Mardock Scramble: The First Compression was released in 2010 as the first installment in a trilogy adapting Tow Ubukata's acclaimed light novel series. Upon its initial release, the film received mixed reactions; while praised for its striking cyberpunk visuals and complex themes, some viewers found its narrative dense and challenging to follow. The performances, including Hiroki Touchi as the enigmatic Dr. Easter and Kazuya Nakai as the casino manager Shell Septinos, added depth to the morally ambiguous characters. Over time, however, the film's reputation has grown, with many fans now considering it an underrated gem within the cyberpunk anime genre. Its mature storytelling and unique style have helped it maintain a dedicated cult following, distinguishing it from dated relics and elevating it beyond initial criticisms.