The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya: The Movie - BLU-RAY

I started watching the series first, which is good. I didn't realize when I bought this that there was a series.

The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya is a very rewarding film for lovers of the main series anime "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya." Some understanding of the plots of seasons 1 and 2 are necessary to watch this film since it is essentially a feature-length episode adapting the fourth "Haruhi Suzumiya" light novel and includes references to previous episodes. The film admirably builds on the themes and storylines of the TV series. The plot is tight and well-paced and the animation even exceeds the already well-done caliber of "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya." This very well could be considered one of the best anime films based on a TV series from the last twenty years.

This movie was very different from the previous Haruhi Suzumiya videos. It was much more serious and more of a mystery than earlier videos. Although the story started a little slow, it drew me in and became quite engrossing. Definitely a good story that I will be able to watch multiple times. However, the movie references a lot of the previous videos, and those should be viewed first. Otherwise, parts of this movie will be difficult to understand. The price ($25) was kind of high for an older title like this. Finally, it was a little annoying to be forced to watch a preview for another movie (fast forward and menu functions locked out) before being able to go to the options menu and view the movie.

I would rate this movie a solid 8/10. However, it was a bit confusing since I did not watch the anime series. First and foremost, this movie is indeed a sequel to both of the previous two seasons of Haruhi. Watching this movie without seeing both seasons is not suggested. For those who have seen both seasons, I suggest first taking time to remember some plot details and characters.

Excellent movie in the Haruhi universe. Not sure where it falls in relation to Season 1 and 2, but probably after season 1. Same voice actors, Wendee Lee and Crispin Freeman and Michelle Ruff aaaaand, trying to remember who voiced Miss Asahina. Great story. Loved the incorporation of Gymnopedie no. 1 by Satie. Awesome animation and design.