InuYasha The Movie 2: The Castle Beyond the Looking Glass

ThatAnimeSnob Jun 10, 2012

6.5

This is the second Inu Yasha movie, taking place after the hero has learned the barrier breaker technique. The scenario takes advantage of a possible sequel after the main objective is completed. So imagine the heroes managing to destroy Naraku 200 episodes earlier and are thinking of what to do with their lives now that the threat is over. This alone gave a lot more focus to every one of them and how they are now trying to settle down in a peaceful world. Of course this is not meant to last because there is a demon who rivals Naraku’s power and whose plan can be achieved now that he is dead. So it’s like an after story scenario where trying to fix things only manages to make them worse. Also, the villain is based on a fairy tale and a poem, and her motives seem quite strange for most of the movie, so everything feels far more mysterious and elaborate. Unlike the first movie the plot is not that predictable and it is surely not about huge explosions either. The conflict is far more esoteric and despite not feeling as threatening or powerful as the villains of the first movie, it definitely manages to build up far better tension and excitement. After all, saving the flow of time sounds more cool that just saving the world once more. Plus, I liked how it took everybody’s effort to weaken the villain instead of just being about the hero and his kill-all sword as usual. Combined all that with far better production values than the tv series and you got yourself a very interesting filler mission. Although I enjoyed the whole “what happens next” flavour, the movie is otherwise not exactly trying to offer something we haven’t seen already. It would fit nicely as a final mission a little bit before the canon finale but for the time it takes place it just tells us what we already see in the main series. Also, once you see past the mysterious goals of the villain you realize that half the movie is just a dull build up. The movie will better be appreciated by those who prefer mystery or comedy than action, as there isn’t that much of the later. Plus, it is much closer to a metaphysical journey than shounen action. Nothing amazing in overall but at least it is different than the usual stuff you get in the main series.

ChiiYuuki Mar 5, 2024

10

InuYasha Movie 2: Kagami no Naka no Mugenjo  continues the cinematic journey of the beloved anime series, offering fans another dose of action, romance, and supernatural intrigue. Released in 2002, the film builds upon the success of its predecessor while introducing new challenges for our favorite characters. The movie explores the evolving dynamics of the central characters' relationships. InuYasha and Kagome's bond deepens, and other character relationships are further explored, providing emotional resonance for fans invested in the series. The film introduces a captivating plot centered around a mysterious castle and a mirror with the power to manipulate time. The narrative complexity keeps viewers engaged, and the stakes are raised as the characters confront new adversaries and supernatural challenges. The animation quality maintains the high standard set by the series and the previous movie. The action sequences are dynamic, and the visuals effectively capture the magical and fantastical elements that define the InuYasha universe. Similar to the first movie, Kagami no Naka no Mugenjo  expands on the lore of the InuYasha world. The introduction of new magical elements and artifacts adds depth to the mythology, creating a richer narrative experience for fans. The film successfully balances action and emotion, delivering poignant moments that resonate with the audience. The characters' internal struggles and the challenges they face contribute to the emotional depth of the storyline. As with the previous movie, the film assumes a certain level of familiarity with the InuYasha series. Newcomers may find it challenging to fully grasp the context and significance of certain character relationships and events. Some elements of the plot may follow familiar patterns found in the InuYasha series. While this predictability is common in long-running franchises, it might be a minor drawback for those seeking more narrative surprises. InuYasha Movie 2: Kagami no Naka no Mugenjo  maintains the high standards set by its predecessor, delivering a compelling and visually impressive addition to the InuYasha film series. With its intricate plot, character development, and emotional resonance, the movie caters to the dedicated fanbase while offering an engaging experience for lovers of action-fantasy anime. While it assumes viewer familiarity with the series, the film succeeds in expanding the InuYasha universe and providing a satisfying continuation of the characters' adventures. For fans seeking a blend of action, romance, and supernatural intrigue, this movie serves as a worthwhile and nostalgic extension of the InuYasha saga.

Siluevamp159 Apr 9, 2016

10

I think I liked this movie best of all the 4 movies. I heard there's a fifth one coming out but it may be fib, because I have heard this same rumerr since 2012, and now it is 2015.