When the anime series “Speed Racer” was adapted into a live-action movie by the Wachowskis, it bombed in more ways than one. For those unfamiliar with the “Speed Racer” franchise, the film follows the 18-year-old racer who enters a cross-country race that supposedly claimed the life of his older brother.
A commercial failure that made $93 million on a $120 million budget (via Box Office Mojo), received “Speed Racer” mostly negative reviews from criticswhich leads to a Razzie Award nomination for “Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-off or Sequel.” However, the film received praise for its stylized, anime-esque approach and its impressive visual effects, which, like The Hollywood Reporter noted, were “stellar”.
In recent years, “Speed Racer” reputation has continued to improve. IGN Calling the film a “masterpiece” said, “Overall, this anime adaptation isn’t just the best movie it could be, it’s pretty much exactly what it should be: full of thrilling, brilliantly conceived races, primary color characterizations and an irresistible sense of fun.” Metacritic included it on their list “15 film critics are wrong,” writes, “The masterful opening story, a standout performance from star Emile Hirsch, and great twists from John Goodman, Susan Sarandon, Matthew Fox and Christina Ricci make ‘Speed Racer’ a cult film in the making.”
