And how about checking out a super special post here: (REVIEW) Sword Art Online: Progressive. Well, the newest film Sword Art Online franchise has hit Brazilian theaters, promising to recount the events of the Aincrad arc. However, this time from the perspective of the character Asuna Yuuki .
(REVIEW) Sword Art Online: Progressive
Narrative
First, it's likely that the fan favorite arc is indeed the Aincrad arc, where thousands of players find themselves trapped in a veritable "death game" in the Sword Art Online game, with their only choice being to beat the game.
So, the arc returns in this new film, this time with the promise of being infinitely more detailed. In fact, this is likely to actually happen, considering the film only adapted up to the end of the second episode of the original anime. In other words, it will still be a long time before this film trilogy is completed.
Asuna
On the other hand, it is undeniable that the character Asuna becomes somewhat "erased" as the SAO anime progresses, as Kirito steals almost all the spotlight for himself, therefore, it is extremely commendable on the author's part to give the character more prominence now.
Right from the start, we're introduced to a character who doesn't have a good family structure, facing intense pressure, despite consistently achieving excellent grades and working hard. As soon as the "death game" begins, the character reveals herself to be mentally fragile, but as the film progresses, we see her take shape and become the "Lightning" Asuna fans are used to seeing.
Asuna and Mito
Just a few minutes into the film, we're introduced to the new character Mito, making her first appearance in the franchise. In fact, Mito is a true gaming addict, even participating in regional championships. Plus, she's the one who pushes Asuna to play Sword Art Online.
Furthermore, she's the one who helps Asuna develop her swordsmanship skills in the deadly game. The two go through a difficult situation in the film. However, it's heartbreaking at the end when Asuna shows no resentment toward her friend. She shows gratitude for everything she taught her.
As for Mito's character development, I felt it was a bit lacking. She's simply introduced as "the girl who rocks at games." But that was pretty much it. Who knows, maybe future films will flesh out the character further.
Asuna and Kirito
I confess that, as a huge fan of the black swordsman, I was quite worried that Kirito wouldn't be prominent in this new film. But he appears when needed, this time acting more as a supporting character.
By the way, it's worth remembering that despite its action-packed nature, Sword Art Online has always been a work that focused on the romance between these two. In fact, this romance is ABSURDLY better constructed, as we see the exact moment they meet and the bond between them forming. The film's ending is perhaps the biggest departure from the anime, leaving fans who are passionate about this couple desperate for the sequel.
(REVIEW) Sword Art Online: Progressive – Conclusion
Finally, this is undoubtedly the ultimate for those already passionate about the series. It gives greater depth to a very interesting character, Asuna. And above all, it truly revisits some aspects of the Aincrad arc.
Not to mention, of course, the presence of singer LiSA, already an iconic voice in the anime's songs. A-1 Pictures, as expected, is doing an excellent job.
And you, have you already seen the film in theaters?
