Paprika

I wrote this for a class, which explains why it's a bit more analytical/spoiler-filled.

Like Perfect Blue, sometimes it's hard to tell what's real in Paprika and what isn't, although in this it's a part of the plot and not just a storytelling technique. The characters' abilities to enter each other's dreams makes for some entertaining scenes but also a chance to explore some deeper ideas. The surreal dreams are often a visual metaphor for what's happening to the characters. The detective sees himself blaming and killing himself, while he's been too hard on himself for not meeting his ambitions and some hard times at work. The chairman has the legs of a tree, wishing he was as strong as one while he's confined to a wheelchair in real life. When the dreams and reality merge, there's a clash as people face what they really want.

Chiba/Paprika is an interesting protagonist. The fact that she changes identities when in dreams, something unique to her, shows how she's hiding her true self, and her feelings for Tokita. Her affection for him, and not her handsome coworker, show were her priorities are, with the mind not the body, which may be why she's so skilled inside the minds of others. The rest of the Dramatis Personae is well defined by their actions and their dreams.

In addition to strong storytelling elements, Paprika is one of the best looking animated films I've seen. The animation is gorgeous and helps bring the interesting concept to life with amazing flair. It might be the masterpiece of a very talented director.