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As another installation to the Goddess's series, this film pulls off a lighthearted watching with some intriguing highlights.

The Story::..

The film begins off the bat and I initially thought I was watching some visuals from Millennium Actress as a figure skitters across the moon's surface. What an opening! We see the usual characters and these are introduced very quickly before the main story gains momentum. The first half seems to introduce a tangent universe where things between Keiichi and Belldandy might develop differently but despite the possibility of these two forging a new relationship, it focuses more on the detrimental effect of Belldandy's ... lost memories. Ongoing persistence is gold dust though, for their relationship is well and truly addressed by the end of the film in a manner resembling the bitter sweetness of an age old fable of star crossed lovers.

As the plot breaks loose we get to witness the symbiotic relationship between Yggdrasil and our world. But it is also worth mentioning that a surprising working concept comes to light regarding the existence and inner workings of the Gods and Goddesses themselves, it's worth observing these nuances when they come and go.

Art::..

Again you may be struck by the moon scene. The film also gives us numerous chances to explore the scenery of the Gods' realm which is often strikingly beautiful in its magnificence and scale. You will also find scenes involving intricate runes as well as some nicely integrated animation of the inner workings of Yggdrasil.

Sound::..

I recall some aptly placed classical style music which lends this film some strength. The music resembles that of much of the series without anything that stands apart.

Character::..

A lot of credit goes to Celestin for providing a more Miyazaki-type villain, he tends towards both hero and villain, swinging often between the two. He forms an interesting focal point for Belldandy's lack of resolve and raises some more interesting facets in Belldandy's personality. We get to see a significant recount of Belldandy's past and learn of repressed memories which contrast with Belldandy's serene exterior. Keiichi is agitated over Belldandy's state throughout but continues to show his best and most loved aspects. Supporting from the sidelines, Urd and even Skuld get to flamboyantly show off great magical power in a couple of scenes. Peorth shows sharp responses and leadership in an otherwise hopeless situation. And the fact that the figure skittering across the lunar surface is from yet another realm shows that there is more to the series than simply Gods and Demons...

Enjoyment::..

For experienced anime viewers you may well come across references and concepts which give this film some greater fascination than you'd otherwise expect. For instance the Evangelion-esque monolith near the end resembling Sachiel serves its purpose well if you're familiar with that specific franchise. This film combines the most enjoyable elements of the series; overdrive-magic, a variety of costumes, Tamiya and Otaki in questionable garments, romance and adventure spanning the two (three?) worlds.

Overall::..

It's definitely worth a watch if you're a fan of the series and are particularly struck by the fated and star crossed love between Keiichi and Belldandy. As it develops their relationship on a strong and colossal theme, this hints at a tale not merely confined to fantasy. Man meets Goddess is what you see on the front cover. What's weaved within? A tale of love enduring for all time.