Dead Space: Downfall

Although not strictly anime, Dead Space: Downfall is an anime-like domestic offering that bridges the narrative between the ongoing Image Comics series and the critically-acclaimed Electronic Arts video game. A mining ship in outer space retrieves what appears to be a religious artifact from a distant planet, after which the crew begin to take on unusually violent tendencies before mutating into cannibalistic monsters. A few members manage to avoid this transformation, much to the displeasure of their newly-mutated (and homicidal) comrades. Unfortunately, Dead Space: Downfall plays like a dozen other monsters-in-space B-movies, with a high level of nasty violence and profanity (this English-language production is unrated, but it suitable for 16-up). DVD/Blu-ray extras include a deleted scene, trailers, and “cheat” codes for the video game, while the Blu-ray release (which boasts better image and sound qualities) also includes a bonus digital copy of the film and BD Live functionality. Not a necessary purchase. Aud: P. (P. Hall)