The Vision of Escaflowne

The Vision of Escaflowne (1996)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Hitomi finds herself pulled from Earth (also known as the Mystic Moon) to another world known as Gaia. Some of the people there remind her of friends from home. She quickly learns that things in this new world are very different from her own. Van Fanel, king of Fanelia, becomes her most trusted friend and ally. Despite realizing she must return home, by the end of their journey, the two are definitely more than just friends. Between traveling to a different world, meeting entire new species, finding love, having to leave love, and learning that her tarot and visions are actually frighteningly accurate, her life is turned completely upside down as this series progresses.

Escaflowne

Escaflowne: The Movie (2000)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


This is basically a summary movie that flies through the events of the TV series with a few adjustments. The wardrobe is one of the obvious changes, along with Hitomi's attitude in the series and the lack of Alan's doppelganger in Hitomi's world. Merle is also much more friendly from the get-go in this film, and the key to piloting the Escaflowne is a bit different. Beyond that, the story line, characters, and overall purpose are all the same. I must admit to enjoying the TV series a bit more as, despite being much longer, it also provides a lot more detail and interaction between the characters. The growth and change between Van and Hitomi especially is key in the TV series and seems rushed in the movie. If you like the series, you'll enjoy the film, just don't expect every nuance from the other media.