Title: Cardcaptor Sakura: The Sealed Card aka Cardcaptor Sakura: Fuuin Sareta Card
Genre: Action/Romance
Company: Madhouse Studios/CLAMP/Bandai Visual
Format: Movie; 79 minutes.
Dates: 15 Jul 2000

Synopsis: Kinomoto Sakura’s life has returned to some sort of normalcy with the capture of all the Clow Cards and the transformation of of them into Sakura Cards. In addition, Shaoran and Eriol have both returned to their hometowns and her own town is preparing for its own festival. But when a mysterious force is released, places and things around her town and even Clow Cards start to disappear. She starts to suspect that this might be the work of a Clow Card. But capturing it throws Sakura into a Catch 22. Sakura’s new challenge may fare to be one of her greatest emotionally, but with the help of some old allies, Sakura may be able to prevail over this challenge.

The Highlights
Visuals: Great.
Plot: Wonderful; may need a little background knowledge.
Ending: Delightful.
Music: Satisfying.

When I first read about this film, I got excited and anticipated watching it very much. Cardcaptor Sakura: The Sealed Card, which takes place after the series, is a marvelous film for Cardcaptor Sakura fans. With great romance and drama it is a great way for the story to tie everything up in style. Studio Madhouse does an excellent job in regards to the animation and overall visuals of this film. The art is crisp, precise, and an all-around beauty.

The plot in the second film is absolutely wonderful. Personally, I prefer it to Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie, the first film of the two. It still holds true to the story of Card Captor Sakura but it is heightened with a romantic edge. Sakura and Shaoran’s relationship is given bigger importance and the result is a delightfully romantic plot that is sure to please. The romance isn’t sappy as a result of Sakura and Shaoran’s genuine relationship. The ending is an absolute delight and will bring a smile to faces. However, this wonderful plot may entail on slight flaw. That flaw is that one may need a bit of background knowledge on the overall story.

The music in the film is satisfying. The lyrical songs of this film are great. “Arigatou”, for example, is a lovely piece used during the film and showcases Tange Sakura’s beautiful voice. And “Ashita no Melody” (“Melody Leading to Tomorrow”) is a brilliant ending piece. It’s lovely vocals and catchy tune fit the ending of the film very well.

Cardcaptor Sakura: The Sealed Card will make you laugh, smile, perhaps tear up, and never fail to please. This is a must-see for fans of all ages of the series.

The Rating: 8

Reviewed by: Genkisakura