Black Clover fans around the world finally had something to look forward to with the release of the Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King movie directed by Ayataka Tanemura, produced by Studio Pierrot and released worldwide thanks to Netflix. Although the anime premiered in 2017 and ran until 2021 with a total of 170 episodes, the production of the anime came to an abrupt end and left fans wondering when Asta would return.
Netflix was able to bring back the eccentric hero and his band of black bulls to the screen, topped with amazing animation and a compelling storyline. The creator of Black Clover, Yuki Tabata also returned as supervisor for the movie describing it as a film that would fall in line with the story of Black Clover.
Review and Plot
While the previous episodes of the anime followed Asta's quest in becoming Wizard King, this movie begins with a battle tournament taking place which is suddenly interrupted by a former Wizard King who turned evil, Conrad Leto. Conrad also wields the Imperial Sword also known as Elsdocia, one of the most powerful weapons in the Clover Kingdom and is accompanied by three Wizard Kings from the past, Edward Avalaché, Princia Funnybunny, and Jester Garandaros, all who share the same vision of eradicating Clover Kingdom.
Asta and the rest of the magical knights present spring into action taking it upon themselves to fight to their death in order to protect the citizens of Clover Kingdom. Asta is also given the main task of using his unique anti-magic abilities to fight Conrad and stop him from taking over Clover Kingdom, while the other Magic Knights strategically separates each evil Wizard King and fights them in groups. Although a former Wizard King, Conrad is seen to be ruthless in his actions showing no mercy and doing anything to get his way, he also tries enticing Asta to join his side and fight alongside him, but Asta is too headstrong and believes that a Wizard King should protect and not destroy making him even angrier and goes all out with his power in the hope of stopping Conrad and his evil vendetta.
The movie does a brilliant job in capturing the essence of Black Clover, skillfully captivating qualities that define the series. At its core, it focuses on Asta's journey and growth as he confronts monumental challenges that test the depths of his resilience and how far he is willing to go to become the Wizard King. Asta is however not alone in his battles and has the support of his friends as they dive deep into battle fighting the powerful former Wizard Kings.
Animation and Characters
From the multiple pawns spawned by Princia Funnybunny to the angel-like ice golems created by Edward Avalaché, Studio Pierrot has gone all out in making sure that the viewers are given a spectacle of an experience into the world of Black Clover. The battle scenes are just as epic and mesmerizing filled with vivid colors and eye-catching action sequences. The CGI also blends well with the 2D elements giving viewers a mix of both visually stunning animation that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as our heroes battle it out.
Studio Pierrot has also given much attention to detail and consistency in their drawings when it comes to the characters while also making sure that each character is given just the right amount of attention and screen time. The return and battle scenes of fan favorite characters such as Yami Sukehiro, Mereoleona Vermillion and Noelle Silva and the rest of the Magic Knights are definitely worth watching as they unleash all their powers.
Conclusion
The revival of the Black Clover franchise has definitely been worth the wait and has made a triumphant comeback, reawakening the love for this series and leaving fans hoping for more to come. It's safe to say that Black Clover fans can continue holding onto their Grimoires and cheer Asta on as he goes head-to-head to defeat the evil Wizard King and someday become Wizard King himself.