Cast
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Haruka Tomatsu
as Asuna (voice)
Yoshitsugu Matsuoka
as Kirito (voice)
Inori Minase
as Mito (voice)
Shiori Izawa
as Argo (voice)
Hiroki Yasumoto
as Agil (voice)
Tomokazu Seki
as Kibaou (voice)
Kaede Hondo
as Liten (voice)
Yuusuke Nagano
as Shivata (voice)
Takeo Otsuka
as Lind (voice)
Shinya Takahashi
as Yamata (voice)
Yohei Azakami
as Wolfgang (voice)
Yuki Tamai
as Lobacca (voice)
Koji Seki
as Naijan (voice)
Ryota Osaka
as Joe (voice)
Yusuke Kobayashi
as Morte (voice)
Crew
Director
- Ayako Kono
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Now firstly, come on guys - a snappier title, surely? "Asuna" and her pal "Kirito" are accomplished players in the game and have progressed to level five. It's here that they learn of a plan to drop a game-changing banner into the mix that could could seriously damage the uneasy status quo truce that exists between the two rival clans playing. "Kirito" is a former beta-asset so using his slightly advantageous knowledge, the two must recruit some allies and try to thwart the level 5 boss before he ensures mayhem ensues. The story is simple, straightforward and that helps this along well enough - if maybe a little too one-dimensionally. Some attempts have been made to develop the lead characterisations, and the theme and the animated combat scenes - especially at the end - reminded me a little "Tron" (1982). It's got plenty of action, a few beasties, swordplay and benefits from being tightly directed remaining focussed and decently paced for an hour and an half. Not great, no, but I did quiet enjoy it.
Feb 9, 2023
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Animation/Action/Fantasy/Science Fiction film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Sword Art Online the Movie – Progressive – Scherzo of Deep Night distinguishes itself through its exceptional pacing and meaningful stakes for its protagonists.
Director Ayako Kono 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 2022, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Sword Art Online the Movie – Progressive – Scherzo of Deep Night took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1500 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2022, when this film is released:
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Sword Art Online the Movie – Progressive – Scherzo of Deep Night shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Man Who Knew Too Little, which focuses more on action than character development, Sword Art Online the Movie – Progressive – Scherzo of Deep Night subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Fly and Deep Rising explore similar territory, Sword Art Online the Movie – Progressive – Scherzo of Deep Night stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 22, 2022
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Revenue: $9,071,701
Where to Watch
