"Avalon" truly is a phenomenally original work, a film that will no doubt be studied in college film courses and hailed by the French. However, for better or worse, its slowness catches up with it and the murky visuals, while unique, becoming grating on the eyes. Despite its flaws, it is an amazing film and well worth seeing, if for nothing more than a memorable soundtrack by Kenji Kawaii.

The interesting use of Arthurian mythology mixed with a constant questioning of reality keeps its audience stimulated. However, a dearth of efficient pacing drags the story down. In Oshii's animated films, the still visuals are enticing. "Avalon" does not have this luxury, necessitating more action and fewer scenes of Ash wandering.

Ash's stoicism precludes any moments of revelation from having a perceptible emotional impact on her character. Though probably intentional, it alienates the audience. Stunner and Murphy - who spends much of his screen time in a coma - are far better developed than the film's heroine.

To his credit, Oshii avoids flashy visuals, but a few here and there could have picked up the action. Even so, the atmospheric sets and Terry Gilliam-esque designs are impressive.

Violence and tackling complex science fiction themes.

Apparently Ash was originally going to be a male character. However Oshii decided he wanted a woman. He ran an audition and chose Foremniak almost immediately for her striking resemblance to his previous heroine, Major Motoko Kusanagi from "Ghost in the Shell." Take a look, she's a ringer.