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Fate/Grand Order: First Order

Fate/Grand Order: First Order (2016)

The year 2015 CE. The last era in which magecraft still thrived. The Chaldea Security Organization was founded to focus on preserving the continuation of human history. They observe a world which magecraft couldn't observe and science couldn't measure all to prevent the certain extinction of humanity. But one day, the future that Chaldea continued to observe disappears and humanity's extinction in 2017 becomes clear. Rather, it had already happened. The cause seems to be related to Fuyuki, a provincial town in Japan, in the year 2004 CE. There, an "unobservable region" that had not existed before appears. Based on the assumption that Fuyuki is the reason for humanity's extinction, Chaldea issues an order to explore, investigate, and possibly destroy this singularity – a quest for the Holy Grail, the Grand Order.

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Directed by Hitoshi Nanba

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Hitoshi Nanba
Writer
  • Ayumi Sekine

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action/Fantasy/Animation film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Fate/Grand Order: First Order distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Hitoshi Nanba brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Fate/Grand Order: First Order took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 72 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 98 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
  • The musical score contains over 76 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Fate/Grand Order: First Order shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, which focuses more on action than character development, Fate/Grand Order: First Order offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Tron and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring explore similar territory, Fate/Grand Order: First Order stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: December 31, 2016
  • Runtime: 1h 12m

Where to Watch

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