For longtime fans of Detective Conan (also known as Case Closed), The Million-Dollar Pentagram is another thrilling mystery adventure that delivers exactly what they love—elaborate puzzles, unexpected twists, and high-stakes detective work. But for newcomers, this 26th entry in the Detective Conan film franchise might be a challenging introduction, especially since the film leans heavily into its established lore rather than offering a fresh entry point.
That’s not to say the film doesn’t make some effort to bring first-timers up to speed. The opening credits do a solid job of providing a quick origin story for Conan Edogawa, the high school detective turned child sleuth. However, despite the Detective Conan name, this film doesn’t primarily focus on its titular hero. Instead, it shifts much of the spotlight to another detective, Heiji Hattori, and his role in unraveling a historical mystery tied to a legendary sword, a cunning phantom thief, and a deadly criminal underworld.
The plot, while engaging, is undeniably dense. It plays out like a mix of treasure hunt and murder mystery, complete with cryptic clues, betrayals, and action-packed confrontations. For audiences unfamiliar with Detective Conan’s fast-paced storytelling, keeping up with the intricacies of the case—especially while following the rapid-fire subtitles—may feel overwhelming at times. The film’s action sequences, including well-staged chases and intense showdowns, add excitement, but the film never strays too far from its mystery roots.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its animation. The traditional anime style is beautifully realized, with crisp character designs and richly detailed backgrounds that bring the world of Detective Conan to life. Whether it’s the bustling city streets or the atmospheric historical locations tied to the film’s mystery, every frame is infused with a sense of adventure.
While the film’s intricate narrative and stylized animation will appeal to Case Closed devotees, it’s clear that The Million-Dollar Pentagram is primarily crafted for the established fanbase. The film doesn’t spend much time easing in new viewers, and with 26 previous films and over 1,100 episodes of anime to its name, it makes no apologies for that.
That said, if you’re willing to dive headfirst into the world of Detective Conan, there’s an undeniably fun and fast-paced detective thriller to enjoy here. The treasure hunt element is genuinely engaging, and the film’s mix of crime-solving and action keeps things moving briskly. It’s just a question of whether newcomers will have the patience to navigate the complexities of the plot.
For longtime fans, Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram is another enjoyable installment filled with the twists, turns, and high-stakes intrigue that make the series so beloved. For newcomers, the experience is more of a mixed bag—it’s a solid mystery, but one that assumes a level of familiarity with the world and its characters.
If you’re already a Detective Conan devotee, this is an easy recommendation. If you’re new to the series, you may need to embrace a bit of confusion before fully appreciating the ride. Either way, it’s a fast-moving, fun anime adventure that proves why Detective Conan remains a powerhouse in the genre.
Detective Conan The Million-dollar Pentagram will be available on digital platforms including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Microsoft Films, and Sky Store from Monday 3rd March 2025
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