Aria the Crepuscolo

Synopsis

ARIA The CREPUSCOLO is a 2021 animated film continuation of the beloved ARIA series, set in a beautifully crafted futuristic Neo-Venezia on the planet Aqua. The story follows the daily lives and adventures of three apprentice gondoliers — Akari Mizunashi, Aika S. Granzchesta, and Alice Carroll — as they navigate friendships, challenges, and the serene waterways of their city. With its tranquil storytelling and stunning hand-drawn visuals, the film captures the essence of a calming, slice-of-life journey that deeply resonates with fans of the series. As the apprentices grow and explore, the movie emphasizes themes of companionship, self-discovery, and the enduring charm of small moments in life.

Cast

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  Ryo Hirohashi

  Alice Carroll (voice)

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  Rina Sato

  Athena Glory (voice)

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  Ai Kayano

  Anya Dostoyevskaya / Female Gondola Passenger (voice)

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  Kaori Mizuhashi

  Ai Aino / Hime M. Granzchesta (voice)

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  Mai Nakahara

  Azusa B. McLaren (voice)

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  Kiyono Yasuno

  Aletta Pace (voice)

Reviews

ARIA The CREPUSCOLO garnered generally positive feedback from critics and fans alike, with many praising its art style and serene atmosphere. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of approximately 7.1/10, reflecting a favorable overall reception. Critics from Anime News Network highlighted the film's 'meticulous world-building and soothing narrative pacing,' appreciating how it stays true to the franchise's spirit without resorting to high-stakes drama. However, some reviews noted that the film's leisurely pace and minimal plot progression might not appeal to viewers unfamiliar with the ARIA series, which values ambiance over action. Rotten Tomatoes does not have sufficient reviews to generate a formal score, but individual critic comments emphasize the film's 'gorgeous watercolor aesthetics' and 'heartfelt portrayal of friendship and daily life.' Metacritic also lacks a cumulative score due to limited mainstream coverage but echoes sentiments of the film being a relaxing and heartwarming experience. Overall, ARIA The CREPUSCOLO is celebrated for its calming visuals and nostalgic tone, effectively catering to fans but offering a niche appeal for newcomers.