As a journalist who grew up in the UK, I have always been a fan of murder mysteries, from Agatha Christie novels to various detectives in books and television. Sherlock Holmes holds a special place in my heart, and it’s interesting to note that the Detective Conan series pays tribute to him through the name of its protagonist, Conan Edogawa. However, access to the Detective Conan series has been limited for British fans, with only some episodes available on Crunchyroll and many spin-offs out of reach. This changes with the release of Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram in UK cinemas this month.
For those unfamiliar with Detective Conan, diving into a series with over 1000 episodes and numerous movies may seem daunting. However, The Million-Dollar Pentagram is designed to be accessible to newcomers, with a self-contained central mystery that is engaging and easy to follow. The film provides a brief summary at the beginning to introduce key characters, making it enjoyable even for those who are not familiar with the series.
The movie is set in Hakodate, Hokkaido, and incorporates elements of Japanese history and landmarks into the storyline. While knowledge of Japanese history is not required, viewers with an interest in historical events or series like Hakuouki and Rurouni Kenshin may appreciate the nods to the past. The central mystery is intricately woven into the setting, adding depth to the overall plot.
Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram features a trio of lead characters – Conan, Heiji Hattori, and Kaitou Kid. Each character brings a unique dynamic to the story, with Heiji playing a significant role in the investigation alongside Conan. Kid’s appearances add a touch of excitement and mystery to the plot, keeping viewers engaged throughout the film.
While the movie balances the three main characters well, some side characters receive limited screen time due to the large cast. The animation style is simple yet effective, with notable action sequences that enhance the viewing experience. The voice acting, music, and subtitles are all well-executed, providing a seamless viewing experience for audiences.
Overall, Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram is a thrilling mystery film that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. Whether you are a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer looking to explore the world of Detective Conan, this movie offers an entertaining and immersive experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the film and look forward to future releases that continue to captivate audiences with intriguing mysteries and engaging characters.
