Case Closed: Jolly Roger in the Deep Azure

Case Closed: Jolly Roger in the Deep Azure is a 2007 Japanese animated film. It is the 11th film in the popular series of Case Closed, also known as Detective Conan, based on the manga of the same name by Gosho Aoyama. The movie features the return of the iconic characters from the beloved sleuth franchise such as child detective Jimmy Kudo, his love interest Rachel Moore, and his pint-sized detective colleagues from the Detective Boys club.

At the heart of the film is the protagonist, Jimmy Kudo, voiced by Minami Takayama. Jimmy is a sharp-witted and highly skilled high school detective who has been shrunk into a young boy's body by a poison. Using the pseudonym Conan Edogawa, he helps solve criminal cases whilst secretly trying to uncover the truth about his condition and the shadowy organization that caused it. Wakana Yamazaki voices the character of Rachel Moore, a high school karate champion who is Kudo's best friend and love interest, and also the only person besides Dr. Agasa who unknowingly possesses substantial evidence regarding his predicament. Kappei Yamaguchi lends his voice to the character of Harley Hartwell, Kudo's detective rival who occasionally helps him solve cases.

The movie transports the audience to the fictional Koumi Island located in the Pacific Ocean. Famed for its natural beauty and enigmatic history, the island is known for its legendary treasure – the 'Blue Azure'. This treasure is rumored to be buried deep under the sea surrounding Koumi Island, lost since the days of the notorious pirate Anne Bonny and her pirate ship, Jolly Roger.

The story sets in motion when a treasure hunting festival sees a massive influx of tourists and treasure hunters onto the island. This event also coincides with a school trip of Teitan Elementary School, giving our young detective Conan, accompanied by the Detective Boys and Rachel, a chance to enjoy the island’s festive atmosphere. The mood of excitement turns sinister, however, when a murder occurs just when the treasure hunt is about to reach its peak.

Both the tourists and islanders become terrorized by an enigmatic pirate figure who seemingly walks straight out of the pages of history to guard the Blue Azure. In the midst of these strange events, another murder enhances the complexity of the situation, and the island plunges into chaos. The island's police force, overwhelmed by the serial murders and the ensuing pirate panic, are at a loss.

That's where Conan and his team come in. Jimmy Kudo’s superb intellect, Rachel's martial arts expertise and the Detective Boys' unyielding courage are put to the ultimate test. They are thrown into a whirlwind of mystery, danger, and high-stakes adventure as they try to resolve the incidents and restore peace on the island. The young detectives must contend not just with the criminal case before them, but also with the island's deep-rooted superstitions, labyrinthine caves, and the unsettling ghost of the pirate who seems to lurk around every corner.

Case Closed: Jolly Roger in the Deep Azure offers viewers an engrossing mystery adventure layered with suspense and anticipation. The atmospheric animation beautifully captures the stunning landscapes of the island and the dark, underwater surroundings which add to the eeriness of the deep-sea treasure hunt. The well-constructed plot keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, accelerating toward an unpredictable climax. The traditional themes of courage, intelligence, and friendship common to the Case Closed series are core to this movie as well, enhancing its appeal to both fans of the franchise and newcomers.

As always, the charm of Jimmy Kudo, his sharp detective mind, and the camaraderie among the young investigators provide the heart of the story. Kudo continues to shoulder the dual responsibility of solving the case while protecting his secret identity, adding more depth to his character. The balance of tension, excitement, and humor, combined with a refreshing island setting, makes Case Closed: Jolly Roger in the Deep Azure an adventure not to be missed by fans of the franchise and mystery lovers alike.