This review might contain spoilers. You may proceed if you can handle the truth...

Since I have not seen or read any of the source material, and the movie expects the viewer is familiar with the characters and the world, I will assume that both are well-established in the TV series, OVA and manga for this review. Despite someone's lack of prior knowledge, the film establishes its characters, relationships and world sufficient to be fathomable for a newcomer to the franchise. In comparison to other animes, it stands out with its references to and integration of Norse mythology. Like Neon Genesis Evangelion's religious elements, those only have an aesthetic purpose and have no intentional deeper meaning.

Unquestionably, the fantasy realm of the supernatural characters is the most exciting part of the picture. The broad computer network Yggdrasil, its complex inner workings, and its connections to the goddesses are intriguing concepts to explore for the viewer. The settings in Valhalla and on the moon are gorgeous, and the mysteries surrounding the heavenly place keep the viewer invested. Sadly, most of the runtime focuses on the activities on Earth rather than the fictional world.

On Earth, the love relationship between both main protagonists, Belldandy and Keiichi, is the movie's main plotline. Before the viewer can get a deeper insight into their relationship, Belldandy experiences selective amnesia. She forgets who Keiichi is and her connection with him. Throughout the movie's first half, Belldandy tries to recover her lost memory with the aid of her sisters and Keiichi.

After she remembers some emotional moments with Keiichi, redundant and pointless drama occurs. Instead of being furious about Keiichi kissing another girl, she asks him whether he would love her if she wants to be the only person receiving his affection. To regain her missing memories, Belladandy undergoes a dangerous treatment. Ultimately, its outcome stays ambiguous, but they find their love after those troubled times again.

Besides the dull and generic love story with a minor twist, the plot also features a villain with an accomplice. Albeit both appear mysteriously at the beginning of the picture, their characterization and reveal of their motives happen late in the second half. Consequently, they are neither interesting nor compelling for the majority of the runtime. Both the villain and the accomplice lose their credibility after Belladandy persuades them almost effortless to stop pursuing their goals.

Another flaw of the movie is the immature humour which does not resonate with an older audience. Additionally, some scenes are unnecessary for both the plot and the development of the characters. Apart from the negative aspects, the visuals are overall pleasing, and the CGI is well-integrated into the hand-drawn animation. The unmemorable score is neither irritating nor exceptional.

To sum up, Ah! My Goddess: The Movie is a decent introduction for those who plan to check out the series or manga. Despite its shortcomings, the picture gives a well-rounded glimpse into the characters, subnatural world and immature love relationship. Nevertheless, I cannot recommend this picture to those who desire a well-structured plot or engaging characters.