Episode 47: "Sakura and the Mysterious Transfer Student" or "The New Transfer Student"
Introduction to the Experiment
Episode 46
Episode 47: Sakura and the Mysterious Transfer Student (Card Captor Sakura) or The Mysterious Transfer Student (Cardcaptors)
Before we continue on with the third and final season of CCS/CC, in order to maintain fairness, this time I will choose at random which version I start with. I will note before each summary which version I started with and my summaries will reflect the first version watched as the baseline. This entry will start with the Japanese version first simply because I used the English version first for the entirety of the second season so I deemed it appropriate that I give the Japanese version a fair shake this time around.
Baseline version: Japanese Card Captor Sakura
It is the end of summer vacation as Kero gazes out a window, looking at the setting/rising sun (Japanese/English). Kero remarks that summer is ending/that it is a beautiful morning. Meanwhile, a mysterious figure lands on a shrine. In the Japanese version, Kero whines that he's bored. Sakura disagrees: they got to play all summer. In the English version, Kero asks how it feels to be the Master of the Clow Cards. Sakura remarks that she doesn't feel that different but she wishes that Clow Reed had made a Card that would do her summer homework for her. In any case, Kero notes that Sakura is writing something: it turns out that Ms. Mizuki wrote to Sakura and she's writing her back. Apparently, Ms. Mizuki is in England and is well. Meanwhile, a winged giant cat leaps over a rooftop. In the Japanese version, Kero says that he is glad that Sakura became Master of the Cards. Why? Because having Li be the Master would have made him lose faith in living. Sakura defends Li, saying that he was trying his best. In the English version, Kero explains that Kero and Yueh cannot predict everything that will happen to Sakura so she has to ready for anything. Sakura asks how that can be: she has all of the Clow Cards. Kero explains that it's never really over until she finds a new Master of the Cards and that the world of magic is constantly changing. So she has to trust her dreams and her instincts and remember how far she's come. In any case, Kero asks if Li is still around. Sakura explains that he still is but he will probably be going back to Hong Kong soon. Meanwhile, a woman with butterfly wings appears on another rooftop (actually, Kero's question regarding Li happens after this shot in the English version). In the Japanese version, Kero whines that he's bored which makes Sakura point out that she's not bored because she still has to go to school while the English version has the "so, where's Li now?" conversation happen instead. In any case, Sakura goes over to her schoolbag and then realizes that she still has summer homework left. This throws Sakura into a tizzy and she begs for Kero's help, which he balks at since the last time he helped her, she got mad at him. Meanwhile, a mysterious dark-haired boy in a weird black outfit looks at Sakura's house. Anyway, it's the next morning and Sakura rushes to school. Toya points out that rushing will do her good since Yukito won't be there but Sakura says that isn't the reason she's going early (she has classroom duties). Off Sakura goes and she winds up bumping into Yukito anyway. Yukito remarks in the Japanese version that he's early to buy more breakfast because it seems like that he's hungry no matter how much he eats: even he notes that he may be buying too much. Sakura remarks that he shouldn't be concerned because, as Yukito finishes, it means he's healthy. In the English version, Julian just notes that he's tired. In any case, Sakura continues on her way as she thinks about the paradox of Yukito being Yueh but after Yukito throws a piece of candy to her, she adds that she's glad that Yukito is still the same. Sakura gets to the classroom and thinks that no one is there and starts singing/humming until Li, who is erasing the chalkboard, coughs loudly so she knows he's there. Sakura and Li are far more embarrassed by this in the Japanese version than in the English version. In the Japanese version, Sakura asks Li how his summer vacation went and if he went anywhere. Li didn't go anywhere. Sakura then asks if he's going back to Hong Kong. Li affirms that he is because since the Master of the Clow Cards has been chosen, he wants to go give a proper report to his mother. This makes Sakura sad and Li points out that it doesn't mean that they'll never see each other again. This cheers Sakura back up. In the English version, Sakura is asking about "what else" Li's mother said the night before and whether his family is happy that the Cards are safe again. Li says he guesses so. Sakura points that he doesn't sound too happy about that. Li tells her that it's nothing but then explains that since she was chosen as the Master of the Clow Cards, he has nothing to do. Sakura asks if Li plans on going back home. Li says that he might as well, considering how badly he lost to Yueh during the Final Judgement. Sakura is clearly the Chosen One. Sakura argues that isn't true: he was a big help to her. After a gobsmacked look, Li points out that it isn't really a big deal, that he'll get over it. Sakura agrees. In any case, as Sakura is setting up a flower vase, Tomoyo comes. After greeting each other, Tomoyo looks sad. In the Japanese version, she is depressed because Sakura doesn't do her Card capturing anymore so she doesn't wear any of the cute outfits she made. In the English version, Madison just moans that summer vacation is over but remarks that at least the Cards are safe now. After Sakura sees her other classmates again and tells them about Ms. Mizuki's letter, they wonder how the new teacher will be. It turns out to be Mr. Terada. Anyway, there is also going to be a new transfer student from England. It's a dark-haired, blue-eyed boy named either Eriol Hiiragizawa or Eli Moon. Sakura thinks that he seems nice until he gazes at her, which takes Sakura aback. Behind her, Li is not pleased. Anyway, the only free seat is Meilin's old seat next to Li so down he goes. Li is so not happy about this at all. He stops by Sakura's desk and greets her. In the English version, he actually greets her by name. In the Japanese version, she wonders at this strange feeling while in the English version, she thinks that she feels like she's met him before. During lunch time, Sakura is writing about her day to Ms. Mizuki, trailing off her letter when she gets to Eriol, saying aloud that she feels like she's met him before. At this point, Eriol comes up to her and remarks that he feels the same way. This startles Sakura and Eriol asks if she scared her. She says she's fine. So they sit together. In the Japanese version, Eriol reaffirms that he feels like they've met before, perhaps before they were even born. With that melodramatic comment, Eriol rises to go back to class and asks for Sakura's name. She gives it and he remarks that her name is the same as one of a pretty flower. He then asks if he can call her by her first name. She agrees, using his last name but Eriol insists on his first. Meanwhile, Tomoyo and Li are watching this play out. Tomoyo excitedly compares it to a girls' manga while Li looks like he wants to eat the building. In the English version, Eli thanks Sakura for letting him sit with her during lunch. Sakura says that it isn't a problem. Eli points out that it's hard being the new kid. Eli gets up and then asks for Sakura's name. She gives it to him. Eli again thanks her for letting him hang out with her and hopes to see her in class, which Sakura agrees to. In any case, on the way home, Li is in a terrible mood and Sakura remarks on it. In the Japanese version, Tomoyo explains that Li encountered a new problem today. Li denies it but Sakura offers her help. He helped her so much during the Clow Card capture thing that she wants to return the favor. This cools Li down. Sakura then points out that Li should be going back to Hong Kong soon. Li says that he's not going back. This pleases Sakura immensely and she goes to get popsicles for everyone. As she goes to get the treats, Tomoyo points out that now that a rival has appeared, Li's plans to return to Hong Kong are on hold. Li denies that that is the reason. In the English version, Madison points out that Li has been in a bad mood ever since Eli showed up, guessing that Li doesn't like Eli too much. Li does not deny this. Sakura points out that he just met him today and that he should give Eli a chance. She brings up the "it's hard being the new kid" discussion she had with him. Li looks downs. Sakura continues on, telling him that he should remember what it was like when he was the new kid. Li admits that but he still doesn't trust me. This causes Sakura to laugh and then she remarks that she's hungry and offers to get frozen yogurt for everyone. As she goes to get the treats, Madison remarks that if she didn't know any better, she would think that Li was jealous of Eli. This causes Li to grimace, implying that Madison guessed exactly what's up. In any case, Sakura returns and hands out the treats, only to have her brother take hers and start eating it. Toya looks a little worn but Yukito scolds him anyway. Toya brings up the new transfer student in his class and then that same transfer student, a girl with long hair, glomps Toya. She gives Yukito a sinister but satisfied look before moving on to gushing over Sakura. She says her name is Nakuru Akizuki or Ruby. She steals Toya's stolen treat and runs off, saying that she'll see him tomorrow. It then starts to rain in the Japanese version and Sakura and Toya worry about the laundry and have to redo it. The English version cuts those scenes and goes straight into the next one, where Sakura explains to a videogame-playing Kero about the new transfer student. After Kero messes up, he turns the TV back on and it's about the weather. Sakura and Kero notice the heavy rain and Kero remarks that it sure is strange since it was so sunny earlier. The Book of Clow begins to glow and when Sakura opens the drawer and grabs hold of it, she enters this strange starry dream dimension thing. She hears Clow Reed's voice. In the Japanese version, he tells her that he may be causing her problems now but she'll be all right. In the English version, he tells her that she is about to embark on a new and treacherous journey and that the Clow Book will now bear her name. In any case, the weird trip ends and Sakura and Kero notice that the Clow Book bears Sakura's name and has a different design. An image of Eriol flashes across the screen before Sakura and Kero notice a presence. Then the weather report notes that the rain is only falling on Tomoeda. So, with a new outfit and Tomoyo with her camera in tow, Sakura goes to investigate. Kero warns her to be careful: he senses a powerful presence. Sakura remarks that she collected all of the Clow Cards. Unbeknowst to Sakura and her friends, Eriol, wearing that strange outfit from earlier, observes from the shadows. The clouds go into circles and then attack her with water. Tomoyo is hurt so Sakura asks Kero to protect her. He changes into his true form as Sakura runs around trying to not get hit. Keroberos reminds her about her magic so she does her wand activation spell. But no matter how often she casts it, it doesn't work. Sakura nearly gets hit by another shot of water but Keroberos saves her. Sakura is pretty upset about her spell not working. In the Japanese version, Keroberos asks if Sakura can get Yukito to come over tomorrow because he needs to speak to Yueh about why her wand won't work and about this presence, which he had thought earlier was a certain presence but it couldn't possibly be that presence. In the English version, Keroberos says that he senses a familiar presence but that presence shouldn't be around.
Wanna see it?
Card Captor Sakura Episode 47: Part 1/3
Card Captor Sakura Episode 47: Part 2/3
Card Captor Sakura Episode 47: Part 3/3
Cardcaptors Episode 47: Part 1/3
Cardcaptors Episode 47: Part 2/3
Cardcaptors Episode 47: Part 3/3
This is the first episode of the third season! This story arc begins the Sakura Card arc, although newcomers don't realize that yet, which comprises the last six volumes of the manga. Anyway, I have nothing more insightful to say so let's get started!
I prefer the Japanese title this time around because I like "mysterious" better than "new" but can't either of them come up with some other way to introduce the new transfer student? At least it wasn't "rival" this time around.
There weren't any major cuts, just a lot of line and motivation changes. Most of them was Tomoyo being gay again but I would have liked to have kept Tomoyo's scene when she talks about why Sakura is wearing an outfit for the investigation. I mean, it's the first episode of the season so it would have been nice to recap why Sakura wears those outfits in the first place. Ah, well, it doesn't hurt the episode significantly.
Some other cuts involve blush removals, particular on Li's part. I would argue that they're trying to tone down the crush but there are some line changes (I'll get into those) that contradict that theory. So, these may have been time issues. Although I did note that the English version edited Sakura's ears to be not red when she notices Li in the classroom. I guess one could argue that being caught humming is not that embarrassing but still, I thought that was an odd editing decision.
But beyond that, I can't really think of a major cut that hurt the story. Even Yukito got to keep his scenes, which I allowed because it's the first episode of the season so it's okay to do some character reminders for the audience.
On the other hand, a lot was changed dialogue and motivation wise.
I much preferred Kero's talk about the next step in the English version versus Kero talking about having nothing to do and not liking Li. The reason is that the English version actually matches closer to something Kero says later on in the manga. When Sakura is dealing with the rain storm of death, Sakura points out that she's captured all of the Clow Cards so why was this happening? Kero points out angrily that there are more magic out there besides Clow Cards. The Japanese version of this episode doesn't really point that out (perhaps they will later) so I liked that the English version explains that from the getgo. It also brings up a very good point: Sakura will have to pass on the Clow Cards someday. The manga never goes into what will happen when Sakura dies. Fans have speculated about what plans Sakura would put into place (and theories hinge on what Sakura thought about her ordeal with the Clow Cards. If she felt it was a good thing, she'll probably do the same thing as Clow Reed did. But if she felt that was cruel, she might come up with something else) but the fact remains the manga never brings it up. So it was pretty cool that her passing the Cards on was brought up. And it does some foreshadowing for Eli's motivation for doing what he does but I'll save that discussion for later. And, from a storytelling standpoint, it is more engaging. The English version gives you the impression that something might happen soon. The Japanese version just seems like that they forgot they already had their season finale. The English version makes you to want to watch to see what other troubles are in store for Sakura since it will never end for her. And he managed to avoid saying "expect the unexpected" which stunned me.
Although it did make me laugh when Kero points out that it's morning in the English version. I think they may have done that to make it plausible that Sakura could finish her homework on time (since she has all day instead of a few hours) but it is so clearly dusk during that scene.
All right, let's talk about Li. A lot is changed with Li in this episode. The English version tried to make Li's decision to go home less set in stone: they make it seem like Li is still thinking about it rather than in the Japanese version where it's pretty clear that Li is going back soon. However, the only problem is that Li is not like Meilin: he only came there for the Clow Cards, he has no family in Canada/America, and the Clow Cards picked their Master. There is really nothing to think over: mission's done (and failed), time to get going. I also had to wonder about his visa: how long is he allowed to stay there? Does he have to get it renewed or anything? The English version also makes it vague as to whether he is staying or not. He never actually says he's leaving or staying since his conversation with Sakura deals with his dislike of Eli, not him saying that he's staying (like in the Japanese version). I appreciate what the English version tried to do to get out of this plothole but it just doesn't work. A plot hole is a plot hole, no matter how much plot sand you fill it with.
Speaking of staying or going, I did like Li's change in attitude in the English version. I'm sorry, I don't care how much he likes Sakura, it's still a huge blow to have lost the family heirlooms to her. And his defeat was pretty fucking humiliating. The Li family was obsessed with those Clow Cards and Li was groomed to go get them and he spent all that time capturing Cards and it's all for nothing. I'd be depressed too. Even if he knows that there was really nothing he could do because Sakura is the Chosen One and sulking about it won't help, that doesn't change the fact that he probably still feels pretty crummy about it. And I do appreciate that Li is not a raging brat toward her but he's still not like "Oh, well, I guess all my family's connections to those things were ripped asunder within five minutes. Better get to class!" like he is in the Japanese version.
But I would like to detail how I really think "last night"'s phone conversation went:
Li: Hello, Mother. Um, I've got good news and I've got bad news.
Mother: Okay.
Li: Good news: All of the Clow Cards have been captured and are sealed. Bad news: Sakura is the Master of the Clow and Yueh kicked my butt. I still can't sit down properly.
Mother: ...
Li: Mother? Mommy? Are you there? *sobs* Am I going to be disowned?!
Mother: You won't be disowned.
Li: Thank God!
Mother: However, if you don't do what I tell you to do now, I will make you a domestic servant at Meilin's house. And you don't want to know how much bird poop is in that house.
Li: Okay, what should I do?
Mother: So, this Sakura. Do you think she's pretty?
Li: I guess so. She's not ugly or anything. Why?
Mother: Does she like you at all?
Li: Well, she certainly includes me in a lot of friendship speeches so I guess she likes me fine.
Mother: Friendship is bad. We can't have you two being friends...
Li: Mother, don't tell me you're going to suggest that I steal the Clow Book from her!
Mother: No, absolutely not, you stupid boy! You must seduce Sakura.
Li: Mother, I'm, like, eleven years old, I'm still getting over the "girls have cooties" thing...
Mother: YOU WILL MAKE THAT GIRL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOU OR SO HELP ME GOD!
Li: But I'm scowly and mean-spirited, I can't...
Mother: Oh for heaven's sake, you ninny, all girls love boys with bad attitudes. It appeals to their mothering side. Why do you think I withheld all affection from you for so long?
Li: I just thought you were a heartless bi--
Mother: Angst, my child! You need to be sympathetic and lonely so she'll want to mother you and, in time, become the mother of your children, my grandchildren, and the Li family will once again have those Clow Cards.
Li: So basically I'm just a stud horse to you.
Mother: Better than a disowned son, right?
Li: Good point. Okay, I'll seduce Sakura and then wait patiently for both of us to actually reach sexual maturity and then the legal marrying age so I can give you both grandchildren and Clow Cards.
Mother: Mommy loves you, my sweet little baby!
Li: I hope that Sakura is a better mother than you are.
... Okay, that probably didn't happen but it's more funny to imagine that it all went down that way.
Speaking of romance, I found it interesting that the English version pretty much bluntly states that Li is jealous of Eli. The Japanese version has Tomoyo being somewhat subtle about it but Madison is just like "Li doesn't Eli. I wonder why?" That surprised me because originally I thought they were going to remove this element of the plot since they cut some blushing and Li being upset as he watches Eriol and Sakura have a romantic moment. This leads me to think that these cuts were merely time issues.
Oh, I did like that Li shows some consistency with his character in the English version. If you'll recall, the English version really played up Li's distrust of Ms. Mackenzie and they emphasize Li's distrust of Eli here. Li is just a huge paranoid freak but that is the way he's played in the English version, which I don't mind. I did think it was kind of funny that Sakura is like, "Oh you! You and your distrust of everyone around you!" And I had to laugh when Sakura points out that Li was once the "new kid" because I kept thinking, "Remember when you were the new kid? And you were a raging brat toward me? And criticized me whenever you could? Actually, you were kind of an asshole, at least Eli is nice to me!"
The only problem comes when the animation didn't match the changes. Li's facial expressions, especially during the "I don't like Eli!" discussion, didn't always match his tone of voice, which was jarring.
The change to Clow Reed's warning was neither better nor worse than the original version. The Japanese version pretty much is the manga version and the English version is pretty dramatic as well. It really comes down to which you like better.
Let's talk about Eriol versus Eli. I wasn't expecting to like Eli Moon. Years ago, my middle oldest brother complained about how badly he was done so I wasn't expecting this to be good. But I found that I preferred the English version over the Japanese version. True, the name is pretty goofy, especially for a British person, but I'll let it slide because I much preferred Eli's voice actor. Eriol's voice rubbed me wrong, I can't put my finger on what it is that annoys me about the voice but I just can't stand it. Eli has a much better voice and I feel it suits the body and character much better. My only complaint is that Eli didn't bother with a British accent but, then again, did I really want to hear a stupid British accent for the sake of accuracy? I'm not quite sure.
Eriol lays on the "mysterious" schtick too much, with his melodramatic lines about knowing each other before they were born. Look, he's either magical or he's an eleven-year-old sleazeball, Sakura. Get away from him. This was a complaint I had with the manga as well because it makes Sakura (and eventually Li) look really stupid. In the English version, Eli is a bit more subtle, although he still comes off as a kind of a freak since he keeps thanking her for letting him sit by her and going on how hard it is to be a new kid. It comes off as a guy coming on too strong when trying to pick a girl up. Although, judging from what I remember from the manga, this may be a subtle indication of Eli trying to win Sakura over so she'll be less likely to suspect him and more likely to defend him against Li later on.
My only complaint was with Eli's greeting when he walks past Sakura. I thought it was a pretty nice touch that Eli knew Sakura's name before being introduced to her ("how mysterious!") but then the English version forgot that and made him say that he didn't know her name without Sakura going, "Um, you kind of greeted me by name a few hours ago". I'm hoping that perhaps they'll justify that, perhaps with Sakura realizing that, hey, Eli knew her name ahead of time, why did he pretend he didn't know?, but I am dubious. This makes me sad because I thought it was a good move to do that greeting. Ah, well.
Not much to say about Ruby except to say that I liked her voice and name fine. Again, Eli and Ruby sounds goofy but it's not intolerable.
Both versions had changes in their openings. Card Captor Sakura has a new opening theme song and animation. This one is called "Platinum" and is actually pretty famous in anime circles. I've heard more than one person say this is their favorite Card Captor Sakura opening and I agree. It's a beautiful song and the animation for it is wonderfully done and stylish. Although I did notice that all three songs have some sort of "dream" element in their lyrics: "Catch Me, Catch You" has the singer wanting to "dream in unison", "Open the Door" had "DREAMING" start the song, and "Platinum" is about "being a dreamer". I just thought that was interesting. The ending song, "Candy", just annoys me. I want to like it but the singer is just so cutesy and the lyrics are just so silly that I can't get into it. I like the animation of Sakura, Tomoyo, and Kero baking a cake though. That's pretty cute. The Japanese version also has a different eye catch than before.
The English version also has some opening changes. Although the song is the same, the opening animation is different. Man, I really love the shots they picked. It looks very exciting with all of the magic casting and the battle scenes being depicted. They also showed the shots long enough that you can see what's happening but not dragging it out. It just looks really cool. There is also a title card. We've seen these before with previous episodes that had been misplaced but this is where it starts for real. I'm sure if I like it. Eli looks okay but the shots picked for Sakura, Li, and Kero just look peculiar. The picture looks really unbalanced.
Alright, plot holes.
1. Kero asks Sakura if Li has gone back to Hong Kong. She says that he said that he will be going back soon but is sure that he is still there. When she gets to school, she mentions that she has not seen Li since the Final Judgement before vacation. If she hadn't seen Li and they hadn't been in contact (because then she would know if he went anywhere), then why was she so sure that he was still around? When did Li tell her he was leaving? And wouldn't leaving during summer vacation have been ideal? I mean, why start classes again when he's just going to leave soon anyway?
2. If Mr. Terada is now their homeroom teacher, then who is the homeroom teacher for the class he was already a homeroom teacher for when Ms. Mizuki was their homeroom teacher?
3. It's been established that Li should be going home because the Clow Cards have been captured but Li decides to stay anyway to win against Eriol for Sakura's love. That's great and all but how is he going to explain that to his mother? I mean, that's not a very good reason to stay there, especially by himself. I find it odd that he is allowed to make that decision without any consequences.
In conclusion, despite some inappropriate animation and an instance of inconsistent writing, the various changes made to dialogue and motivation prompt me to I judge these episodes to be...
Different, with the English Cardcaptors being the superior!
Episode 48 (the first attempt)
Episode 48 (the second attempt)
Episode 46
Episode 47: Sakura and the Mysterious Transfer Student (Card Captor Sakura) or The Mysterious Transfer Student (Cardcaptors)
Before we continue on with the third and final season of CCS/CC, in order to maintain fairness, this time I will choose at random which version I start with. I will note before each summary which version I started with and my summaries will reflect the first version watched as the baseline. This entry will start with the Japanese version first simply because I used the English version first for the entirety of the second season so I deemed it appropriate that I give the Japanese version a fair shake this time around.
Baseline version: Japanese Card Captor Sakura
It is the end of summer vacation as Kero gazes out a window, looking at the setting/rising sun (Japanese/English). Kero remarks that summer is ending/that it is a beautiful morning. Meanwhile, a mysterious figure lands on a shrine. In the Japanese version, Kero whines that he's bored. Sakura disagrees: they got to play all summer. In the English version, Kero asks how it feels to be the Master of the Clow Cards. Sakura remarks that she doesn't feel that different but she wishes that Clow Reed had made a Card that would do her summer homework for her. In any case, Kero notes that Sakura is writing something: it turns out that Ms. Mizuki wrote to Sakura and she's writing her back. Apparently, Ms. Mizuki is in England and is well. Meanwhile, a winged giant cat leaps over a rooftop. In the Japanese version, Kero says that he is glad that Sakura became Master of the Cards. Why? Because having Li be the Master would have made him lose faith in living. Sakura defends Li, saying that he was trying his best. In the English version, Kero explains that Kero and Yueh cannot predict everything that will happen to Sakura so she has to ready for anything. Sakura asks how that can be: she has all of the Clow Cards. Kero explains that it's never really over until she finds a new Master of the Cards and that the world of magic is constantly changing. So she has to trust her dreams and her instincts and remember how far she's come. In any case, Kero asks if Li is still around. Sakura explains that he still is but he will probably be going back to Hong Kong soon. Meanwhile, a woman with butterfly wings appears on another rooftop (actually, Kero's question regarding Li happens after this shot in the English version). In the Japanese version, Kero whines that he's bored which makes Sakura point out that she's not bored because she still has to go to school while the English version has the "so, where's Li now?" conversation happen instead. In any case, Sakura goes over to her schoolbag and then realizes that she still has summer homework left. This throws Sakura into a tizzy and she begs for Kero's help, which he balks at since the last time he helped her, she got mad at him. Meanwhile, a mysterious dark-haired boy in a weird black outfit looks at Sakura's house. Anyway, it's the next morning and Sakura rushes to school. Toya points out that rushing will do her good since Yukito won't be there but Sakura says that isn't the reason she's going early (she has classroom duties). Off Sakura goes and she winds up bumping into Yukito anyway. Yukito remarks in the Japanese version that he's early to buy more breakfast because it seems like that he's hungry no matter how much he eats: even he notes that he may be buying too much. Sakura remarks that he shouldn't be concerned because, as Yukito finishes, it means he's healthy. In the English version, Julian just notes that he's tired. In any case, Sakura continues on her way as she thinks about the paradox of Yukito being Yueh but after Yukito throws a piece of candy to her, she adds that she's glad that Yukito is still the same. Sakura gets to the classroom and thinks that no one is there and starts singing/humming until Li, who is erasing the chalkboard, coughs loudly so she knows he's there. Sakura and Li are far more embarrassed by this in the Japanese version than in the English version. In the Japanese version, Sakura asks Li how his summer vacation went and if he went anywhere. Li didn't go anywhere. Sakura then asks if he's going back to Hong Kong. Li affirms that he is because since the Master of the Clow Cards has been chosen, he wants to go give a proper report to his mother. This makes Sakura sad and Li points out that it doesn't mean that they'll never see each other again. This cheers Sakura back up. In the English version, Sakura is asking about "what else" Li's mother said the night before and whether his family is happy that the Cards are safe again. Li says he guesses so. Sakura points that he doesn't sound too happy about that. Li tells her that it's nothing but then explains that since she was chosen as the Master of the Clow Cards, he has nothing to do. Sakura asks if Li plans on going back home. Li says that he might as well, considering how badly he lost to Yueh during the Final Judgement. Sakura is clearly the Chosen One. Sakura argues that isn't true: he was a big help to her. After a gobsmacked look, Li points out that it isn't really a big deal, that he'll get over it. Sakura agrees. In any case, as Sakura is setting up a flower vase, Tomoyo comes. After greeting each other, Tomoyo looks sad. In the Japanese version, she is depressed because Sakura doesn't do her Card capturing anymore so she doesn't wear any of the cute outfits she made. In the English version, Madison just moans that summer vacation is over but remarks that at least the Cards are safe now. After Sakura sees her other classmates again and tells them about Ms. Mizuki's letter, they wonder how the new teacher will be. It turns out to be Mr. Terada. Anyway, there is also going to be a new transfer student from England. It's a dark-haired, blue-eyed boy named either Eriol Hiiragizawa or Eli Moon. Sakura thinks that he seems nice until he gazes at her, which takes Sakura aback. Behind her, Li is not pleased. Anyway, the only free seat is Meilin's old seat next to Li so down he goes. Li is so not happy about this at all. He stops by Sakura's desk and greets her. In the English version, he actually greets her by name. In the Japanese version, she wonders at this strange feeling while in the English version, she thinks that she feels like she's met him before. During lunch time, Sakura is writing about her day to Ms. Mizuki, trailing off her letter when she gets to Eriol, saying aloud that she feels like she's met him before. At this point, Eriol comes up to her and remarks that he feels the same way. This startles Sakura and Eriol asks if she scared her. She says she's fine. So they sit together. In the Japanese version, Eriol reaffirms that he feels like they've met before, perhaps before they were even born. With that melodramatic comment, Eriol rises to go back to class and asks for Sakura's name. She gives it and he remarks that her name is the same as one of a pretty flower. He then asks if he can call her by her first name. She agrees, using his last name but Eriol insists on his first. Meanwhile, Tomoyo and Li are watching this play out. Tomoyo excitedly compares it to a girls' manga while Li looks like he wants to eat the building. In the English version, Eli thanks Sakura for letting him sit with her during lunch. Sakura says that it isn't a problem. Eli points out that it's hard being the new kid. Eli gets up and then asks for Sakura's name. She gives it to him. Eli again thanks her for letting him hang out with her and hopes to see her in class, which Sakura agrees to. In any case, on the way home, Li is in a terrible mood and Sakura remarks on it. In the Japanese version, Tomoyo explains that Li encountered a new problem today. Li denies it but Sakura offers her help. He helped her so much during the Clow Card capture thing that she wants to return the favor. This cools Li down. Sakura then points out that Li should be going back to Hong Kong soon. Li says that he's not going back. This pleases Sakura immensely and she goes to get popsicles for everyone. As she goes to get the treats, Tomoyo points out that now that a rival has appeared, Li's plans to return to Hong Kong are on hold. Li denies that that is the reason. In the English version, Madison points out that Li has been in a bad mood ever since Eli showed up, guessing that Li doesn't like Eli too much. Li does not deny this. Sakura points out that he just met him today and that he should give Eli a chance. She brings up the "it's hard being the new kid" discussion she had with him. Li looks downs. Sakura continues on, telling him that he should remember what it was like when he was the new kid. Li admits that but he still doesn't trust me. This causes Sakura to laugh and then she remarks that she's hungry and offers to get frozen yogurt for everyone. As she goes to get the treats, Madison remarks that if she didn't know any better, she would think that Li was jealous of Eli. This causes Li to grimace, implying that Madison guessed exactly what's up. In any case, Sakura returns and hands out the treats, only to have her brother take hers and start eating it. Toya looks a little worn but Yukito scolds him anyway. Toya brings up the new transfer student in his class and then that same transfer student, a girl with long hair, glomps Toya. She gives Yukito a sinister but satisfied look before moving on to gushing over Sakura. She says her name is Nakuru Akizuki or Ruby. She steals Toya's stolen treat and runs off, saying that she'll see him tomorrow. It then starts to rain in the Japanese version and Sakura and Toya worry about the laundry and have to redo it. The English version cuts those scenes and goes straight into the next one, where Sakura explains to a videogame-playing Kero about the new transfer student. After Kero messes up, he turns the TV back on and it's about the weather. Sakura and Kero notice the heavy rain and Kero remarks that it sure is strange since it was so sunny earlier. The Book of Clow begins to glow and when Sakura opens the drawer and grabs hold of it, she enters this strange starry dream dimension thing. She hears Clow Reed's voice. In the Japanese version, he tells her that he may be causing her problems now but she'll be all right. In the English version, he tells her that she is about to embark on a new and treacherous journey and that the Clow Book will now bear her name. In any case, the weird trip ends and Sakura and Kero notice that the Clow Book bears Sakura's name and has a different design. An image of Eriol flashes across the screen before Sakura and Kero notice a presence. Then the weather report notes that the rain is only falling on Tomoeda. So, with a new outfit and Tomoyo with her camera in tow, Sakura goes to investigate. Kero warns her to be careful: he senses a powerful presence. Sakura remarks that she collected all of the Clow Cards. Unbeknowst to Sakura and her friends, Eriol, wearing that strange outfit from earlier, observes from the shadows. The clouds go into circles and then attack her with water. Tomoyo is hurt so Sakura asks Kero to protect her. He changes into his true form as Sakura runs around trying to not get hit. Keroberos reminds her about her magic so she does her wand activation spell. But no matter how often she casts it, it doesn't work. Sakura nearly gets hit by another shot of water but Keroberos saves her. Sakura is pretty upset about her spell not working. In the Japanese version, Keroberos asks if Sakura can get Yukito to come over tomorrow because he needs to speak to Yueh about why her wand won't work and about this presence, which he had thought earlier was a certain presence but it couldn't possibly be that presence. In the English version, Keroberos says that he senses a familiar presence but that presence shouldn't be around.
Wanna see it?
Card Captor Sakura Episode 47: Part 1/3
Click to viewCard Captor Sakura Episode 47: Part 2/3
Card Captor Sakura Episode 47: Part 3/3
Cardcaptors Episode 47: Part 1/3
Cardcaptors Episode 47: Part 2/3
Cardcaptors Episode 47: Part 3/3
This is the first episode of the third season! This story arc begins the Sakura Card arc, although newcomers don't realize that yet, which comprises the last six volumes of the manga. Anyway, I have nothing more insightful to say so let's get started!
I prefer the Japanese title this time around because I like "mysterious" better than "new" but can't either of them come up with some other way to introduce the new transfer student? At least it wasn't "rival" this time around.
There weren't any major cuts, just a lot of line and motivation changes. Most of them was Tomoyo being gay again but I would have liked to have kept Tomoyo's scene when she talks about why Sakura is wearing an outfit for the investigation. I mean, it's the first episode of the season so it would have been nice to recap why Sakura wears those outfits in the first place. Ah, well, it doesn't hurt the episode significantly.
Some other cuts involve blush removals, particular on Li's part. I would argue that they're trying to tone down the crush but there are some line changes (I'll get into those) that contradict that theory. So, these may have been time issues. Although I did note that the English version edited Sakura's ears to be not red when she notices Li in the classroom. I guess one could argue that being caught humming is not that embarrassing but still, I thought that was an odd editing decision.
But beyond that, I can't really think of a major cut that hurt the story. Even Yukito got to keep his scenes, which I allowed because it's the first episode of the season so it's okay to do some character reminders for the audience.
On the other hand, a lot was changed dialogue and motivation wise.
I much preferred Kero's talk about the next step in the English version versus Kero talking about having nothing to do and not liking Li. The reason is that the English version actually matches closer to something Kero says later on in the manga. When Sakura is dealing with the rain storm of death, Sakura points out that she's captured all of the Clow Cards so why was this happening? Kero points out angrily that there are more magic out there besides Clow Cards. The Japanese version of this episode doesn't really point that out (perhaps they will later) so I liked that the English version explains that from the getgo. It also brings up a very good point: Sakura will have to pass on the Clow Cards someday. The manga never goes into what will happen when Sakura dies. Fans have speculated about what plans Sakura would put into place (and theories hinge on what Sakura thought about her ordeal with the Clow Cards. If she felt it was a good thing, she'll probably do the same thing as Clow Reed did. But if she felt that was cruel, she might come up with something else) but the fact remains the manga never brings it up. So it was pretty cool that her passing the Cards on was brought up. And it does some foreshadowing for Eli's motivation for doing what he does but I'll save that discussion for later. And, from a storytelling standpoint, it is more engaging. The English version gives you the impression that something might happen soon. The Japanese version just seems like that they forgot they already had their season finale. The English version makes you to want to watch to see what other troubles are in store for Sakura since it will never end for her. And he managed to avoid saying "expect the unexpected" which stunned me.
Although it did make me laugh when Kero points out that it's morning in the English version. I think they may have done that to make it plausible that Sakura could finish her homework on time (since she has all day instead of a few hours) but it is so clearly dusk during that scene.
All right, let's talk about Li. A lot is changed with Li in this episode. The English version tried to make Li's decision to go home less set in stone: they make it seem like Li is still thinking about it rather than in the Japanese version where it's pretty clear that Li is going back soon. However, the only problem is that Li is not like Meilin: he only came there for the Clow Cards, he has no family in Canada/America, and the Clow Cards picked their Master. There is really nothing to think over: mission's done (and failed), time to get going. I also had to wonder about his visa: how long is he allowed to stay there? Does he have to get it renewed or anything? The English version also makes it vague as to whether he is staying or not. He never actually says he's leaving or staying since his conversation with Sakura deals with his dislike of Eli, not him saying that he's staying (like in the Japanese version). I appreciate what the English version tried to do to get out of this plothole but it just doesn't work. A plot hole is a plot hole, no matter how much plot sand you fill it with.
Speaking of staying or going, I did like Li's change in attitude in the English version. I'm sorry, I don't care how much he likes Sakura, it's still a huge blow to have lost the family heirlooms to her. And his defeat was pretty fucking humiliating. The Li family was obsessed with those Clow Cards and Li was groomed to go get them and he spent all that time capturing Cards and it's all for nothing. I'd be depressed too. Even if he knows that there was really nothing he could do because Sakura is the Chosen One and sulking about it won't help, that doesn't change the fact that he probably still feels pretty crummy about it. And I do appreciate that Li is not a raging brat toward her but he's still not like "Oh, well, I guess all my family's connections to those things were ripped asunder within five minutes. Better get to class!" like he is in the Japanese version.
But I would like to detail how I really think "last night"'s phone conversation went:
Li: Hello, Mother. Um, I've got good news and I've got bad news.
Mother: Okay.
Li: Good news: All of the Clow Cards have been captured and are sealed. Bad news: Sakura is the Master of the Clow and Yueh kicked my butt. I still can't sit down properly.
Mother: ...
Li: Mother? Mommy? Are you there? *sobs* Am I going to be disowned?!
Mother: You won't be disowned.
Li: Thank God!
Mother: However, if you don't do what I tell you to do now, I will make you a domestic servant at Meilin's house. And you don't want to know how much bird poop is in that house.
Li: Okay, what should I do?
Mother: So, this Sakura. Do you think she's pretty?
Li: I guess so. She's not ugly or anything. Why?
Mother: Does she like you at all?
Li: Well, she certainly includes me in a lot of friendship speeches so I guess she likes me fine.
Mother: Friendship is bad. We can't have you two being friends...
Li: Mother, don't tell me you're going to suggest that I steal the Clow Book from her!
Mother: No, absolutely not, you stupid boy! You must seduce Sakura.
Li: Mother, I'm, like, eleven years old, I'm still getting over the "girls have cooties" thing...
Mother: YOU WILL MAKE THAT GIRL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOU OR SO HELP ME GOD!
Li: But I'm scowly and mean-spirited, I can't...
Mother: Oh for heaven's sake, you ninny, all girls love boys with bad attitudes. It appeals to their mothering side. Why do you think I withheld all affection from you for so long?
Li: I just thought you were a heartless bi--
Mother: Angst, my child! You need to be sympathetic and lonely so she'll want to mother you and, in time, become the mother of your children, my grandchildren, and the Li family will once again have those Clow Cards.
Li: So basically I'm just a stud horse to you.
Mother: Better than a disowned son, right?
Li: Good point. Okay, I'll seduce Sakura and then wait patiently for both of us to actually reach sexual maturity and then the legal marrying age so I can give you both grandchildren and Clow Cards.
Mother: Mommy loves you, my sweet little baby!
Li: I hope that Sakura is a better mother than you are.
... Okay, that probably didn't happen but it's more funny to imagine that it all went down that way.
Speaking of romance, I found it interesting that the English version pretty much bluntly states that Li is jealous of Eli. The Japanese version has Tomoyo being somewhat subtle about it but Madison is just like "Li doesn't Eli. I wonder why?" That surprised me because originally I thought they were going to remove this element of the plot since they cut some blushing and Li being upset as he watches Eriol and Sakura have a romantic moment. This leads me to think that these cuts were merely time issues.
Oh, I did like that Li shows some consistency with his character in the English version. If you'll recall, the English version really played up Li's distrust of Ms. Mackenzie and they emphasize Li's distrust of Eli here. Li is just a huge paranoid freak but that is the way he's played in the English version, which I don't mind. I did think it was kind of funny that Sakura is like, "Oh you! You and your distrust of everyone around you!" And I had to laugh when Sakura points out that Li was once the "new kid" because I kept thinking, "Remember when you were the new kid? And you were a raging brat toward me? And criticized me whenever you could? Actually, you were kind of an asshole, at least Eli is nice to me!"
The only problem comes when the animation didn't match the changes. Li's facial expressions, especially during the "I don't like Eli!" discussion, didn't always match his tone of voice, which was jarring.
The change to Clow Reed's warning was neither better nor worse than the original version. The Japanese version pretty much is the manga version and the English version is pretty dramatic as well. It really comes down to which you like better.
Let's talk about Eriol versus Eli. I wasn't expecting to like Eli Moon. Years ago, my middle oldest brother complained about how badly he was done so I wasn't expecting this to be good. But I found that I preferred the English version over the Japanese version. True, the name is pretty goofy, especially for a British person, but I'll let it slide because I much preferred Eli's voice actor. Eriol's voice rubbed me wrong, I can't put my finger on what it is that annoys me about the voice but I just can't stand it. Eli has a much better voice and I feel it suits the body and character much better. My only complaint is that Eli didn't bother with a British accent but, then again, did I really want to hear a stupid British accent for the sake of accuracy? I'm not quite sure.
Eriol lays on the "mysterious" schtick too much, with his melodramatic lines about knowing each other before they were born. Look, he's either magical or he's an eleven-year-old sleazeball, Sakura. Get away from him. This was a complaint I had with the manga as well because it makes Sakura (and eventually Li) look really stupid. In the English version, Eli is a bit more subtle, although he still comes off as a kind of a freak since he keeps thanking her for letting him sit by her and going on how hard it is to be a new kid. It comes off as a guy coming on too strong when trying to pick a girl up. Although, judging from what I remember from the manga, this may be a subtle indication of Eli trying to win Sakura over so she'll be less likely to suspect him and more likely to defend him against Li later on.
My only complaint was with Eli's greeting when he walks past Sakura. I thought it was a pretty nice touch that Eli knew Sakura's name before being introduced to her ("how mysterious!") but then the English version forgot that and made him say that he didn't know her name without Sakura going, "Um, you kind of greeted me by name a few hours ago". I'm hoping that perhaps they'll justify that, perhaps with Sakura realizing that, hey, Eli knew her name ahead of time, why did he pretend he didn't know?, but I am dubious. This makes me sad because I thought it was a good move to do that greeting. Ah, well.
Not much to say about Ruby except to say that I liked her voice and name fine. Again, Eli and Ruby sounds goofy but it's not intolerable.
Both versions had changes in their openings. Card Captor Sakura has a new opening theme song and animation. This one is called "Platinum" and is actually pretty famous in anime circles. I've heard more than one person say this is their favorite Card Captor Sakura opening and I agree. It's a beautiful song and the animation for it is wonderfully done and stylish. Although I did notice that all three songs have some sort of "dream" element in their lyrics: "Catch Me, Catch You" has the singer wanting to "dream in unison", "Open the Door" had "DREAMING" start the song, and "Platinum" is about "being a dreamer". I just thought that was interesting. The ending song, "Candy", just annoys me. I want to like it but the singer is just so cutesy and the lyrics are just so silly that I can't get into it. I like the animation of Sakura, Tomoyo, and Kero baking a cake though. That's pretty cute. The Japanese version also has a different eye catch than before.
The English version also has some opening changes. Although the song is the same, the opening animation is different. Man, I really love the shots they picked. It looks very exciting with all of the magic casting and the battle scenes being depicted. They also showed the shots long enough that you can see what's happening but not dragging it out. It just looks really cool. There is also a title card. We've seen these before with previous episodes that had been misplaced but this is where it starts for real. I'm sure if I like it. Eli looks okay but the shots picked for Sakura, Li, and Kero just look peculiar. The picture looks really unbalanced.
Alright, plot holes.
1. Kero asks Sakura if Li has gone back to Hong Kong. She says that he said that he will be going back soon but is sure that he is still there. When she gets to school, she mentions that she has not seen Li since the Final Judgement before vacation. If she hadn't seen Li and they hadn't been in contact (because then she would know if he went anywhere), then why was she so sure that he was still around? When did Li tell her he was leaving? And wouldn't leaving during summer vacation have been ideal? I mean, why start classes again when he's just going to leave soon anyway?
2. If Mr. Terada is now their homeroom teacher, then who is the homeroom teacher for the class he was already a homeroom teacher for when Ms. Mizuki was their homeroom teacher?
3. It's been established that Li should be going home because the Clow Cards have been captured but Li decides to stay anyway to win against Eriol for Sakura's love. That's great and all but how is he going to explain that to his mother? I mean, that's not a very good reason to stay there, especially by himself. I find it odd that he is allowed to make that decision without any consequences.
In conclusion, despite some inappropriate animation and an instance of inconsistent writing, the various changes made to dialogue and motivation prompt me to I judge these episodes to be...
Different, with the English Cardcaptors being the superior!
Episode 48 (the first attempt)
Episode 48 (the second attempt)