The biggest problem with Perfect Blue is also it's biggest appealing aspect, its variety. The film tackles a multitude of topics, from celebrity culture, to stalking within otaku circles, the male gaze, etc etc. I don't think the film does a particularly bad job displaying these themes, but when an 82 minute film addresses all these often times it just felt shallow. It never really dives into any of the sociological elements of the film, instead opting to display the themes and make the viewer think they will be developed, only to opt out last second. "Paprika" was similar in this aspect, but where it differed was that the narrative was far more sound in that film compared to here to make up for it, and honestly way more interesting.
Which brings me to my second critique, the story itself is really not that special. I enjoyed it, but found it extremely dull and disappointing. Maybe I came into the film with way too high of expectations, but the "twist" was super underwhelming, mostly from a thematic perspective. It essentially turns Me-Mania into what is an essentially worthless character, destroys a lot of what made Mina an intriguing character, and only serves as a mediocre twist as it is.
Now this goes into spoilers, but there is a theory I particularly enjoy, that, if it is the case, makes the film infinitely better. Essentially, the show that plays is reality, and Rumi created a mental image of Mina to contrast with her unable self from her past years. The ending visitor is actually the actress she idolized, but not her actual Mina. Sadly, this theory was shut down by Satoshi Kon, which makes the average main plot the most concrete one.
Overall, I could appreciate a lot of what Perfect Blue was attempting, but it ultimately falls flat. It's themes are touched on, but not thoroughly examined. It's central conflict and twist is fine, but leaves a lot to be desired. I think a lot of people do insane mental gymnastics to convince themselves its more than this, but perhaps its me who is completely blind to the true genius of Perfect Blue. If so, let me know, but for now I feel pretty concrete in my ranking.
