Case Closed Movie 23: The Fist of Blue Sapphire
Synopsis
The world's greatest blue sapphire, the "blue lapis fist", said to have sunk in a pirate ship in the late 19th century, on the coasts of Singapore. A local millionaire plots to retrieve it, and when it's exhibited in an exhibition at the Singaporean Marina Sands hotel, a murder takes place. A bloody Kaitou Kid announcement card is found in the crime scene. In the meantime, Ran and Sonoko have come to Singapore to see a karate tournament held there. Conan, who doesn't have a passport and can't travel overseas, was supposed to stay at home. But Kid, who wants to make use of him, uses a magical trick to forcibly drag him to Singapore. Conan must obey Kid if he wants to get back to Japan, gets his glasses, wristwatch and clothes, amongst others, all stolen from him and he has to disguise himself. Ran, who doesn't realize who he is, asks him his name and he improvises the name Arthur Hirai. Kid eventually gets a hold of information about the "fist" being stored in a manor's underground vault. Just when he was thinking that he'd made it inside very easily, he finds a dangerous trap awaiting him. Facing him is the strongest karateka with 400 consecutive victories: Makoto Kyogoku. (Source: Detective Conan World)
Audience Consensus
Audience opinions are divided, with some enjoying the film's action and visuals, and the interplay between Conan and Kid. However, many found the mystery lacking, the action overblown, and the plot reliant on tired clichés. There is a common sentiment that the film prioritizes spectacle over substance, alienating some long-time fans of the detective series.
Strengths
- Visually appealing animation and art style, especially the Singapore setting.
- Enjoyable character interactions, particularly between Conan and Kaito Kid.
- Some found the over-the-top action and 'super powers' fun and lore-friendly.
Weaknesses
- Weak mystery and predictable culprit.
- Overreliance on action at the expense of the detective elements.
- Exaggerated physics and super-powered characters felt out of place for some viewers.
- Awful Engrish in parts of the movie.