The animation is chef's kiss good and for 2001 it's excellent. It has the elegance of the 90s with the fluidity and smoothness of the modern era. Its pretty much the pinnacle of 90s animation. As always the characters designs are great and out main antagonist is absolutely spot on. There really is something special about our protagonists; Spike, Jet, Faye and Edward. Just seeing them again, for one last time, hits you with a kick of nostalgia you didn't know you needed. There is a special place is a lot of people's heart for Bebop and for those who are yet to watch this film, and are a Bebop fan, you'll likely feel the same nostalgia as I did. The animated hand to hand combat in this is excellent, with the final fight sequence being a highlight. The train sequence is probably my highlight to be honest. It has everything an action sequence needs and was animated flawlessly. 10/10
As far as music is concerned, it's Bebop, is it going to be anything else other than brilliant? We are back with live musicians creating the music. It just oozes cool. Don't get me wrong, it doesn't hit the heights of the show, but then again, nothing much comes close to this. Nevertheless, it elevates perfectly the moments when it choses to grace us. No other place is the more perfect than the train scene. The performers and composer knew exactly what was required to elevate this sequence which for me, is the best moment of the film as the story finds it center here which is displayed through excellent animation and music. 9/10
Story wise, it's in a similar vein to the sound. Its not the best Bebop has, but is still excellent. Though it is unfair to compare the story of this to the show, but if anything could be compared, this is it. As I said above, the moment the story sets itself is the train scene. The antagonists portrays his real danger and the Spike understands the risks of this protagonist, sadly, a little too well. This then gives us an exhilerating later half that would be a 10/10 any day. The first half is where it doesn't shine so bright. Again, it's still very good but is a little slow compared to the latter half. The writing is still great throughout, the characters have zero development but we don't need that from Bebop, got that with the series. For me the story is 9/10.
In summary, obviously I'm going to recommend this. Though it is better enjoyed having watched the show first. Its a great film and deserves a strong 9/10.
