Millennium Actress
The second film by director Satoshi Kon and screenwriter Sadayuki Murai  recallsPerfect Blue, butMillennium Actressis a more complex,  subtle, and sophisticated work that evokes the history of Japanese cinema. After  nearly 30 years of living in strict seclusion, the aged film star Chioyoko  Fujiwara grants an interview to journalist Genya Tachibana. As their conversation  begins, Kan intercuts scenes from Chioyoko's films with her memories of pursuing  the mysterious artist she met as a young girl. Accompanied by his blasé  cameraman, Tashibana finds himself within Chioyoko's memories and films,  alternately observing and aiding the woman he adores. Kon's skillful direction and  subtle use of color strengthen the intriguing story: Chioyoko's memories are  rendered in shades of gray, with hints of muted color highlighting the overall  composition. American viewers will find their appreciation of this shimmering,  spiral narrative deepens with repeated viewings. (Rated PG: violence, mature  themes)--Charles Solomon