Cells at Work! (2024) Movie Review

 

Cells at Work! (Original title: Hataraku saibou) | 2024 | 1h 49m
Genre: Action/Adventure/Comedy/Fantasy | Country: Japan
Director: Hideki Takeuchi | Writers: Akane Shimizu, Yûichi Tokunaga
Cast: Mei Nagano, Takeru Satoh, Mana Ashida
IMDB: 6.7
My Rate: 10/10

Every cell in the body works hard to maintain its proper function, until a disillusioned white blood cell turns destructive. AE3803 (red blood cell), U-1146 (white blood cell), and other cells must confront and defeat him.

Warning:

Contains violence.

 

Synopsis:

Inside Niko Urushizaki's body exists a city of cells. Each cell born is trained for its specific bodily function.  A lost young red blood cell is attacked by a harmful virus, but a young white blood cell rescues it, leaving a lasting impression on the red blood cell, who vows to become a useful cell.

AE3803 (Mei Nagano), now an adult red blood cell, struggles to perform her duties, getting lost while delivering oxygen to the lungs, a situation worsened by a flu virus attack.

U-1146 (Takeru Satoh), a white blood cell, appears to fight the virus, reminding AE3803 of the white blood cell that saved her.  Chance encounters continue between them.

Meanwhile, Shigeru Urushizaki, Niko's father, leads an unhealthy lifestyle—drinking alcohol, eating poorly, and smoking—creating difficulties for the cells, even life-threatening situations.

What challenges will these cells face next?

 

Review:

Cells at Work! is based on Akane Shimizu's manga series, Hataraku Saibou.  The story's simple yet unique and important premise highlights the significance of a healthy lifestyle, as 37 trillion cells depend on how we treat our bodies.  Beyond this message, the film offers entertaining and touching scenes.

This live-action adaptation successfully brings the story and scenes to life without feeling strange; it's even captivating. The anime's unique character designs wouldn't feel out of place, but translating them to live-action is tricky.  It's surprising to see Takeru Satoh, known for his charismatic roles (like in Samurai X), willingly have his face painted entirely white.

The character and plot development is excellent. The story unfolds systematically and is easy to follow.  Each conflict, leading to the intense climax, is well-developed. The resolution is well-executed, with a poignant scene.

Interestingly, the story is told from both the cells' and the body's perspectives, allowing us to understand the characters' feelings more completely.  The emotions are effectively conveyed.

The film provides valuable knowledge, introducing various cells and their functions, some previously unknown.  The characters are not arbitrarily created; they accurately reflect scientific and medical knowledge.

The acting is superb, featuring many well-known actors.  Both the main and supporting cast deliver exceptional performances.

This film is suitable for children with parental guidance and is enjoyable for adults, especially those who appreciate unique and entertaining stories.

 

Memorable Scene:

AE3803 envies other cells fighting harmful bacteria/viruses, while she only delivers oxygen and often gets lost. U-1146 advises that red blood cells are as important as other cells, as oxygen is crucial for their function.

This scene highlights how we often feel inferior by comparing ourselves to others, when each of us has an important role that affects others. We shouldn't be discouraged by our current tasks.

 

Memorable Dialogue:

"If anyone, thank your own body."

 

Ending:

Happy Ending

 

Recommendation:

Must Watch

 

(Aluna)