"Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos: The Movie, Part 1," a 2023 release, marks a pivotal moment in the Sailor Moon Crystal series, adapting the "Stars" arc from the original manga. Directed by Tomoya Takahashi and written by Kazuyuki Fudeyasu, this film stands out as a crucial chapter in the Sailor Moon narrative.
The story resumes months after the defeat of the Dead Moon Circus, with Usagi Tsukino and her friends leading peaceful lives as high school students. However, the tranquility is short-lived. Sailor Moon's boyfriend, Mamoru Chiba (Tuxedo Mask), and the Sailor Guardians become targets of Shadow Galactica, led by the notorious Sailor Galaxia. The Sailor Starlights, a group of Sailor Guardians who disguise themselves as a pop star group called The Three Lights on Earth, are also intricately involved, although their true allegiance remains uncertain to Usagi.
The narrative explores the continuing battle of Sailor Moon and her allies against the ambitious Shadow Galactica. Their mission: to seize the precious Sailor Crystals, which are integral to Sailor Galaxia's plan for universal domination. This first part of "Sailor Moon Cosmos" focuses on Shadow Galactica's aggressive actions to dismantle Sailor Moon's support system and gain control of the universe.
This movie is rich in themes that resonate deeply with fans of the series – friendship, love, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness. Usagi's alter ego, Sailor Moon, faces the monumental task of protecting the universe and countering the malevolent efforts of Sailor Galaxia. The narrative is brought to life by a cast of talented voice actors, including Kotono Mitsuishi reprising her role as Usagi Tsukino/Sailor Moon. The cast includes veterans of the "Sailor Moon Crystal" series and newcomers, adding depth and diversity to the characters.
Director Tomoya Takahashi brings a unique perspective to the film, focusing particularly on the villains' tragic pasts, thus humanizing them and making their struggles more relatable. His approach enriches the narrative, adding layers of complexity to the characters and their motivations. Screenwriter Kazuyuki Fudeyasu, known for his work on various acclaimed anime titles, weaves a screenplay that captures the essence of the manga while infusing it with new emotional depth.
"Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos: The Movie, Part 1" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Sailor Moon saga. It skillfully combines action, drama, and romance, underpinned by themes of loyalty, courage, and the fight against evil. The film not only serves as a nostalgic trip for long-time fans but also offers an exciting entry point for new viewers, promising a cinematic experience that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
