Black Clover Sword of the Wizard King Review: Directed by Ayataka Tanemura, the latest Black Clover movie premiered on June 16, 2023 on Netflix. Based on Yuuki Tabata's manga of the same name, the script is written by Johnny Onda and Ai Orii. The voice cast includes Gakuto Kajiwara, Toshihiko Seki, Fumiya Takahashi, Miyuki Sawashiro, and more.
Minako Seki provides the music, and the theme song, Here I Stand, is performed by the K-pop group Treasure. With a running time of 113 minutes, the film is available in Japanese with English subtitles and English dub.
The film follows the initial lore of the series surrounding a world of magic where a boy named Asta exists who has no magical abilities. He dreams of becoming the Wizard King of the Clover Kingdom and heads off to fight Yuno, his longtime rival. However, his plans are interrupted when ghosts from the past arrive in the form of Conrad Leto, an ancient wizard king and predecessor of Julius Novachrono. He brings with him the 3 most feared Magi in history, Edward Avalaché, Princia Funnybunny and Jester Garandaros, to take over the Clover Kingdom.
Asta finds himself in a personal dilemma when he first met Conrad as his beliefs were shattered in an instant. The one he thought was the protector of the kingdom turns out to be the destroyer raising multiple questions within him, and the creators have appropriately shown his conflicted emotions. He is a perfect and ideal main character of the series, which makes the audience root for him for his unwavering principles and good character. Also, his ability to never give up despite his flaws is what makes him extremely relatable.
Conrad, on the other hand, is ruthless and powerful. He possesses unfathomable abilities that no common magician can surpass. In addition to being physically strong, his persistent and hell-bent mental toughness is what makes him an unblemished villain. Even though he is dead wrong, viewers can't help but sympathize with him and understand his perspective on his world.
Needless to say, the animation in the film is the highlight. From the beginning to the end, the movie consists of multiple action sequences that keep everyone on the edge. Each frame bursts with dynamic energy as the characters harness the power of magic. From breathtaking battles that defy the laws of physics to the display of mystical forces, the animation captures the essence of each spell. Also, the intricate and detailed character design is another aspect that makes the movie stand out from the rest.
The clash of ideologies takes center stage, showing the depth of the main characters' convictions. Both Asta and Conrad are more alike than is initially perceived. Although their beliefs are directly opposed to each other, the root of their determination and values are similar. The story makes a philosophical connection between them to show how people can have the same views, but the choices they make are their true identities.
Although the plot contains theories that pose a moral conundrum, it is far from unique. The story is predictable and doesn't have enough substance to make up for a two hour long movie, and could easily be cut short. Also, some story elements seem superficial and don't offer enough viable material to support the various plots.