Okay, let's talk about Sailor Moon R: The Movie - Promise of the Rose. It's a classic, right? Everyone loves it. Except... maybe I don't? Just kidding (mostly)!
Mamoru's Past: A Bit of a Mess
So, we've got Mamoru with a long-lost childhood friend, Fiore. Fiore's obsessed with Mamoru. Like, REALLY obsessed. It’s the kind of obsession that involves giant, evil alien flowers.
And let's be honest, Mamoru's backstory here is a bit... convenient? He just *happens* to have psychic powers as a kid? He just *happens* to befriend an alien? It’s a tad much, even for a magical girl anime.
Plus, that rose he gives Fiore? Kind of seems like he's leading the poor guy on, doesn't it? I mean, a single rose is a *pretty* strong symbol, dude. Maybe offer a friendship bracelet next time?
Fiore: The Over-the-Top Villain
Fiore's motivation? "Mamoru is my only friend, so I must destroy the Earth for him!" Okay, buddy. That's... one way to show your appreciation. Extreme, but a way!
He's clearly lonely and manipulated by a space flower, so you feel bad for him, sure. But his villainy is cranked up to eleven. It's like he went to the Dark Kingdom school of over-the-top evil. And graduated top of his class.
The whole "evil flowers corrupting people" thing is a little on the nose, too. I get it, nature can be scary! But maybe a little subtlety next time? Just a thought.
Usagi's Love: Saving the Day (Again)
Of course, Usagi saves the day. Because that's what she does. She loves Mamoru, and she will fight anyone and anything for him. Even a giant, space-flower-powered, childhood friend.
Her unwavering belief in Mamoru is admirable. Seriously, after all the mind control and amnesia he's gone through, she still trusts him implicitly. That's true love, folks.
But sometimes, I wonder if she's a little TOO forgiving? Mamoru brings a LOT of drama into her life. Maybe she should consider couples therapy. Just saying!
The Ending: A Bit... Much?
The ending is super dramatic. Usagi sacrifices herself! Fiore has a change of heart! Everything's covered in sparkles! It's all very Sailor Moon.
But is it just me, or is it all a bit... rushed? Fiore goes from wanting to destroy the planet to being a reformed space elf in, like, five minutes. A little whiplash-inducing, wouldn't you agree?
And let's be real, the power of love saves the day AGAIN. Look, I'm all for love. But sometimes, I wish the Sailor Guardians would use a little more strategy. Maybe a good old-fashioned Sailor Planet Attack from the start?
Final Thoughts: Still Love It (Sort Of)
Okay, I've poked a lot of fun. But I do still enjoy Sailor Moon R: The Movie. It's a fun, cheesy, and emotionally charged adventure.
The animation is beautiful, the music is great, and the characters are lovable. Even if their motivations are a little questionable sometimes.
So, yes, I have some *minor* issues with the plot. But it wouldn't be Sailor Moon without a little bit of over-the-top drama, right? Don't @ me!
Moon Prism Power, Make Up!and let's all just enjoy the sparkly goodness!
