Introduction

The Final Fantasy VII movie, titled “Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children,” is a fan-favorite that serves as a continuation of the beloved video game series. This guide delves into the background, plot, characters, and the impact of this animated film on the gaming community.

Background

The Video Game Series

The Final Fantasy VII video game, released in 1997, is a cornerstone of the RPG genre. Its intricate story, memorable characters, and stunning visuals made it a global phenomenon. The game’s success paved the way for its adaptation into various media, including the movie.

The Movie’s Creation

“Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children” was directed by Tetsuya Nomura, who was also involved in the game’s development. The movie was released in 2005 and serves as a bridge between the original game and its sequel, “Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core.”

Plot Summary

Setting

The movie is set two years after the events of the game. The world has been transformed by the impact of the Meteor, which resulted in the destruction of Midgar and the fall of the Shinra Corporation.

Main Characters

  • Sephiroth: The protagonist who has been missing since the end of the game.
  • Cloud Strife: A former Shinra soldier who continues his quest to defeat Sephiroth.
  • Tifa Lockhart: Cloud’s childhood friend, now a member of the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE.
  • Yuffie Kira: A young woman seeking the Mako energy for her village.

Plot

The story begins with a series of mysterious attacks on Mako reactors, leaving many dead. Cloud, Tifa, and Yuffie are among those targeted. They join forces with a group called “The Turks,” led by Shinra’s former agent, Kadaj. Together, they investigate the attacks and seek answers about the identity of the attackers.

As they delve deeper, they discover that Sephiroth has returned and is leading a group of rebels. The group’s ultimate goal is to destroy the world and start a new one, free from the Mako energy that has caused so much suffering.

Characters

Cloud Strife

Cloud is the movie’s main character. He has grown since the game, but he is still haunted by his past and the loss of his friends. His journey in the movie is one of redemption and the search for peace.

Sephiroth

Sephiroth is the movie’s antagonist. He is driven by a desire to create a world where everyone can live in harmony, free from the oppression of Mako energy. His quest has led him to a dark place, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals.

Tifa Lockhart

Tifa has become a strong leader and a symbol of hope for those who have suffered under the rule of Shinra. Her relationship with Cloud is central to the movie’s story.

Yuffie Kira

Yuffie is a skilled martial artist and an excellent detective. She is determined to find a way to free her village from the Mako energy that has poisoned it.

Impact on the Gaming Community

The release of “Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children” had a significant impact on the gaming community. It provided closure to the story of the original game and set the stage for future installments. The movie also showcased the potential of animation in bringing video game stories to life.

Conclusion

“Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children” is a visually stunning and emotionally charged film that has become a staple in the gaming community. Its intricate plot, memorable characters, and emotional depth have made it a beloved piece of media that continues to resonate with fans today.