The first movie of Tenchi, is, well, okay. But I still don't get it. This is based on the Tenchi Universe series, and not on the OVA, what is up with that? I don't understand. I don't believe that they will ever make one based on the OVA, but at least they are continuing that one. But despite that this is still worth viewing for the average Tenchi fan. It has more background on Tenchi's past, and his mother, and father, and it mostly has Ryoko and Ayeka posing as high schoolers and Mihoshi as a teacher, a dull one though, but it is memorable. But I can't help feel that this is so familiar somewhere, I think it was that episode in the Time and Space adventures one where they live their lives as high schoolers or something. And Sasami is cute as always in this one. I like her in those clothes very cute, enough to give Chiyo of Azumanga Daioh a run for her money. Watch it.
... View MoreGoing back to the past to save your parents so you exist in the first place. Doesn't seem very original does it? But as you watch the movie, you find yourself drawn into the story. The story that revolves around Tenchi's mother Achika, and the budding romance between her and Tenchi's future father, Noboyuki. Little do they know that they have been targeted by a ruthless entity known as Kain.Tenchi fans will truly enjoy the movie as they get more of an insight on the clouded past on tenchi's parents. The reaction of Tenchi and the gang around his parents is a pleasant experience for the viewer.Non Tenchi fans will appreciate the relationships between characters in the movie. The action scenes are very well done and adds excitement to the plot.There is something however i can complain about. The story has a huge buildup and a relatively short resolution. But the resolution was truly sweet and makes you watch it over and over again. Its a very cheap dvd , so go out and buy it or rent it today. You definitely won't regret it
... View MoreMy wife never had any experience with anime before she was with me; over the years I've sent her scurrying out of the room with much of what I watch... Tenchi Muyo In Love, though, kept her interest piqued.The animation: beautiful; the usual Tenchi OVAs and TV-series are great, but the movie is a real knock-out. Unlike the big-budget anime movies of late (and Disney films) the scenes have a consistent level of quality. There aren't nine scenes of good animation, and one scene of mind-blowing 3D computer-generated/cel combo stuff... all of the scenes are great quality, with little to cause distraction.The storyline: good. It draws somewhat upon knowledge of previous events in the Tenchi realm, but is accessible for novices. I would have preferred the story to stick with the emotional aspect- as exciting as a big demon fight is, the characters are even more so... but then again, I guess that's why companies make stuff like Kimagure Orange Road or Maison Ikkoku.The translation: good. Unlike how I prefer most of my anime, I'm both used to and accepting of the English translation job done by Pioneer. They're the voices I first heard when watching Tenchi, and they settle okay with me. (My wife can't stand Sasami's English voice, however.) I don't feel like I'm either missing parts of the original dialogue, nor do I feel like the story is too Americanized. If I were used to the Japanese version, my feelings might vary- but I have access to both versions, and the English one usually wins out.The storyline is good... Tenchi as a whole is not supposed to be unique, but a comfortable, fun ride. It delivers entertainment in droves, and the characters are so well-rounded that it's hard not to come away without feeling affected, despite feeling like you've just watched a mish-mash of SF cliches. Rather than the tour-de-force movies like Akira or Ghost in the Shell, this is the movie I'd probably show new-comers- "This is what Japanese animation can be like." When they're more willing to work at comprehending a story, then move on...
... View MoreThis is one of the most well-done movies I have ever seen. This movie brought me to my knees. Few films have ever made me cry, but this... this just does it so well. I can't say enough good things about this movie.I love the mix of styles. The technology (mostly I like Washu), the romance, the action, and the originality. This movie is candy for mind that doesn't rot your teeth.One thing for those of you who haven't seen it. You don't have to have seen any of the TV series. You don't have to know anything about the characters to understand what is going on. This movie ranks (to me at least) just bellow Akira, and and just above 'Ghost in the Shell'.
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