Metropia

Metropia is an animated science fiction thriller released in 2009, directed by Tarik Saleh who co-wrote the screenplay along with Stig Larsson and Fredrik Edin. The gripping plot is boosted by stellar voice performances by celebrated actors such as Vincent Gallo, Juliette Lewis, Udo Kier, among others.

Unique in its animation style, Metropia appeals for its use of an innovative technique known as photocollage animation, which relates to a combination of cut-out animation and computer effects to create a bleak dystopian future cityscape, succeeding in painting a surreal and darkly atmospheric world that has become a characteristic feature of the movie. This distinctive visual aesthetic adds depth to the narrative, making it an intriguing locale where reality and hallucination often morph into each other, often leaving viewers wondering about the thin line separating the two.

The movie is set in 2024 in an eerily dystopic Europe that has been plunged into a profound crisis due to the depletion of natural oil resources. Europe’s cities are now interconnected by a monolithic underground metro system managed by the major corporation, Trexx. Despite the seeming convenience, this metro system serves as a symbol of control and manipulation of personal freedom, subtly reflecting on contemporary issues of surveillance and totalitarianism.

Vincent Gallo provides the voice for the film's protagonist, Roger, a call center worker living a monotonous life in Stockholm. Plagued by paranoia, he starts to sense that his life is controlled by unknown forces, thinking he hears a stranger's voice in his head. Juliette Lewis lends her voice to the character of Nina, a peculiar woman who becomes the center of Roger's obsessive attention. Udo Kier provides the voice for Ivan Bahn, an enigmatic executive at Trexx. These characters and their interactions create a spellbinding story that explores the themes of control, freedom, and the power of corporations in the future.

Even though the film has a minimalist narrative, it is grounded in an atmosphere of gloom and anxiety that reflects Roger’s state of mind. The sense of dread and paranoia that courses through Roger's everyday life is palpably conveyed by the somber color palette, grim aesthetics and the overbearing, static-like background score of the film.

Aesthetically and thematically, Metropia creates a bleak and striking parable of a future society, where individual will and freedom are curtailed. Additionally, the utilization of information for the control and manipulation of individuals is brilliantly depicted, as is the omnipotence and omnipresence of corporates in shaping cityscape and personal lives.

On an additional note, the choice of voices for the character are particularly noteworthy. The husky anxiety-laden voice of Vincent Gallo aptly conveys the paranoia, fear and restlessness of Roger that amplifies the feeling of living in a controlled society. Juliette Lewis's voice infuses a mystic lure to Nina's character, becoming the enigmatic focal point of Roger's obsession. Udo Kier's profound and potentially menacing voice for Ivan Bahn adds to the overall dystopian atmosphere.

In essence, Metropia is a cinematic experience that crosses the barriers of traditional storytelling to not only enrapture the audience with its unique animation style but also provoke thought with its exploration of themes like surveillance, personal freedom, and the consequences of extreme industrialization. It underscores the significance of free will and the dangers of a totalitarian society, wrapping these themes in a non-traditional yet engrossing narrative.

For lovers of science fiction, animation, or those who simply enjoy a good thriller, Metropia is a treat. The eerie eeriness of the beautifully animated cityscapes, the chill-inducing background score, and the deliciously complex narrative that keeps you guessing till the end makes Metropia an intriguing movie that deserves a watch. Combining thought-provoking themes and stunning animation, it takes the viewer on a unique cinematic journey that challenges norms and stimulates thought.