UlasanAnime.com – I watched this film on Feb. 22nd, 2014. While I considered simply recommending Elliot’s review as it surprisingly mirrors my own thoughts, I decided to offer my own perspective. This review contains no major spoilers, though certain described events might be considered surprising given their unexpected appearance. However, Mouretsu Pirates is not a story that hinges on such surprises.
You might also be interested in : Yuasa-Powered Ping Pong: Gaya Keren yang Memikat
Upon reflection, the most straightforward way to describe the Mouretsu Pirates movie is by comparing it to the Nadesico movie. The challenge with this comparison is that the Nadesico movie evokes diverse feelings among viewers, making it an imprecise descriptor for a general audience. Yet, in my view, both films represent efforts to effectively bring together a rich ensemble of characters in a charming manner. The Mouretsu Pirates movie achieves this goal reasonably well. Both films share a similar narrative structure and plot progression, with both being propelled by underlying mysteries.
What particularly impressed me about the Mouretsu Pirates movie was its successful development of Marika and her family. Through the introduction of the new character, Kanata, the film was able to portray a relationship that mirrors Marika’s own bond with her father. Speaking of Kanata, Asapon’s shota voice acting is… passable, though it took some time to adjust to. It bears a resemblance to AmiMami, but perhaps a less comedic iteration.
That said, here are some additional observations:
- The scene where Marika’s mother dines with Chiaki was hilariously entertaining.
- Marika’s mother, in general, was a source of great amusement. Describing her as merely “badass” feels insufficient; a more fitting term is needed.
- The hyperspace concept serves adequately as a science fiction plot device, akin to those found in Star Trek.
- I am not particularly fond of Marika’s new outfit, although it appears more appealing in the movie than in the widely admired figure.
- The space yacht club’s final maneuver was quite amusing, evoking a mixed reaction similar to my feelings about Wizard Barristers.
- Echoing Elliot’s sentiment, there was a noticeable lack of focus on Chiaki.
- If the original Mouretsu Pirates focused on the high schooler, the princess, and the actual pirate, then the movie shifts its attention to the space kid, the other princess, and… everyone else.
- On a positive note, the yacht club comprises a substantial group of individuals, and each character was given a reasonable amount of dialogue. Developing these relatively minor roles was likely the movie’s most challenging accomplishment. Grunhilde, in particular, takes the lead in this aspect.
- The inclusion of small touches from the graduating senpai and the introduction of new members felt perfectly suited to the narrative.
- While the Bentenmaru crew receives a considerable amount of screen time, their characters felt largely underdeveloped in this film. This is an observation to be taken as you will.
- The school segment, where the girls collectively tease the shota character, is amusing at best. It’s difficult to fully articulate my feelings about it, beyond noting its blend of grounded reality.
The movie features more designs by Akiman. While his exact contribution is unclear, it appears to be substantial.
In conclusion, if you enjoyed the television anime, you will likely have a pleasant experience watching Mouretsu Pirates: The Abyss of Hyperspace. However, it is advisable not to anticipate an exceptionally novel or groundbreaking story. I would watch it again, particularly with subtitles.
