Jason Julier writes:
''Speed Racer is the latest blockbuster from the Wachowski brothers and even before commencing this review; Gamestyle hoped that the videogame was a more achievable vision than the flawed Enter The Matrix.
Whereas Shiny Entertainment was partly responsible for Neo's messy experience, this time around development duties rest upon Kiwi studio Sidhe Interactive, who has previously been responsible for Gripshift, Melbourne Cup Challenge and Super Rugby League. The key title in their curriculum vitae is Gripshift which represents a similar 'pick up and play' racing ethic, and one unquestionably that Warner Bros believed would stand this licensed release in good stead.
Speed Racer is based upon a successful manga and anime series, where drivers battle it out in the World Racing League. Of course there is more depth to the storyline but to appreciate it fully then head to the cinema, as the video game focuses purely on the racing events. Christina Ricci and Emile Hirsch may reprise their roles here, but it matters little in the Willy Wonka bubblegum setting, which suits cartoon animation and text boxes more so than live action or scripts.''
