Taiho Shichau zo The Movie

“Taiho Shichau zo The Movie”: A Nostalgic Ride with Tokyo’s Finest

If you’re a fan of You’re Under Arrest!, then Taiho Shichau zo The Movie (1999) is a must-watch. Directed by Junji Nishimura and produced by Studio DEEN and Toei Animation, this film takes the beloved characters of Bokutou Precinct and throws them into a high-stakes adventure that balances action, comedy, and drama—just like the series always has.

Plot Overview: A Case Bigger Than Traffic Violations

The movie kicks off with Officers Nikaido Yoriko and Aoi Futaba stumbling upon a cache of illegal firearms in a stolen car. What starts as a routine traffic stop quickly spirals into a city-wide crisis when Tokyo’s traffic control systems begin malfunctioning, causing chaos on the streets. Enter Kobayakawa Miyuki and Tsujimoto Natsumi, the dynamic duo of Bokutou Precinct, who must use their wits (and Miyuki’s trusty Mini-Pat) to uncover a sinister plot threatening to cripple Tokyo—and possibly the world.

The stakes are higher than ever, and the film delivers a mix of intense action sequences and the lighthearted humor fans expect. While the series often leans into slice-of-life comedy, this movie ramps up the tension, making it a refreshing change of pace.

Fan Reactions: Love, Nostalgia, and a Few Quirks

Scouring forums like MyAnimeList and Reddit, the consensus is clear: Taiho Shichau zo The Movie is a solid addition to the franchise, even if it doesn’t quite capture the charm of the TV series. Here’s what fans are saying:

1. A Perfect Blend of Comedy and Drama
   One fan noted, “This movie is a great example of what I love about the series. It balances comedy and drama effortlessly, never feeling out of place.” The shift to a more action-packed narrative worked for many, with another viewer praising the “noticeable uptick in intensity around the halfway mark.”

2. Nostalgia Factor
   Longtime fans appreciated the return of familiar faces, especially Miyuki and Natsumi, who shine as always. “The ending salute by Miyuki and Natsumi was awesome,” one commenter gushed, while another loved the “official welcome-back party” scene.

3. Mixed Feelings About Yoriko
   Not everyone was thrilled, though. One vocal critic declared, “The quality would increase tenfold if Yoriko was removed. She makes my toes curl with every appearance.” Ouch. But others found her antics endearing, especially her “cute helmet moment.”

4. Comparisons to Patlabor
   Some viewers couldn’t help but draw parallels to Patlabor, calling the film “a very obvious Patlabor bootleg, but a good one.” While the political undertones and mecha elements of Patlabor are absent, the film’s serious tone and sleek animation earned it praise.

5. A Departure from the Series’ Vibe
   A few fans felt the movie lost some of the series’ signature charm. “It’s a bit more serious than usual, which works, but it doesn’t feel the same,” one remarked. Another compared it to Patlabor 2, noting that while it “doesn’t make much sense, it’s a nice-looking movie.”

Final Verdict: Worth the Watch?

If you’re a die-hard You’re Under Arrest! fan, this movie is a no-brainer. It’s a fun, action-packed ride that stays true to the characters while upping the ante. The animation is crisp, the pacing is tight, and the blend of humor and drama hits the mark.

That said, if you’re new to the franchise, you might want to start with the TV series to fully appreciate the dynamics between Miyuki, Natsumi, and the rest of the Bokutou crew. But for those already invested, Taiho Shichau zo The Movie is a nostalgic treat—even if Yoriko still manages to divide the fanbase.

Rating: 8.5/10 – A thrilling, if slightly uneven, addition to the You’re Under Arrest! universe.

Now, who’s up for a rewatch?