Chicago Reader by Lisa Alspector

Dark fantasy triumphs in this gorgeously animated surrealist adventure.

L.A. Weekly by David Chute

Kawajiri's doom-laden action epic is a heady brew indeed.

San Francisco Chronicle by Edward Guthmann

The animation is rich and densely detailed, the characters well defined.

New York Daily News by Elizabeth Weitzman

Beautiful, witty and provocative, this is one genre film that ought to appeal to fans and non-fans alike.

Philadelphia Inquirer by Steven Rea

A genre pastiche that's fun to watch, although it's also frustrating.

Washington Post by Desson Thomson

If you appreciate fine animation and edgy material, this blood's for you.

Portland Oregonian by Kim Morgan

Exciting, gory, funny and, like much of anime, a bit cheesy.

Austin Chronicle by Marc Savlov

As usual with anime features, just because it's animated doesn't mean it's for kids; heads roll and blood spurts, so know that going in, mom and dad. For the older crowd, though, it's gory and gorgeous bliss.

Boston Globe by Loren King

Confusing storytelling and bad dialogue.

The New York Times by Dave Kehr

Handsome, well-executed film that nonetheless feels a bit long at 111 minutes. Those who are already anime fans will certainly find it stimulating; but this may not be the one to convert the uninitiated.