Review of No Game, No Life: Zero

Watched in the US theater release. 10/05/17. When I heard that NGNL: Zero was going to be in an American theater, you bet my inner weeb that I immediately ordered a ticket online and mentally prepare myself by rewatching No Game No Life while hugging my adorable Shiro body pillow. After watching this movie, here are my thoughts. I'll try to keep it as spoiler-free as possible. ※ Strength ※ - Massive story change. This means that this movie is based on what happened in Disboard 6000 year ago. While completely changing the environment, character and vibe, NGNL0 still retain some of the signature characteristics from the original franchise.- Action-filled. You aren't likely to get bored as the movie proceeds to bombard you with action-packed scenes that continue to blow you away. Although giving a slightly different feel, this movie still retain some of the key elements of Shiro/Sora.
- Art. Needless to say, the character design, artwork sceneries and background overlay are all incredibly well-made. A picture is worth a thousand words can be applied here. Bonus for taking advantage of the scenery and making it to beautiful, memorable moment.
- Music. The OST, soundtrack and background music are incredibly well-made. Along with the transitioning and proper execution, I was emotionally moved to ninjas cutting onions in front of me. These damn ninjas.
- Meaningful. No fillers, all of the plotline and development is, one way or another, necessary and crucial to the next "arc" of the chapter. Of course, that doesn't stop the occasional fanservices that the viewer may internally crave.
- Fighting scenes. Shoutout to Madhouse for those badass animations. Especially the fight between Jibril and Schwi. The impact of each move... You can absolutely feel it.

※ Weakness ※
- Lack of explanation. Although the world may be similar, the entire concept is complete different. The lack to properly explain situations, concepts and different races made it harder to sympathize and follow along as I found myself somewhat confused at some scenes. Unsure what the hell they are talking about.
- Rushed. To put an "entire season worthy" of anime into a hour-long short film is definitely a feat. Although expertly conducted, I could feel there were some instances that felt somewhat rushed in order to move on to the next phase of the plot.
- Deviation. I think the difference between a NGNL masterpiece and this movie is the deviation from the plot itself. Yes, the concept is interesting. Yes, the character is what we want. Yes, it is similar in some way. But the whole concept is somewhat... changed. One could call this a completely different anime if you were to switch the character up a bit. I think it's just lacking the NGNL pepper and spices necessary for that one final touch to make it a WOW-factor.

Would I recommend this? Hell to the yeah.
How many times did I tear up? Enough that the manly well is now dry.
Did you enjoy it? Wouldn't have missed this special day :')

Overall, I love the film. Love all there is to the franchise of No game no life. And who can forget the wincest between Sora and Shiro strikes again 6000 years ago.

BUT.

FOR THE SAKE OF OUR SANITY.

JUST GIVE US SEASON 2 ALREADY.