Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll

dsmith8 Feb 19, 2020

7.5

This movie was a lovely addition to the Violet Evergarden franchise. I am so glad to watch such a beautifully created anime after the tragedy that happened to Kyoto Animation. The quality has not slipped one bit, and seeing this makes me tremendously hopeful for the future of the studio.  As for the movie, the strong points were the animation (as you would come to expect from a KyoAni production), as well as the voice acting and soundtrack. The characters movement and expressions were full of life. The backgrounds and scenery were equally gorgeous, as we got to explore a bit more of the Evergarden world. It was also nice to see some changes to the world as time passed. The returning cast delivered excellent performances. Standouts were the interactions between Violet (Yui Ishikawa) and Isabella York (Minako Kotobuki). The soundtrack was full of lush orchestral arrangements that emulated the emotions that the characters and audience are meant to feel. There were no opening or ending songs for this movie. Where this movie lacked for me was emotional connection. The story and plot were very well done. However, the emotional climaxes did not connect with me on a personal level like some of the previous arcs have. That was certainly not the case for others in the audience. Muffled sniffles were clearly heard among other viewers, so your personal experiences  will obviously dictate how this movie connects with you. I also hoped the movie would explore more of Violet's backstory, but unfortunately that was not the case. Perhaps the next movie will. Regardless of the negatives, I certainly enjoyed the movie. If you liked the first season of Violet Evergarden, I definitely recommend seeing this movie. If you havent seen the series, the movie could be seen standalone, but you will be missing a lot of characterization for the minor characters as well as some subtle details. Thanks for reading. Feel free to let me know what you thought in the comments. - ds

Eiraza Apr 21, 2020

9.9

This movie is about two sisters who are separated due to the unfair circumstances that is life. Violet is assigned to the older sister and teaches her how to act like a lady. While the older sister, Isabelle, is relucant and irriated by Violet's presence, they eventually break the ice and grow closer. I'd said both girls achieve their first real friendships together and Violet hears about how Isabelle was separated from her little sister. Violet writes a letter to the little sister and after four years that little sister, Taylor, ends up at the workplace of Violets to be a mailman (mail-lady). This movie takes us on the journey of two people who love each other and how they hold each other in their hearts despite the distance. Honestly makes me think of Violet and Gilbert a little bit. So this movie was a good addition to the violet evergarden series. It made me cry, though not as hard as some other episodes. One thing that was exciting was that this movie covers a 4 year time span. I was excited to see Violet after 4 years of being a auto memory doll, because everyone else in her work place had changed the way they look and dress. Unfortunately though, Violet is stagnant against time and looks and dresses the exact same as she did 4 years ago. We did get to see Violet with her hair down more, but I wish she'd try other hairstyles. Also Violet's hair length is sooooo inconsistent. I think it grew after the four year jump, but it was constantly changing. Sometimes it was by her waist, other times it was mid-back again. I just wanted some consistency. Other then that little nit pick, beautiful animation and as usual, a beautiful story.

trashcan007 Dec 16, 2023

6

***Warning: You will not understand the story unless you watch at least a good chunk of the original anime*** ***Warning: controversial thoughts shared in this review*** I liked the original anime. However, this movie is just slightly above average. Just like in the original anime, there are some iconic characters as well as fun and endearing moments. People learn more about themselves and become better by simply interacting with Violet. You will definitely end up liking the story- even though it is a little predictable. As far as my critiques: There were a few minor holes in the backstories that I felt could have been covered a little better.  I got some slight l3sbian vibes- though there was nothing direct. Two older teens sleeping in the same bed? Sometimes holding hands? Then one dances in male attire and the other in female attire? Hmmm… could be I’m just sensitive to these things, but I definitely got that vibe. One thing that I really didn’t like was the insidious “independent, you go girl” talk. And for those who don’t know what I’m referring to, there is a scene in which the female workers discuss life goals. All of the goals are almost exclusively focused on their jobs and personal achievements instead of finding a significant other and/or building happy families. I have had some sincere conversations with some mature females (in real life) who have told me that these ideas/promotions poisoned their minds during critical years and left them feeling sad/empty inside later on in life. No one is saying that people shouldn’t pursue careers, but for that to be one’s whole focus/goal is simply not practical- nor is it fulfilling. Anyway, I went off on a tangent there and will probably be called s3xist for stating the truth...but this was still a slightly above average movie (a 6/10 overall). I would say it's worth watching if you liked the original anime.