Is Sword Art Online the Movie: Ordinal Scale Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)

📖 The Core Premise

Sword Art Online the Movie: Ordinal Scale stands as a 2017 entry that attempts to leave its mark on the Animation, Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction landscape. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "In 2026, a new machine called the Augma is developed to compete against the NerveGear and its successor, the Amusphere. A next-gen wearable device, the Augma doesn't have a full-dive function like its predecessors. Instead, it uses Augmented Reality to get players into the game. It is safe, user-friendly and lets users play while they are conscious, making it an instant hit on the market. The most popular game on the system is “Ordinal Scale” an ARMMORPG developed exclusively for the Augma. Asuna and the gang have already been playing OS for a while, by the time Kirito decides to join them. They’re about to find out that Ordinal Scale isn’t all fun and games…"

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. The performance by Yoshitsugu Matsuoka is a highlight, bringing a palpable intensity to the screen. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Animation. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Sword Art Online the Movie: Ordinal Scale worth your time? If you appreciate Animation, Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2017, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Sword Art Online the Movie: Ordinal Scale is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 119 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.