Ralph Bakshi is that rare animator whose work is immediately identifiable and iconic. His work on films like Fritz the Cat and Cool World helped revolutionize what animation has to offer to adult audiences. Refusing to remove the playful aspect of cartoons, he still made them very adult and mature in nature, challenging audiences and their expectations. And it looks like he’s not doing anything different with his brand new film Last Days of Coney Island.
“In the cheap glitter and glow of a fading Coney Island a group of characters live out their sordid, strange lives trying to get somewhere fast – any way they can. Desperately trying to love and be loved. These cops, call girls, mafia hoods, transvestites, fortune-tellers, clowns, and freaks are all intertwined, heading on a crazy roller coaster ride into a black hole they think is life.”
A trailer for the film, which is packed full of seedy and grimy imagery that’s mixed with colorfully grotesque moments, can be seen below. You can also rent the film via Vimeo.