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Sword Art Online Progressive: Scherzo of Deep Night is the latest retelling of the SAO story focusing on not only the Aincrad arc, but Asuna’s experiences in the game. However, while the first one was more of an introductory experience, this sequel has the luxury of doing something different. That means the SAO Progressive movie 2 has a far different feel to it, one that at time can almost feel leisurely, as we get to see characters reacting to new challenges as they prepare to reach a new floor ahead of new year’s.
This sequel begins in the midst of a floor boss fight. The Aincrad Liberation Squad and Dragon Knights Brigade teamed up to take down the fourth floor boss, alongside players like Asuna, Kirito, and Argo. After a rough battle, the characters of SAO Progressive movie 2 succeed. Everyone heads to the fifth floor, and it seems there’s a chance for a faster rate of progression, but more chances to “enjoy” life in Aincrad. There’s even a New Year’s party planned in a few days. However, it isn’t long before Asuna and Kirito realize there’s another danger ahead, and they’ll need to take action.
The way Asuna and Kirito’s relationship is showcased throughout SAO Progressive movie 2 is a perfect example. Things begin with that massive fight as floor 4 is cleared. But after that, we see what daily life is like for these partners. They enjoy a meal together. They go relic hunting. They comfort each other after terrifying situations. They discuss how they’ll handle the floor 5 boss.
Another one of these more relaxed scenes between characters comes up during a scene at the bathes between SAO Progressive movie 2. It firmly establishes the friendship between Asuna and Argo. There’s genuine appreciation between the two characters, as well as respect and concern. When the two test each other, we get an amazing “fight,” but we also see how the two grow and share because of this more lighthearted encounter.
Even scenes with Mito aren’t exempt from this sort of treatment. Once Asuna heads to meet with her, the conversation isn’t awkward or tense. It’s more like a relaxed reunion. They catch up. Asuna is happy for Mito, and likewise Mito seems to feel the same. As they reconnect and the moment goes on, we get to better appreciate their relationship and what the two have been through. Not to mention what they might continue to experience as the story goes on.
This isn’t to say SAO Progressive: Scherzo of Deep Night is bereft of action, drama, and tension. There are definitely critical moments, fun fight scenes, and drama. But as a whole, SAO Progressive movie 2 takes the time to show happier and more solemn moments between characters. The result means that those more heartfelt moments stand out even more. When Kirito and Asuna’s relationship comes up. When Mito considers her past. I felt it more, because there’s this contrast. At the climax, there’s this incredible fight scene with Asuna, Kirito, and the party they’ve prepared, with an incredible dynamic and choreography.
Sword Art Online Progressive: Scherzo of Deep Night is a heartfelt sort of movie that depends on prior knowledge of the films. Which actually turns out to be a good thing! Because it isn’t bogged down with explanations and scene-setting, it can explore important moments in this retelling. This means we can better appreciate the SAO Progressive movie 2 characters and their relationships and interactions. We can explore their motivations. We can see how they feel about one another. It also means there can be a balance and less of a sense of danger and pressure throughout this latest film.
Sword Art Online Progressive: Scherzo of Deep Night is now in theaters outside Japan. People can stream past SAO anime adaptations on Crunchyroll. Yen Press handles the light novels and manga.
