I'm writing this review as a "generic" review spanning the Legend movies 1 to 3, as I've watched all 3 in a row, and I think this will apply to all 3 movies.
Now first things first, there is a lack of build-up in these movies compared to the show, but this is in my opinion rather normal, as it is not uncommon when trying to squeeze an entire season worth of content into a 1 hour movie.
The animation in these movies are very heavily upgraded from the original show, they look amazing, which was really the only thing the show was originally lacking, unsurprisingly since they were limited by both the technology of their time and funds.
So, I can hear you thinking, that must be a homerun then, a jackpot, perfection..
Unfortunately no..
They did the one thing they shouldn't have done, they replaced the eurobeat music, which was an absolutely perfect match for high pace races, with some generic pop rock and punk rock music, that felt so very much out of place that it just sucked all of the excitement out of the racing scenes, which should've been the culminations of the movies.
It just doesn't fit, now I like punk rock music, but it does not fit the pacing, in fact, not only does it not add to the climax, it takes away from it so egregiously that something that could've taken the absolute crown, something that would've been an 11 out of 10, takes it down to a mere 8.
An 8 that is still fueled with a very heavy dose of fanboyism on my part, a more honest opinion would've been maybe a 6.5 to a 7.
Imagine someone bringing you the most delicious meal in the world, where every single ingredient complements the other perfectly, but then the chef dumps a bucket of mayo on top, that's what this is.
It could've been unbelievable, but it fell flat in the end.
I will still recommend it, but I'm doing so with a heavy heart, because I cannot help but wonder what it could've been
