Boogiepop and Others

Japanese director Ryu Kaneda's live-action feature film is based on Kouhei Kadono's Boogiepop series of light novels that inspired a hit anime series. The story centers on the Shinyo Academy, which is slowly depopulating as female students vanish at night under mysterious circumstances. Rumor has it that a ghostly force known as Boogiepop is responsible for the mayhem, and one student, Nagi Kirima (Maya Kurosu), is eager to uncover the truth behind this mystery, ultimately discovering something far more provocative than a simple ghost story. Boogiepop and Others is a genuinely enjoyable film that will delight fans of the Boogiepop franchise while also serving as a delightful introduction for newcomers. The ensemble cast boasts spirited energy, while Kaneda keeps the action flowing at a steady pace. Recommended. (P. Hall)