Project Itoh: Harmony

Project Itoh: Harmony is a metaphysical, science fiction anime film that was released in 2015. The film is based on the 2008 novel "Harmony" by the late Japanese author Project Itoh, bearing a profound reflection on modern society's dealings with health, life and death. The movie features the efficient vocal talents of renowned Japanese voice artists like Miyuki Sawashiro, Reina Ueda, and Aya Suzaki among others.

The movie is set in a dystopian future where the world has been rebuilt following a catastrophic event known as the "Maelstrom". Thanks to advanced medical technology and an efficient governing system, society now places health and longevity at the utmost concern, promoting an existence of uniformity and harmony. In this world, citizens regularly take Health Capsules to sustain their bodies, and their emotional states are continuously monitored and controlled. The central governing body, the Administration, routinely checks vital statistics to ensure a harmonious life for everyone.

The narrative follows the lives of three young girls - Tuan, Miach and Cian - who rebel against this homogenizing system and attempt suicide as a demonstration of free will and a rejection of this insipid harmony. However, only Tuan and Cian survive, while Miach dies. Cian becomes a model citizen, integrating entirely into the system, while Tuan follows a different path, continuing to harbor rebellious ideologies.

Cut to thirteen years later; Tuan is now working as a World Health Organization agent. A new threat arises when a large number of people worldwide spontaneously commit suicide, leaving no traces or any apparent causality. With the mass suicides strongly echoing the pact Tuan, Miach, and Cian made in their younger years, Tuan is assigned to investigate this strange phenomenon. However, this mission turns more complex when Tuan discovers that her former companion Cian is one of the victims, which reignites the long-forgotten feelings of rebellion, propelling her on a path of mystery, conspiracies, and revelations.

As Tuan delves deeper into the investigation, she finds a series of intersecting conspiracies implying a plot that could potentially disrupt their harmonious world. The movie provides an engaging mix of action sequences, exciting visuals, and deeply philosophical themes. The deep-rooted metaphors and allegories intricately woven into the narrative provide an enriching viewing experience, compelling audiences to confront daunting questions about individuality, conformity, freedom, and the supposedly utopian idea of harmony.

Project Itoh: Harmony stands out due to its vivid and startling imagery. The film boasts an excellent blend of traditional animation and CGI, resulting in visually appealing sequences that add depth to the overall story. The color scheme infuses a sense of tranquility, setting a stark contrast against the backdrop of the bleak narrative. The intricacy of character design and the sophisticated depiction of futuristic technology contribute to the film's ethereal and mesmerizing visual style.

The film's unforgettable soundtrack further enhances its atmosphere. The hauntingly poignant music perfectly sets the mood, resonating well with the movie's thematic palate of optimism, despair, rebellion, and hope. The voice work helps to elevate the film's impact, with the voice actresses delivering the complex emotions required by the narrative impressively.

In the realm of dystopian narratives, Project Itoh: Harmony indeed stands out. Not only does the film excels through its well-constructed plot and stunning animations, but it also makes profound comments on the essence of life, liberty, and the control of the state. It is a film that propels the viewer into deep contemplation about societal norms and the true nature of homogeneity versus individuality.

The intellectual engagement offered by Project Itoh: Harmony, combined with its gripping narrative, emotive voice acting, and visually stunning settings, make the film an impactful entry in the world of anime cinema. Striking an impressive balance between philosophical introspection and thrilling storytelling, the film never ceases to engage and challenge the audience, making it a must-watch experience for any fans of thought-provoking cinema and detailed animation work.