Based on the OAV series, this one takes a few years after the series. Now a new semester on college, and a few members on the Motor club, this one is about Belldandy's teacher Celestin, he comes back, a little reunion, but there seems to be something wrong with him, he's wanted, and gives Belldandy amnesia. What is Keichi to do? what is Celestin's sinister plan, and does the new member of the Motor club have something to do with it? A wonderful movie, and beautiful and improved animation, and the characters are just marvelous, and Keiichi kind of looks like Tenchi now, and that girl Morgan looks like Motoko of Love Hina. And in this one, they tell the history and background of Belldandy and the other goddesses, a must see for the fans of the show. Watch it.
21 Reviews
Romance, Beauty and the Rebel Angels
edsevcik20 December 2006
Like most anime based on Kosuke Fujishima's comics and character designs, this visually splendid film presents a lush, romantic and rather lightweight story. The original audience was presumed to have already read the books and seen earlier shows, and therefore to be familiar with the characters, general setup and a fair amount of back story that precedes the events here. However the story--what there is of it--is so straightforward that even the uninitiated viewer will probably get the general idea. In the universe of this film, heaven is an enormous, multi-layered bureaucracy (an ancient concept in Asian fiction) staffed by various "gods" and "goddesses," some of whom have come to live with Japanese college student Keiichi Morisato in Tokyo. Over the course of a few days, the actions of a rebellious archangel disorder heaven, endanger the earth and present serious relationship problems for Keiichi and Belldandy, the goddess-first-class to whom he has become romantically attached. Along the way other characters familiar from the previous series make mostly cameo appearances. All in all a light, beautifully animated, non-threatening and enjoyable film.
Ah! My Goddess review
blessyabraham-115336 April 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I found the movie pretty ok. Though I am not much familiar with the anime/manga series, the movie in itself felt very self-contained without needing to have an in depth knowledge of the series. The characters were also likeable, though there wasn't any particular focus on them besides the lead protagonists. I found Keichi very bland and more of a damsel in distress pretending to be a Knight in shining armour. Belldandy was a strange character. I am usually not a big fan of such Mary Sue nearly perfect but also perfectly submissive female characters. But nevertheless her character was definitely likeable enough. I also liked Celestine. I think he was an interesting character but his motives were all over the place. I think a very simple message of finding love even in suffering and trials, was unnecessarily convoluted to give the protagonists another obstacle to proof the strength of their love and loyalty.
Overall, a passable anime movie that is pretty to look at but lacking in any depth when compared to beautiful love stories told by Studio Ghibli. For a seinen genre anime, this is as much depth you will ever get from it, and that is ok too.
Overall, a passable anime movie that is pretty to look at but lacking in any depth when compared to beautiful love stories told by Studio Ghibli. For a seinen genre anime, this is as much depth you will ever get from it, and that is ok too.
Think you know everything about Aa Megamisama there is to know? Think again!
Miwa Satoshi3 May 2001
This movie takes place two and a half years after the events chronicled in the original Aa Megamisama video series. As such, the relationships between the main characters (in particular Keiichi and Belldandy) have evolved offscreen to a certain point, and some characters that had been introduced in the manga only now make their first onscreen appearances.
However, that doesn't detract from this wonderful film, which, though very much a fantasy, is a story that is sweet, without being boring, and if a touch melodramatic, then not excessively corny.
Aa Megamisama the movie seemingly follows two tracks - examining the relationship between the mortal Keiichi and the seemingly submissive goddess Belldandy who has come to live with him - and examining Belldandy's own past, which is not as perfect as one would think. Especially when someone from that past starts a chain of events that could bring down all of Heaven.
It might take a while for this movie to be distributed on US shores, but it'll certainly be worth the wait.
However, that doesn't detract from this wonderful film, which, though very much a fantasy, is a story that is sweet, without being boring, and if a touch melodramatic, then not excessively corny.
Aa Megamisama the movie seemingly follows two tracks - examining the relationship between the mortal Keiichi and the seemingly submissive goddess Belldandy who has come to live with him - and examining Belldandy's own past, which is not as perfect as one would think. Especially when someone from that past starts a chain of events that could bring down all of Heaven.
It might take a while for this movie to be distributed on US shores, but it'll certainly be worth the wait.
Earns its place among my top 5 Anime Movies
fourthdd30 July 2004
I bought this DVD because I recognised the picture on the cover from an image in a 3D modeling competition.
At first, I thought I had bought myself a dud as the story starts off quite slowly. But then the plot thickens as the story starts to unfold.
It's difficult to place this movie under a singular genre as it contains a little of everything. The characters (even the more background ones) were developed well and one gets drawn in by both the main characters and the story line. I did not manage to guess what the ending would bring, up to the last few scenes. The music is emotional and lovely. The animation is brilliant and what's truly striking is the attention to detail the artists put into this movie. I cannot say a single bad thing about it.
This is a must see!!!!! Definitely worth buying the DVD.
At first, I thought I had bought myself a dud as the story starts off quite slowly. But then the plot thickens as the story starts to unfold.
It's difficult to place this movie under a singular genre as it contains a little of everything. The characters (even the more background ones) were developed well and one gets drawn in by both the main characters and the story line. I did not manage to guess what the ending would bring, up to the last few scenes. The music is emotional and lovely. The animation is brilliant and what's truly striking is the attention to detail the artists put into this movie. I cannot say a single bad thing about it.
This is a must see!!!!! Definitely worth buying the DVD.
So after three years they're not sleeping together?
Alan-4014 January 2007
After three years from when the story starts Keiichi seems to have gained some self-confidence. He no longer acts like the fully put-upon good-natured doofus who first dialed a wrong number while ordering a pizza and ended up with the "goddess help line." He seems to have found his place at school and at the Auto Club where he is a featured driver and respected member, but his progress with Belldandy has gotten to a remarkable partnership but no more. Megumi, Keiichi's sister, remarks that "when those two are clicking they are unbeatable." No matter. Even Skuld, Belldandy's kid sister who was passionately jealous whenever the idea that Keiichi might actually consummate the relationship and take her big sister away, is reconciled to them being together. Urd, the next sister who also lives with them, has put in abeyance her schemes to get Keiichi to make moves on Belldandy. Everyone seems to feel that it is just a matter of time.
The movie wisely picks up where the series left off. Instead of focusing its energy on silly romance issues, it introduces a rebellious god assisted by an disillusioned fairy princess to set up a literal apocalypse which Keiichi and the three goddesses he lives with must battle not only to save the world, but each other and their relationship. For what started out as a silly story gets pretty serious.
There is almost nothing not to like about Ah My Goddess but what deserves special mention is the artwork and the soundtrack. The pictures are just beautiful to look at, and the characters so faithful to their personalities it almost seems like the DVD would be watchable without a story in it at all. At one point the goddesses sing an aria (with the help of their angels) that really sounds like it could have come from angels, and works in the story.
A must-see for any age.
The movie wisely picks up where the series left off. Instead of focusing its energy on silly romance issues, it introduces a rebellious god assisted by an disillusioned fairy princess to set up a literal apocalypse which Keiichi and the three goddesses he lives with must battle not only to save the world, but each other and their relationship. For what started out as a silly story gets pretty serious.
There is almost nothing not to like about Ah My Goddess but what deserves special mention is the artwork and the soundtrack. The pictures are just beautiful to look at, and the characters so faithful to their personalities it almost seems like the DVD would be watchable without a story in it at all. At one point the goddesses sing an aria (with the help of their angels) that really sounds like it could have come from angels, and works in the story.
A must-see for any age.
A TESTAMENT TO THEATRICAL ANIME...even if I'm only watching it on tv
Crystanubis11 January 2002
Okay, I'll admit, I'm probably the only person out there who should not be writing a review about Ah! My Goddess (or Oh! My Goddess if you want to argue translational context) because...well, I have actually never seen anything Ah! My Goddess. Not the TV series, not the OVA, not even the manga themselves! The only real link I had to anything in this film is the name Nobuo Uematsu, a co-composer on the film. Most of us, I am sure, know the name of the good sir Uematsu from his work on the Final Fantasy video games (and now I see why he wasn't involved in Final Fantasy: the Spirits Within...He was spending his time on this! WELL SPENT if you ask me!). But actually, I didn't even know Uematsu was involved in this piece until I read the credits at the end of the film, after purchasing it and watching it straight through (something I almost never get a chance to do with movies).
No, it was an advertisement that drew me to this wonderful work of animated film. I was reading Animerica Extra when I saw the full-page, color ad on the back of an issue for the DVD that I almost immediately fell in love with it and purchased it as soon as I could! The animation reminded me of the First Tenchi Muyo movie, with its character designs and astounding production values. Its sound and picture quality are top notch theatrical quality. I also enjoyed the story. Everyone loves love stories, even poor single guys like myself. There is nothing in this world that complements outstanding audio and visual spectacles as a good narrative to give them all purpose. The character psychology surpasses almost every other film I have ever seen, from the devotion of Keiichi and Belldandy, to the raging jealousy of Morgan to Keiichi and Belldandy, to the domineering control of Celestin over Belldandy. Every character serves his or her purpose, there are no mini-parts...only mini-goddesses, and they do just fine thank you very much! I especially loved the character of Morgan, the fairy princess. She could be compared to Iago in her role in the film. And there is no better villain than a well-meaning one! It annoys me to no end that works such as this receive no theatrical venues in the United States. Fortunately (yet sadly unlike most of my fellow anime lovers) I have the astounding luck of having a rather elaborate home theater system which allowed me to fully immerse myself in what would be my first introduction ever to the world of Ah! My Goddess. I would urge anyone in recent acquisition of a home theater system (anime fan or otherwise) to go out and obtain this fabulous piece of animation.
No, it was an advertisement that drew me to this wonderful work of animated film. I was reading Animerica Extra when I saw the full-page, color ad on the back of an issue for the DVD that I almost immediately fell in love with it and purchased it as soon as I could! The animation reminded me of the First Tenchi Muyo movie, with its character designs and astounding production values. Its sound and picture quality are top notch theatrical quality. I also enjoyed the story. Everyone loves love stories, even poor single guys like myself. There is nothing in this world that complements outstanding audio and visual spectacles as a good narrative to give them all purpose. The character psychology surpasses almost every other film I have ever seen, from the devotion of Keiichi and Belldandy, to the raging jealousy of Morgan to Keiichi and Belldandy, to the domineering control of Celestin over Belldandy. Every character serves his or her purpose, there are no mini-parts...only mini-goddesses, and they do just fine thank you very much! I especially loved the character of Morgan, the fairy princess. She could be compared to Iago in her role in the film. And there is no better villain than a well-meaning one! It annoys me to no end that works such as this receive no theatrical venues in the United States. Fortunately (yet sadly unlike most of my fellow anime lovers) I have the astounding luck of having a rather elaborate home theater system which allowed me to fully immerse myself in what would be my first introduction ever to the world of Ah! My Goddess. I would urge anyone in recent acquisition of a home theater system (anime fan or otherwise) to go out and obtain this fabulous piece of animation.
Wow
franci014 March 2008
I have to say... This is quite possibly the cheesiest and gayest movie I have made myself endure. Don't get me wrong... I can appreciate certain elements of the movie that were done really well, such as the story and the art direction, but, come on, a girl named Belldandy? Are you serious? It was painful to hear this name be spoken time and time again, and though the story was interesting, the script could not have had more cheese ooze out from every single word of it. Unless this movie was made for 8 year old girls, which I doubt because of the almost constant presence of a half-naked woman (get a real woman you anime perverts, or at just go ahead and show them naked if you're gonna do something like this), I would never want to put someone else through the pain of watching this... thing. Pretty to look at, +1, interesting love story, +1, gayest script ever, -100. You want good anime? Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust, Ghost in the Shell 1 & 2, Rurouni Kenshin, even Dragonball Z/GT and Afro Samurai. Belldandy?!?! WTF!!!!!!!!
Perfection
swatdon3 November 2002
I would just like to say that this is one of the best anime movies I have ever seen. The word masterpiece comes to mind when I think about it. I recently got the chance to get Hidenori Matsubara's autograph (He did the character design for the movie) and along with his signature he did a small sketch of Belldandy. I have got to say that still makes me smile every time I see it. If Mr. Matsubara ever reads this then I would like to say Thank You from the bottom of my heart.
Meh! My Goddess...
paul_haakonsen28 June 2023
I remember owning the series and the movie on VHS back in my youth, and also reading the English translated Mangas. So as I had the opportunity to sit down and watch the 2000 "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie" (aka "Ah! My Goddess: The Movie") digitally here in 2023, of course I did so.
Writers Kôsuke Fujishima, Michiko Yokote and Yoshihiko Tomizawa put together a relatively fair enough script here for the movie adaptation. However, I have to say that I remembered it more fondly from back in the day. As I sat through it here in 2023, I must admit that I found the storyline somewhat trivial and a bit uninspiring. It was somewhat of a struggle to actually sit through it this time around. It just wasn't as humorous and upbeat as the series were.
The art style in "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie" is good and really colorful. I've always enjoyed the particular style of art that they used in this franchise. Lots of nice details and you just feel uplifted somehow when watching it. Needless to say that the animation in "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie" was spot on. Very nicely animated.
And it was really good to sit through a Japanese language version of "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie", because I really dislike English dubbing.
A shame that the script and plot was a bit boring and subpar, because that definitely held the movie back.
My rating of "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie", from director Hiroaki Gôda, ultimately has to land on a bland five out of ten stars.
Writers Kôsuke Fujishima, Michiko Yokote and Yoshihiko Tomizawa put together a relatively fair enough script here for the movie adaptation. However, I have to say that I remembered it more fondly from back in the day. As I sat through it here in 2023, I must admit that I found the storyline somewhat trivial and a bit uninspiring. It was somewhat of a struggle to actually sit through it this time around. It just wasn't as humorous and upbeat as the series were.
The art style in "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie" is good and really colorful. I've always enjoyed the particular style of art that they used in this franchise. Lots of nice details and you just feel uplifted somehow when watching it. Needless to say that the animation in "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie" was spot on. Very nicely animated.
And it was really good to sit through a Japanese language version of "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie", because I really dislike English dubbing.
A shame that the script and plot was a bit boring and subpar, because that definitely held the movie back.
My rating of "Aa! Megamisama! The Movie", from director Hiroaki Gôda, ultimately has to land on a bland five out of ten stars.
Excellent film, I hope that Everyone has a chance to see it
manjikun15 August 2001
Nearly 6 years after the OVA, The A!MG movie is finally released. With a huge budget and a interesting story the movie really delivers. The movie takes place about 2 years after the events in the OVAs and charecters from the Manga make their screen debuet(personally I was very happy to see Peroth on the screen). The film features lavish hand done animation, It nearly brought a tear to my eye(not only because it was so good, but because hand-painted anime is quickly becoming a thing of the past). The Plot of the film basicly comes down to this(I don`t wanna give too much away)One day, a person from far back in Belldandy's past apears and Jepordizes Kenichi's Relationship w/ Belldandy. The Voice acting is what I would expect from this movie the voice actors do not deviate from their established charecters. I was very, very impressed by the sound. The Special Edition DVD has a wonderfull DTS mix, it is one of the finest ones I have ever had the privelege to listen to. All and all I would highly recommend the film if you are allready a fan of the OVAs.
A beautiful gift for all who love the original manga, OVA and anime series, and still desire for more.
robertheinrich7328 December 2010
As implied in the title, I strongly recommend watching a couple, better yet all of the episodes of the TV series before this movie. Or, of course, read as many episodes of the manga as possible, but the TV series will be easier to acquire. The OVA might also help, of course, especially if you don't want to invest a couple of hours of "preperation" for the movie.
Why? First of all, obviously for chronological reasons, because the events in the movie occur ca. two years after the series ended. But more important is the fact that you will lack important background knowledge if you jump into the universe of "Ah! My Goddess" with the movie. For example, you would simply have to accept the fact that a Japanese student lives in a buddhist temple together with three goddesses without further explanation, among many other details (calling heaven via telephone - huh?).
One of the strong concepts of the series is that the key characters are slowly and sequentially introduced, allowing the viewer to grow on them. While it might not be necessary to actually watch all episodes of the series or the OVA, I think it is mandatory to watch at least the first ones until Urd and Skuld are introduced. The more, the better...
You will get sooo much more out of the movie if you don't have to wonder why the goddesses live on earth under rather mundane circumstances. Watching the romantic relationship between Keiichi and Belledandy being endangered will touch you far deeper if you are already acquainted to the AMG universe and actually watched it grow and blossom in the first place.
Imagine watching this latest Star Trek Movie with the young crew (e.g. Kirk and Spock being rivals in a time prior to their deep friendship) without knowing the series or earlier movies. You might enjoy the movie anyway, but will get only a fraction of the experience out of it compared to a trekkie.
I hope you get what I mean - watch the series first! :)
So far soo good. Well, what will you get out of the movie if you know the manga and/or the anime? In a few words: more than you would have expected! But let's first comment one some missing elements.
One would be the lack of near-nudity and (sexually) emberassing situations which would frequently occur in the series as comedic elements. No big deal - I loved them in the series, yet didn't miss them at all in the movie. Notable though, since they were one of the key elements in the series. I guess it's better this way, because the movie can be presented to a broader viewer spectrum.
Also I was a bit surprised that some key characters from the series did not appear at all in the movie (Marller, Hild and Sayoko). A new villain is introduced instead, and in a very clever way which makes it impossible to apply black/white thinking.
A refreshing element of the plot is that while in the series Keiichi ended up with some naked women, goddesses, even the devil himself in bed every other day, accidentally drank love potions etc, I cannot recall any episode where it was the other way round - and in the movie we actually get exactly this scenario. It is the first time (at least the first I can think of) that Keiichi gets a serious rival.
Furthermore, it is the first time since the invasion of the bugs at the very beginning of the series that the AMG universe has a really big problem and the future of the whole world is at stake.
There is not really much more to say... If you liked the series or the manga there is no doubt that you will love the movie. It is a worthy sequel for the series (as well as a worthy representative for the manga). The animation is beautiful and elaborate, the soundtrack is awesome. If you have a soft, romantic spot, prepare for it to be touched. If you don't, maybe you can enjoy the great artwork, but probably you will find most of the scenes a bit cheesy.
Why? First of all, obviously for chronological reasons, because the events in the movie occur ca. two years after the series ended. But more important is the fact that you will lack important background knowledge if you jump into the universe of "Ah! My Goddess" with the movie. For example, you would simply have to accept the fact that a Japanese student lives in a buddhist temple together with three goddesses without further explanation, among many other details (calling heaven via telephone - huh?).
One of the strong concepts of the series is that the key characters are slowly and sequentially introduced, allowing the viewer to grow on them. While it might not be necessary to actually watch all episodes of the series or the OVA, I think it is mandatory to watch at least the first ones until Urd and Skuld are introduced. The more, the better...
You will get sooo much more out of the movie if you don't have to wonder why the goddesses live on earth under rather mundane circumstances. Watching the romantic relationship between Keiichi and Belledandy being endangered will touch you far deeper if you are already acquainted to the AMG universe and actually watched it grow and blossom in the first place.
Imagine watching this latest Star Trek Movie with the young crew (e.g. Kirk and Spock being rivals in a time prior to their deep friendship) without knowing the series or earlier movies. You might enjoy the movie anyway, but will get only a fraction of the experience out of it compared to a trekkie.
I hope you get what I mean - watch the series first! :)
So far soo good. Well, what will you get out of the movie if you know the manga and/or the anime? In a few words: more than you would have expected! But let's first comment one some missing elements.
One would be the lack of near-nudity and (sexually) emberassing situations which would frequently occur in the series as comedic elements. No big deal - I loved them in the series, yet didn't miss them at all in the movie. Notable though, since they were one of the key elements in the series. I guess it's better this way, because the movie can be presented to a broader viewer spectrum.
Also I was a bit surprised that some key characters from the series did not appear at all in the movie (Marller, Hild and Sayoko). A new villain is introduced instead, and in a very clever way which makes it impossible to apply black/white thinking.
A refreshing element of the plot is that while in the series Keiichi ended up with some naked women, goddesses, even the devil himself in bed every other day, accidentally drank love potions etc, I cannot recall any episode where it was the other way round - and in the movie we actually get exactly this scenario. It is the first time (at least the first I can think of) that Keiichi gets a serious rival.
Furthermore, it is the first time since the invasion of the bugs at the very beginning of the series that the AMG universe has a really big problem and the future of the whole world is at stake.
There is not really much more to say... If you liked the series or the manga there is no doubt that you will love the movie. It is a worthy sequel for the series (as well as a worthy representative for the manga). The animation is beautiful and elaborate, the soundtrack is awesome. If you have a soft, romantic spot, prepare for it to be touched. If you don't, maybe you can enjoy the great artwork, but probably you will find most of the scenes a bit cheesy.
An amazing movie! one of my favorites!
anime_fangirl25 May 2005
Ah my goddess was an awesome movie with an excellent story to it... any anime fans out there should read the books and watch the series as well!!! ^_^ I love the main character so much that my friends nicknamed me Belldandy after her!! but anyway... i definitely suggest you watch this movie if you haven't already and if you don't like it... well, your dumb!! i mean the character design was incredible, the animation was excellent, the voice actors were amazing, the story was perfect, and well... in all it was just amazing!! one thing i didn't like though... the artist makes her female characters stand out more than the males! and of course as a girl i would have loved for there to be a hot guy character but other than that... amazing!!
I love this Movie
FthisTide10 September 2005
This movie is one of my all time favorite movies. It has everything you could want in an anime. It has action, humor, mystery, and romance. The main character are very memorable, but the best has to be Celestine. He is just to cool for words. He doesn't believe in god's system so he wants to change it. He is trying change it, but he needs Belldandy's help. Does he succeed or fail. This movie is beautiful. Everything from the background to the character sketches. The music is lovely, too. The music always fits the moment. This movie is just wonderful. I have seen many anime movies, but this has to be one of my favorite movies, period. I wish they could make more movies like these.
Problematic sequel to iconic anime/manga series
justbob198217 August 2020
Version I saw: UK DVD release (subtitled)
Actors: 6/10
Plot/script: 4/10
Photography/visual style: 6/10
Music/score: 7/10
Overall: 5/10
The anime series Ah! My Goddess, based on Kosuke Fujishima's source manga, is fairly iconic and formative of its genre, but I haven't seen it, so I went inot this movie cold.
It appears that this is a sequel to the anime series. The classic harem of female characters is there, but main character Keiichi and the titular goddess Belldandy are a firmly established couple. There was a lot left unexplained though, and initially I had to conclude that I was missing information known to fans of the anime.
As the story went on though, more things happened that I could not explain. Unsignalled flashbacks and dream sequences, a hackneyed old amnesia plotline that only works because nobody is open with the amnesiac, a male lead apparently devopid of any personality. It all adds up to a bit of a flop.
It's a shame, because there are moments of quality writing in there. The events surrounding a motorbike crash in particular neatly encapsulate the relationship between characters, developing the story in an understated yet effective way. I note that there are two writers: Yoshihiko Tomizawa, a novie who went onto no great success, and Michiko Yokote, already well established before the film and in constant demand ever since. It is tempting to ascribe any good elements to Yokote and problems top Tomizawa, but I suppose we will never know for sure.
The orchestral soundtrack is impressively lush, with just the right lilt of romcom whimsy, the visuals appear to be an appropriate step up in quality from TV level at the time, and the voice cast is universally solid, if never inspiring enough tostand out... but the writing is a problem.
As the story went on, I got lost, and my interest in the proceedings waned to a sliver. By the time the villain revealed his motivation (a well-worn one that you will probably have seen variants on a dozen times over), I was more interested in my own mental deviation regarding the mythic origins of several character names. The film was lost to me.
Maybe your reaction will be different if you are already on board with this world and set of characters. For me, it is not good.
For my full review, see Cinema Inferno, my independent film weblof on Blogspot.
The anime series Ah! My Goddess, based on Kosuke Fujishima's source manga, is fairly iconic and formative of its genre, but I haven't seen it, so I went inot this movie cold.
It appears that this is a sequel to the anime series. The classic harem of female characters is there, but main character Keiichi and the titular goddess Belldandy are a firmly established couple. There was a lot left unexplained though, and initially I had to conclude that I was missing information known to fans of the anime.
As the story went on though, more things happened that I could not explain. Unsignalled flashbacks and dream sequences, a hackneyed old amnesia plotline that only works because nobody is open with the amnesiac, a male lead apparently devopid of any personality. It all adds up to a bit of a flop.
It's a shame, because there are moments of quality writing in there. The events surrounding a motorbike crash in particular neatly encapsulate the relationship between characters, developing the story in an understated yet effective way. I note that there are two writers: Yoshihiko Tomizawa, a novie who went onto no great success, and Michiko Yokote, already well established before the film and in constant demand ever since. It is tempting to ascribe any good elements to Yokote and problems top Tomizawa, but I suppose we will never know for sure.
The orchestral soundtrack is impressively lush, with just the right lilt of romcom whimsy, the visuals appear to be an appropriate step up in quality from TV level at the time, and the voice cast is universally solid, if never inspiring enough tostand out... but the writing is a problem.
As the story went on, I got lost, and my interest in the proceedings waned to a sliver. By the time the villain revealed his motivation (a well-worn one that you will probably have seen variants on a dozen times over), I was more interested in my own mental deviation regarding the mythic origins of several character names. The film was lost to me.
Maybe your reaction will be different if you are already on board with this world and set of characters. For me, it is not good.
For my full review, see Cinema Inferno, my independent film weblof on Blogspot.
THIS is how you do a romance movie
happybrand19 July 2016
I have never in my life seen a better story about a couple already in love than this movie. Usually a film is spent with the couple trying to get together for the entire thing, but it is rare to see a film that focuses on a couple already in love (without children) and the premise isn't about them having marital troubles.
I absolutely ADORE this movie. This has been my favorite anime movie for years. The animation is gorgeous, the music is wonderful, the voice acting (japanese anyway as Kikuo Inoue's voice is like butter) is fantastic and the story is calm, yet epic.
I won't give away what the plot is as I want you to see it for yourself, but needless to say, it is more than worth the watch. It leaves you with a feeling that everything will be okay and it set the standard for me when I was younger about what being in a relationship should be like. Yeah it set the bar pretty high, but that's the feeling you get from this film.
This is one of those few movies that is less a film, and more a life changing experience. If I could give this film an 11 I would. It is rare that I give a movie such unfiltered praise, but it really is one of the very few that actually deserve it. It is just a shame that the new series couldn't follow in the original OVA and film's footsteps.
I absolutely ADORE this movie. This has been my favorite anime movie for years. The animation is gorgeous, the music is wonderful, the voice acting (japanese anyway as Kikuo Inoue's voice is like butter) is fantastic and the story is calm, yet epic.
I won't give away what the plot is as I want you to see it for yourself, but needless to say, it is more than worth the watch. It leaves you with a feeling that everything will be okay and it set the standard for me when I was younger about what being in a relationship should be like. Yeah it set the bar pretty high, but that's the feeling you get from this film.
This is one of those few movies that is less a film, and more a life changing experience. If I could give this film an 11 I would. It is rare that I give a movie such unfiltered praise, but it really is one of the very few that actually deserve it. It is just a shame that the new series couldn't follow in the original OVA and film's footsteps.
Not as good as the TV series
Xyler85210 April 2011
Warning: Spoilers
As a "Ah My Goddess" TV series fan (the two seasons are on Hulu for free), I was hoping to enjoy the movie version. For me, the movie was OK but far too serious. The TV series is more lighthearted and fun. Also, several of the main English voice actors from the TV series have been replaced in the movie and so it doesn't sound quite right. Urd just doesn't have that flirtatious playfulness in her voice. Finally, the writers go to the well once to often with the 'hurt Belldandy by having another goddess, human, or creature kiss her boyfriend' subplot.
There are some good moments like the recruitment drive at the beginning. But other parts are somewhat confusing. Why is someone who wanted to create less suffering for others damned to be imprisoned on the moon for all eternity?
In the end, if you want to see it, check it out from the library rather than buying it. Personally I would like to see another movie or TV season produced which gets back to the fun, and original voice cast.
There are some good moments like the recruitment drive at the beginning. But other parts are somewhat confusing. Why is someone who wanted to create less suffering for others damned to be imprisoned on the moon for all eternity?
In the end, if you want to see it, check it out from the library rather than buying it. Personally I would like to see another movie or TV season produced which gets back to the fun, and original voice cast.
Oh My Goddess! This is amazing!
vegeta398628 July 2006
I am VERY critical when giving movies reviews, so this is something when i say this. This movie is quite possibly THE BEST MOVIE EVER MADE. I cannot think of a movie that is more beautifully told, drawn, or acted than this one. When i first saw this, this was after i had seen the original OVA and wanted to see more. It was more than i ever could have hoped for. Using the same VA's from the original TV series, this continues to be one of those things i can't watch in English. The Japanese belldandy's voice is gorgeous and matches her perfectly. The art of this movie is breathtaking, the detail and character development is AMAZING, yet it also leaves a message, and gives you a good feeling afterwords. This movie is without a doubt the best movie ever made, live action or animated. If you didn't see the original OVA series, go out and BUY IT just so you can watch this movie. It's completely worth it. A 10/10 in all regards as nothing even comes close.
one of my favorite anime, and even favorite movies in general
barrowisp14 March 2009
Warning: Spoilers
I got chills several times watching this movie, and I wasn't disappointed the second time. Visually, this movie is a delight, though be warned that it shows a fair amount skin. Of course the goddesses have gorgeous figures, but some scenes feature barely-decent nudity. As another commenter stated, the music is appropriate. I love that the villains aren't the evil stereotype. It makes Belldandy's decisions more meaningful since the issues aren't black and white. Not everything made sense (some seems downright absurd) but it was fun reading up on Norse mythology afterward, and now I want to check out the manga that the movie stemmed from. Another of my favorite anime films is Castle in the Sky, which also features clean, sweet love and bad guys that aren't evil. I hope to put Ah My Goddess! beside Castle in the Sky on my shelf soon.
I can't believe that such a movie took so long to reach my sight
dj_oldfield-35 January 2008
Warning: Spoilers
**** REGARDING SPOILER WARNING... THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO CONSIDER ANY DETAIL BEYOND THE SYNOPSES TO BE A SPOILER... THIS DOES NOT REVEAL PLOT LINES THOUGH **** My wife and I started out with a couple of random episodes on the anime channel, and eventually acquired both seasons (didn't like the OAVs though, so we didn't get them). This movie was the next step. Before we got it, we checked here and saw that even people who hadn't seen the series really liked it.
The characters were more human then any anime I have seen before, at least to the extent of their experiences, emotions, responses, etc. being in place with the film. This is a nice change, as my only real hesitation with anime is that the characters are often as exaggerated in personality as they are in pen.
The music was beautiful, and when the goddesses sing, it is very much the impression that one might have of an ethereal being.
The artwork is fantastic, rivaling the Final Fantasy movies (although each has its own distinctions).
Over all, I believe this may be the first movie I have rated as a 10. As a movie buff, I have to say this made my top 10 favorites, among other reasons because the story and the characters were both well above par.
The characters were more human then any anime I have seen before, at least to the extent of their experiences, emotions, responses, etc. being in place with the film. This is a nice change, as my only real hesitation with anime is that the characters are often as exaggerated in personality as they are in pen.
The music was beautiful, and when the goddesses sing, it is very much the impression that one might have of an ethereal being.
The artwork is fantastic, rivaling the Final Fantasy movies (although each has its own distinctions).
Over all, I believe this may be the first movie I have rated as a 10. As a movie buff, I have to say this made my top 10 favorites, among other reasons because the story and the characters were both well above par.
Amazing, absolutely amazing.
muviman9 May 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Finally able to view "Ah! My Goddess, The Movie" I had already seen all of season one, and 'wished' for more.
Just like Keiichi and his wish, I got more than I had bargained for. The entire movie plays like an epic feature film, not just a larger version of the series. The images are sharp and beautiful, the soundtrack impressive. The dubbing, very well done. Though some of the characters (Sayoko, Marller, Hild, and so on) did not appear as I had hoped, I wasn't disappointed in the new characters I saw. Celestin, being freed from his lunar imprisonment by Morgan, is intent on trying to overthrow the current system which he believes is flawed. He can't stand to allow suffering to prosper, and believes his new world will eradicate all suffering. Hiding on Morgan's human form, he is able to guide his liberator to do his bidding; separate Belldandy and Keiichi, and bring on his new order.
I was happy to see several things happen: Skuld is now at least tolerant to the relationship between her beloved big sister and Keiichi, even encouraging him at times, "You love Belldandy, don't you?" I was also happy to see the three sisters working together in perfect harmony for their common goal. But mostly, I was very happy to see Skuld finally has her full-size angel; Noble Scarlett.
Anyone who even likes the Ah! My Goddess series will absolutely love Ah! My Goddess: The Movie. But be warned, don't see it alone; see it with someone you love. After all, love is the most powerful thing in the universe, isn't it?
Just like Keiichi and his wish, I got more than I had bargained for. The entire movie plays like an epic feature film, not just a larger version of the series. The images are sharp and beautiful, the soundtrack impressive. The dubbing, very well done. Though some of the characters (Sayoko, Marller, Hild, and so on) did not appear as I had hoped, I wasn't disappointed in the new characters I saw. Celestin, being freed from his lunar imprisonment by Morgan, is intent on trying to overthrow the current system which he believes is flawed. He can't stand to allow suffering to prosper, and believes his new world will eradicate all suffering. Hiding on Morgan's human form, he is able to guide his liberator to do his bidding; separate Belldandy and Keiichi, and bring on his new order.
I was happy to see several things happen: Skuld is now at least tolerant to the relationship between her beloved big sister and Keiichi, even encouraging him at times, "You love Belldandy, don't you?" I was also happy to see the three sisters working together in perfect harmony for their common goal. But mostly, I was very happy to see Skuld finally has her full-size angel; Noble Scarlett.
Anyone who even likes the Ah! My Goddess series will absolutely love Ah! My Goddess: The Movie. But be warned, don't see it alone; see it with someone you love. After all, love is the most powerful thing in the universe, isn't it?
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