eX-Driver: The Movie

Future technology has progressed enough to develop racing cars that are piloted by artificial intelligence, but not far enough to consistently ensure safety. Hence the need for eX-drivers who operate gas-powered vehicles that chase runaway cars. The Japanese eX-driver team--consisting of teen drivers Lorna, Lisa, and young Souichi--in Los Angeles to compete in the world championships, find themselves drawn into a devious plot centered around U.S. team sponsor Rico Gambino, who is also involved with the shady sponsor of the Chinese eX-driver team. The opening scene starts the action off fast and furious with a high-speed chase after a rogue car through the city streets, and even if the characters are nothing new (with the exception of Rico, broadly played as a redeemed goodfella), the CGI-animated cars and driving scenes are topnotch. A theatrically released sequel to the popular OVA (original anime video), eX-Driver: The Movie, presented on a dual-language disc in widescreen, is accompanied by the terrific prequel bonus episode "Nina & Rei: Danger Zone," as well as extras that include an amusing “Illustration Theater” consisting of three pan-and-scan short subjects. Rated 13-up, this is harmless fun for action and Initial D fans. A strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (J. Halsall)