Quite possibly my favorite thing about this movie, the animation, was spectacular. Though it is quite different from traditional anime style animation, it is unique in a really good way. Though some of it may appear a bit rough in some parts, it flows well with the story, and it's very lively. Not only that, but the color scheme used throughout many of the scenes in this film were extremely vivid. I liked just about everything concerning the animation. I can't imagine this film being animated differently than it was- it worked perfectly.
Now, the story of the film is a bit rough. Though it is very likable and simple, the main focus in the film is not really on the story from scene to scene, but the characters within it. This can really draw a lot of people out of seeing this film, but let me reassure you- the story knows it's place. It doesn't have to be the main focus of the entire movie for the film itself to be good. It is perfectly fine by itself by focusing on the development of the characters in the film, not the story. However, the arcs that were in the film were a bit bland and basic to my personal taste, making them a bit more boring than expected.
However, where the film lacks in plot, it more than makes up for in it's characters. The characters represented in this film are all likable, and some are slowly becoming some of my all-time favorites. The obvious standout characters throughout the film include Jesus and Buddha. I can't separate these two as individuals, as they are a dynamic comedic duo. They are hilarious characters, and if I were ever to represent them in a conversation, I would mention them as equals. I love both of them on an equal basis, to no extent. Not only that, but they slowly develop throughout the movie from just funny, one-note guys, to understanding, complex, and still funny characters. They were easily the best characters in the film. However, the surrounding cast, including their landlady, whose name I forgot. She was hilarious throughout the film, but her role was a bit lacking throughout parts. She was really funny when she was in the film, as well as in the mini-series, where her role as a comedic playoff of Jesus and Buddha was really well done. Finally, another really funny character throughout the film was the Yakuza guy, Ryuuji. For as little as he showed up in the film, he was awesome. He was quite funny, and did have me laughing at quite a few scenes, especially during the firework festival arc.
Though I did really like this film, the biggest issues with this film did deal with some of the characters. The kid that constantly chased after Buddha to annoy him, Daisuke, was kinda annoying. I didn't hate him, but it was a bit vexing throughout the scenes in which he tried to attack Buddha's "button." I also didn't like how some of the characters, such as Ryuuji and the landlady, were sidelined in many parts of the film. I get why they were, but it was a bit annoying that they were shoved away to such an extent. And as I mentioned earlier, some of the elements dealing with the story were quite boring, and did leave me yawning at parts.
However, I did really like this movie, and it was honestly the funniest anime movie I think I have ever seen. (That's not saying much, considering my lack of seeing anime movies.) Personally, I would consider watching it again, despite it's faults throughout.
I'm getting somewhat tired right now, so I'm gonna finish up right about now.
Later!
