Sword Art Online: The Movie – Ordinal Scale
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Tomohiko Ito
- Writer(s): Reki Kawahara (original story), Tomohiko Ito (screenplay)
- Key Actors: Yoshitsugu Matsuoka (Kirito), Haruka Tomatsu (Asuna), Ayana Taketatsu (Leafa), Kanae Ito (Yui), Rina Hidaka (Silica), Ayahi Takagaki (Lisbeth), Hiroaki Hirata (Klein)
- Music Director: Yuki Kajiura
- Director of Photography: Kentaro Waki
- Producers: Shinichiro Kashiwada, Kazuma Miki, Atsuhiro Iwakami
Plot:
In “Sword Art Online: The Movie – Ordinal Scale,” directed by Tomohiko Ito, the story continues in the year 2026, where virtual reality gaming has evolved to a new level. The Augma, a device capable of augmented reality, has taken the world by storm. Unlike its predecessor, the NerveGear, the Augma allows players to remain conscious while playing, blurring the line between the virtual and real world.
Kirito and his friends, Asuna, Leafa, Silica, Lisbeth, and Klein, eagerly dive into the new game called “Ordinal Scale.” However, they soon discover that the game holds a dark secret. Memories of their time in the virtual world of Sword Art Online, where they were trapped and fought for their lives, begin to fade. Asuna, in particular, struggles to remember her time with Kirito.
As the group delves deeper into the game, they encounter a mysterious AI idol named Yuna, who captivates players with her enchanting songs. But Yuna’s true purpose becomes clear when players start to disappear in the real world after encountering a powerful boss in the game. Kirito and his friends must uncover the truth behind Ordinal Scale and save their friends before it’s too late.
Themes and Motifs:
“Sword Art Online: The Movie – Ordinal Scale” explores themes of memory, friendship, and the consequences of blurring the line between reality and virtual reality. The film delves into the importance of preserving memories and cherishing the experiences that shape us. It also highlights the power of friendship and the lengths people will go to protect those they care about.
The motif of music plays a significant role in the movie, with Yuna’s songs serving as a catalyst for the plot. The film uses music to evoke emotions and create a sense of wonder, enhancing the overall experience for the audience.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release, “Sword Art Online: The Movie – Ordinal Scale” received positive reviews from fans and critics alike. It was praised for its stunning animation, engaging storyline, and emotional depth. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $40 million worldwide.
Although it didn’t receive any major awards or nominations, the movie further solidified the popularity of the “Sword Art Online” franchise and expanded its fan base. It showcased the continued growth and evolution of virtual reality storytelling in anime.
Recommendation:
For fans of the “Sword Art Online” series, “Ordinal Scale” is a must-watch. It seamlessly blends action, drama, and romance, offering a captivating story that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The stunning visuals and exhilarating fight sequences make it a visual treat for anime enthusiasts. Even for those unfamiliar with the series, the movie stands on its own as an exciting and emotional adventure.
Memorable Quote:
“Memories are not just the key to the past, but also the door to the future.” – Kirito
