Sailor Moon Movies: Chronological Guide and Storyline Overview

The Sailor Moon Movie Timeline: An Overview

The 1990s marked the explosive rise of the "Sailor Moon" franchise in Western markets, captivating audiences with its blend of magical girl battles, romance, and friendship. Following the success of the anime's original run, several movies were created to expand upon the series' lore. This article delves into the timeline and storylines of the main films that have become essential pieces of the Sailor Moon anthology.

Sailor Moon R: The Movie - The Promise of the Rose

A Tale of Old Promises and New Threats

"Sailor Moon R: The Movie," released on December 5, 1993, ties strongly to the second season of the original 90s anime. Set in the Jindai Botanical Gardens, Mamoru Chiba’s childhood friend, Fiore, returns to fulfill a long-forgotten promise to Mamoru. The story takes a sinister turn as Fiore, influenced by the Xenian flower, starts draining life energy from the planet. With a comet threatening Earth, Sailor Moon uses the Legendary Silver Crystal to save Fiore from control and deflect the comet, but at the somber price of Fiore's life.

Release and Reception

The film earned an impressive ¥1.3 billion at the Japanese box office. In subsequent years, it saw several releases in English, with Viz Media re-licensing it for a renewed release in 2014.

Sailor Moon S: The Movie - Hearts in Ice

Encounter with Princess Snow Kaguya

Released on December 4, 1994, "Sailor Moon S: The Movie" introduces the alien Princess Snow Kaguya, seeking to claim Earth with her icy malice. The Guardians face a chilling threat as they strive to stop an eternal winter from enveloping the planet. A poignant subplot emerges with Luna’s unrequited love for an astronomer named Kakeru, whose imagination brings him into conflict with his girlfriend, Himeko. Love, sacrifice, and unity prevail as the Sailor Guardians save Earth once again.

Distribution Over Time

The movie saw English releases beginning with Pioneer Entertainment in 1999 and later by Viz Media in 2014. A special screening was held in the U.S. in 2018 alongside its predecessor.

Sailor Moon SuperS: The Movie - Black Dream Hole

A Dark Dream Becomes Reality

In "Sailor Moon SuperS: The Movie," released on December 23, 1995, children unexpectedly vanish, drawn away by an enchanting melody played by Poupelin under the command of Queen Badiane. The film takes audiences on a journey through the mysterious Black Dream Hole, a dimension created by stolen dreams. As the Sailor Guardians, led by Sailor Moon, battle to recover their lost friends, the film explores themes of dreaming and protection of innocence.

Extended Releases

The movie was made available in English through Pioneer in 1999 and later released by Viz Media, with theatrical showings in 2018.

Sailor Moon Eternal - The Fourth Season of the Reboot

A New Chapter in Sailor Moon Crystal

Moving away from the 90s anime, "Sailor Moon Eternal" follows the "Sailor Moon Crystal" series. Set after the show's third season, it confronts the Dead Moon Circus led by Queen Nehelenia. Released as two parts in 2021, the storyline explores Chibiusa and Helios teaming up against the shadowy forces to preserve the Earth. The film emphasizes personal growth and transformation for our beloved guardians.

Post-Pandemic Release

Originally delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, "Sailor Moon Eternal" was made globally available (excluding Japan and Mainland China) via Netflix in 2021.

Sailor Moon Cosmos - Conclusion of Sailor Moon Crystal

The Epic Finale with Sailor Galaxia

"Sailor Moon Cosmos," released in 2023, serves as the grand finale to "Sailor Moon Crystal." This two-part film pits Sailor Moon against Sailor Galaxia’s Shadow Galactica. Darker themes and the ultimate struggle for peace and hope culminate in the Galaxy Cauldron showdown, concluding this chapter in a battle for the universe.

Release & Global Access

Maintaining its global reach in August 2024, the films were released on Netflix, closing the Crystal narrative with triumph over adversity.

"Sailor Moon" movies, while not always central to the main storyline, enrich the tapestry of Usagi Tsukino's journey and the world she inhabits. These films have been cherished across generations, drawing in fans old and new with their timeless messages of courage and friendship.