Street Fighter II: The Movie

Genre: Action / Martial Arts
Parental Guidance Recommended
Credits: 1994 Sony, Capcom

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Skysenshi's Description:
The diabolical M. Bison wants to rule the world by collecting the world's best fighters. However, he has his eyes set on capturing Ryu, a Japanese martial arts expert who is popular for the way he defeated the famous Muy Thai fighter Sagat. Unable to get Ryu, Bison changes his tactics. He kidnaps and brainwashes Ryu's equally skilled American counterpart and best friend, Ken. Now it's Ken versus Ryu. Who do you suppose is going to win?

NOTE: This description was written sometime in 2001 and was recorded in the classic Otaku Fridge as ??.??.2001. Unfortunately the database would not accept non-numerical values, so this review is now dated January 01, 2001 by default.

Like I care about the story when it comes to this game...>>> by skysenshi
Street Fighter II the Animated Movie has a plot that is pretty simple but, unlike the Street Fighter II V series, quite loyal to the concept and character design that Capcom has served to many gaming fans. Bear in mind that SF2V, this movie, and Street Fighter Zero the Movie do not have the same storyline, much like in Tenchi Muyo where historical backgrounds differ from one set to another. If you saw anywhere that I have stated that this movie is a continuation of SF2V, where our beloved champs are younger, then somebody has cast a spell on my review.

Having said that, I reiterate that the plot is quite simple. There are even times when the movie makes you wonder if there ever was a solid plot at all. Despite all that, I actually became addicted to it. I even saw it around 10 times. Not for the inconclusive story, or the way the scenes jumped from one topic to another, but for the fighting scenes. Oh yes, SF2 never scrimped on those exciting and ever-so-engaging fighting scenes. My favorite is definitely Chun-Li and Vega's explosive scenario! Another thing worth mentioning is the way Ken and Ryu remembered each other through years of separation. The way they longed to test each other's strengths once again were highlighted by flashbacks of their training days when they were much younger. Those scenes are probably the most memorable aspects of the anime because it showed the vulnerability of two great fighters. The art and animation are also amongst the best of SF you'll ever see. If you like less talk and more action, this is definitely the movie for you.

Individual Rating: Art/Animation 9; Story 5; Characters 7; Sounds 8