The Adventure Of Denchu-Kozo (1987) ***1/2

I don't typically review short films but Shinya Tsukamoto is one of my favorite directors so The Adventure Of Denchu-Kozo (1987) gets a pass. This short is an intriguing test run of sorts for his most famous film Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989), featuring basically the same cast and similar metal fetishizing. Denchu-Kozo is funnier and more melodramatic, just as confusing, just as bizarre and frenetic, but nowhere near as influential. Filled with his strange blend of theatricality, cybersexuality and inexplicable sci-fi/horror tendencies, Denchu-Kozo is a pure Tsukamoto film. The lighting and overall quality isn't always great but the handmade f/x and eclectic soundtrack keep the film constantly engrossing. While I’ve always wished that Tetsuo was 15 minutes longer, this film could stand to be 15 minutes shorter. Still, it’s a fascinating early work from a truly unique filmmaker.

You can find my Shinya Tsukamoto Films Ranked list here.