The Illusion of Peace in Mamoru Oshii's Patlabor 2

Here, I examine Mamoru Oshii's commentary on the nature of war and the illusion of peace in the 1993 film, Patlabor 2, by putting it into its historical context and attempting to see into the director's headspace. Enjoy!
This video was edited by Christopher "MrNiesGuy" Nies. If you're interested, his commissions are open! Reach him on Twitter @MrNiesGuy.
Sources:
1993 Interview with Animage magazine: www.nausicaa.ne...
1996 Interview with Animerica magazine:
listification.b...
Anderson, M. Oshii Mamoru’s Patlabor 2: Terror, Theatricality, and
Exceptions That Prove the Rule (2009).
Cooney, K. Japan's Foreign Policy Since 1945 (2006).
Mulloy, G. Japan Self-Defense Forces’ Overseas Dispatch Operations in the 1990s: Effective International Actors? (2011).
Ruh, B. Stray Dog of Anime: The Films of Mamoru Oshii (2004).
Special thanks to Clark Cavender, Calvin Atkinson, Van Tarver, Ilya Smirnov, Dan, Henri Taarisen, J. Cleaver, Moon on the Water, Michael Lakavitch, Brian Phillips, Philip Weiss, InfiniteZeke, daysofsummer, Donny Southa, CatXD, R125R11, Gustavo Chau, Kavaran, qwerty23131, Peter Savelyev, Julian Fischer, Giancarlo Navas, Maximilian Bessert, Matt Wismer, Uri Lifshitz, Costanza lo cascio, Niko from kk40, tincho37, Joshua David, Levi, Andre Cirilo Rijo, Some Patron, and all my other Patreon donors!
If you're interested in supporting the channel, check out my Patreon page here: / jackuts
Please subscribe if you enjoyed the video and feel free to follow me on Twitter (@JackUTS). Thanks!

[@CaptStarlight]

To quote another site: "You get the feeling that the Cyberpunk period happened a few years ago in-universe, and now everyone has to go back to work."

[@Raum2901]

The quote is from the site Tv tropes when they tag Patlabor with "Post-cyberpunk"

[@Rvoid]

When I first watched it, I immediately loved that silent montage scene of JSDF patrolling the street of Tokyo. It just struck a chord within me. Fast forward many years later, I got the opportunity to study in Japan. After I finished my study and came home, I rediscover this scene. That chord suddenly became a haunting symphony. On thing that marked my experience in Japan, despite being so crowded is, how idle everything is. Everything works like a drama, scripted, predictable, hence every little deviation is so amusing. Imposing the image of tanks and armed soldiers upon those memory of idleness and peacefulness, made me appreciate how powerful the message Oshii has had tried to convey through that montage scene.

[@Rvoid]

@@ruhurtin4squrtin34 Ah, but I was merely expressing my subjective experience, in which by then, brought me anew to the context of Oshii's critique. My comment had not yet entered the discourse itself

[@dragonsword7370]

Thanks for that observation friend. Definitely adds an extra layer for the media for us westerners to understand better.

[@masterzoroark6664]

I'm not from Japan, but I know this "chorf" you said about. I'm from Poland, haven't lived in the period of PRL (the time when Soviet Russia owned Poland) and the scenes of tanks patroling streets of cities remind me of the photos from those days.

[@DrownedInExile]

My favourite part of that silent montage? The mecha pilot waving to schoolchildren, while his gun-camera tracks his eye movement. I've always found that image particularly haunting.

[@andrewchen7687]

When he talks about the Japanese peace keeping unit in Cambodia struggling with orders to shoot, this isn't really a uniquely Japanese thing. The UN is notorious for just trying to not engage in combat with either side of a conflict. Name literally every other genocide or conflict: Rwanda and Bosnia to name just the famous ones. The UN did jack shit there because they didn't want to take sides.

[@willywampus3426]

New resolution makes it for the un peacekeepers now to "shoot back" if they are being shot at, MINUSCA in Mali is basically a un and french controlled anti insurgency operation

[@professionaldisappointment1654]

I still wonder why they put such a heavy ROE on combat troops,might as well send police officers for PKO

[@willywampus3426]

@@professionaldisappointment1654 they did it in Sudan I think, in the Darfur region

[@professionaldisappointment1654]

@@willywampus3426 ouh this is cool,thanks for the knowledge

[@Michael-mh2tw]

I prefer that to a UN that does pick sides. Grass is always greener.

[@weirdy8]

In my mind, this is still the greatest achievement of Oshii's career. One particular shot where a highly armed war machine is on standby and a group of children wave at the pilot sells this message you've dug deeper into. Great vid.

[@tskmaster3837]

I love that montage of the city under siege with the tanks among the city while the season moves from fall to winter. For me, the best shot is of one lone tank in a snow covered parking lot , foot prints in the foreground but a circle of untouched snow around the tank. Every other scene is commentary about martial law but this is the actual subject in one image. Military in private life, untouched by nature... literally in the case of bathroom breaks.

[@Gustav_Kuriga]

@@tskmaster3837 The city wasn't "under siege" though. The very point was that it became a normal scene and people grew used to it after the first day or two.

[@icipher6730]

@@tskmaster3837 It's technically incorrect to call it a 'siege'.

[@tskmaster3837]

@@icipher6730 It is as much a siege as the Cold War was a war. And the correlation between the two was intentional.

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

pat2 has better animation than gits 95 although point of movie is pointless.

[@FRODOGOOFBALL]

One of my favorite scenes in anime is in Patlabor 2 when a tank crew is watching civilians return to their homes, and in the end they are left alone in the snow. It's really the whole story of the cold war in a single image.

[@mitrooper]

How I miss traditional animated Anime like this, especially the hand animated mecha... Thanks to CG, It's truly a dying art.

[@Demanufactur3r]

One of the main reasons I return to these classic films time to time. Animation and design like this just breathes skill and love for the craft.

[@laos85]

Pffff dying art? Are you joking me?

[@kurisu3000]

@@laos85 Cel animation is a dying art. It's cheaper for studios to use digital rather than Cel.

[@ls200076]

@@kurisu3000 And can you blame them.

[@laos85]

@@kurisu3000 cel animation or digital hand drawn animation only dies in a lazy company.

[@jeremyweaver9598]

As an American Combat Veteran, I LOVED this movie! But, I loved it long before I enlisted, in 1999. Some of the philosophical elements shaped my own beliefs as an American soldier. Great movie to watch, however, I agree, that most Americans won't "get it".

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

kudos. but the animation is why pat2 is amazing. even better than gits 95

[@totorocatbus]

I see you're subscribed to CTH :)

[@FortuneZer0]

I was just a peace time conscript but i absolutely agree. There is a deeper level in this movie most people cant quite resonate with. It is my favourite movie.

[@mariuspoppFM]

@@jb76489 He isn't

[@militaristicsoldier856]

jb76489 okay kid

[@WanderingMindSR]

This is definitely some of the most damning commentary I have ever seen from anime as a whole. It's further compounded by the fact that a lot of works seem to shy away from this kind of political commentary. I studied Japanese history heavily during my university days and a lot of the film stuck out to me with what it was depicting and trying to convey. It's probably why despite being American, I was able to "get it". And I'd get more out of it on a second watch.

[@Balladency95]

Thank for sharing that bit of thought. I also have that same sentiment, despite coming from the angle of localized social outcast. Honestly, sometimes I wonder if such contempt is justified, because in the end I'm just as powerless to make a difference. Feels a bit like a hypocrite who can only walk backwards in defiance...

[@ashmazyn]

The direction of this film is magnificent

[@Kagemusha08]

Hugely underrated. In my opinion it edges Ghost in the Shell as Oshii's best work.

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

yes. i have been telling gits 95 fans that...at least animation wise.

[@lilchinesekidchen]

TBH, ghost in the shell 2 was way better than the first. Oshii just has a habit of making amazing sequels that trump their first movie

[@FauxtakuLounge]

It is possibly the best action anime out there.

[@ohgodwhy9853]

agree. Oshii's personal best.

[@ynraider]

@@FauxtakuLounge Patlabour 1, War In The Pocket, Wings of Honneamise, Gunbuster("Ender's Game"-inspired?), Jin Roh: Wolf Brigade, Cannon Fodder(Memories anthology), GitS: SAC, and Cowboy Bebop Movie; also have insane military action sequences with brutal character context... PL2 is definitely Oshii's best work.

[@captainjosue]

The first Patlabor movie had echoes of Biblical prophecy while Patlabor 2 was shadowed under the historical context of the Japanese occupation and the questionable effectiveness of the UN. Absolutely brilliant work. I had to watch both movies multiple times to fully encapsulate the hidden messages within the movie. Some of the best anime of all time

[@フフウェイ]

I wish anime still looked this good today.

[@Jaqrkazi]

Feels poetic watching this in 2021 with recent developments in Japan and the far east in general. It seems that, whether Japan wants to wake from the dream or not, reality is starting to force its way into the illusion in the form of the escalating situation in the south china sea.

[@otastorian]

The Patlabor series is one of my all time favorites in all of media, and while I'll always hold the TV series as my favorite iteration, there's absolutely no denying that the pure artistry of Oshii's films blows it out of the water. This video definitely seemed different, so it makes to see MrNiesGuy was on editing here. I hope he comes back to do some more work with you in the future, because this came out fantastically. I've been hoping to see more focus on academia rather than pseudo-intellectualism and competent but mostly unresearched essays, and your channel was one that I could see paving the way for that. I look forward to seeing more stuff like this from you in the future!

[@BrandonHilikus]

underrated for sure

[@simonlam33]

Movie released in 1996, and yet in 2022, the movie's political commentary still very relatable to current geo-political situation.

[@ohgodwhy9853]

*93

[@ynraider]

Reminds me of 9/11 being an #InsideJob as well... and that was in 2001AD! Aerial attack on multiple Western Infrastructure/"War on Terror" and all...🤷🏿‍♂ President Dick Cheney starting fake wars against CIA operatives from 1980s, specifically for US Military/Corporate/Civilain profit gains... #DystopiaNow

[@rotritter]

aged like wine indeed

[@richmcgee434]

Even more so in 2023, with Japan starting on what looks to be a significant re-armament program that will make them a regional military powerhouse if all goes as planned.

[@kagami3665]

After the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, this movie feels more realistic; our peace is indeed built on bloodshed.

[@juan-qt5he]

Patlabor 2 will always remind me of Colombia. Most people outside my country will ever understand the feeling of seeing horrific news of battlegrounds raging just a few kilometres away from you, yet people act as if nothing is happening. This is even more clear in large cities like Bogotá or Medellín, in which the idea of the Colombian armed conflict is way too different to the reality of day to day city folk. These two realities are even clear when the 2014 referendum for the peace deal happened. Most people in the rural areas viewed the deal way too soft on the FARC (Guerilla group) rebels, meanwhile the large populations centre voted yes to the deal, since most of them hadn't really lived through the cruelty of the conflict. Yet, even now, a decade after the peace was signed there are still whole regions in Colombia where war never left, and the people from the cities never really noticed.

[@stephennootens916]

The Patlabor films often remind me of the Ghost in The Shell franchise (minus the live action movies) in the fact there is a lot heavy complex political action that on some level makes wish I was as smart as the characters in the anime. Maybe it's because I don't know the the government system as well as the one in my own country (America) which seems simple to me.

[@totorocatbus]

Same director too!

[@jintsuubest9331]

Took a couple us government related classes, during highschool and collage currently. Long story short, they are just as fuck up, but on different issue. One big problem is in order to change the bad stuff, you need the people benefiting from the bad stuff vote to change the bad stuff (aka vote against themself), yea good luck on that.

[@zeitgeistx5239]

@@jintsuubest9331 too bad that they dont reach you that you dont live in a democracy. You live in a fake democracy where rural states gets 3 times the electoral votes per person that the most populous states. Good old America.

[@desamster]

I think it's more likely due to Mamoru Oshii's films being full of swollen, pretentious philosophical debate.

[@DeathToJihad]

Ghost in the Shell definitely has similar themes, and is kind of an anxious look at what might happen if the facade of false peace were to slip completely, and Japan couldn't even fall back on being a subordinate of the US.

[@martinlagrange8821]

Patlabor 2 is without doubt one of my favourite Anime films - and for all the reasons given. Its very grown up, and and my Japanese best friend tells me he struggles with some of the language used ! The deep seriousness of its theme is gives its tremendous stature even now. All three of the films are spectacular - and I heartily recommend WXIII-Wasted 13 (Patlabor 3) as one of the finest syntheses of detective story and SF-horror ever made in Anime (where SV2 are present only on the periphery, increasing the impact of the central story). Loved the analysis, and - I would point out - instantly understandable to yours truly !

[@thecountofmontecristo2796]

I heard that Shin Godzilla shows the issues of Japan's bureaucracy as well.

[@Nadia1989]

It does, with painful accuracy

[@MrBoygiles]

I believe it was made as a response to the Fukushima nuclear disaster, which was widely criticized for feet dragging and endless committees.

[@guicho271828]

though it has some positive tone, with that cabinet resignation beam

[@jmssun]

Shin Godzilla is not a Kaiju film like people thought We need to see it as a Monster vs Monster film : An evolving monster in flesh form Vs an evolving monster of bureaucracy

[@HonestObserver]

Interesting Akira, which also becomes a kaiju film, features a corrupt useless bureaucracy in charge of the city, and then a military coup. Lots of common themes

[@jonnowocky8179]

The original English dub is SO good. That it was lost to some lazy publishing deal and re-recorded in a hurry is such a shame. The acoustic detail and original translation is gorgeous. One of my favourite soundtracks of all time too - so MSG

[@nicholaschia-x1f]

well said. even 5 years later from your video, this still make sense

[@RioBrando_]

Patlabor 2 is a work of art.

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

i found it better than gits 95 which states had a higher budget but looks cheaper..ie see background high rises.

[@CBs-House]

I watched this when I was young, maybe a few years after its release. I was just out of art school and I didn't learn or know anything politics whatsoever at university, but I liked Patlabor a lot. So of course I was excited to see a Patlabor movie but I didn't know at all what the heck I was watching. Thanks for explaining it, now that I'm actually middle aged and much smarter maybe I'll go back to it.

[@powerofberzerker9487]

Patlabor 2 is another Oshii's masterpiece I believe. The director is slowly becoming my all time fav one. I would recommend every movie that he directed, including the live-action features.

[@Featinwe]

I was kind-of shocked by the marshall law scenes - we had marshall law in my country (Poland) many years ago (before I was born), with similar scenes of tank on the streets, except it was't so nice for the people... this was also for a "phony peace" reasons... anyway, I wonder if Oshii was inspired by that. All in all around 10 years later he made a movie in Poland (Avalon). The scenes also heavily resembled those from Angel's Egg (which again was reminescent of Warsaw Uprising from WWII). Maybe i'm seeing too much :D great vid, it explained a lot!

[@meesalikeu]

Jakub Badełek well that is an interesting take. i think you are right that must be an influence as well.

[@cjmanson5692]

> we had marshal law in my country (Poland) many years ago (before I was born), with similar scenes of tank on the streets, except it wasn't so nice for the people... Let me guess: The marshal law imposed by Gen. Wojciech Jaruzelski against the people of Poland in an effort to crush the anti-communist Solidarity trade union, right?

[@charlestran7309]

They release this again in the cinemas because I would definitely go watch it. My favourite childhood Anime movie ever.

[@micheljavert5923]

A very very favorite movie of mine from so many years ago. It's the music and the visuals, I think. It is a quiet movie. Contemplative. There's a quote from it that has stuck with me for years: "It may be an immoral peace. Maybe an unjust peace. But an unjust peace is still better than a just war." I've always thought about about that line of thinking.

[@Virginio_Carvalho]

The Wyvern scene is one of most tense I have watch !!!!

[@lazukk3735]

That's one of the best fighter jet sceens in all of cinema

[@chrisbullock3504]

This movie is probably my favorite piece of media ever made. its just such a deep, subtle thriller. and IMO the original dub is fantastic in both the writing and the VA's. This movie is relevant now more than ever.

[@Jaytecx]

That intro. Wow :-)

[@finlaymiles9798]

what a way to start the new year!!!!

[@tacticalderpy2077]

I found this on DVD, in a dollar bin in 2018. Bought it on a whim. I thought it was fantastic. The story to the art to the sound.

[@TalsetFireSeed]

Peace can only exist because others are threatened with the alternative to peace. You can only reject violence because someone else carries out violence for you.

[@elgerifico]

Very well said. Heinlein also put it well: “Anyone who clings to the historically untrue -- and -- thoroughly immoral doctrine that violence never solves anything I would advise to conjure up the ghosts of Napoleon Bonaparte and the Duke of Wellington and let them debate it. The ghost of Hitler would referee. Violence, naked force, has settled more issues in history than has any other factor; and the contrary opinion is wishful thinking at its worst. Breeds that forget this basic truth have always paid for it with their lives and their freedoms.” Sadly, breeds like the author of this video, and traitors like Oshii, that would rather see Japan conquered and put under the yoke of a foreign power just to virtue signal, never get to experience the consequences of their idiocy because braver, better men spill blood to defend their right to be imbeciles.

[@DP-fq7iy]

Thanks, I was going to post something similar.

[@mariuspoppFM]

The Heinlein quote is actually the point of the movie, moron

[@deadby15]

@@elgerifico The concept of nation state itself is a rather recent one, and I think it is quickly losing its significance in history.

[@lilchinesekidchen]

adding to this, i would prefer a world where everyone is accountable to for their own violence instead of displacing it for other people to carry out for them, and then feeling beholden to the people who are violent for them. this is how police and army forces are created. how power is concentrated, and abused. there will always be violence in the world, I’d just prefer a world where we don’t professionalize it (through the creation of military and police careers)

[@Hyperion9700]

Some of the scenes in this film outshine a lot of modern anime in terms of complexity and detail. It's a timeless masterpiece. If you don't like Mecha anime, this is the Mecha anime for you !

[@RGordonHaase]

this is literally one of the best video essays I've ever seen on a piece of media, super well crafted and spoken, excellent sources and wonderful parallel visuals and edits. excellent work

[@DJDTHTRP]

I always knew there was something special about it when I first watched it on Action Channel many years ago. The appreciation deepens so much when you understand all of the historical context. Fantastic job here.

[@aaaaaaaaaa97]

This movie still stays 100% relevant to today.

[@isakjohansson7134]

Yeah unfortunately

[@ynraider]

#DystopiaNow

[@surprisedgordon7786]

​@@ynraider humans: destructive beasts of war and monsters without a heartbeat -me

[@lottabee]

@@surprisedgordon7786 You mean the west.

[@zackbatcountry3361]

This is a rly well put together video ,it does an amazing job of deconstructing the movies themes interesting to see how a lot of these older anime were a warning of the future,our society , our reliance on technology and the loss of our our humanity

[@YF365]

@UnderTheScope you made an error in your video in the 2 minute mark. It's a common error that most people make, because it requires deeper understanding of the situation to make sense of. Article 9 of the Japanese constitution, which forbids an offensive army, was made BY THE JAPANESE. It was not made by the USA. In fact, the USA protested Article 9 at the time it was made, because the USA wanted Japan to rearm itself into an ally against the USSR. Why would Japan want to abandon their military? Because the Japanese at the time blamed the WW2 disaster on their military. The Japanese government at the time, was de facto ruled by their military, with Japanese civilian leadership often assassinated to keep control. You can see the themes of Japanese distrust of their own military in many anime, including Patlabor 2 (it does feature a military coup). I'm not trying to put you down, but it's important that I educate you on this. The world hates the USA enough. We don't need to fill the world with more fake news/history to fuel more anti-Americanism

[@Pewpewpew182]

The scene with Goto discussing an "Unjust peace" is one of the most haunting scenes in all of cinema. Music, tone, presentation..... amazing. The 90s dub sold that whole film.

[@shaesullivan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGPWopermaqfm5Y

[@inuyashason81]

One thing the defense force spook talked about to goto, the Hollywood chewing gum war, that is what I am trying to find out what he is talking about, there is cold war, civil wars, but Hollywood chewing gum war?

[@juresaiyan]

I agree

[@Zheesh7349]

*Sigh* New entries on the "Plan to Watch" list, what a way to start the new year!On serious note, Thank you for showing this franchise! I didn't even know it existed probably because it was made in the "far past " of 1980's, but it really seems like a hidden gem. While I am here Happy New Year everyone!

[@DrummerDucky]

If you are ready to go back as far as the '30s, there are more than 200 movies made with the same creative intensity. It takes a while to find them out because most list are full of overbloated oscar-bait or underwritten "audience favorites".

[@Zheesh7349]

@@DrummerDucky Yeah i know there are countless gems hidden under the sands of time, but that is why it is always a welcome when our favorite youtubers talk about them :D

[@DrummerDucky]

@@Zheesh7349 Did you get the time to watch Patlabor 2 since then? I find that watching a movie every day is one of many ways to keep one's mind "exercised"!

[@Zheesh7349]

@@DrummerDucky Yeah I finally watched it. My expectations weren't low after this video, but it toppled them with ease. It is indeed a fantastic movie!

[@DrummerDucky]

Oshii's argument on "just war, unjust peace" is bit muddled (it's a recurring issue with his writings) but man. the art direction, the music, the character interactions (especially Gotoh) are so mesmerizing, I can't help but watch it again and again every year that goes by, much like the 1995 Ghost in the Shell, or the infamous Ninja Scroll.

[@macuma5533]

That conversation they have in the boat never fails to give me goosebumps.

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

which part?

[@金田鉄雄-w9q]

Mamoru Oshii was supposed to have been part of the Patlabor project, but he received both praise and criticism for bringing his own introspective and philosophical color to the film! This was compounded by the fact that the manga version by Masami Yuki had strong shonen manga elements based on offbeat humor.

[@Girthon1]

A superb analysis of one of the true anime greats. Thank you!

[@KENSHI_Anime]

Thank for your views on this amazing movie. Believe it or not, this movie made me a fan in 1995, which means it was out in Japan 2 years already! This was indeed the "golden era" of Anime in which people in the Anime industry like Mr. Oshii would make a movie like this....

[@IanPeon]

A truly beautiful movie, from the characters to the story to the animation, this is a finely crafted work of art. That said, it really demands a lot from it's audience, from knowledge of socio-economic world policies and history, to listening to acres of dialogue, albeit expertly written. When it ends you get the feeling you've seen deeply into what reality we're all living in, having peered directly at the most reflective mirror you've ever seen.

[@davidgibson4901]

Patlabor 2 is one of my favorite animated films of all time, and this incredible video has added to my love for this movie by unlocking wonderful hidden depths. Very well done.

[@xmlthegreat]

Wow. This really deepened my understanding of the film, I knew about the premise and understood some of the commentary Oshii was trying to make (unjust peace versus just war is mentioned enough in the film that a clueless person like me can get it), but I feel like I get it more clearly now.

[@jasoncarroll7473]

Just finished watching Patlabor 2 only an hour ago. This was perfect to show up in my suggestions. Excellent commentary on one of my favorite Anime films

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

did you think animation better than gits 95? and was it remastered?

[@BeanyBabe420]

Great video that I think summarises a lot of this film's strongest aspects. This really is a fantastic film when viewed through the lens of post-WWII Japanese politics, that I think still holds value today.

[@ricardoalvesdeoliveira3761]

All these years and I didn't realise I couldn't fully grasp the depth of the movie. Now I have to rewatch it. Great video, thank you very much!

[@lions1729]

This film is a work of art - flawless art.

[@romerobjuancarlos]

This film is beautiful, hauntingly so, and it is one I have watched countless times alongside GITS. When something is layered with meaning, intent and crafted with a very clear vision this is the end result: a piece that is often cited, discussed, and analyzed. A classic. Period.

[@85futureshock]

In an era were anime is afraid to grow up and where anything political would either be taboo or not considered commercial enough, the world needs a movie like Patlabor 2 more than ever. Sadly, it looks like we may never get a film like this again.

[@comradepivot4570]

Nope, not afraid. More like it's just more profitable. It's more profitable making animes about cute girls doing stuff than making an expensive movie about politics, etc.

[@nobom]

Mamoru Ishiis signature "eerie scenes" are mesmerizing. With the contrasting bright lights/dark shadows, the camera views, the strange background music, it's so unsettling and captivating. He makes even a parking lot look like art. I love it.

[@FurryWrecker911]

Had to watch this movie twice to actually get it. I really wish there was more like this out there. Greatly enjoyed this.

[@ciel0_091]

My gosh! What a wonderful job you did here. I actually sat down and payed attention to the whole video you just explained about Patlabor. It's unbelievable how people really have only one concept about Japan, but in reality it's more than just the view that gives us a certain attraction to a a place on this world. I highly agree on what you said here. 11:13 There are many ways us as a society can be more involved in making peace rather than starting it or separating ourselves and not doing anything to prevent it. -Cielo V.

[@conchezness3744]

Thank you for your brilliant analysis and breakdown of one of my favourite animes of all time. Not many appreciate the genius of this masterpiece in cinema

[@jjstarrprod]

Absolutely great breakdown of this hidden gem of an anime masterpiece. It's probably the most political movie anime has ever produced in its entire history. So political that I recall in an old interview with Oshii that he said Miyazaki (also a very political director, since he's been very active in the communist circle in Japan in the 60's and 70's and was one of its main organizers when it came to their public protests), actively berated him for Patlabor 2, saying that his movie is a big bunch of lie. When you have the most legendary anime director of Japan vehemently commenting on your movie, that's when you know you've made it ^^ !

[@Jaytecx]

This film still has the best opening introduction sequence I have seen in any motion picture.

[@hedgehog3180]

Patlabor's sharp political commentary and it's ability to deliver it with surgical precision by using amazing cinematography is what makes it one of the best Real Robot franchises that can actually stand shoulder to shoulder with Gundam, it's both an amazing subversion and an evolution of the genre. It's also interesting how the point of the original Gundam was to remind Japanese society of the horrors of war because Tomino saw a rising jingoism and then almost 30 years later Patlabor is commenting on how the result of said jingoism was Japan becoming complicit in imperialist violence and being once again dependent on it. It's a kind of running dialouge within the Real Robot genre where 86 Eighty-Six and Gundam Hathaway are the latest entries.

[@antonlongbow5122]

Glad you mentioned 86 Eighty Six. Wish it would get more recognition.

[@JustinY.]

War, war never changes.

[@JohnUdeogu]

you're right, man

[@jag3596]

6/10 Damn. You're active this new year. Anyway, old meme.

[@trytobedied]

War has changed. It's no longer about nations, ideologies, or ethnicity. It's an endless series of proxy battles, fought by mercenaries and machines.

[@ononono7016]

Kantai Collection

[@ononono7016]

Alone the WW1, WW2, and, of course, the Cold War truly show how much war itself has changed. There are also the Geneva Protocol that "bans" certain weapons. We literally try to make war morally humane. Even the use of soldiers varies: Child soldiers and bad planning(lots of unnecessary death) is frowned upon. Different weapon skills. Different ways to die. Globalisation is making the enemy more human... Terrorism. "War never changes" is a stupid way to see it. We are humans, we adapt.

[@wt5833]

I watched this because I recently became aware of the series, but have no easy viewing access. This analysis was thoroughly excellent. Few films of any genre are so deep yet nuanced. A casual ‘western’ watch would miss half the film. This and Jin Roh. Thank you for the education.

[@tomimn2233]

I remember myself as a kid walking into this movie thinking it was another one of those japanese giant mechs action movie and little else. ... took me about close to twenty years to finally understand what the hell this movie was about.

[@CtrlAltRetreat]

All of this has become a heck of a lot more relevant to America recently and more nuanced than the open narrative. An illusory peace is not something to be tossed away lightly. It has value in its mere existence.

[@HZAres]

somehow more than 20 years on, this is more relevant than ever

[@Smokedship]

God bless people like the presenter who appreciate the true depth and convey the actual message that such artists try and convey... Excellent job done!

[@noiseworks]

brilliant breakdown. the ambient music is a perfect match to the content. thanks!

[@ZombryaTheDark]

I've been obsessed with this movie in soundtrack so much recently. So glad people still know this gem

[@lamecasuelas2]

I remember watching Patlabor as a kid and everytime an episode ended i was a little confunsed, i had the feeling that There was something deeper that i didn't fully understand.

[@diegozimmerman8261]

As fan of the Patlabor franchise I find your take on Patlabor 2 extraordinarily good. Execution of the video and the history behind P2 is professional. I found myself wanting a longer version as to learn more of what I had no CLUE of the significance of what the author was trying to tell me. Know that I have some Idea …….thank you!!!

[@宇宙少年-b3e]

IT TOOK KZbin 2 YEARS TO RECOMMEND THIS TO ME! Google you have failed yet again at grasping my inclinations.

[@Swissynopants]

Exact same here...

[@Nusszucker]

I have seen the film two or three times now, but the political background was missing, so I was always a bit lost about what was actually happening. I had understood that there was some form of escalation happening and that especially the room filled with officials is either unable or unwilling to stop whats happening from doing so, but I had this nagging feeling that I missed something. Now I know, thanks for that.

[@stanislavnepochatov8381]

I think any peace is far more better than any kind of war. Cause Mamoru Oshii's native city were never shelled by artilery on his memory like was mine. Japan 'false' peace allows them to rapidly develop country and avoid Vietnam and several other wars. But even here in Ukraine I see splitting of reality: in city about 70 km from front lines war reality is not so prominent. In capital it's almost unseen.

[@anuvisraa5786]

you know the guy grow during the reconstruction of the second world war

[@celebrim1]

You can only think that if you think 1980's and 1990's Japan is an example of a false peace. A truly unjust peace is worse than war, and often has more casualties. If you want an actual example of an unjust peace today, take a look at what is going on in Venezuela right now.

[@Moosemoose1]

The most obvious example of false peace is the United States of America. This nation's entire existence and prosperity has been because of either war or "false peace" - the threat of war. This is why American police are militarized and brutal, why the United States repeatedly overthrows governments and installs dictators via coups and threats of invasion, why the US military is directly involved in over 30 conflicts in dozens of nations around the globe at any time, why the USA has 900 military bases worldwide and responds to even the slightest threat against it with overwhelming violence. The motto of the USA is simply "Comply or Die".

[@celebrim1]

Oh good grief, please spare us your complete lack of historical perspective.

[@stephenking6966]

@Sternia Hoenheim Why would you want to nuke the poor Mexicans who are already suffering from drug cartels and rampant crime? (I'm just making fun of the fact that the term America applies to more than just the United States)

[@Hirogawa]

Thanks for this video. Patlabor is such an incredible series, and having someone break it down its movies, specially focusing on Oshii's superb insight, is incredible. I hope more people catch on this fantastic show because of your video. Once again, thank you very much.

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

yeah i asked a no of utube anime reviewers to do pat2 esp if they liked gits 95 but none did. but this reviewer didnt help me understand obvious message. by oshii.

[@jakenorthbriz]

Really incredible story. I am definitely going to watch this now. We're taught to believe "All's Fair In Love And War" but it's hard to believe that detonating nukes on another country's civilians was a solution

[@ynraider]

Don't worry, with PM Shinzo Abe 'removed permanently' from Senki Generation Japanese politics, the Imperial Bushido remnants will have their full revenge upon the USA in WWIII. Gonna be a wild finish...

[@winkoman3]

Above all else, Patlabor 2 stands out to me as the most harrowing modern tale about the dangers of the modern world.

[@NathanGatten]

Living in Canada, Ive definately see this as an examination as how a peaceful nation can still be guilty of war, and still become a warzone in a second. Just look at how overpowered americas home army is. And people even cheer them on in celebration! And if parts of canadian society were to break down, america could easily swoop in to conquer on the justification of national safety. But canada is guilty too. We still sell weapons to other nations for our own benefit, and join wars that we have no moral right to enter. It's a terrifying balance.

[@DeathToJihad]

The difference is that America realizes what it is doing, and is moving forward with eyes open, while others are trying to trick themselves. War is sometimes a necessary evil, as is hegemony. Especially in a world where Powers with far less benign intentions feel the same. Only those on our far left politically pretend not to understand this. Canada tries to walk a more middling road, yet even often deploys their military alongside ours, criticizing our relative social benefits without acknowledging the lukewarm commitment of allies is what allows them to spend less on the military and more on social programs.

[@NathanGatten]

@@DeathToJihad Your username is a contradiction in terms. So I'm going to ignore your overly warmongering comment.

[@LuizAlexPhoenix]

@@DeathToJihad The US spends more on the military because the military industrial complex owns Washington and the need for spending more on defense to appear strong has become such a moral cornerstone of politics that the government is shutdown. Do not put the bill on social programs.

[@DeathToJihad]

@@NathanGatten, It's only a contradiction if you view conflict like a spider's web. Personally, I get the impression you'd simply rather not engage in a complex philosophical debate, and that's why you'd rather hide behind dismissive and empty slurs like 'warmonger'.

[@DeathToJihad]

@@LuizAlexPhoenix, I'd strongly disagree with that assessment, as it's overly simplistic, and discounts entirely the dimension of geopolitics in favor of economic conspiracy theories. If our allies spent more, we'd spend less, and spend more on social programs. It's the exact reason they don't want to spend more.

[@thesophistcatedotaku8091]

This is one of my favorite films. I love the conversation between Goto and Irakawa. One of my favorite speeches.

[@enemia93]

Thanks for this very instructive and well documented analysis of a great film (my favorite film btw). Back when I watched it, I didn't have all the detail of the Japanese context in mind. So while this film acts first and foremost as a witness of its time and place, I really felt that it managed to have a(n expected?) broader scope. From today's standpoint, as you said, it still tells a lot about the fragility of our current peace against new kinds of threats, coming from the inside of our countries, here in the West. I mean I live in France and I watched it ~4 years ago, when terrorist attacks were really hot in the news Oshii's style of framing, pacing and visual storytelling works really well to tell this story of this illusory peace. Also I really like how it was already experimented in the Early Days OVAs and then pushed way further in this film

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

enemia: what khonda was saying is the animation is what made film amazing...

[@enemia93]

@@ruhurtin4squrtin34 yeah actually Khonda and I already know each other, and we are both French speakers

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

enemia: was i somewhat right? i only took francais pour 3 ans.

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

enemia: personally oshii's message is somewhat trite and simplistic. personally i found pat2 animation way better than gits 95...although i prefer gits manga and shirow's work.

[@Pichuscute]

Absolutely perfect video! Just watched this movie for the first time a few weeks ago and it's now easily one of my favorites. You absolutely nailed this video here.

[@13Dedmoroz]

*Yes. This movie is good. He raises philosophical questions. What do not say, but the best time for humanity was when there was a cold war. Only under the threat of total annihilation did mankind cease to make money from wars. Afraid to upset the balance, people fought at the Olympics, in sports. Or in science. Humanity went into space. Now the cold war is long over. The United States has become the number one terrorist. And wars have become commonplace. No one knows in which next country a “regime” will appear that does not suit the United States. The United States always needs a "bad guy" about whom you can explain everything on TV and then start bombing. Not because the USA is bad. And because without this, they themselves will become a battlefield within themselves under the pressure of contradictions and lack of money for the sale of weapons. Therefore, this anime is very, very good. Such an impression that the authors looked into the future for decades.*

[@HYDRAdude]

Having studied Japanese politics and history at university the politics in the film are still relevant to this day and are even far deeper than this video's analysis makes it seem. You often hear Patlabor fans saying that this movie was essentially a remake of the last two episodes of the OVA, and while it is true there are a lot of similarities I think the two are very different in terms of tone, theme, and message. It really is its own thing.

[@CSLucasEpic]

Do you only analize Anime? Because there is an Argentine comic where this is explored on the other end of the spectrum: Adverting war to keep peace, but from the perspective of those involved in said war. The title is "La Guerra de los Antartes"

[@neilworms2]

Ohhh interesting. I'll have to check this out.

[@FrenXIII]

I'm going to check that out right now! Thank you for the tip mate...

[@satyamprakash7030]

Is it available in English as i don't speak any other language

[@pilouuuu]

This feels more relevant than ever in 2021. Great video!

[@leonardoantonio8756]

It's interesting that this movie contains elements of a coup that actually happened in my country Venezuela early in 1992 (about the same time period of the movie making and release), some military officers leaded by Hugo Chavez pretended to take power of the executive by this mean, with tanks and violence, and meant to kill the president in that period, but Chavez failed in Caracas making the coup fail lastly. When it happened the whole country was in shock of the revelation of the fragile peace the country had back then, later in that same year the coup had another attempt by other rebel officers with violent results too, but failed again. The rest is history, Chavez later in 98 was elected president, subtly abusing of the powers of the state, executing his original agenda for 1992 and the "Chavismo" had taken the country slowly and violently to its actual current state of authoritarianism and lack of any sustainable future.

[@abhinandandutta2079]

Patlabor 2 is one of my favorite movie. Thank you for covering this.

[@SoftyWalterGames]

The most underrated anime ever

[@OneMoreMeme_INeedYou]

Patlabor is one of my favorite films, I’m glad you made such a comprehensive video on it!

[@ruhurtin4squrtin34]

which one?

[@TheRenegadeMonk]

I'd forgotten how beautiful hand drawn Anime movies were.

[@mulpomo8133]

Old anime have detailed graphics, love it, even the colour not much as today, but still have a deep nostalgic feeling.

[@Siptom369]

These older anime just look so gorgeous even by todays standards

[@arkanoid77]

I've seen Patlabor 2 at launch and it is between my most repeatedly seen movies. I never thought I fully understood it, but nevertheless it was OK that way. Because the best cyberpunk is full of inextricable political mistery. That way the fiction can really throw looming dreads at you so that atmosphere can expand. Your detailed historical commentary is mind-bending for me at this time. Thank you. Terrific and unexpected video.

[@a.thompson5518]

This was a interesting analysis on the film. I regarded as my all time favorite film because how genius the plot was, as it felt like Oshii took notes from Tom Clancy. Nice video.

[@muninraven3327]

Such a beautiful and subtle film. On my first viewing, I didn't really understand the underlying politics at play, but there are more than enough pointed dialogue and visual moments that make the film work so well as far as the overarching narrative is concerned. It's a film that gets it's point across, but you don't need to be a historian to appreciate the theme. For some reason, the soundtrack (editing out the more bombastic moments) is one of the pockets of compiled music I most play in the background when I'm sketching, or painting. Mix in the Kyoei no Machi takes from the first film, and some of the third films score; and I find myself with a decent hour plus of material that I can put on loop. A fantastic soundtrack for creative thought.

[@MrStupidarmy]

Fun fact: Miyazaki debate with Oshii about this movie. He disagree and think Tsuge motivation is foolish.

[@matchesburn]

Fun Fact: Miyazaki is a naive asshole with dubious critical thinking skills. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJfbnZp-d8are7c Then again, this is the same man that talks down to otakus and derides their behavior and actions... While in the same interview he plays with toy aircraft. After having made a film on the A6M Zero and the designer of it. After having a lifelong fascination with aviation. Cognitive dissonance personified.

[@matchesburn]

@Resplendent Moron Cognitive dissonance does not stop hypocrisy, where the hell did you get that notion? FFS, hypocrisy is the USUAL OUTCOME of cognitive dissonance because you're holding two conflicting beliefs. And since some people just can't take a hit to their ego coughMiyazakicough, they would rather be hypocritical than admit fault.

[@mechajay3358]

That's like father telling his son that his views of war are foolish

[@matchesburn]

@Resplendent Moron _"You've got it backwards"_ I'm sorry, but this is rather circular logic. You're claiming that because of a nearly "if, then" programmed response way of how cognitive dissonance works that you are "immunized" from hypocrisy... even if you were being hypocritical because of your cognitive dissonance. I think you need to re-examine your theory here, because it doesn't make sense and doesn't hold up in the real world. _"Holding two contradictory beliefs is not cognitive dissonance."_ And as far as the literary (and not medical/psychological) definition, it is literally just that: "the state of having inconsistent thoughts, beliefs, or attitudes, especially as relating to behavioral decisions and attitude change." _"It prompts the person experiencing it to either abandon, change, or rationalize one or more of the beliefs."_ Or do nothing. Or even deny that reality is a thing. Cognitive dissonance does not prompt one to do one of these things. It is not a programmed response. Some people react in a logical and mentally healthy way to having it. Some... don't. Others don't even acknowledge or even realize it or even deny it. _"That is to say, if you're gonna stop being a hypocrite, it'll be cognitive dissonance that makes you do it."_ Then by your own words what you're saying is irrelevant to anything I said because I claimed that Miyazaki was a hypocrite and that he was suffering from cognitive dissonance because he wasn't addressing it properly. Again, you're kinda proving my point that cognitive dissonance does not stop hypocrisy. Because, by your own claims, if it did then Miyazaki wouldn't be holding toy airplanes while talking about his new film on airplanes while shit-talking people that are fans/enthusiasts in some sort of hobby... like say, I dunno, aviation. Miyazaki holds two contradicting viewpoints. And, for some reason, he feels no discomfort about being a plane/aviation otaku while talking down to otakus for the same thing he bad mouths them for. Meaning he's being hypocritical. Because he's not dealing with his cognitive dissonance. Or, like I mentioned earlier, doesn't even realize he holds conflicting viewpoints or doesn't acknowledge it. Never, ever doubt the human mind's ability to protect the self and/or ego. Make no mistake, Miyazaki is experiencing cognitive dissonance. You and me simply disagree whether he's "suffering from" cognitive dissonance and if it's a problem.

[@matchesburn]

@Resplendent Moron _"Every argument you've just tried to make relies on misunderstanding what cognitive dissonance is."_ That's some hilarious lack of self-awareness when your own argument was torpedoed just now by your own words. I'm sorry, but if anyone here doesn't understand cognitive dissonance... it's you. Now if you have nothing of substance to add (and I'm sure you don't when you destroy your own arguments and don't even offer rebuttals or defenses), feel free to see yourself out.

[@oliverallen5324]

this was really well done. I appreciate you citing sources beyond the film itself to give context to the critical elements of the story. Thank you.

[@Aaron-dt9pu]

I'm way behind. I'm going to go watch this movie right now, it sounds incredible.

[@TheMightyPika]

My absolute favorite director. Thank you for this vid, it's fantastic.

[@mechajay3358]

_"Wars are poor chisels for carving out peaceful tomorrow"_

[@xpavpushka]

Amazing artwork, amazing music, mature story. One of the best full-length anime.