The story is rather simple. The heroes have a problem, X will be taken away from them unless they do the seemingly impossible task of Y. To be honest, the story isn't really something that's to be focused on and it certainly shouldn't be what you're watching this movie for. Rather, it's there to make the characters act. The team that created GuP knew exactly what they were doing. It gets a high score not for being original, but because the conflict is there when it needs to be and not when something else is to be focused at. The characters, and us, do not need to be reminded what they're fighting for. They, and we, already know.
The characters are also another result of a masterful presentation. Again, they've taken generic stereotypes, the quiet one, the girly one, and fleshed them out into full personalities. It may be in the background, but if you look closely you will start to see what makes them people and not just cardboard cutouts. While most of the characterization was done in the show, the movie does reinforce what's there and also allows us a glimpse inside the hearts of a few characters that didn't get a chance to fully explain themselves in the show. Also it should be noted that background characters, many of which don't even speak, much less show their faces, are all unique. I'm serious, pause the movie during a scene with a large crowd and you will not find empty faces, you will see people.
The art and animation is amazing. Landscapes are full and flowing and the tanks are monstrous and alive. Zoomed out shots are breathtaking and battle scenes are fist clenching tense.
The action is something to be noted. It's definitely not a realistic depiction of tank warfare, but then again this is not a real war so it does work out. Rather, instead of nitpicking every single detail, one would have a much better time thinking of this movie as a Wuxia film. Wuxia-type action is impossible, no doubt. We know it, we feel it, but at the same time we can't disprove it on the spot. It's over the top, and while the Spock in our minds would raise an eyebrow over the impossibilities, our hearts just accept and soak in the amazing action that is being shown before us. Der Film just breaks new territory with tanks.
However the number one aspect where this movie stands above all, and I do mean all, is the sound. It cannot be properly described in words. Tank tracks squealing on concrete, the low rumble of the beast's monstrous engine, and the rumble of a 2-tonne explosive shell. If there was one movie were I would wholeheartedly recommend buying a high end audiophile setup for, it would be this one.
This is a film for the fans. If you're not a fan of Girls und Panzer because you're not into it, you won't enjoy this movie. If you're not a fan because you just haven't seen the anime show, I would recommend that you give it a watch and then come back to the movie.
Overall, Girls und Panzer Der Film was a thoroughly enjoyable experience, one that I will definitely be revisiting in the future.
