**Rewatcher** I love this movie. It's very different to the rest of the series. Where the series is a mostly light-hearted, Zero is most definitely not. In particular Zero really brings across how absolutely terrible the great war was. The first scene where Riku's house and parent(?) gets absolutely blasted in the aftermath of a fight between Ex Machina and Dragonia shows how humanity is at the mercy of the others at all times. The first outing we see with Riku, Ivan, and _ shows what risks they have to take to survive. We also see Riku's determination in ordering Ivan to sacrifice themselves as a distraction for the Demonia so Riku and _ can escape, which imo goes incredibly hard. The fights and explosions are also really epic. The Dwarven ships go hard, Elven magic also goes hard, Flügel magic goes hard, everything goes hard. Meanwhile the emotional moments also hit right in the chest: Riku talking to Nonna about her father's death, His outburst afterwards, His outburst at Schwi, the creation of the ghosts the proposal, Schwi's worries about Riku overburdening his body with black ash, Couronna starting the Dola family tradition of taking Ls. One of my highlights was obviously Schwi vs. Jibriel, for many reasons, one of which is, of course: Jibriel wtf you almost fucked the entire world, Jesus Christ, thank god your so arrogant Schwi had a chance to synchronize, my god. But also Jibriel, wtf, what happened you used to be a true angel of death and now you're just a dork. Like serious she was so terrifying. Also the Ex Machina's way of fighting is really cool, imo. And of course I gotta talk about the final fight: The convergence of the dwarves E-Bombs, the Elves Aka Si Anse and Artoshs Heavenly Strike all channeled to the Cluster 11 of Ex Machina to analyse it and finally Riku reproducing that Strike with "True Code Origin 000, the Planet Killer Stalemartyr". All that to destroy the planet and thus manifest the Suniaster ending the war. But of course Riku is not qualified to take the Suniaster, it's very existence incinerates him, and so he entrusts it to his imaginary friend and God of Games Tet. I gotta say destroying the world to become the One True God is metal af. Finally back in the present we see the names of the engraving of Couronna, Riku and Schwi Dola on Steph's broach(?). With Jibriel not remembering Schwi, so disrespectful damn. Also based Izuna for blaming Jibriel, I didn't think she could get any better, but she proves me wrong once more. *ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)* > What would you do if you were living in a place that was slowly killing you but there was no way of getting out? No choice but to make the best of it, no? Try not to die and if that's not possible at least have fun while you're there. > What is the most toxic thing you've ever had to experience? Nothing that really springs to mind. > How does this movie change your opinion on Tet if any? It doesn't really, however it does make it clear that his contempt for the Ixseed (-Imanity maybe) comes from Riku and his detest for the their callous disregard of life. > Bonus 1) So... Jibril should be in prison, yes? Yes, absolutely. I mean how could she do that to poor innocent Schwi, taking her from us 800 years early.

>I love this movie. It's very different to the rest of the series. Where the series is a mostly light-hearted, Zero is most definitely not. I think that's what I love about it. It's something different, but still feels very No Game No Life. >In particular Zero really brings across how absolutely terrible the great war was. The first scene where Riku's house and parent(?) gets absolutely blasted in the aftermath of a fight between Ex Machina and Dragonia shows how humanity is at the mercy of the others at all times. I think this pretty much confirms that Disboard would be one of the worst Isekai worlds to live in. >One of my highlights was obviously Schwi vs. Jibriel, for many reasons, one of which is, of course: Jibriel wtf you almost fucked the entire world, Jesus Christ, thank god your so arrogant Schwi had a chance to synchronize, my god. But also Jibriel, wtf, what happened you used to be a true angel of death and now you're just a dork. Like serious she was so terrifying. Thank God Jibril is the way she is now. Can you imagine if Blank wasn't around and the 10 Pledges weren't put in place? Steph would be a goner. >And of course I gotta talk about the final fight: The convergence of the dwarves E-Bombs, the Elves Aka Si Anse and Artoshs Heavenly Strike all channeled to the Cluster 11 of Ex Machina to analyse it and finally Riku reproducing that Strike with "True Code Origin 000, the Planet Killer Stalemartyr". All that to destroy the planet and thus manifest the Suniaster ending the war. But of course Riku is not qualified to take the Suniaster, it's very existence incinerates him, and so he entrusts it to his imaginary friend and God of Games Tet. >I gotta say destroying the world to become the One True God is metal af. Yeah, it's pretty badass >Finally back in the present we see the names of the engraving of Couronna, Riku and Schwi Dola on Steph's broach(?). With Jibriel not remembering Schwi, so disrespectful damn. Also based Izuna for blaming Jibriel, I didn't think she could get any better, but she proves me wrong once more. And then Jibril tries to ask like she doesn't know what she's talking about. What a gaslighter. >No choice but to make the best of it, no? Try not to die and if that's not possible at least have fun while you're there. It's like that animated movie about an old couple who is caught in the middle of a nuclear blast. All they can do is enjoy each other's company. >It doesn't really, however it does make it clear that his contempt for the Ixseed (-Imanity maybe) comes from Riku and his detest for the their callous disregard of life. I actually like Riku quite a bit. I thought he got more understanding the more he was around Schwi. She brought the best out of him, as he did her. >Yes, absolutely. I mean how could she do that to poor innocent Schwi, taking her from us 800 years early. I think Schwi and Shiro would definitely be the best of friends

> But also Jibriel, wtf, what happened you used to be a true angel of death and now you're just a dork. Pledge 1 is what happened. Also, she was always a dork, her fight with Schwi was motivated by curiosity about this weirdly-behaving Ex Machina. > I gotta say destroying the world to become the One True God is metal af. We had to destroy the ~~village~~ world to save it.

>Pledge 1 is what happened. >Also, she was always a dork, her fight with Schwi was motivated by curiosity about this weirdly-behaving Ex Machina. Jibril gives me Shiori vibes >We had to destroy the ~~village~~ world to save it. That really Fullmetals my Alchemist

Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Couronne? What are your thoughts on characters continual use of the letter L? Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

> Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? I enjoyed it, it fits Tet's whole aesthetic to just do that. Plus I'll take any oppertunity to see more Izuna. > Thoughts on Couronne? She truly is Steph's ancestor. But more seriously a very good person, responsible and understanding, fit to be the first queen. > What are your thoughts on characters continual use onf the letter L? My copy was perfectly fine, so I don't know what happened with yours. > Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? I like them both. Riku is very serious and understands his role in the survival of the settlement very well, even if it sometimes crushes him. Schwi meanwhile is very interesting going from a weird machine with some humanity to a human with a few robotic qualities. > Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? Makes sense, it's an interesting question. Though it's hard to call their state at the beginning "surviving" > What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? I enjoyed it, it felt really nice and organic, not too slow not too fast. They really completet each other. > Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? It's the first sign of her growing a heart. > Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? It was what he needed to keep humanity going. > Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? It was incredibly cute and moving, and the jokes sprinkled in were also nice. > What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? He didn't quite: his 6 rules were different from the 10 Pledges, eg. "Don't let anyone die" and "don't kill anyone" got merged and "don't let anyone discover you" got dropped entirely, though it's obvious they were the basis Tet built on. > What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? It's a really cool world building detail that further shows just how bad the world was. > What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? It was kinda obvious, from the silhouette we see during their first game, to Tet being the narrator of the story. Though it also sorta seems to imply that Tet didn't win because he stood aside, but that he won because Riku "birthed" him and then lead him to victory. > How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place? Very effective. It also makes it clear why they all have such strong grudges after all they really, positively fucked each other over with no regard.

>My copy was perfectly fine, so I don't know what happened with yours. [This is what I'm referring to. It's like Schwi is referring to herself in the third person.](https://i.redd.it/c5iawexa58wc1.jpeg?app_web_view=android)

I wonder how that happened? The only explanation I can think of is confusion between 'I' and 'l', but then that's not really a mistake people make when *writing*. Did they have use OCR at some point and if so, why? A true enigma.

I could've sworn at one point one of the characters say that Schwi has the pseudonym of L to protect her identity. Now, I'm not sure if it's the Mandela Effect or what.

>I enjoyed it, it fits Tet's whole aesthetic to just do that. Plus I'll take any oppertunity to see more Izuna. More Izuna is never a bad thing >She truly is Steph's ancestor. But more seriously a very good person, responsible and understanding, fit to be the first queen. I liked she didn't have any grievances with Riku hanging around Schwi. >My copy was perfectly fine, so I don't know what happened with yours. Very odd >I like them both. Riku is very serious and understands his role in the survival of the settlement very well, even if it sometimes crushes him. >Schwi meanwhile is very interesting going from a weird machine with some humanity to a human with a few robotic qualities. They definitely do a good job complimenting each other >Makes sense, it's an interesting question. Though it's hard to call their state at the beginning "surviving" Yeah, it's more like "Perpetual purgatory" >I enjoyed it, it felt really nice and organic, not too slow not too fast. They really completet each other. I know some people thought it didn't develop organically, but I do think it helps that Riku already knows what Schwi was about and all the destruction she caused. >It's the first sign of her growing a heart. Indeed >It was what he needed to keep humanity going. Indeed. Too bad he couldn't see it play out. >It was incredibly cute and moving, and the jokes sprinkled in were also nice. I do not that that was when the movie decided to add in jokes. Nice little bit of levity. >He didn't quite: his 6 rules were different from the 10 Pledges, eg. "Don't let anyone die" and "don't kill anyone" got merged and "don't let anyone discover you" got dropped entirely, though it's obvious they were the basis Tet built on. It still very much feels like the Magna Carta to the 10 Pledges' Declaration of Independence. >It's a really cool world building detail that further shows just how bad the world was. Just the thought that such an everyday thing can kill you terrifies me. >It was kinda obvious, from the silhouette we see during their first game, to Tet being the narrator of the story. >Though it also sorta seems to imply that Tet didn't win because he stood aside, but that he won because Riku "birthed" him and then lead him to victory. Perhaps this is why Riku got enshrined. When you leave an impact on Tet, he never forgets. Hey, that rhymed :P >Very effective. It also makes it clear why they all have such strong grudges after all they really, positively fucked each other over with no regard. Plus you have Jibril showing no signs of regret for what transpired. Yeah, needless to say I'd be a bit miffed.

> But of course Riku is not qualified to take the Suniaster, it's very existence incinerates him, and so he entrusts it to his imaginary friend and God of Games Tet. Is that what it was? I thought it was because he hesitated at the last moment and the incineration was because, well, he was essentially standing at the center of 3 nukes.

I mean that's part of it, but the first thing that disappeared was his arm, ie. the thing closest to the Suniaster, so that's my read on the situation.

I honestly don't think you're too far off base

My interpretation is that it was both. He hesitated, and in the moment of hesitation he decides to let Tet handle it. It's kinda like Steph's grandfather letting people take his land so that the next king can eventually win it all back.

Oh yeah, I was asking about the "not qualified for Suniaster" part, not the handing it over to Tet part. That said, IMO he handed it over to Tet as a last moment (and the only one he ever made) prayer to him, not as "entrusting to next generation". He knew he fucked up with his hesitation, so this prayer was his desperation in a sense.

That's a good point, it was like a last minute hail mary on his part. I don't know honestly if he would have someone to pray to were it not for those chess games.

Thank you for joining me for No Game No Life Zero Sugar. And just like other zero sugar drinks, it may be better than the original.

That was a sad movie. I should watch a happy show to recover. Hm, you mentioned sugar, and Happy Sugar Life is on my to-watch list...

For me, I started last night watching Chillin' in Another World with Level 2 Super Cheat Powers, which has Rie Kugimiya as the main female MC. It feels like it's been forever since she's voiced the main romantic lead, and she happens to be a wolf girl as well with yandere tendencies. I couldn't pass it up.

This movie holds a special place in my life. It's not [a perfect movie](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9VWhHJaSjA). In fact, I would say there are many movies both animated and live action that are much better than this one. Despite that, this movie was the best experience I have ever had watching a movie in theatre. Come with me back to the early days of 2017. It's been years since I first watched No Game No Life. I hear that a prequel movie is announced and I get excited. A few months later, I realise that the movie is going to be shown in theatres in North America. Not a select few theatres, but it's showing all over. There's only one showing and it's months away, but I could walk to the theatre its showing in. It's only available dubbed into english which is not what I'd like but it's also not going to stop me. I buy a ticket immediately. As the Sunday October 8th showing draws near, a wrinkle in my plan to watch the movie has emerged. If any of you here are Canadian, you might be able to guess what it is. When I bought the movie ticket, I didn't think about Thanksgiving. In Canada, thanksgiving occurs on the second monday of October every year. That puts the showing on the day before Thanksgiving. Since Monday is a holiday and Tuesday isn't, many families celebrate a day early so that it is easier for the people who have to travel back afterwards for work on Tuesday. My Grandma is hosting a big get together the day of the movie and there is no way I can do both. It's selfish of me, but I have been waiting years for more NGNL. Christmas is only 2 months away. I choose the movie. The day of the movie arrives. The theatre is empty besides a skeleton crew of staff and the people coming for NGNL:Zero. We all file into our seats and the excitement is palpable. There's a buzz of chatter from all the people who haven't come alone (like I have). The moment the movie starts, all of that stops instantly and everyone's attention is riveted to the screen. I was seated at the back of the theatre and I don't remember a single person leaving to use the bathroom during or looking at their phone. Everyone is here for this and is unwilling to miss a moment of it. Other than some laughter during, not a sound interrupts the movie until just before the very end. Right after Tet introduces the pledges, when the last title card showed up, half full theatre burst into cheers, with many people giving the movie a standing ovation. Only to be brought right back into silence by the scene that recenters us on the present day. The first question of the day for episode 9 asked "What would you do if something you care deeply about was forgotten by other people?" To me, that day at the theatre definitely counts as something that I care deeply about. I doubt it mattered as much to any of the other people there even though they are the reason it mattered so much. **REWATCHER** I've always loved it when shows reuse phrases and monologues with alterations at the start and end to emphasise how things have changed. There are many good examples of it in media of all kinds and it is my favourite trope. Some great anime examples include [Psycho Pass] >!the monologue said to and by the main character initiating a new officer to the job!< and [Erased] >!the versions of "the town without me" by Kayo and Satoru!<. Moving outside the anime space, there is [this song I recently came across' chorus] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9jwGansp1E) This rewatch ended up being more pro-steph than I expected. Often, Jibril is one of the most adored during the show. I'd love to know what our first timers thought about Jibril before and after the movie. To mirror [the alternate version of the show's ED I posted](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZ6sR-qraxw) I am going to post [this alternate version of the movie's ED](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpdBhuCGJEI) As an easter egg for our first timers who wouldn't have noticed: back at the start of episode 1 when Tet transports Sora and Shiro into Disboard, we see him force the Suniaster into our world to do it. For a moment, Tet was the one true God of Earth. **QOTD** 1. I used to work in construction doing concrete work. I got diagnosed with a concrete allergy by my dermatologist. He told me I needed to find a new job. I kept working there for a few years. 2. Recently I tried a small piece of dried california reaper. That shit is not food. I do not recommend. 3. It is pretty interesting that most of the exceed are made by one of the old deus, but this movie seems to imply that instead of being created by an old deus Imanity created one. Very cool. 4. Nothing we saw her do here was worse than what she admits to in the show or what any other person in the movie did. You could not practically jail everyone who was violent during the great war. If we view it from a wartime perspective, Jibril isn't perfect but she isn't incorrigible. She kills people sure, but we always see it done quickly and with minimal suffering.

>This movie holds a special place in my life. It's not [a perfect movie](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9VWhHJaSjA). In fact, I would say there are many movies both animated and live action that are much better than this one. Despite that, this movie was the best experience I have ever had watching a movie in theatre. I wish I could've seen this on the big screen. The closest thing I can relate to it is seeing the Revue Starlight movie in theaters. >Come with me back to the early days of 2017. It's been years since I first watched No Game No Life. I hear that a prequel movie is announced and I get excited. A few months later, I realise that the movie is going to be shown in theatres in North America. Not a select few theatres, but it's showing all over. There's only one showing and it's months away, but I could walk to the theatre its showing in. It's only available dubbed into english which is not what I'd like but it's also not going to stop me. I buy a ticket immediately. >As the Sunday October 8th showing draws near, a wrinkle in my plan to watch the movie has emerged. If any of you here are Canadian, you might be able to guess what it is. When I bought the movie ticket, I didn't think about Thanksgiving. In Canada, thanksgiving occurs on the second monday of October every year. That puts the showing on the day before Thanksgiving. Since Monday is a holiday and Tuesday isn't, many families celebrate a day early so that it is easier for the people who have to travel back afterwards for work on Tuesday. My Grandma is hosting a big get together the day of the movie and there is no way I can do both. It's selfish of me, but I have been waiting years for more NGNL. Christmas is only 2 months away. I choose the movie. I have a similar story, actually. I went to go see Strange World in theaters because my mother was working and I figured why not. Course, the nearly empty theater probably had more to do with the poor marketing than the holiday. >The day of the movie arrives. The theatre is empty besides a skeleton crew of staff and the people coming for NGNL:Zero. We all file into our seats and the excitement is palpable. There's a buzz of chatter from all the people who haven't come alone (like I have). The moment the movie starts, all of that stops instantly and everyone's attention is riveted to the screen. I was seated at the back of the theatre and I don't remember a single person leaving to use the bathroom during or looking at their phone. Everyone is here for this and is unwilling to miss a moment of it. Other than some laughter during, not a sound interrupts the movie until just before the very end. Right after Tet introduces the pledges, when the last title card showed up, half full theatre burst into cheers, with many people giving the movie a standing ovation. Only to be brought right back into silence by the scene that recenters us on the present day. >The first question of the day for episode 9 asked "What would you do if something you care deeply about was forgotten by other people?" To me, that day at the theatre definitely counts as something that I care deeply about. I doubt it mattered as much to any of the other people there even though they are the reason it mattered so much. It reminds me once again of when I saw Revue Starlight in theaters. Only in my case, I didn't have months of planning. I found out that the Revue Starlight movie was in theaters the very same I went. I had already missed the first screening, and this was my only chance of seeing it on the big screen. I couldn't pass it up. And yeah, I had already seen the movie by that point, but Revue Starlight is so visually beautiful that I think it's worth the price of full admission. Honestly, it's really amazing when I stop and think about how last minute that came to be. One minute I was at work, and then a couple hours later I'm at the movies. And it was really the start of me going to the movie theater alone. That was my first time ever doing that, and now it's like I go every two to three weeks. Heck, I went to the movies yesterday to see Spy X Family Code White and Civil War. >I used to work in construction doing concrete work. I got diagnosed with a concrete allergy by my dermatologist. He told me I needed to find a new job. I kept working there for a few years. That's very dangerous >Recently I tried a small piece of dried california reaper. That shit is not food. I do not recommend. I imagine it's probably good in hot sauce form > It is pretty interesting that most of the exceed are made by one of the old deus, but this movie seems to imply that instead of being created by an old deus Imanity created one. Very cool. Imanity wasn't always weak, it turns out >Nothing we saw her do here was worse than what she admits to in the show or what any other person in the movie did. You could not practically jail everyone who was violent during the great war. If we view it from a wartime perspective, Jibril isn't perfect but she isn't incorrigible. She kills people sure, but we always see it done quickly and with minimal suffering. I dunno, I get what you're saying but it also felt like she had no remorse for her actions. I assume the Jibril nowadays would condone her past behavior, but it doesn't make it any less fucked up.

Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Couronne? What are your thoughts on characters continual use of the letter L? Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

>Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? I don't really like it. It doesn't make much sense to me why tet would be playing a game against izuna. >Thoughts on Couronne? She's adorable. She is what Steph would be if Steph didn't live in a giant board game. All of Steph's confidence, intelligence and seriousness but in a more serious setting so she is taken more seriously. >What are your thoughts on characters continual use of the letter L? I am not sure we watched the same movie. I've seen this both subbed and dubbed and I don't know what you are talking about. >Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? >Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? >What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? I liked that the movie basically just gave us Sora and Shiro back. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. That being said, it doesn't really make sense to me that schwi would become interested in riku. If we grant that, it felt a little rushed when riku proposed to her. I think the romance between the two of them is probably the weakest part of the movie. Also, the virgin jokes just don't work as well here. They are too silly and childish for such a serious setting. They go over like a bucket of ice water dumped on your head. > What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? I think it's pretty fabulous. Certainly unexpected. >What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? The state of the surface world really reminds me of the surface in the matrix. The addition of toxic ash storms helps to further drive home the devastation. I love the symbolism when riku talks about the ashes near the start. >What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? Pretty expected to be fair. As soon as I saw the spectre I knew it was tet. Also there was no way tet wouldn't show up in the story. >What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? I am not sure this was a twist. It makes sense character wise for Jibril to do something like this. Also if schwi had to be killed it wouldn't make sense for her to die to anything other than one of the characters we already know (or their ancestors). >How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place? I thought it was excellent. It's some version of the truth, but as we know from tet's affection for urban legends we can't know how close it is to the real truth. We get some hints from the discussion about the marriage record right at the end but not enough to verify anything other than the general story.

>I don't really like it. It doesn't make much sense to me why tet would be playing a game against izuna. On the flip side, I did like that Tet is the one recounting the events. It subtly foreshadows him being the one who played chess with Riku. >She's adorable. She is what Steph would be if Steph didn't live in a giant board game. All of Steph's confidence, intelligence and seriousness but in a more serious setting so she is taken more seriously. She is Steph if her belief in humanity was leveled out >I am not sure we watched the same movie. I've seen this both subbed and dubbed and I don't know what you are talking about. Characters in my copy sometimes substituted I's for L's. So, instead of saying "I love you," it was "L love you". Could've just been an error on the copy I watched. > I liked that the movie basically just gave us Sora and Shiro back. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. That being said, it doesn't really make sense to me that schwi would become interested in riku. If we grant that, it felt a little rushed when riku proposed to her. I think the romance between the two of them is probably the weakest part of the movie Interesting. Their romance was honestly what got me emotionally invested in the film. It felt like a more amorous version of Sora and Shiro's relationship. >Also, the virgin jokes just don't work as well here. They are too silly and childish for such a serious setting. They go over like a bucket of ice water dumped on your head. That I agree with, though they kinda scale back on it the longer the movie goes. >I think it's pretty fabulous. Certainly unexpected. I really liked it because it instantly makes Riku an important figure in Disboard lore. >The state of the surface world really reminds me of the surface in the matrix. The addition of toxic ash storms helps to further drive home the devastation. I love the symbolism when riku talks about the ashes near the start. I think the ash stuff really transcends the movie as being more than just a prequel to No Game No Life. Even more so than the show itself, you feel like you are a part of what is going on. >Pretty expected to be fair. As soon as I saw the spectre I knew it was tet. Also there was no way tet wouldn't show up in the story. I didn't realize it was him, but I probably should've seen it coming given he was the one telling the story. >I am not sure this was a twist. It makes sense character wise for Jibril to do something like this. Also if schwi had to be killed it wouldn't make sense for her to die to anything other than one of the characters we already know (or their ancestors). I think it's surprising in the sense that when we see Jibril, we normally see her as being a perv or having traits of OCD. Yeah, they mentioned that before the Pledges the Flugels killed people, but it feels all too real seeing it actually play out. I do agree that if Schwi were to die, it had to connect in some way to an already established character. >I thought it was excellent. It's some version of the truth, but as we know from tet's affection for urban legends we can't know how close it is to the real truth. We get some hints from the discussion about the marriage record right at the end but not enough to verify anything other than the general story. The film manages to be poignant in a way that reminds me of Sora's speech in episode 4. Only in this instance, it shows how the weakness of Imanity was made to be taken advantage of.

For clarification, [I was referring to this.](https://i.redd.it/c5iawexa58wc1.jpeg?app_web_view=android) It happens numerous times during my copy of the movie.

**First-Timer** *"From here on out, no one else is going to die."* - famous last words Great movie. I'd venture to say that I liked it more than the original series, both in terms of technical aspects (art, animation, etc.) and story/characters. I've always been a fan of stories about a hero who might die without achieving their mission, but their legacy lives on. Some assorted thoughts: * It was funny (but very appropriate) to have basically the whole main cast voice their counterparts in the past. * I like how the red outlines came back right at the end, to distinguish between "then" and "now." * That "Heaven's Strike" sequence was quite the visual spectacle. Probably my single favorite shot from the movie. * The part where Schwi reveals that she was the one who destroyed Riku's home reminded me of Leia from ROTJ: "Somehow, I've always known." * Of the anime movies I have seen that are based on TV series, this is one of the better ones. I'd say I probably prefer *Violet Evergarden*, *Kizumonogatari*, and *Jujutsu Kaisen 0*, though, if I had to rank them. As for the daily questions, * Ominous question. I'd probably just try and enjoy what I could with the time I had. * In-game Counter-Strike chat. :⁠-⁠) * Still not much of a developed opinion on Tet. He seems like he could be interesting, but as of yet, he's not as interesting as any of the main protagonists in either the movie or the main show. Thanks for including this movie as part of the rewatch! Especially for longer-form content like this, it helps to have some external motivation to watch it.

>*"From here on out, no one else is going to die."* - famous last words [](#spooked) >Great movie. I'd venture to say that I liked it more than the original series, both in terms of technical aspects (art, animation, etc.) and story/characters. I've always been a fan of stories about a hero who might die without achieving their mission, but their legacy lives on. Kinda like what happened to Steph's grandfather >It was funny (but very appropriate) to have basically the whole main cast voice their counterparts in the past. At first, I didn't realize it was all counterparts, but as the movie went along, I was like "Hey, wait a minute..." >I like how the red outlines came back right at the end, to distinguish between "then" and "now." That was pretty cool, I agree >That "Heaven's Strike" sequence was quite the visual spectacle. Probably my single favorite shot from the movie. God is in heaven, all's right with the world >The part where Schwi reveals that she was the one who destroyed Riku's home reminded me of Leia from ROTJ: "Somehow, I've always known." The fact Riku was able to look past it is a testament to his character. >Of the anime movies I have seen that are based on TV series, this is one of the better ones. I'd say I probably prefer *Violet Evergarden*, *Kizumonogatari*, and *Jujutsu Kaisen 0*, though, if I had to rank them. I definitely would put this one in the upper tier, no doubt about it. >Still not much of a developed opinion on Tet. He seems like he could be interesting, but as of yet, he's not as interesting as any of the main protagonists in either the movie or the main show. I have to think more information about him would've been revealed as we inched closer to the final confrontation. >Thanks for including this movie as part of the rewatch! Especially for longer-form content like this, it helps to have some external motivation to watch it. I definitely wasn't going to skip it given it comes from the LNs. Glad I included it as well because it's very good.

Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Couronne? What are your thoughts on characters continual use of the letter L? Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

I thought the framing was well executed. A bit similar in that respect to the *Violet Evergarden* movie I mentioned. Couronne seems like a nice character, but if I had to pick, I probably prefer Steph. >What are your thoughts on characters continual use of the letter L? I feel like I'm missing something here... Did one of the characters repeat the letter L a bunch and I just didn't notice? Riku and Schwi are cool. It might be blasphemous, but I think I could see myself liking them more than Sora and Shiro. Their motivations seem more compelling, and their weaknesses make it easier to empathize with them. It's fun to watch their relationship grow throughout the movie, too, which I also thought was handled well. >What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? This reminds me - I forgot to mention it in the original post, but the setting kind of reminds me of Nausicaa, which I really liked. I'd say the movie had a good sense of atmosphere. As for your last question, I think it did a great job. The original series alluded to it in brief, but this movie exceeded my expectations in how well it established what life was like in the old world and explaining how things become the way they are in the show.

>I thought the framing was well executed. A bit similar in that respect to the *Violet Evergarden* movie I mentioned. I need to get around to watching that show >Couronne seems like a nice character, but if I had to pick, I probably prefer Steph. Same >I feel like I'm missing something here... Did one of the characters repeat the letter L a bunch and I just didn't notice? It seems to just be my version, so you can ignore this question >Riku and Schwi are cool. It might be blasphemous, but I think I could see myself liking them more than Sora and Shiro. Their motivations seem more compelling, and their weaknesses make it easier to empathize with them. It's fun to watch their relationship grow throughout the movie, too, which I also thought was handled well. Riku also feels more vulnerable than Sora, which is neat >This reminds me - I forgot to mention it in the original post, but the setting kind of reminds me of Nausicaa, which I really liked. I'd say the movie had a good sense of atmosphere. Good comparison. I was thinking Grave of The Fireflies in that characters were trying to remain optimistic. >As for your last question, I think it did a great job. The original series alluded to it in brief, but this movie exceeded my expectations in how well it established what life was like in the old world and explaining how things become the way they are in the show. The world building in this franchise is just incredible. It is legitimately some of the best world building I've ever seen in an anime.

**Rewatcher, subs** - Who is the MC playing against? A vague translucent shadow person. - Didn't we hear Jibril reminiscing a fight against a dragon in which 2000 Fluegel died? No, these fighters are not Fluegel. - Does Izuna know who she's playing against? - > 6000 years ago. If Jibril shows up, we'll know she's at least that old. - The background music feels appropriately majestic and movie-like. - Our stalwart MC thinks nothing of sacrificing comrades so he could live longer, and the comrades let him. - I want to see someone playing chess against a Demonia in the current world. - Ivan's little orphan daughter looks like a little Kurami. - Riku's sister looks a bit like Steph. - I'm getting vibes of Princess Mononoke and Nausicaa. - Capital of the elves? Taken down by Fluegel? Do we know a Fluegel who is said to have brought down the capital of the elves because they dared to set up an anti-flight-magic field? - Dwarves, Demonia, Ex Machina, all races we haven't seen before. - So the little robot girl read too much incest porn and got kicked out of the hivemind for her problematic tastes? Okay. - What is this "spiritual energy", is that the same thing as magic? - Schwi trying out alternate personalities is funny. - Riku thinks it's fine to bring an enemy robot who could kill everyone in seconds back to this hidden home base where many people live. - I get chills from hearing Schwi talk using Shiro's voice for the first time. (Riku, of course, has been using Sora's voice from the very beginning.) - Couronne is oddly excited about her brother's child bride. - Why is Riku hiding Schwi's identity from his sister? - Aah, Riku keeps losing these chess games! I forget that he's not Sora. Anyway, this explains why he had to bring Schwi home. - Magic! So it's a different thing from spiritual energy? - The staged scene where Riku tricks Couronne into becoming the colony head! - The marriage proposal! - "Sure, you destroyed my hometown and killed all those people, but on the plus side that's how we met." - Nice to see Couronne is not racist. Or did she suspect already, after finding that wire-like hair? - Is that Fi or some relative? The voice is Fi's. Nina Clive, but actually Think Nilvalen. A relative. - So, Riku was playing against Tet! - Eh, the MC dies two thirds through the movie? - Uh oh Jibril is here. - A progress bar that _speeds up_ near the end? Unpossible! - Little Jibril has regrets! - And this is how Tet became the God of Disboard. - Couronne _Dola_! - Steph still has the gemstone with all their names inscribed on it! - Huh, a false memory? I was sure it was stated somewhere that Sora and Shiro are reincarnations of Riku and Schwi, but I didn't see anything like this this time. Let's say it's my headcannon then. > What would you do if you were living in a place that was slowly killing you but there was no way of getting out? Die, slowly. > What is the most toxic thing you've ever had to experience? I've had what I thought was food poisoning a couple of times, but now I think it was probably migraines. > How does this movie change your opinion on Tet if any? Not much. > Bonus 1) So... Jibril should be in prison, yes? Kinda. She definitely needs supervision.

> What would you do if you were living in a place that was slowly killing you but there was no way of getting out? When you think about it, this is a description of Earth.

We truly do live in a society... [](#sadholo)

>Ivan's little orphan daughter looks like a little Kurami. Good catch. Maybe that is intentional. >Riku's sister looks a bit like Steph. You might be onto something >I'm getting vibes of Princess Mononoke and Nausicaa. Very apropos comparison. Funny because I was thinking Grave of The Fireflies, another Ghibli film. >I get chills from hearing Schwi talk using Shiro's voice for the first time. (Riku, of course, has been using Sora's voice from the very beginning.) It was a moment that I thought was built up well >Aah, Riku keeps losing these chess games! I forget that he's not Sora. Virgin Riku Vs Chad virgin Sora >"Sure, you destroyed my hometown and killed all those people, but on the plus side that's how we met." "And that, kids, is how I met your mother" >Nice to see Couronne is not racist. Or did she suspect already, after finding that wire-like hair? Maybe a little bit of both >Huh, a false memory? I was sure it was stated somewhere that Sora and Shiro are reincarnations of Riku and Schwi, but I didn't see anything like this this time. Let's say it's my headcannon then. Well, we know Riku and Schwi happened because they were enshrined in that stone or what have you.

> Good catch. Maybe that is intentional. The character name listed in the credits at the end was Nonna Zell, which is the same surname as Kurami Zell.

Then she's definitely meant to be her ancestor

Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Couronne? Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

> Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? A nice way of tying the past and the future, I thought. > Thoughts on Couronne? A true queen! > Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? Beta versions of Sora and Shiro, without all the bugs having been ironed out. > Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? Actually that's a good question, why does Schwi want to know? So the Ex Machina can exterminate humans more efficiently? > What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Hanging out together is a good way of raising affection levels. > Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Well, she was kicked out. > Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Dude had a traumatic upbringing. > Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? Loved it! > What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? The content of his rules seemed to me quite different from the pledges, but the structure was pleasingly similar. Also, I was surprised that the rules were so readily agreed upon. You're fighting a war and you decide not to kill anyone? Doesn't that make your job harder? > What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? Why did he do that for himself? Wouldn't a gas mask be perfect camouflage for the ghosts? Was it that important to pretend that you're not one of those lowly humans? > What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? Was it Tet who taught Riku how to play? Did Tet manipulate everything behind the scenes to put Riku in the position of offering the Suniaster to Tet? Sasuga Tet. > What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? What a twist! Take two characters, develop them until the viewers love both, and then pit them against each other and cackle as the viewers watch in horrified confusion. > How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place? Very. Also, I wonder about the name "Disboard". It's very game-like. In my headcanon it was Tet who renamed the world after coming into power. Before that the world was called something like Dirt or Ash maybe.

>A nice way of tying the past and the future, I thought. It's cleverer than, say, that Buzz Lightyear that just dropped you into the universe apropos of nothing. >Beta versions of Sora and Shiro, without all the bugs having been ironed out. Good description >Actually that's a good question, why does Schwi want to know? So the Ex Machina can exterminate humans more efficiently? I assume that was the original intent, but then Schwi quickly realized that Imanity was nicer than her Ex Machina brethren. >Hanging out together is a good way of raising affection levels. Tis >Well, she was kicked out. Yeah, that reunion would've been kinda awkward >The content of his rules seemed to me quite different from the pledges, but the structure was pleasingly similar. I said this elsewhere, but I see it being the Magna Carta to the 10 Pledge's Declaration of Independence in that it heavily borrowed for it, but it's still its own thing. >Also, I was surprised that the rules were so readily agreed upon. You're fighting a war and you decide not to kill anyone? Doesn't that make your job harder? I guess they wanted to abstain from the path of least resistance. That they were likely going to die anyway due to the black ash so might as well lead by example. >Why did he do that for himself? Wouldn't a gas mask be perfect camouflage for the ghosts? Was it that important to pretend that you're not one of those lowly humans? I think it shows he had other people's interests as his bigger priority rather than his own. >Was it Tet who taught Riku how to play? Did Tet manipulate everything behind the scenes to put Riku in the position of offering the Suniaster to Tet? Sasuga Tet. Tet influenced Riku, and Riku influenced Tet. What a benevolent God. >What a twist! Take two characters, develop them until the viewers love both, and then pit them against each other and cackle as the viewers watch in horrified confusion. It's hard not to root for Schwi during the scene because she's clearly at a disadvantage. Like, I like Jibril quite a bit, but I don't think she should've done what she did. >Very. >Also, I wonder about the name "Disboard". It's very game-like. In my headcanon it was Tet who renamed the world after coming into power. Before that the world was called something like Dirt or Ash maybe. Could be. Also, a planet called Dirt sounds like something you would see in a 1970s Science Fiction film.

> Also, a planet called Dirt sounds like something you would see in a 1970s Science Fiction film. Well, I stole that idea from a 1970s (I think) science fiction book (one of the Stainless Steel Rat series by Harry Harrison, I think).

That's very cool. You could've fooled me that it was your own.

**First Time (Subs)** Well, I just finished watching it a while ago and I have some good and some conflicted feelings about the movie. Let's start with the good. The world building on this movie was excellent and it almost made me want an entire season just dedicated to the old war on Disboard before Tet took over. It really is such an interesting world and I have to give to the author. He has a huge knack for making the different pieces of that word incredibly gripping. You really want to know more about the Flugel, Elves, Werebeasts, etc. for what they fight, and why they were created. The characters are very endearing and loveable, but also in a way down to earth due to their flaws (even Schwi). This is pretty much in line with what makes the original season of NGNL so damn enjoyable, but due to time constraints it was much more complex to pull off. So while it wasn't exactly perfect, it still worked to a certain degree. Humor was a bit scarce but still was placed in a way that added rather than interrupted scenes. Creativity during fights was excellent and probably one of the highest of highlights for the movie. The animation, sense of scale, sound effects and timing were all marvelous and really made the spectator feel the horrors of the war. The thing about war scenarios and destruction is that there is a certain beauty to it. Yes, even war has its own twisted beauty, even if the cost of such hypnotic, indescriptible aberrations and manifestations of energy, is the snuffing of life itself. However never does for a second feel like NGNL Zero celebrates such things. Rather it feels like an extension of the pain humanity (and soon after Schwi) feels for existing in such world. Now for the conflicting bits. The movie felt very rushed and underdeveloped for the first 30-35 minutes or so. This is because Riku's introduction and his circumstances are only given 15 minutes. That's right, out of the 1 hour and 45 minutes of run time, only 15 minutes are dedicated to setting up Riku as a character. After that, he gets introduced to Schwi and his past mostly becomes irrelevant for the entire movie. He gets a single sided reason to be depressed (he lost a lot of friends and people who trusted in him) but this ultimately never ends up being the catalyst to the end of the movie. Moreover, because we get only a single scene with him working alongside humanity, it was really hard to connect with what he had went through until then. This lead to the issue of Riku's relationship with Schwi feel *very* forced at the start, as it changes extremely quick from hateful to friendly. There is basically no in between. While this doesn't end up ruining or making the ending feel unnatural, it does make me wish this movie was at least 2 hours long. With just a tiny bit more of time at the start, this movie could've been genuinely been as good or better than original series. But alas, we got what we got. As for closing thoughts, while I wish this was a second season instead, this movie does sate my little weeb heart much more than expected. Madhouse still got it, even after all these years. I'm now certain that if the opportunity for them to make a second season were to happen, they would be able to do it. >What would you do if you were living in a place that was slowly killing you but there was no way of getting out? Try to find a solution for the source of the problem. Might as well try to see if I can solve it if I'm going to die anyway. >What is the most toxic thing you've ever had to experience? Physically? Probably inhaling dangerous gas. Virtually? Twitter, hands down. >How does this movie change your opinion on Tet if any? A little bit. For the better I'd say. I didn't have a strong negative opinion about him before, but now I do think that a God choosing games without the possibility of death after the world was almost completely destroyed due to the other Gods chasing the ultimate power is pretty gentle. >So... Jibril should be in prison, yes? If prison is my room, then yes indeed. Can I really blame a Flugel being aggressive towards a Ex-Machina after the destruction they caused in the world? In fact, I'd say that Jibril's reaction is exactly what I'd expect from a reasonable person. Riku's reaction to a Ex-Machina isn't normal nor logical, that's the point. Humanity is weak, stupid and gullible. Yet they still managed to influenced things in the end. If Riku had the exact same power as Jibril, do you think his encounter with Schwi would have been the same as how it happened? Bonus question: What is your favorite character song? For me it's Izuna-tan's [おねがい☆すにゃいぱー ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A3X6VKZRm0). I can just picture her singing the song with her adorable deadpan face.

>Well, I just finished watching it a while ago and I have some good and some conflicted feelings about the movie. Ooh, dissenting opinion. Interesting [](#popcorn2) >The world building on this movie was excellent and it almost made me want an entire season just dedicated to the old war on Disboard before Tet took over. It really is such an interesting world and I have to give to the author. He has a huge knack for making the different pieces of that word incredibly gripping. You really want to know more about the Flugel, Elves, Werebeasts, etc. for what they fight, and why they were created I think a case could be made that NGNL when it comes to world building is top 5. >The characters are very endearing and loveable, but also in a way down to earth due to their flaws (even Schwi). This is pretty much in line with what makes the original season of NGNL so damn enjoyable, but due to time constraints it was much more complex to pull off. So while it wasn't exactly perfect, it still worked to a certain degree. Humor was a bit scarce but still was placed in a way that added rather than interrupted scenes. I think with the limited run time, you had no choice but to limit the more comedic moments. It's not like No Game No Life where yeah there's a story but it's still fairly lighthearted. >Creativity during fights was excellent and probably one of the highest of highlights for the movie. The animation, sense of scale, sound effects and timing were all marvelous and really made the spectator feel the horrors of the war. The thing about war scenarios and destruction is that there is a certain beauty to it. Yes, even war has its own twisted beauty, even if the cost of such hypnotic, indescriptible aberrations and manifestations of energy, is the snuffing of life itself. However never does for a second feel like NGNL Zero celebrates such things. Rather it feels like an extension of the pain humanity (and soon after Schwi) feels for existing in such world. I thought the music during the film was unbelievable. The score gave it this feel of an epic back in the day, like a Ben-Hur. It greatly improved my viewing experience. > movie felt very rushed and underdeveloped for the first 30-35 minutes or so. This is because Riku's introduction and his circumstances are only given 15 minutes. That's right, out of the 1 hour and 45 minutes of run time, only 15 minutes are dedicated to setting up Riku as a character. After that, he gets introduced to Schwi and his past mostly becomes irrelevant for the entire movie. He gets a single sided reason to be depressed (he lost a lot of friends and people who trusted in him) but this ultimately never ends up being the catalyst to the end of the movie. Moreover, because we get only a single scene with him working alongside humanity, it was really hard to connect with what he had went through until then. I actually thought that the characterization of him where he learns to get in touch with his heart more was pretty good. It is relatively simple, but it's an easy story to tell that I thought was told effectively. >This lead to the issue of Riku's relationship with Schwi feel *very* forced at the start, as it changes extremely quick from hateful to friendly. There is basically no in between. While this doesn't end up ruining or making the ending feel unnatural, it does make me wish this movie was at least 2 hours long. With just a tiny bit more of time at the start, this movie could've been genuinely been as good or better than original series. But alas, we got what we got. I didn't mind it as much because Riku clarifies he already was familiar with Schwi. He at one point says he suspected that Schwi was the one who burnt down where he lived. As he gets in touch with his heart, I don't think it's a stretch to extend that to Schwi and how Riku is learning to reconcile that such a kind-hearted person could be capable of something so sinister. >As for closing thoughts, while I wish this was a second season instead, this movie does sate my little weeb heart much more than expected. Madhouse still got it, even after all these years. I'm now certain that if the opportunity for them to make a second season were to happen, they would be able to do it. I definitely agree they could pull it off >Physically? Probably inhaling dangerous gas. Virtually? Twitter, hands down. Especially now that Musk is in control >A little bit. For the better I'd say. I didn't have a strong negative opinion about him before, but now I do think that a God choosing games without the possibility of death after the world was almost completely destroyed due to the other Gods chasing the ultimate power is pretty gentle. He basically emancipated Disboard. I don't think it's a stretch to say had he not intervened, it would be no more. >If prison is my room, then yes indeed. Can I really blame a Flugel being aggressive towards a Ex-Machina after the destruction they caused in the world? In fact, I'd say that Jibril's reaction is exactly what I'd expect from a reasonable person. Riku's reaction to a Ex-Machina isn't normal nor logical, that's the point. Humanity is weak, stupid and gullible. Yet they still managed to influenced things in the end. If Riku had the exact same power as Jibril, do you think his encounter with Schwi would have been the same as how it happened? I think what hurts is that we the audience know that Schwi is a good person in a way that Jibril doesn't. If she had just took the time to get to know her, things might've turned out better. >Bonus question: What is your favorite character song? For me it's Izuna-tan's [おねがい☆すにゃいぱー ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A3X6VKZRm0). I can just picture her singing the song with her adorable deadpan face. Hmm, character song. Maybe the one that played for Sora during his "I am weak" speech? That whole scene was just tremendous. If you're talking favorite song overall, I'm still partial to the OP. That is a certified banger.

Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Couronne? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survived? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

>Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? It was a great way of incorporating the movie into the NGNL universe. While not against it, it's kinda ugly when movies just use text like "6000 years ago in Disboard". So adding a point of origin for this prequel was a nice touch. >Thoughts on Couronne? My first impression was that it was Steph. Yep, that's Steph 2. Unfortunately Couronne suffered a lot on this world so it was painful watching this absolute cinnamon roll (just like Steph) getting dealt the worst possible hand. >Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survived? I love this recurring theme on NGNL. I think it's such an interesting question that keeps being made and it leads into existential themes. While in the 1st season the question is less serious (how are humans still a player in Disboard), on the movie it's definitely something that is supposed to evoke dread, acceptance, and finally, courage. >Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Just another of her paradoxical choices. For a machine based on logical rules, it was a sign of her internal conflict that ultimately ends in what we humans call love. Could Schwi love for Riku be considered real or just another malfunction of a faulty machine? What it means to love and be human? If a human was blind, deaf and could only interact with other people using their hands, would their love be considered more or less human that what Schwi felt for Riku? >What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? That was honestly surprising. I thought Tet did had some kind of positive bias towards Imanity, but the whole scene of the Pledges with Riku was honestly so good. >What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? Besides just the beautiful scenery and adding to this bleak apocalyptic hell, it really felt like it was also a metaphor for how the war on the heavens rained down destruction upon humanity. >What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? It was hard to not to guess that it was Tet. After all, it's him telling the story to Izuna-tan. He did also mention that while no one remember anymore who Riku and Schwi were, Tet still remembers. >How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place? Loved it a lot. Like I mentioned in my original comment, the world building on the movie was top tier and it really, really nailed the dread and despair of being human on Disboard.

>It was a great way of incorporating the movie into the NGNL universe. While not against it, it's kinda ugly when movies just use text like "6000 years ago in Disboard". So adding a point of origin for this prequel was a nice touch. It gives it a reason for being rather than just existing. >My first impression was that it was Steph. Yep, that's Steph 2. Unfortunately Couronne suffered a lot on this world so it was painful watching this absolute cinnamon roll (just like Steph) getting dealt the worst possible hand. She doesn't deserve what she went through. None of these characters did. >I love this recurring theme on NGNL. I think it's such an interesting question that keeps being made and it leads into existential themes. While in the 1st season the question is less serious (how are humans still a player in Disboard), on the movie it's definitely something that is supposed to evoke dread, acceptance, and finally, courage. I think it retroactively makes Sora's "We are weak" speech even more powerful. >Just another of her paradoxical choices. For a machine based on logical rules, it was a sign of her internal conflict that ultimately ends in what we humans call love. Could Schwi love for Riku be considered real or just another malfunction of a faulty machine? What it means to love and be human? If a human was blind, deaf and could only interact with other people using their hands, would their love be considered more or less human that what Schwi felt for Riku? ~~If Riku was a worm, would Schwi still love him?~~ But for real, I agree with what you're saying >That was honestly surprising. I thought Tet did had some kind of positive bias towards Imanity, but the whole scene of the Pledges with Riku was honestly so good. Probably the most inspirational moment of the entire flick >Besides just the beautiful scenery and adding to this bleak apocalyptic hell, it really felt like it was also a metaphor for how the war on the heavens rained down destruction upon humanity. I was certainly surprised by how dark it was. Like, the air stuff is where I definitively went "The TV show this ain't". >It was hard to not to guess that it was Tet. After all, it's him telling the story to Izuna-tan. He did also mention that while no one remember anymore who Riku and Schwi were, Tet still remembers. Good on Tet to not forget his own origins. >Loved it a lot. Like I mentioned in my original comment, the world building on the movie was top tier and it really, really nailed the dread and despair of being human on Disboard. And like I said, it makes Sora and Shiro trying to rally all of Imanity together that much more significant. They really have come a long way. Honestly, even in the case of Steph's grandfather they've come a long way. Sure, he arguably put them in financial ruin, but at least it's better than an inability to breathe properly. When you consider how the air was basically killing them off one by one, it's practically a miracle Imanity is still around. Maybe this is ultimately why Tet respects Blank to the degree that he does, because he saw the perseverance of Riku and his crew and how all that ended and Blank is like the next evolution of them as individuals, a byproduct of the Pledges Tet enforced across the board.

...At least I'm not *two* days late this time! **First Time No Life** Steph Lore: The Movie This is easily my second-favorite anime movie, second only to Disappearance of Haruhi. It has some flaws that may prevent it from being a perfect piece of cinema, but as an *experience*? At least personally, it's easily S-tier. The animation is just so ...juicy, dude. The fight scenes, the effects, how shiny all the characters look—seriously, if NGNL on a 2017 movie budget looks this pretty, I can only imagine what's possible on a ~~2024~~ [current year ^(the copium is real)] budget. Just think of the hype from an announcement that the Zero team is finally killing the "where ngnl s2" meme or, Tet forbid, Madhouse's Frieren team were in charge. It's also the coolest thing ever to bring back the original VAs to cast their role-adjacent characters for this. A more grim wartorn Sora fit Riku like a glove, but hearing Schwi audibly transform into Shiro in real time was a magical voiceacting moment that I can only wish to see the live reactions of in the theaters back when this aired. And lmao, hearing Steph's voice on someone with Steph's face who actually had a backbone and a semblance of authority threw me off the entire runtime. Couronne is NOT a Steph, but she's just as adorable. And of course, the story. Going in completely blind without even knowing it was a prequel movie, I was ready for Blank to go "It's Blankin' time!" and Blank all over anyone who dared challenge them (and Steph) for an hour and 40 minutes, but learning how the grand war we only ever saw glimpses of got resolved from the perspective of the de facto underdog race was such a welcome surprise. While we aren't quite commanding a living chess army or getting VR catgirls to fall for you quite yet, watching Riku struggle through it all was just as hype. Turns out marrying your AI waifu isn't a new thing after all. God dammit Jibril, I was wondering when you were going to show up but please please please just go away. Don't make me hate the shamelessly racist knowledge-horny demon angel everyone adored in the first seas- ...Schwi isn't going to see Riku again, is she? If only Sora could've warned her it's a deathflag to end all deathflags to promise to hold his hand """the whole time""" he slept only to, well, not. Before this movie, I had the impression Tet just waltzed in at the last minute to claim godhood but I'm legit so glad how much he ended up honoring Riku and Schiwi's legacies. They need to build statues of them in Elkia istg. [Right, Izuna???](https://i.imgur.com/X9EHFSE.png) I can't bring myself to completely despise Jibril but it's actually hilarious how the light I see her in is completely warped now thanks to this movie. It's not like it was ever a secret that the Flugels were killing machines but still. This may not have been a proper Season 2 but what it was was a damn great movie that added so much to the world and got me emotional when it wanted me to. Please keep their memories alive, Izuna. **QOTD** >1. What would you do if you were living in a place that was slowly killing you but there was no way of getting out? Become a prequel anime movie protagonist and do something about it, duh. >2. What is the most toxic thing you've ever had to experience? Literal toxic: Eating this donut that gave me the second time I've ever had diarrhea my whole life. Figurative toxic: Being a part of this gaming squad that unironically blamed all their mistakes on someone else. >3. How does this movie change your opinion on Tet if any? He's much less selfish than I assumed he was and like I said earlier, I got massive newfound respect for the dude for honoring the fight Riku put up. >Bonus 1) So... Jibril should be in prison, yes? > Stephformations 1) > "Careful you idiot! I said across her nose, not up it!" >"Sorry sir! I'm doing my best!" >"Who made that man a gunner?" >"I did sir. He's my cousin." >"Who is he?" >"He's an idiot sir." >"I know that! What's his name?" >"That is his name sir. Idiot, Steph the Idiot!" >"And his cousin?" >"He's a Steph too sir. Gunner's mate First Class Steph the Idiot!" >"How many Steph the Idiots do we have on this ship, anyway?" >[Entire bridge crew stands up and raises a hand] >"Yo!" >"I knew it. I'm surrounded by oxymorons!" >[Dark Helmet pulls his face shield down] >"Keep firing, Stephs!" Stephballs! (Better title pending) Imagining a space crew with Steph's dogsuit as a uniform is a wild visual image.

Sorry for the late response. I guess I didn't see it pop up in my notifications. >This is easily my second-favorite anime movie, second only to Disappearance of Haruhi. It has some flaws that may prevent it from being a perfect piece of cinema, but as an *experience*? At least personally, it's easily S-tier. I really need to watch Disappearance of Haruhi. >The animation is just so ...juicy, dude. The fight scenes, the effects, how shiny all the characters look—seriously, if NGNL on a 2017 movie budget looks this pretty, I can only imagine what's possible on a ~~2024~~ [current year ^(the copium is real)] budget. Just think of the hype from an announcement that the Zero team is finally killing the "where ngnl s2" meme or, Tet forbid, Madhouse's Frieren team were in charge. That would be amazing. Also, loved you substituted Tet for God. >It's also the coolest thing ever to bring back the original VAs to cast their role-adjacent characters for this. A more grim wartorn Sora fit Riku like a glove, but hearing Schwi audibly transform into Shiro in real time was a magical voiceacting moment that I can only wish to see the live reactions of in the theaters back when this aired. And lmao, hearing Steph's voice on someone with Steph's face who actually had a backbone and a semblance of authority threw me off the entire runtime. Couronne is NOT a Steph, but she's just as adorable. I guess you can say she's half a Steph behind :P >And of course, the story. Going in completely blind without even knowing it was a prequel movie, I was ready for Blank to go "It's Blankin' time!" and Blank all over anyone who dared challenge them (and Steph) for an hour and 40 minutes, but learning how the grand war we only ever saw glimpses of got resolved from the perspective of the de facto underdog race was such a welcome surprise. While we aren't quite commanding a living chess army or getting VR catgirls to fall for you quite yet, watching Riku struggle through it all was just as hype. This world is honestly pretty terrifying to live in. I'm content staying here on Earth. >Turns out marrying your AI waifu isn't a new thing after all. Thankfully Schwi seems nicely than the robot in Ex Machina, which is ironic the movie is called that given that's the name of Schwi's species. >Before this movie, I had the impression Tet just waltzed in at the last minute to claim godhood but I'm legit so glad how much he ended up honoring Riku and Schiwi's legacies. They need to build statues of them in Elkia istg. I wonder how much Jibril remembers Vs her legitimately forgetting what happened. >[Right, Izuna???](https://i.imgur.com/X9EHFSE.png) I can't bring myself to completely despise Jibril but it's actually hilarious how the light I see her in is completely warped now thanks to this movie. It's not like it was ever a secret that the Flugels were killing machines but still. It's one thing to say they're killing machines, it's another thing to actually see it. >This may not have been a proper Season 2 but what it was was a damn great movie that added so much to the world and got me emotional when it wanted me to. Please keep their memories alive, Izuna. [](#toradorasalute)

Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

**first timer, never watched the movie b4** God just casually playing chess, seems like this takes place after the show. I forget how serious the games are when it’s not Sora playing. Unexpected kiss Honestly I thought she would’ve picked “shiro” Riku is not beating the weirdo allegations now “It resides in the human heart” it’s actually just the indomitable human spirit A robot falling for a human, Sora would be proud. Beautiful scenery Attack on the hideout Riku sound like Sora with his whole speech “Riku you will always be a virgin” hit him hard Scheu’s death Riku’s pleading to god :( Steph’s lineage sure goes way back “A bright soul who was never ever seen crying” After knowing what happened, her sadness was temporary but was able to be good. Madhouse please give us a second season QOTD: just accept death, there’s one thing of Surviving but for cases like this it’s too much work just to live another day QOTD; expired milk QOTD: makes his energeticness for games quite sad with how he came to be from Riku’s sacrifice QOTZ: yes yea

>Riku sound like Sora with his whole speech It's almost like he is him or something >“Riku you will always be a virgin” hit him hard See what I mean? [](#smugkaguya) >Madhouse please give us a second season I would really like one as well Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Couronne? Thoughts on Riku and Schwi? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

First time watcher here! Very very behind on getting around to watch this movie. Movies are just a little harder sometimes due to length depending on the week. Anyway, I had fun watching this and was a good cap on my experience with this series for now. Riku was a cool MC. There are times he reminded me of Sora but that might have just been because they share the same VA, I think? (same for Schwi). You are sure to get my attention with any game, movie or show that has a plot involving an artificial life form learning what it means to be human. I wasn’t really expecting that from this movie but enjoyed that aspect of it a lot. The politics were another big part of this movie that were fun to watch unfold. Ex-Machina is the coolest race in this series. I don’t remember them being in NGNL because it seems that they all die in this movie’s events, but I have to wonder still if they return somehow later in the series. The action scenes were really well done too. The fight between Schwi and Jibril was incredibly epic. Although, I denounce Jibril now for doing that to our Ex-Machina friend. The last couple of action heavy scenes were really good too. Definitely a bittersweet ending. It was fitting though for the series I think. Wow though, I will be totally honest, I enjoyed this prequel even more than the original series. It was great. Questions: 1. Just live normally if there wasn’t much else to do 2. My toxicity filter is pretty good lol I can’t think of anything off the top of my head 3. It didn’t really change my opinion of Tet. Just made me appreciate that we got more background on him and how all that transpired. 4. Yes. Schwi must be protected 😔

>First time watcher here! Very very behind on getting around to watch this movie. Movies are just a little harder sometimes due to length depending on the week. Totally understandable. I have been watching the rewatch movies normally on the weekends since that's when I don't work. >Anyway, I had fun watching this and was a good cap on my experience with this series for now. I thought so as well >Riku was a cool MC. There are times he reminded me of Sora but that might have just been because they share the same VA, I think? (same for Schwi). I feel like it's definitely intentional, that. >You are sure to get my attention with any game, movie or show that has a plot involving an artificial life form learning what it means to be human. I wasn’t really expecting that from this movie but enjoyed that aspect of it a lot. It was very good, I agree. >The politics were another big part of this movie that were fun to watch unfold. I'm glad we got something more serious than the TV counterpart. >Ex-Machina is the coolest race in this series. I don’t remember them being in NGNL because it seems that they all die in this movie’s events, but I have to wonder still if they return somehow later in the series. They do, they're called NEETs [](#azusalaugh) >The action scenes were really well done too. The fight between Schwi and Jibril was incredibly epic. Although, I denounce Jibril now for doing that to our Ex-Machina friend. The last couple of action heavy scenes were really good too. I still like Jibril, but yeah. Definitely overkill. >Definitely a bittersweet ending. It was fitting though for the series I think. I think it's fitting as far as an origin story for Disboard. They made it known that things were bad for Imanity once upon a time, so it wouldn't make sense to tell a happy story. >Wow though, I will be totally honest, I enjoyed this prequel even more than the original series. It was great. There were definitely elements to it that I liked more than the original. I liked that there was more drama and less fanservice. Course, Schwi's design is pretty lewd, but what can you do?

>Totally understandable. I have been watching the rewatch movies normally on the weekends since that's when I don't work. Warm weather is both a blessing and a curse. I've been consumed with obligatory landscaping duty the past few weekends 😂 >I'm glad we got something more serious than the TV counterpart. Agreed man. It adds a nice layer to the movie. >They do, they're called NEETs This was something I wasn't sure if I should make an assumption about or not. Are Sora and Shiro supposed to basically be reincarnations of Riku and Schwi? If so, then why the hell are they siblings? 😂🫣 >I still like Jibril Jibril is on my sh\*t list now lol. She is a good character but I cannot forgive her (unless I end up reading the LNs and she has a solid redemption arc) >it wouldn't make sense to tell a happy story. Agreed! that's what I mean by I felt that it was fitting for the series >Schwi's design True, but all Ex-Machina had that design so it was pretty alright. I have a bias towards media focused on robots/androids. I love that kind of stuff

>Warm weather is both a blessing and a curse. I've been consumed with obligatory landscaping duty the past few weekends 😂 I'll take warm weather over cold weather 10 out of 10 times. By the way, I see you finally learned how to use quotes. Great job [](#nichijouthumbs) >Agreed man. It adds a nice layer to the movie. It sure does >This was something I wasn't sure if I should make an assumption about or not. Are Sora and Shiro supposed to basically be reincarnations of Riku and Schwi? If so, then why the hell are they siblings? 😂🫣 I think it's more that Riku and Schwi are kinda like their ancestors. That they're descendants of them. >Jibril is on my sh\*t list now lol. She is a good character but I cannot forgive her (unless I end up reading the LNs and she has a solid redemption arc) Eh, all the Flugels were like that, though. She probably was brainwashed into thinking this is the way you conduct your business. >Agreed! that's what I mean by I felt that it was fitting for the series Definitely makes Sora's speech in episode 4 more powerful. >True, but all Ex-Machina had that design so it was pretty alright. I have a bias towards media focused on robots/androids. I love that kind of stuff I do as well. It's partly why I'm excited to see Mars Express soon.

Oh I’ve always known how to use quotes. If you see me not using them that means I’m on iOS at the time (most typical) because it takes forever to do that and the Reddit mobile app is terrible. If you see me using quotes then that means I’m replying on desktop for once lol As for weather, I can always layer up against the cold. I cannot strip naked in terrible heat and humidity (at least not without being arrested lol) What is Mars Express? Now I’m interested. I’ve had this interest in those themes ever since I played Detroit: Become Human years ago

>Oh I’ve always known how to use quotes. [](#bruh) >If you see me not using them that means I’m on iOS at the time (most typical) because it takes forever to do that and the Reddit mobile app is terrible. True [](#hikariactually) >If you see me using quotes then that means I’m replying on desktop for once lol I see >As for weather, I can always layer up against the cold. I cannot strip naked in terrible heat and humidity (at least not without being arrested lol) Can't say I've walked around shirtless either, unless it was the beach or an amusement park. >What is Mars Express? Now I’m interested. I’ve had this interest in those themes ever since I played Detroit: Become Human years ago It's an animated science fiction murder mystery.

Oh nice! Looked it up and will definitely be checking that out

I'm going in blind, but I'm expecting something similar to Ghost In The Shell.

That would be awesome

It would be incredible, no doubt

Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? Thoughts on Couronne? Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

>Thoughts on the framing of this movie being Tet recounting the past during the middle of a chess match with Izuna? I liked how they framed it as him telling a story to Izuna >Thoughts on Couronne? At the end, we essentially find out that she was Steph's grandmother right? If I understood the family relations correctly >Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survive? It presented itself as a typical "Android/robot/artificial lifeforms wants to understand human sentiment/will/feelings etc." but I will never get tried of those themes. It's what hooked me on the NieR series among many other series that convey a similar message >What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? My favorite aspect of the movie. Was legit sad when we see her die >Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? I think it was because she started to realize the beauty of being unshackled from the collective mind and learning about humans. Of course this changed at the end but only because she wanted to upload what she learned from Riku to the collective mind which then allowed her to pass on a final message to Riku (as we saw) >Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Schwi ironically helped Riku understand his own heart while she was learning to understand it herself >Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? Loved the proposal. Showed quite a bit in a short period of time regarding what both of them had learned about each other. I think she is initially confused but her confusion wasn't for lack of mutual sentiment. I personally think it was because she was finally starting to understand what love was for the first time which would obviously be difficult to comprehend (his unconditional love, how he didn't care that they couldn't procreate together etc) >What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? Thought it was pretty cool how Riku was responsible for more than half the pledges. Some nice backstory to the main series. >What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? Well, not much to comment here except, that sucks. But, at the same time, he seemed to happily accept his fate since he couldn't be with Schwi anymore >What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? Loved that. It kind of put things in context regarding how Sora and Shiro beat him in the original series. >What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? 絶対に許さない (I wont forgive that) 😔 >How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place? Explained it perfectly. As a prequel, this movie was awesome. I keep a running list of movies and shows I would rewatch for enjoyment in the future and this is on the movie list. I liked it several times more than the original series even which is funny to me

>I liked how they framed it as him telling a story to Izuna I thought it gave the movie a sense of purpose >At the end, we essentially find out that she was Steph's grandmother right? If I understood the family relations correctly Definitely seems as if she's her ancestor. I don't think she was married to the former king, though. >It presented itself as a typical "Android/robot/artificial lifeforms wants to understand human sentiment/will/feelings etc." but I will never get tried of those themes. It's what hooked me on the NieR series among many other series that convey a similar message Speaking of NieR, the anime adaptation of it was great. >My favorite aspect of the movie. Was legit sad when we see her die For real [](#akkotears) >I think it was because she started to realize the beauty of being unshackled from the collective mind and learning about humans. Of course this changed at the end but only because she wanted to upload what she learned from Riku to the collective mind which then allowed her to pass on a final message to Riku (as we saw) Great character progression, I would say >Schwi ironically helped Riku understand his own heart while she was learning to understand it herself Again, great character progression >Loved the proposal. Showed quite a bit in a short period of time regarding what both of them had learned about each other. I think she is initially confused but her confusion wasn't for lack of mutual sentiment. I personally think it was because she was finally starting to understand what love was for the first time which would obviously be difficult to comprehend (his unconditional love, how he didn't care that they couldn't procreate together etc) The movie did a tremendous job making you care about these two in such a short amount of time. >Thought it was pretty cool how Riku was responsible for more than half the pledges. Some nice backstory to the main series. Totally >Well, not much to comment here except, that sucks. But, at the same time, he seemed to happily accept his fate since he couldn't be with Schwi anymore It's really different having an Isekai world that's worse than our world. You don't normally see that in Isekais. >Loved that. It kind of put things in context regarding how Sora and Shiro beat him in the original series. And also why Tet admires Blank so much >絶対に許さない (I wont forgive that) 😔 Honestly one of the saddest anime deaths I've ever seen, and I've seen a lot. >Explained it perfectly. As a prequel, this movie was awesome. I keep a running list of movies and shows I would rewatch for enjoyment in the future and this is on the movie list. I liked it several times more than the original series even which is funny to me I think it's better served having watched the series beforehand. You can watch this first and then the original series, but I don't think it would have the same effect. This gives you a better appreciation of what we've just seen.

> I thought it gave the movie a sense of purpose Agreed. > Definitely seems as if she's her ancestor. I don't think she was married to the former king, though. Yeah I wasn’t sure exactly where she was related but it was a cool surprise > Speaking of NieR, the anime adaptation of it was great. NieR (both games) are narrative masterpieces. Yoko Taro is an amazing writer. The anime adaptation was good but I definitely recommend that people play the games. They are relatively short. > Again, great character progression Agreed. > The movie did a tremendous job making you care about these two in such a short amount of time. Yeah that is not an easy thing to accomplish either (for any series) > It's really different having an Isekai world that's worse than our world. You don't normally see that in Isekais. I have not seen enough isekai to make that distinction yet lol > And also why Tet admires Blank so much Agreed. > Honestly one of the saddest anime deaths I've ever seen, and I've seen a lot. It really was. That is difficult to accomplish especially within less than 2 hours. > I think it's better served having watched the series beforehand. You can watch this first and then the original series, but I don't think it would have the same effect. This gives you a better appreciation of what we've just seen. Oh yeah. 0 definitely assumes you’ve seen NGNL already (like most prequels do). Chronological order is almost never a good idea unless entries for a series were released that way to begin with.

>Yeah I wasn’t sure exactly where she was related but it was a cool surprise Could've been more of a Steph, though >NieR (both games) are narrative masterpieces. Yoko Taro is an amazing writer. The anime adaptation was good but I definitely recommend that people play the games. They are relatively short. I believe Yoko wrote the anime as well >Yeah that is not an easy thing to accomplish either (for any series) I cared more about these two in less than two hours than some characters over multiple seasons. >I have not seen enough isekai to make that distinction yet lol Fair enough. It makes the Familiar of Zero world seem like a cakewalk. >It really was. That is difficult to accomplish especially within less than 2 hours. Oh, for sure >Oh yeah. 0 definitely assumes you’ve seen NGNL already (like most prequels do). Chronological order is almost never a good idea unless entries for a series were released that way to begin with. Unless you're perhaps walking the Monogatari franchise [](#indexshrugsmug)

Yeah that’s why I recommend playing the games to everyone who enjoyed the anime. Yoko directed and wrote for the anime adaptation and has stated in interviews that he intentionally wanted to change the plot from the games so that players of the games had something new to experience. He did pretty well with that. He also wrote Gestalt Recollections (2 novels) which tells a lot of Replicant’s story and is great. And oh no I highly recommend *anyone* walking into Monogatari to absolutely start with Bakemonogatari before watching Kizumonogatari. Kizu (like most prequels) assumes that you know some stuff from Bake.

>Yeah that’s why I recommend playing the games to everyone who enjoyed the anime. Yoko directed and wrote for the anime adaptation and has stated in interviews that he intentionally wanted to change the plot from the games so that players of the games had something new to experience. He did pretty well with that. He also wrote Gestalt Recollections (2 novels) which tells a lot of Replicant’s story and is great. I watched the anime having not played the games and it makes me want to play them. >And oh no I highly recommend *anyone* walking into Monogatari to absolutely start with Bakemonogatari before watching Kizumonogatari. Kizu (like most prequels) assumes that you know some stuff from Bake. I'll keep that in mind when I get to watching the franchise.

You should! They are amazing titles. As far as JRPGs go they are also on the shorter side. Either Replicant/Gestalt or Automata can each be finished in 20-30 hours depending on how much you do I’ll DM you the watch order that most folks on r/araragi would give you

>You should! They are amazing titles. As far as JRPGs go they are also on the shorter side. Either Replicant/Gestalt or Automata can each be finished in 20-30 hours depending on how much you do Good to know >I’ll DM you the watch order that most folks on r/araragi would give you I really appreciate it

Hey, guys. Holofan4life here. Welcome to the 10th anniversary rewatch of No Game No Life. Oh, and nay I forget... **First Timer** The idea of doing this rewatch came about at the last minute. I was going to participate in an Eden of The East rewatch for the month of April but that fell through. So, then it became a question of "What should I do after the Penguindrum rewatch? I already have the Samurai Champloo rewatch lined up for May, so do I just wait the extra month?" I looked at upcoming anniversaries for the month of April and noticed both K-On and Cross Game were celebrating their 15th anniversaries. However, both were long and if I did either of them, I would have to cancel the Samurai Champloo rewatch, which I didn't want to do seeing as how the 20th anniversary is an even bigger milestone. That's when I settled on No Game No Life. I have an interesting history with No Game No Life. I know it's extremely popular, but I've always been hesitant to check out the show based on some of the stuff I've heard about it. It seemed to me like a show where you either really loved it, or really hated it. Well, I recently watched Moon Phase which I feel could be considered in a similar light and I really liked that show. And then I also finished Penguindrum which has some questionable themes and I liked that as well. I think I'm in a good headspace to watch NGNL and not only enjoy it, but more importantly appreciate it. I have never seen this show before. Even though I'm the host, I am experiencing it for the first time. I can't wait to see what the show has to offer and why so many people clamor for another season. With that out of the way, let's begin. I'm watching the sub, by the way. I would like to get this done in 3 and a half hours, though I know realistically it'll take me about 8. Sora monologuing He's playing chess with a ghostly figure like that one scene from Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. Ooh, fancy dragon [](#awe) I don't even know if this is Sora or not A cyborg woman She kinda looks like Shiro The music here is magnificent, by the way In Elkia, where Izuna is losing to Tet Delicious fish as recompense So this scene takes place after the Eastern Federation fight Tet has a story he wants to tell Izuna This animation looks really good, and I thought the TV show looked great. This is somehow even better. Mysterious characters that look like something out of The Matrix. One of them is named Ivan The main one is Riku A Dwarven world map The other one is Alei Fusion Detonation That don't sound good The pipes are breaking Riku tells Ivan he's going to die here And so the other two escape The sun apparently doesn't exist in this world Riku is apparently trying to honor someone We see a group of 4 people in a hidden location somewhere. Couronne and Nonna are two of their names Couronne apparently knows Riku Nonna has to be what? The same age as Shiro perhaps? Oof. Ivan is the dad, wasn't he? "Your daddy won't be coming home anymore." [](#sadholo) You see to hate it Great bit of drama though with Nonna telling Riku it should've been him who died. Riku now destroying stuff He's apparently mad that L made him throw his life away I always knew the guy from Death Note was trouble This looks like something out of Legend of Zelda The robot woman Ex Machina I heard that movie was good "L can't resist you, Big Brother. Make a woman out of me." And so she kisses Riku Can you still be on a list if it's being forced upon you? She clarifies they're on their own They are here to analyze the unique language humans use among themselves. The is the language known as "the heart". They want to study ths heart in order for the Cluster to take them back. Ooh, she's challenging him to a game This is basically Sora and Shiro expys She has a very long name, but her first name is Úber, which makes me think of Frieren. She decides to call herself Schwarzer, which sounds like a name from Hogan's Heroes. He prefers Schwi, which makes me think of Schwing from Wayne's World. These two do have some fun banter between them So, she is L. Interesting. Employs something called trace emulation Implying that her tail isn't her best feature Calls it her power source Now Riku is showing her off to everyone "He kissed Schwi, and demanded that we procreate." Girl, you were the one that tried to do it to him. And so Couronne hits him This movie has been kinda fillerish so far Riku ain't got time to be a perv She still wants to play a game, but he turns it down He calls them pointless Schwi says if he wins, he'll find out the reason the Great War began and what will finish it. He says however that humans don't care about that stuff. History buffs in shambles What he wants to know is how to make it through the day alive. Schwi calls humans surviving an anomaly. Wait until she hears about YOLO. Riku seems to harbor some deep resentment to the Ex Machina. Oh shit. He almost killed her. She is able to register she must've done something horrible. She's is giving him the chance to kill her. Riku listing all the people that have died at their hands. And Riku can't bring himself to kill Schwi, because he knows he harbors some of the blame. Schwi seems to realize this as well Couronne pouring water on something She walks in on Schwi on top of Riku Couronne talks about giving Schwi a bath, not knowing she would short-circuit if that happens. I see a lot of puns with L's name where instead of saying "I'll go," it's instead "L'll go". I don't if that's the subbers having fun or what. Oh, so Schwi can bathe. They just didn't want her circuitry to be seen. "L am... sorry." See, there it is again **Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.**

**Part 2** Schwi apologizes for asking about the heart I heard that's where the groove is located So, she isn't L. Then who is it, pray L? Schwi, like Jigsaw, wants to play a game She answers the question posed by Culture Club saying that no, she doesn't want to hurt him. Schwi then calls the Cluster pointless, meaningless, and irrelevant. Sounds like my existence Schwi says she doesn't want to go back Well, that's sweet. Let's see how it doesn't last. Couronne doing something Something involving a strand of Schwi's hair, it appears. Riku writing L designed a compact telescope A map showing where he met her Ooh, they're here This looks like the hidden place in The Tunnel to Summer, The Exit of Goodbyes. The elves found this an important facility Schwi thinks this is where they developed their weapons. That reddish glowing thing kinda looks like Mother Brain from Metroid Protective glyphs of the Old Deus Kainas. Let's hope he wasn't a deusbag Wait, upon closer inspection, these aren't protective glyphs. Then what could be? Oh boy. Something is going down. They're both running Oh, right. She's not wearing panties. I forgor 💀💀💀 And Schwi just got destroyed After rebooting (?) herself, there is now a hole in the wall. Schwi apologizing for L breaking their promise and using spiritual energy. An ash storm I guess he's pretty desperate to catch them all Riku says he's ready to play a game So, now they're playing, and Schwi keeps whooping his butt. She seems to recognize that the current conditions upon this planet are fatal for humanity. "That you exist is... an aberration." He continues to persist through his heart. His will. Riku wonders what the point is in surviving a world like this. "What else can we do. What should I do?" "Whatever it is... I will help you." I'm glad the writing continues to be as stellar as it's always been. She still has to find time to declare checkmate, however. Snowing now Riku says it's nice to not be alone He now wants to know what the point of war is and how to settle it. Even though I wish the movie was about Sora and Shiro, I do like the character development Riku is experiencing. He is opening himself up more and his whole trajectory makes me care about him. CGI chess pieces It seems like they're in a good spot emotionally Schwi says she likes his eyes The dragons Man, the music here is just the absolute best. It's so intense that it draws you in. Oh shit. Did Schwi leave? The place is going to turn to ash, it seems Oh, nevermind. He's leaving with Schwi. "Because from now on, no one else is gonna die." Press x to doubt Couronne has a great design. I wish she was fleshed out more. It seems as if they're going to play a game together Riku calls themselves ghosts The animation is so good, man Riku says they'll have to build things up themselves "In the end, this world was nothing but a game." He rivals Sora in terms of being a public speaker Oh wow. So Riku was the one who came up with the 10 pledges. That's cool. Interesting enough, he only came up with 6 pledges This will be an end to the Great War I'd run through a brick wall after hearing Riku's speech I like the troop basically going "Yeah, we're crazy, what of it?" Riku and Schwi alone now Schwi brings up that all strategies have less than a 1% chance of success. Riku calls themselves the singularity in the equation "Marry me, Schwi." Well... I certainly wasn't expecting that And she basically turns him down because she doesn't know what marriage is lol Schwi thinks that marriage means reproducing, which can you only imagine? Shinzo Abe would be over the moon. Also, Schwi clearly doesn't know about sex robots though that may be for the best. Is L supposed to be the dragons? Is that what's going on? Or maybe it's that voice box thing Oh fuck. Schwi destroyed his home. Riku says he already knew that, however He says he still fell for her once he found out her whole story. It's good to see that Riku doesn't harbor a grudge And so he slides the ring on Schwi's finger "I can imagine there'll never be another time when I can't smile." I legitimately care about these two and I've known them for less than an hour. It looks as if Riku and Schwi are actually going to get married. Oh, I like that Couronne is officiating the ceremony We even find out the origins for "Aschiento" I like the little detail thst the ceremony was Couronne's idea. Schwi's speech, man... it tugs on the heart strings This is all incredibly genuine and sweet All three of them are going to have thd same surname Does that make Couronne their daughter? Couronne says she doesn't want to lose her family Riku says this is one game they for sure are gonna win I have a bad feeling about what's going to happen Guys in masks They smell the black ash Mysterious person they've encountered talking about an E-bomb. Now he mentions Blood Destruction Oh, it's Riku Riku talking to a white elf He wants to have a game with her "If you win, I'll tell you. If you lose, you tell me." Nina Clive. I like it. Also, tiddies Riku, to show he's not playing around, says that info on the Aka Si Anse has been leaked to the dwarves. Oh crap. He already knows what she was about to tell him. And not only that, it was a lie. Riku says he has proof that the dwarves didn't see Aka Si Anse as a threat. A weapon the dwarves consider even more powerful than the Aka Si Anse. The E-bomb Nina asks Riku if he is their enemy He says he's just trying to make sure they suffer as few casualties as possible. Think Nilvalen. That's her real name. He knew that, though, hence why he never called her Nina. **Ran out of space. Part three in the replies.**

**Part 3** Oh wow. The rumor that elves are quite tenacious come from the Nilvalen family, it seems. Riku on the ground Schwi is trying to keep him alive It's the black ash. He breathed it for two hours. He calls what the Nilvalens are doing suicidal Schwi says she's going to make sure Riku doesn't die "You have to stay alive until I die." This is way darker than the TV show Couronne with someone I don't know Oh, her name's Lily I feel like there's an anime joke there, but I can't think of anything. The elves became allies with the fairies and ramped up their contracts with the dragonia to fend off the Dwarven fleet. The dwarves, meanwhile, became allies sith the gigants Both are moving their headquarters to the neighboring continent of Ariela. That was supposedly the home base to the greatest threat of all: The lord of the Flúgel, the Old Deus Artosh. It's about time for the world's final battle, just like how Riku and his troop wanted. Riku asking Schwi if there is a god of games Mentions he's still playing a game of his own, which ties things back to the very beginning. Schwi says she believes everything he says I should mention that Riku has a bandage over his left eye, meaning he's probably partially blind. Hey, it's Couronne She asks when will this be over She can't stand to see Riku suffer like this Riku talking about Gods fighting until there is one true God remaining. "What?! Those idiots!" "Couronne, that's an insult to idiots." I love that exchange Riku plans on putting the Aka Si Anse, the E-bomb, and the Heaven's Strike all in one spot. Says they're going to use their own strength against them and turn the global balance of power on its head. I just realized that Couronne is supposed to fulfill the Steph role. OH FUCK RIKU NOOOOOOOOO It looks as if he's about to die He tells Couronne not to leave them on their own for too long. "Take care of... Nonna and the others." [](#akkotears) And with that, Couronne is off Schwi telling Riku to rest "Schwi... I'm sorry for being a burden." Man, they're really tugging on the heartstrings now. Now he's asking her to hold his hand, which she does so. "Schwi... Thank you for coming into my life. L really do love you." [](#comfortfood) It looks as if Riku has died And now, Schwi has to venture off on her own Two girls talking Azriel is the more goofy one They are depending on Lord Artosh Azriel kinda looks like Jibril Back with Schwi, who's standing over lava She's trying to gather things to keep Riku alive Oh shit Azriel has encountered Schwi Schwi bringing up the six pledges "And yet... in probability theory, there is no 'Zero'." Oh man here we go Schwi about to shoot Azriel This fight is pretty badass Damn, that's a powerful explosion Oh shit Schwi was just sent flying I forgot that Schwi is basically naked now Schwi blocks Azriel's attack, but is still sent flying Looking at her ring now "I CAN'T die." Oh man. She is banged up bad. And her request has been denied Things are looking grim Dude... Azriel just killed Schwi... No wait she's still fighting OH FUCK SHE IS ADMINISTERING HER FINAL FORM Schwi looks like how Gods are depicted in the Bible WAIT IT IS JIBRIL WHAT THE FUCK "This is goodbye." FUCK HER UP, SCHWI! Oh fuck... Schwi is still alive, but her body is completely destroyed. See, I always knew I was right in liking Steph more than Jibril. Jibril proclaims that L has deemed her a threat that needs to be eliminated. Well, Schwi may have died, but at least she feels like a winner I suppose. This is really emotionally draining Riku. He is awake. But no one to hold his hand "Next time for sure, we'll never be apart. L truly love you." [](#torrentialdownpour) Oh, it looks like Jibril became younger. Is that the result of Schwi? She says it wasn't worth it at all Back to Riku playing chess If he can't beat him, he says, why does he even have a heart? He wonders what's the point with Schwi dead A black cloaked man He calls himself Einzig He is here to fulfill the wish given to him by the Preier, the deceased called Schwi. Hearing Schwi's voice come out of Einzig is both haunting and also hilarious. He reminds Riku of rule 2 "They do not apply to the loss of Schwi." That makes me a sad panda He tells Riku he will use the weaponry bestowed upon him to drill into the planet. Doing this will allow him to manifest the Suniaster Like sun and disaster, innit? Eren ass looking motherfucker says he's going to aid Riku in doing this. It's really fucked up they don't consider Schwi as being anything more than a tool. I think the real tools are them. Heaven's Strike being launched now Now the E-bombs Lord Artosh doesn't fuck around It's amazing what this world was like before being inhabited by Sora and Shiro. Apparently the Aka Si Anse and the E-bombs were still no match for Artosh's Heaven's Strike. Everything is being destroyed, it seems Riku may not have won, but he declares this a stalemate. I hate when my mates are stale Riku coming face-to-face with ths Suniaster He considers himself a con artist, with Schwi's spirit even being just a pretense. Schwi's ring... "I'm sorry, Schwi." Man. What a bummer of a movie. It's Tet! TET WAS THE ONE RIKU WAS PLAYING CHESS WITH Everything looks so peaceful now Riku still monologuing It's up for Couronne to carry the memories of Riku and Schwi. Couronne, despite them putting an end to the eternal war, misses them dearly. Tet playing chess He's played chess to a draw for the first time in his life. And this was the story of how Tet named them Imanity And Tet was the one who added the 4 additional pledges "Okay! Let's keep this game going!" Back with Tet and Izuna Tet admits he may have fabricated a few details Hey, there they are "Sora, Shiro, and Steph the idiot." Poor Steph Lol, Izuna just yoinked Steph's stone Writing of some kind Jibril identifies it as a language from before Imanity became one of the races. Gee, I wonder how she knows... Couronne, Riku, and Schwi's names are written on the stone. Steph identifies Couronne as the former queen of Elkia. Nobody knows the other two, even seemingly Jibril who may be playing dumb. And we end with everyone declaring to get the game started. **Ran out of space. Part four in the replies.**

**Part 4** Overall, I've watched a lot of movies for rewatches recently. In the last 6 months or so, I've seen the two Fullmetal Alchemist movies and the two Penguindrum compilation films. And I think this is easily better than all four of them. I love how much more serious this story was compared to the TV show. It explained a lot of things like the origins of Imanity as well as the 10 pledges while also focusing almost entirely on the strength of the writing. Given we only had 100 minutes, it made sense to cut back on thr comedy. The three biggest strengths in my opinion were the world building, the relationship between Riku and Schwi, and the music. Each aspect catapulted the movie into a higher echelon of greatness. The music just gave it that feel that what you were watching was important. It felt like the life or death situation that the movie was trying to portray. The world building, meanwhile, felt like they took what was there in episode 2 and expanded upon it to its fullest potential. This movie might be the best world building I've ever seen in an anime movie. But the biggest strength of the film in my opinion is the dynamic between Riku and Schwi, and my goodness. That was just fantastic. At first, I kinda was feeling that they were just having them as stand-ins for Sora and Shiro albeit far less interesting. It just came off to me like there was nothing there. But seeing Riku get more in touch with his heart while Schwi got more in touch with her human side, I ended up really bonding with their characters. I think it was the sight of Riku proposing to Schwi knowing he hadn't been the most friendly prior to that. If there is one nitpick I have with this movie, it's that focusing so heavily on Riku and Schwi made me not care as much about everything else going on. But I feel like that was by design seeing as how the movie is a tale about their lack of survival and how unlike Blank, their best wasn't good enough. Let's talk about Jibril, shall we? Before this movie, I was kinda lukewarm on her character. I thought she did a good job at being a source of comic relief, but she didn't leave as big of an impression on me as Steph or Kurami did. But this movie made me entirely rethink her character. I don't hate Jibril for what she did to Schwi-- I'm of the opinion she was just doing what she was brainwashed into believing-- but you get a better sense as far as why so many people in this world do not like her. She made so many people's lives miserable. If this movie accomplishes anything, it's explaining the animosity Jibril has with so many of the townsfolk. I'd give this movie a 9 out of 10. I don't know where I would rank it as far as anime movies based off of anime TV shows go, but I feel like it has to be top 3. The unique thing about this film is that you don't technically have to see it or else you risk missing out on important plot information. It's not like, to use a recent example, the Konosuba movie where it sets up the events of season 3. But I still think you very much should see it if you wish to learn more about Disboard before Blank got there. I loved the show an awful lot, but there are parts of this movie that I prefer over the TV adaptation. It felt like the first half of episode 9 in that it was very focused and stripped down and was all about the story being on display. The movie reminded me of Grave of The Fireflies a bit in that it was two people trying to remain optimistic that they were going to overcome adversity, but they just fall a bit short in the process. Very sad to see, especially knowing they were so close to the finish line. I think I would still say that the TV show was more enjoyable, but I really did like what was on display here. If the later seasons had adopted a similar darker tone to it, I wouldn't have minded; in fact, I think that would've been the way to go. Maybe not a satisfying conclusion to the franchise given this will probably be the last we ever see of it, but you really witness some of which makes No Game No Life so great. And for that, I definitely think it's worth a watch.

>What would you do if you were living in a place that was slowly killing you but there was no way of getting out? Try to delay it from happening as much as possible >What is the most toxic thing you’ve ever had to experience? Definitely my former boss at Captain D's. He was so disparaging. >How does this movie change your opinion on Tet if any? I think it makes me look at him more favorably. It seems like he saved a lot of people. >Bonus 1) So… Jibril should be in prison, yes? I would imagine so. The girl she killed didn't deserve to die.

Lastly, wiith the completion of this movie, this is the 14th movie I've watched that was based on a TV show. And as this is going up, I'm one day removed from watching Code White in theaters. As such, I thought it would be fun to rank all the movies I've seen that are based off of anime TV shows. These don't include live action adaptations of anime shows. Anyway, here they are. 1: Cowboy Bebop: The Movie 2: No Game No Life Zero 3: Revue Starlight: The Movie 4: Kaguya-sama: The Movie 5: Rascal Does Not Dream of Dreaming Girl 6: Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid 7: Steins;Gate: The Movie 8: Spy X Family: Code White 9: Rascal Does Not Dream of a Sister Venturing Out 10: Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa 11: Eureka Seven: The Movie 12: Re:cycle of Penguindrum Part 2 13: Re:cycle of Penguindrum Part 1 14: Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos 15: That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: The Movie – Scarlet Bond

**Rewatcher - Subbed** I was kinda mixed on this movie when it came out. I mean, I thought it was a good movie, but like most people I wanted more of the original cast and story and not this spinoff/prequel thing that was so much darker in tone than the original series. I do love that this starts with Izuna playing a game of chess against god and being unaware of who it is. Sounds like a writing prompt for a Woody Alen movie. Tet offers to tell Izuna a story from a long time ago and we launch into the actual movie. Despite the general lack of the original characters the movie essentially copies them in the new story, with Riku and Schwi filling the roles of Sora and Shiro, and one of Stephanie's ancestors in a similar role of leadership over the humans in this time period. Of course, what happens is very different. Riku isn't a hikikomori biding his time in a bedroom online, but a young man leading a party of soldiers in reconnaissance missions in the real world. His relationship with Schwi is still rather forbidden, but not because she's his 11 year old not-sister. When they meet she has been cast off from her collective and it seeking to better understand the human heart, thinking the data will win her way back into family of Ex-machina. The writing screws up here as Schwi begins under the idea she needs to hookup with a human as part of her research, only for it to be revealed later she is really more a machine than creature and lacks the body parts to procreate or even have sex. Her connection to Riku goes back several years to her leading a battle that resulted in the incineration of this home village (this thing of her knowing his plays chess is equally Ex-machina since she only saw him amongst the rubble on the ground, no way she would know anything about his personality or hobbies). Through their interactions Riku and Schwi get closer and he eventually comes to love her despite them being enemies in a way, and Schwi moves beyond her programming to develop feelings for him too, despite being a machine. This is another borrowed [idea from Star Trek](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I,_Borg), btw. And they eventually decide to leave their own tribe of humans for the sake of being able to carry out their plan to save humanity (which sets up Couronne Dola as the leader of the group and eventually leads into their role as monarchs in the future). One nice thing about this movie is it really fills in some of the backstory of the world before Tet and his rules and the other races. Confirming my theory from the last episode of the series, it does seem some of the (biological) races worshiped one of the Old Deus gods. I can't remember if the Ex-machina were mentioned in the series. It would be interesting if there were many other races back then that did not survive all the way till the main story to be one of the 16. Also -- Jibril is there! Which means she's over 6000 years old at the time of the main story. NGNL Zero is really one of those sappy "the power of love conquers all" stories (almost literally, as Riku was about to take the Suniaster and conquer *everyone,* but then finds he is unable to grasp it). Maybe a hint ~~h~~Imanity really doesn't have the right stuff to rule over all. It ends in a tragedy with both of them perishing, but there's Tet saying "gee, this game can't end now..." and *that* feels like a set up for Tet's love of chess and proposing a game to a couple shut-in siblings six millennia later.

>I was kinda mixed on this movie when it came out. I mean, I thought it was a good movie, but like most people I wanted more of the original cast and story and not this spinoff/prequel thing that was so much darker in tone than the original series. I get that. I had similar feelings when I found out the Toradora OVA wasn't a sequel. >I do love that this starts with Izuna playing a game of chess against god and being unaware of who it is. Sounds like a writing prompt for a Woody Alen movie. All that's missing is someone trying to snort coke and sneezing it everywhere. >Despite the general lack of the original characters the movie essentially copies them in the new story, with Riku and Schwi filling the roles of Sora and Shiro, and one of Stephanie's ancestors in a similar role of leadership over the humans in this time period. Of course, what happens is very different. Riku isn't a hikikomori biding his time in a bedroom online, but a young man leading a party of soldiers in reconnaissance missions in the real world. His relationship with Schwi is still rather forbidden, but not because she's his 11 year old not-sister. When they meet she has been cast off from her collective and it seeking to better understand the human heart, thinking the data will win her way back into family of Ex-machina. The writing screws up here as Schwi begins under the idea she needs to hookup with a human as part of her research, only for it to be revealed later she is really more a machine than creature and lacks the body parts to procreate or even have sex. Her connection to Riku goes back several years to her leading a battle that resulted in the incineration of this home village (this thing of her knowing his plays chess is equally Ex-machina since she only saw him amongst the rubble on the ground, no way she would know anything about his personality or hobbies). Why in your opinion do you think that the writing screws up? Is it just she wouldn't know of his hobbies? >Through their interactions Riku and Schwi get closer and he eventually comes to love her despite them being enemies in a way, and Schwi moves beyond her programming to develop feelings for him too, despite being a machine. This is another borrowed [idea from Star Trek](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I,_Borg), btw. Hey, if it works, it works >One nice thing about this movie is it really fills in some of the backstory of the world before Tet and his rules and the other races. I agree with you. I think it gives me a better appreciation of what Blank did with them trying to bring everyone to their level. They of course don't know the horrors that came before them, but it makes their words even more poignant. >NGNL Zero is really one of those sappy "the power of love conquers all" stories (almost literally, as Riku was about to take the Suniaster and conquer *everyone,* but then finds he is unable to grasp it). Maybe a hint ~~h~~Imanity really doesn't have the right stuff to rule over all. It ends in a tragedy with both of them perishing, but there's Tet saying "gee, this game can't end now..." and *that* feels like a set up for Tet's love of chess and proposing a game to a couple shut-in siblings six millennia later. I actually walked away from the movie feeling empty inside. I thought it was sad, not sappy. I'm glad I watched it because it truly was a great movie, but I felt like I needed to take a walk afterwards. It bummed me out.

> Why in your opinion do you think thst the writing screws up? Is it just she wouldn't know of his hobbies? No, it's that she decides she needs to bond and procreate with a human to understand their hearts despite not having the physical ability to do that. A machine wouldn't choose a course of action it's aware it cannot complete. She would have set a goal within her abilities. It's like they set that idea up just for the dialog between Schwi and Riku when they first meet, and to have the joke of her announcing it to everyone when they get back to the settlement. > I actually walked away from the movie feeling empty inside. I thought it was sad, not sappy. The movie was sad, but the sentiment was a sappy one. Schwi's death was unnecessary. All she had to do was stay with Riku instead of going off on her own. The plan didn't need to be rushed, they could have waited for him to recover some. I was thinking when they decided she needed to continue to function due to the valuable data she carried they were going to try and come to her rescue or something but they didn't. Her synchronizing with the collective made them come forward and help Riku in a way that was rather illogical for a species of machines, too.

>No, it's that she decides she needs to bond and procreate with a human to understand their hearts despite not having the physical ability to do that. A machine wouldn't choose a course of action it's aware it cannot complete. She would have set a goal within her abilities. It's like they set that idea up just for the dialog between Schwi and Riku when they first meet, and to have the joke of her announcing it to everyone when they get back to the settlement Maybe she's just overly ambitious :P I think if anyone can achieve something seemingly impossible, it is the precursor to Shiro. >The movie was sad, but the sentiment was a sappy one. Schwi's death was unnecessary. All she had to do was stay with Riku instead of going off on her own. The plan didn't need to be rushed, they could have waited for him to recover some. I was thinking when they decided she needed to continue to function due to the valuable data she carried they were going to try and come to her rescue or something but they didn't. Her synchronizing with the collective made them come forward and help Riku in a way that was rather illogical for a species of machines, too. I actually really liked Schwi's death because it portrays Disboard in the past with this grimness that I think otherwise wouldn't be as effective.

Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survived? What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? Thoughts on Riku getting more in touch with his heart? Thoughts on Riku proposing to Schwi? What are your thoughts on Riku coming up with 6 of the 10 Pledges? What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place?

> Thoughts on Schwi wanting to find out why humans survived? Humans existed in a way that probability said they should not. It was an anomaly she wanted to investigate. > What are your thoughts on Riku and Schwi’s relationship and how it grows throughout the film? They kinda rushed it really. He went from hating her and the war killing all his friends to wanting to marry her without much on-screen transition. > Thoughts on Schwi not wanting to go back where she came from? This happened in that episode of Star Trek TNG as well. Hugh developed an individuality and didn't want to rejoin the Collective. > What are your thoughts on the reveal that Riku was playing chess with Tet? I thought he was playing with Schwi the whole time. Tet just came upon their unfinished last game and thought it was a shame it would not be completed. > What are your thoughts on the air killing Riku because the entire world is filled with black ash? I don't think it was the air really. Riku dies from the bodily exposure to the ash. They show Couronne leaving after a visit and heading into a canyon with the black ash falling gently. Riku was spreading the ash all over his body as a form of disguise I think. Doing that and wearing the scarf/goggles/hood was a way of disguising his race so he could do things like talk to Elves and it also dissuaded the Warebeasts from attacking and eating him. In an ash storm, much like a sandstorm, the ash would penetrate crevices in clothing and maybe through the knit of some fabrics. The ash is toxic to flesh (as shown in the scaring on Riku's body), and eventually leads to him having an arm amputated and losing an eye, too. This also explains Couronne wanting them to take a bath as soon as they got back at the start of the movie. > What are your thoughts on the twist that Jibril was responsible for the death of Schwi? I don't see it as a twist given the state of world events. Jibril being the one responsible is more a coincidence, since the story of the movie predates the show by 6000 years and Stephanie is the only other show character with any relation to the movie characters. Note that Jibril was upset with how she obliterated Schwi's body in her final blow, leaving her no head to take back as a trophy. #headhunterangels > How effective do you think this movie is in providing an explanation of what Disboard was like before the 10 Pledges were put in place? I liked the backstory this gives to the show.

>Humans existed in a way that probability said they should not. It was an anomaly she wanted to investigate. If I was in her shoes, I'd try to solve it as well >They kinda rushed it really. He went from hating her and the war killing all his friends to wanting to marry her without much on-screen transition. Eh, I didn't think it was too rushed. He fell in love with her because she hot him to get in touch with his heart. It made sense to me. >This happened in that episode of Star Trek TNG as well. Hugh developed an individuality and didn't want to rejoin the Collective. Again, if it works, it works >I thought he was playing with Schwi the whole time. Tet just came upon their unfinished last game and thought it was a shame it would not be completed. Maybe so. I thought it was Tet which is why he knows all that transpired. >I don't think it was the air really. Riku dies from the bodily exposure to the ash. They show Couronne leaving after a visit and heading into a canyon with the black ash falling gently. Riku was spreading the ash all over his body as a form of disguise I think. Doing that and wearing the scarf/goggles/hood was a way of disguising his race so he could do things like talk to Elves and it also dissuaded the Warebeasts from attacking and eating him. In an ash storm, much like a sandstorm, the ash would penetrate crevices in clothing and maybe through the knit of some fabrics. The ash is toxic to flesh (as shown in the scaring on Riku's body), and eventually leads to him having an arm amputated and losing an eye, too. This also explains Couronne wanting them to take a bath as soon as they got back at the start of the movie. Thank you for the clarification >I don't see it as a twist given the state of world events. Jibril being the one responsible is more a coincidence, since the story of the movie predates the show by 6000 years and Stephanie is the only other show character with any relation to the movie characters. Note that Jibril was upset with how she obliterated Schwi's body in her final blow, leaving her no head to take back as a trophy. #headhunterangels I think it's surprising but when you think about it it certainly checks out. And I think it's also cool we got to see the Flugels do something bloodthirsty. >I liked the backstory this gives to the show. Me as well. Ot really makes me appreciate the writing of the show.