The New York Times by Ben Kenigsberg
The movie is obviously heartfelt, but the directors, Jonathan Yi and Michael Haertlein, never turn this motley crew into compelling characters.
✭ ✭ ✭ Read critic reviews
Japan, United States · 2015
1h 22m
Director Michael Haertlein, Jonathan Yi
Starring Kengo Hioki, Kotaro Tsukada, Yumiko Hioki
Genre Documentary, Music
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Two best friends spent the last fifteen years touring the country in their performance art punk band, Peelander-Z. When one of them decides to quit, they both face more profound challenges than expected. They are forced to now navigate their friendship outside of the band.
The New York Times by Ben Kenigsberg
The movie is obviously heartfelt, but the directors, Jonathan Yi and Michael Haertlein, never turn this motley crew into compelling characters.
This aptly colorful documentary doesn’t provide all that much insight into the act’s history, and the human conflicts aren’t fully illuminated, either. But it’s fun entering these performers’ universe even with a less than all-access pass.
The Hollywood Reporter by Frank Scheck
An evocative portrait of strained friendships and creative turmoil.
Los Angeles Times by Martin Tsai
Directors Jonathan Yi and Michael Haertlein put the focus on the standard reality-TV repertoire like "Making the Band." Their repeated disregard for Hioki's pleas to go off the record smacks of opportunism and exploitation rather than revelation.
Village Voice by Michael Nordine
Yet another documentary paean to an unsung musical act whose fringe staying power is as remarkable as its lack of mainstream coverage.
The Seattle Times by Soren Andersen
Combining rowdy concert footage and revealing offstage interactions of the band members, Mad Tiger is a well-executed portrait of a band coming apart at the seams.
For every drop of black blood spilled...A white man pays.
Far from home. Far from safety. Far from over.