Yesterday, the Japanese director Oshii Mamoru had his 65th birthday. I've never made a secret of being a massive fan of his films, as his lesser efforts manage to keep my interest, while his strongest works have speared my heart and addled my brain. His cerebral philosophical ponderings have often unsettled me, while his iconic action scenes have made me feel exhilarated. Throw in his editing skills and his use of music (often by the great Kawai Kenji), and you have most of the reasons why I love many of his works so much.
It's not hard to name his most famous film, but picking a favorite takes more effort. He may be best known for his anime films, but he has managed to make bona fide classics in both live-action and animation. Whether you go for outrageous or realistic, dream-like or gritty, thoughtful or instinctive, leaden or funny, chances are Oshii has made something to your liking.
So our question of the week simply is: what is your favorite film by Oshii Mamoru?
Chime in, in the comments below, and HAVE YOUR SAY!