The world of Street Fighter animation is a varied one, with different takes on the iconic fighting game franchise. Among them, Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie stands out, and for many fans, it remains the pinnacle of Street Fighter animation. Available in different versions, including a PG-13 cut and an “unrated” version in America, alongside the original Japanese release, this movie packed a punch that resonated with audiences. For those diving into the animated side of Street Fighter, this movie is often the recommended starting point.
Why the Street Fighter II Movie Still Reigns Supreme
What makes Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie so enduringly popular? Firstly, it embraced the expansive character roster of Street Fighter II. While some might argue that trying to include all characters can be a bit much, the movie managed to weave them in, giving fans glimpses of their favorites in action. This was a treat for players who loved the diverse cast of the game.
However, beyond just character cameos, the movie delivered on action and style. Many argue that the American version is the superior cut. One of the strongest points in its favor is the soundtrack. It’s a high-energy, memorable score that perfectly complements the on-screen fighting. In contrast, opinions are divided on the original Japanese score, with some finding it bland and less impactful.
Contrasting with Other Street Fighter Animations
While the Street Fighter II movie set a high bar, other animated adaptations took different paths. Street Fighter II V, a TV series acting as a prequel, explored the earlier journeys of Ken and Ryu. Although “alright” and featuring good dubbing in both English and Japanese, it suffered from a simpler storyline. The narrative of “Ken and Ryu traveling and training” lacked the depth that many fans craved. It also seemed disconnected from the lore established in the Alpha games, creating some continuity discrepancies. Furthermore, for a series spanning 29 episodes, it surprisingly featured fewer characters from the game compared to the feature-length movie.
Then there’s Street Fighter Alpha, an OVA movie which, despite some misleading marketing suggesting a connection to Street Fighter II V, stood alone. Disappointingly, it sidelined the anticipated Akuma vs. Ryu confrontation, focusing instead on a less compelling plot involving a mad scientist. The inclusion of Sakura, portrayed in a way that some viewers found grating, and the narrative direction further contributed to its less favorable reception. For many, Street Fighter Alpha fell short of expectations and didn’t justify its price point.
On a more positive note, Street Fighter the series, while tied to the much-maligned live-action movie, surprisingly offered a better experience. Animated by Mad House Studios, it captured an anime aesthetic that appealed to viewers. Focusing on Guile and his mission against Bison, rather than the typical Ken and Ryu narrative, it carved its own niche. Characters were depicted faithfully to their game and anime appearances, complete with signature moves. Despite its connection to the live-action film, the series developed deeper storylines and character origins, particularly Guile’s. The voice acting, especially by the Ocean Group, was generally well-received, though Cammy’s voice was a point of contention for some. Intriguingly, the series even managed to incorporate the controversial Charlie-is-Blanka plotline in a way that worked for some viewers, and visually aligned Charlie with his Street Fighter Alpha design when he appeared. Despite its merits, Street Fighter the series often suffered from the negative reputation of the live-action movie it was connected to, which is considered by many to be a significant misstep in the Street Fighter franchise.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie
In the landscape of Street Fighter animation, Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie remains a standout title. Its energetic action, memorable soundtrack (especially in the American version), and broad character showcase solidified its place in fans’ hearts. While other animations explored different aspects of the Street Fighter universe with varying degrees of success, the Street Fighter II movie captured a specific kind of magic that continues to make it a beloved classic for Street Fighter enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the PG-13, unrated, or original Japanese cut, it’s a piece of Street Fighter animation worth experiencing.
