Director - Shin'ya Tsukamoto (Tetsuo: The Iron Man, Vital)
Starring - Masahiro Motoki (The Big Bee, The Bird People in China), Ryo (Enter the Void, Alive), and Yasutaka Tsutsui (The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Paprika)
Release Date - 1999
Genre - Fantasy/Horror
Format - Bluray (Personal Collection) (Screener)
Rating (out of 5):
Several weeks back I spent about two weeks running through the Solid Metal Nightmares. This film collection from Arrow Video consists of ten films from acclaimed director Shin'ya Tsukamoto. The films, for the most part, were pretty damn fun and very unique. A few days back Mondo Macabro sent over the 1999 Shin'ya Tsukamoto film Gemini on blu. Like the previous Tsukamoto films, this is one I had never seen before so I was pretty fucking excited to check it out. Thanks Mondo Macabro for sending sending this one my way. 
The film follows a wealthy and respectable doctor who falls in love with a woman suffering from amnesia. His parents resent her but his love for her quickly cuts them out. He tries to live his life with his new love but his home is soon overtaken with a foul odor that drives his father mad. Then both his parents are murdered. When life looks bleak for the man that had it all he discovers that he is actually a twin. His brother was tossed in the river and saved by a peasant. Once he found out his brother was a renowned doctor he set out to get his revenge and the woman he loved...who just happens to be the woman with amnesia.
Honestly, I didn't know what to expect from Gemini. After spending almost 2 weeks going through 10 of his other films I've realized that he is a very versatile filmmaker capable of throwing anything at the viewer. Gemini, though billed as a fantasy horror film, did not feel like a horror film. In fact, it was a dark fantasy film with more drama than horror elements. Regardless, I really enjoyed what was given to us. The acting in this one is probably the best of any Tsukamoto film I've seen yet. Masahiro Motoki taking on dual roles is exciting and highly entertaining. The characters paralleled personalities and intensities makes his performance a marvel to look at. He literally carried the film on his shoulders. The supporting cast is nothing short of amazing as well but Motoki was legendary here. The story for this one, as I stated earlier, is a period piece that feels more like a dark fantasy with macabre elements. With that being said, I absolutely loved the story and Tsukamoto's approach to the story. The brothers coming from different backgrounds having their roles reversed is a fascinating story and the dark surreal look at both sides really works. The dialogue is a little too heavy at times especially with the subtitles but nothing unbearable. Finally, the film does have some blood but the best part of the film is the make-up effects and the look of some of the characters. Gorehounds will be disappointed but those looking for a story will appreciate the film. Overall, Gemini is another great Tsukamoto flick with amazing atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The blu from Mondo Macabro looks absolutely gorgeous as well. Don't let the stills from the trailer fool you. Fans will want this one for your collection. 
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