseen by legendary anime creator Kazuchika Kise, Ex Machina presented a more polished and refined CGI aesthetic. The story delves deeper into the political machinations and ethical dilemmas surrounding Olympus, exploring themes of identity, artificial intelligence, and the future of humanity. It’s often regarded as the visually superior of the early CGI films.
Appleseed XIII (2011-2012): The OVA Series Re-Edited
While not technically a movie in the traditional sense, Appleseed XIII deserves mention as a significant adaptation. Originally released as a series of thirteen OVAs (Original Video Animations) between 2011 and 2012, it was subsequently re-edited and released as two compilation films: Appleseed XIII – Tartaros and Appleseed XIII – Ouranos. This adaptation takes a more episodic approach, delving into different facets of the Appleseed universe and exploring a wider range of characters and conflicts. The visual style is distinct from the earlier CGI films, opting for a more traditional cel-shaded animation style.
Appleseed Alpha (2014): A Rebooted Vision
Appleseed Alpha, released in 2014, represents a significant departure from the previous adaptations. Directed by Shinji Aramaki yet again, the film reimagines the origins of Deunan and Briareos, presenting a younger, more inexperienced version of the characters navigating a post-apocalyptic world. The CGI animation style is notably different, embracing a more realistic and detailed aesthetic. Appleseed Alpha serves as a reboot, offering a fresh entry point into the franchise for new viewers while still retaining the core themes and characters that define Appleseed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Appleseed Movies
Here are some of the most common questions fans have about the Appleseed movies:
Is there a chronological order to watch the Appleseed movies?
While each film adapts elements from the original manga, they don’t follow a strict chronological order. Appleseed Alpha is essentially a prequel/reboot. The 2004 Appleseed and Appleseed Ex Machina are loosely connected, following Deunan’s initial integration into Olympus. Appleseed XIII offers a broader adaptation of manga storylines, best enjoyed after familiarity with the core characters. Therefore, watching in release order is a good starting point, then deciding on personal preference for viewing styles or specific storylines.
Which Appleseed movie is considered the best?
This is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Appleseed Ex Machina is often praised for its stunning visuals and mature storytelling. Appleseed Alpha offers a fresh, modern take on the characters, appealing to viewers seeking a more action-oriented experience. The original Appleseed (2004) is important for setting the stage and pioneering CGI animation techniques.
Are the Appleseed movies faithful to the manga?
The Appleseed movies take liberties with the source material. They adapt key storylines and characters but often condense events, alter character motivations, and introduce original elements. Appleseed XIII, due to its episodic nature, probably captures the widest breadth of material, even though it’s presented across multiple episodes that make up two film-length collections.
What is the difference between Appleseed and Appleseed Ex Machina?
Appleseed (2004) introduces the world of Olympus and Deunan’s initial experiences. Appleseed Ex Machina builds upon this foundation, delving deeper into the political intrigue and philosophical themes surrounding the city. Ex Machina also boasts significantly improved visuals and a more polished presentation.
Why are the animation styles different across the movies?
The changing animation styles reflect advancements in CGI technology and evolving artistic preferences. The original Appleseed used early cel-shaded CGI, while Ex Machina refined this technique. Appleseed Alpha embraced a more realistic and detailed CGI style. Appleseed XIII used more traditional cel-shaded animation, a departure from the other three.
Are there any plans for future Appleseed movies?
There are currently no confirmed plans for future Appleseed movies. However, given the enduring popularity of the franchise, it’s possible that new adaptations could emerge in the future, especially if the previous iterations are reviewed positively.
Where can I watch the Appleseed movies?
The Appleseed movies are available on various streaming platforms, including Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Amazon Prime Video, depending on your region. They can also be purchased on Blu-ray and DVD. Availability can fluctuate, so it’s always best to check current listings.
Do I need to watch the Appleseed movies in order?
While watching in release order provides a sense of progression in terms of visual style and narrative complexity, it’s not strictly necessary. Appleseed Alpha can be viewed independently as a reboot. The original Appleseed (2004) and Appleseed Ex Machina have some narrative continuity, but can still be understood separately.
What are the main themes explored in the Appleseed movies?
The Appleseed movies explore a range of complex themes, including the nature of humanity, the role of artificial intelligence, the ethics of genetic engineering, the challenges of political stability, and the search for identity in a rapidly changing world.
Who are the key characters in the Appleseed movies?
The main characters are Deunan Knute, a highly skilled soldier, and Briareos Hecatonchires, a cyborg and Deunan’s partner. Other important characters include Athena, the Prime Minister of Olympus, and various members of the ES.W.A.T. team.
What is Olympus in the Appleseed universe?
Olympus is a utopian city built after a global war, designed to be a multicultural and technologically advanced society. It serves as a haven for humanity and a testing ground for new technologies, but also faces its own internal conflicts and challenges.
Are there any Appleseed video games?
Yes, there is an Appleseed video game called Appleseed EX. It was released for the PlayStation 2 in 2007 and is based on the Appleseed Ex Machina movie.
By exploring these Appleseed movies, viewers can fully appreciate the complex and captivating world that Masamune Shirow has created. Each adaptation offers a unique perspective on the story, showcasing the enduring appeal of this cyberpunk masterpiece.