The life story of an actress told to reporters that blurs the line between reality and fantasy as the movies she made become he life and vice versa.

A wonderful continuation of of the ideas in the brilliant thriller Perfect Blue, we once again have our perceptions turned upside down and sideways. Who is telling the truth, or more importantly is it even possible to know when all we are anyway is a half remembered collection of memories, are notions thrown at us and left for us to determine on our own. This is a film that probably could never have worked as a live action film simply because the changes between reality, memory and movie could never be as seamless as they are here.

This is a movie for grown ups and very clearly shows why those who think animated films are only for kids is missing out.

I like anime and have seen quite a bit for an old fart and I have also seen dozens and dozens Japanese movies! However, to me this wasn't much of a film. I was expecting so much and the film just seemed rather empty and not particularly compelling. I think this is because the main character and her quest just didn't engage me--it made no sense and you had no real sense that she was REAL. Instead, the film abruptly shifts from era to era to era without adequate time devoted to each segment. This made for a disjointed and rather exhausting ride! My anime adoring teen watched the film with me and felt much the same. We both agreed the animation was excellent--particularly the backgrounds. We also liked the reporter--he was an occasionally funny addition.

I think IF this movie were instead made into a series, it would be MUCH better. Then, the character could remain in one time period MUCH longer and develop and grow, instead of being rather one-dimensional.

My first choice goes to Paprika, though that, this, Tokyo Godfathers and Perfect Blue(in order of personal preference) are extremely good. Millennium Actress is outstanding in every regard. The animation style is both beautiful and surreal, which is a very good mix. The music is truly wonderful, ethereal and haunting, without overbearing or underplaying the drama. The dialogue is thought-provoking and emotionally complex. Millennium Actress really is also a masterstroke in storytelling, there is always something happening yet the story manages to be told in poignant, truthful, thoughtful and sometimes funny ways. The characters are interesting and well-defined, as well as always relateable to the audience. The voice acting does nothing to undermine this, being dynamic and expressive. Overall, outstanding both as an animated film and film in general, and Kon's second best of a truly impressive resume. 10/10 Bethany Cox