Brandon Sanderson Raves About Speed Racer: A Hidden Gem Worth Watching
Brandon Sanderson, the genius behind the beloved Cosmere universe, has some pretty bold thoughts about the Speed Racer movie. On his weekly podcast with cohost Dan Wells, they often dive into fun tier lists, and this week’s topic zoomed in on the greatest movie overlords. But before they could start ranking iconic villains, Sanderson dropped a surprising bombshell about the 2008 Speed Racer film, declaring it “unironically a 10 out of 10.”
He enthusiastically praised the film, pointing out that it showcases the Wachowskis at their best, lamenting that it didn’t get the love it deserved upon its release. Currently, the movie holds a 42% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.1 on IMDb, which is pretty low compared to its cult following. Interestingly, IGN’s review from back in 2008 rated it a stellar 9 out of 10, echoing Sanderson’s sentiments. The review described it as an exhilarating anime adaptation, bursting with vibrant races and a sense of pure fun. It truly captured the essence of a summer blockbuster.
Sanderson also reflected on why the film struggled initially, stating, “It was just so over the top and simple. It’s not bogged down by complicated morals; it’s basically a cartoon made live action — and it’s fantastic.” Despite grossing only $94 (approx. Rs 26,130) million at the box office during its release, the film has experienced a resurgence thanks to a recent special edition release. Earlier this year, it came out on a limited-edition 4K Blu-ray steelbook, which fans quickly snatched up. Although that steelbook has sold out, you can still grab the film in 4K for about $24.99 (approx. Rs 6,950) online.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan or just curious about this colorful cinematic ride, Sanderson’s glowing recommendation might just inspire you to check it out again. Speed Racer could very well be the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed in your movie collection!
Note: PKR figures are approximate, based on a rate of Rs 278.00 per USD. Exchange rates fluctuate — please check the latest dollar rate for exact pricing.
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