Galaxy Express 999 (film)


Galaxy Express 999 is a 1979 Japanese anime film directed by Rintaro, based on the manga and anime television series of the same name.

Cast

The film is a condensed remake of the first year of the most popular episodes of the Galaxy Express 999 television series by Toei Animation.

Release

Galaxy Express 999 was released in Japan on August 4, 1979 where it was distributed by Toei Company. It was the highest grossing film of 1979 in Japan. The film was picked up for distribution in the United States by Roger Corman's New World Pictures in 1980 but was shelved until 1982 after test bookings. The film was the first anime film to receive theatrical distribution in the United States after the establishment of anime fandom in the West. The film premiered in America on August 8, 1981. The American version of the film was edited from the original 129 minute running time to 91 minutes and changed characters names such as Tetsuro Hoshino to Joey "Hana-cana-boba-camanda" Smith.
The film's second English-language adaptation was produced by Viz Media and released in 1996. The DVD version of Galaxy Express 999 was released in the United States on June 28, 2011 by Discotek Media. It feature the English subbed and dubbed versions of the films.

Box office

Galaxy Express 999 was 1979's highest-grossing domestic film in Japan, earning a distribution rental income of, equivalent to estimated gross receipts of approximately.

Reception

At the third Japanese Academy Awards in 1980, Galaxy Express 999 won the Popularity award for film.
Variety referred to the film as an "attractive Japanese animated sci-fi feature", but noted that "working in a limited animation format, the chief drawback of which is limited movement , the film does boast beautifully-colored, elaborate designs. Once one gets used to the lack of fluid, full animation, the imaginative visuals are impressive" and that "pic deserves a second look".

Sequel

The film was followed by Adieu Galaxy Express 999, which was released in 1981.

Footnotes