A Chinese Ghost Story: The Animated Film - Cult Film Review

Back in the early 90s, Hong Kong cinema (as well as much of world cinema) was still quite niche, cult and difficult to find in England. You'd get the occasional Bruce Lee movie on television and that was about it. I knew Bruce Lee through Enter the Dragon but that was it, my knowledge of the wider genre was very slim. That changed as Channel 4 (and later cable channels) started to show anime, manga and Asian Cinema more frequently and when Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon became a worldwide smash the floodgates opened. I may be misremembering but I think I was introduced to this genre through Channel 4 or by a close friend who was a huge Jackie Chan fan before he became a 'name' in the West with the success of Rush Hour. However, by whatever means, A Chinese Ghost Story was one of the first HK films I saw and I fell in love with it, purchasing the Hong Kong Legends DVD for the then princely sum of £20 years later (that’s in the early 00s mind you so that’s mega expensive!)

Later I would realise that, whilst incredibly beautifully shot with sumptuous costumes and detailed sets, the film was a sum of the genre parts rather than a truly innovative picture. Another earlier Tsui Hark picture, Zu: Warriors of the Mountain (which I also purchased later, again by HKL) did a lot of what is shown Hark's oeuvre and the Wuxia genre, however, at the time I didn't mind as I didn't know any better. Even now, the tale of a lowly, down on his luck tax collector falling in love with a spirit and trying to save her cursed soul still captivates me.

Released in 1997, A Chinese Ghost Story: The Animated Film was something I sought after seeing it mentioned in Manga Mania but I never found it... until now, where it came up serendipitously in my YouTube feed.

Under the direction of Tsui Hark, who also produced the original films, this animated film ventured into new territory, aiming to translate ethereal romance and supernatural action into a fresh medium. So, did Hark succeed in this endeavour?

The narrative mirrors its live-action predecessor, following Ning, a young and somewhat naive tax collector and scholar, who is heartbroken and adrift in ancient China. However, his spirits are lifted by an encounter with Siu Lan, an ethereal beauty with whom he instantly falls in love. The significant complication, however, is that Siu Lan is a soul stealing ghost. Their blossoming romance quickly finds itself at odds with the formidable supernatural powers that govern their world. Ning's unwavering devotion forces him to confront a gauntlet of challenges, from undead beasts and mad exorcists to powerful chi blasts and even spectral trains. Despite these perilous obstacles, his determination to fight for his one last chance at happiness forms the emotional core of the film.

I really enjoyed my time with the film as it is an ambitious fusion of animation techniques. It is a testament to the artistry of fluid, hand-drawn animation. This traditional approach masterfully captures expressive character designs and creates dynamic action sequences, imbuing them with a timeless cel-animated charm. Characters move with a grace and exaggerated flair difficult to achieve in live-action, allowing for more fantastical and emotionally charged performances. Complementing this, meticulously detailed backgrounds depicting misty forests, ancient temples, and bustling marketplaces are rendered with impressive depth, often evoking the beauty of traditional Chinese painting. However, the film also serves as a fascinating snapshot of animation in the late 1990s, venturing into the then-nascent realm of GCI and live film, a real mixed media prodution of you will. The integration of CGI is arguably the most experimental aspect, and at times, the least seamless. While employed effectively to depict certain magical effects, spirits, and elaborate transformations, the early 3D animation occasionally contrasts sharply with the more organic hand-drawn elements. This visual disconnect can momentarily pull the viewer from the immersive experience, a common challenge for films of this era that pushed the boundaries of new technologies. While some CGI elements hold up better than others, they are undeniably a product of their time. However, despite these experimental quirks, the film largely succeeds in delivering a beautifully animated and engaging narrative.

The story admirably retains the melancholic romance and tragic undertones that defined the original live-action trilogy, while adapting the action for the animated medium, allowing for more exaggerated and visually creative battles against various demons and spirits. The voice acting, which I experienced as an English dub, breathes life into the characters, and the score effectively underscores the film's emotional beats and supernatural tension.

In conclusion, A Chinese Ghost Story: The Animated Film is a captivating curio in the history of animated cinema, especially for aficionados of Asian animation. Its unwavering commitment to traditional hand-drawn techniques remains its greatest strength, delivering vibrant characters and dynamic action sequences. While its pioneering use of CGI and live-action elements can at times feel dated or disruptive, they also serve as a valuable testament to the era's innovative and exploratory spirit.

So, for those keen to witness a beloved tale retold with creative ambition and a truly unique visual approach, this animated feature is well worth a watch.

Shadow Star Narutaru- Cult Manga Review

I knew of Shadow Star as the series ran for a while in Manga Mania back in the late 90s. I liked it's naive, laidback art style that looked different from the other, more stereotypical stuff that we wee getting. Manga-ka Mohiro Kitoh's art and storytelling belies the dark heart of the story underneath. The story was never complete in Manga Mania and, even though I bought the 7 graphic novels, the rest of the series was never released in the UK so I never got closure. Finally, after nearly 30 years, I got access to the 13 part the anime series and had a chance to see if it was as graphic, dark and violent as I remembered.

With the cheerful opening credits I second guessed myself thinking I was misremembering the series. The jaunty theme tune, the colourful paper cut art style and cute characters made it look more like a slice of life comedy series in the vein of Hamtaro or Shin Crayon rather than what we have here.

The first episode starts of cheerful enough as Shiina, a young tween sent to holiday with her Grandparents near the coast, finds a strange star-shaped creature in the sea next to a torii gate. She bonds with it as it flies her all around the coast. She names it Hoshimaru and takes it back home with her, keeping it a secret from her father. Great, a buddy story of two new friends from different world, a modern day ET you might think... but no, by episode 2 the darkness of the series is revealed and it gets progressively beaker, violent and misanthropic. There are several of these alien beings and they all have owners who are bonded with them, the problem is that a few of the teenage keepers of the 'Children of the Dragon' ETs are maniacs who want a Khymer Rouge style Year Zero where there is a genocide of the educated elite to allow for a 'peaceful and strong society  that lives off the land'.

Shiina and her friend Akira want to fight back but there are a group of teens who are more bonded with their dragons and in their mind might is right.

Over the course of 13 episodes we have an ongoing battle between Shiina, Akira and Horoko and the Japanese Airforce against  those with evil intent. However, along the way we deal with real big issues such as self-harm, neglect, emotional abuse, mental health,.... it's all pretty heady and heavy stuff and you'd like for it to be handled well but the show is tonally everywhere. It's light and breezy one moment and in the next minute very bleak.

The art style in Shadow Star will not appeal to everyone but I quite like that it is quiet distinctive in the manga space. The characters are all gangly arms and legs but I suppose to convey tween and early teens that'd be accurate. Shiina is a bit of a tomboy so her supposed gracelessness, which her career-driven mum criticises her about in episode 3, is understood to be a trait we can get behind as she is our plucky heroine. Shiina is very endearing and a sympathetic character as she wants to help and do the right thing. The character design of the other people is pretty forgettable, including the dragon children who all look a bit uninspired.

The series asks a lot of questions and is intriguing but the motivation of the evil cabal of teens here is not clear. I get the world is not great so the whole 'let's start afresh' seems like a bold idea... until you take into account the hundreds of millions of people you would need to kill in order to possibly achieve this. These youths don't come across as sympathetic or idealistic, more psychopathic with Stalin's attitude of 'You can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs'.

It's a shame the series ends where it does as there is definitely something here. Sure, there's a dark heart here but the story of power corrupting youth and lack of impulse control is one we can all understand both in real life and through literary examples like Lord of the Flies. Sure, Shadow Star Narutaru isn't the finest work of anime or manga but I enjoyed the story that was presented. I need closure but I suppose with no chance of a second series being commissioned it'll be a case of finding English translations of graphic novels volume 8 to 12 to get that. Oh well!

Puppet Princess - Cult Manga Review

Like many of us, I often find myself tumbling down the rabbit hole of obscure anime, and that's precisely how I stumbled upon the OVA Puppet Princess. Intrigued by the mysterious title, and with no prior knowledge, I decided to dive in and what I found was a surprisingly engaging, albeit brief journey.

The story of Puppet Princess centers on a seemingly naive and clumsy young woman, named Princess Rangiku, traversing a war-torn landscape, burdened by a massive box on her back. Her mission? To exact revenge on the  tyrannical Lord Karimata, who not only decimated her family but also seized her father's land and, more notably, his cherished collection of intricate giant Karakuri puppets. Along her arduous journey, she gains a ninja companion called Manajiri, and together they face a series of formidable adversaries, all leading up to the final confrontation with the 'big boss' to achieve her revenge.

Clocking in at a concise 42 minutes, Puppet Princess is a pretty good watch as it offers a unique fusion of steampunk aesthetics, traditional Japanese puppetry and some pretty dramatic fight action. Released in the early 2000s, it boasts a distinct visual style and beautifully blends traditional 2D animation with subtle applications of CGI, creating a visually rich experience. This is no surprise as it was produced by TMS and Toho (and another studio I don't know much about called Shogakukan).

While the premise is undeniably intriguing, the OVA's limited runtime presents a double-edged sword as the plot progresses at such a rapid clip that it leaves certain plot points feeling a bit rushed or underdeveloped. However, it's a testament to the creators that despite this constraint, Puppet Princess still manages to deliver a complete and satisfying narrative arc when a limited 6-part series may have suited it better.

So overall, if you're an anime enthusiast looking for something off the beaten path, with a unique visual flair and a quick but impactful story, Puppet Princess is definitely worth seeking out.

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK: Please Save My Earth - Cult Manga Review

LINK: Thomas Was Alone Video Game Vinyl Soundtrack Review

LINK: Akira Soundtrack Vinyl Review

LINK: The Power of Stories and How They Are Manipulated

LINK: The Message by Ta-Nahisi Coates - Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK: The Anxious Generation: Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK: Utopia for Realists- Book Review

LINK: Toxic: Women, Fame and the Noughties- Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

Fireworks - Cult Manga Review

For fans of Shunji Iwai's distinctive cinematic style, the 2017 anime adaptation of his 1993 television special, Fireworks: Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom? feels like a beautiful and unexpected gift. As a long-time admirer of his work, which I first discovered through the cult classic Picnic, I was delighted to find this animated reimagining. I hoped it would capture the earnest spirit of his original vision while expanding it into something new.

The film, now titled simply Fireworks, is from Shaft Studios and Director Akiyuki Shinbo. This adaptation takes a 30-year-old story and turns it into something new yet familiar. It's a time-loop romance centered on two teenagers: the carefree Norimichi and the emotionally burdened Nazuna, who is grappling with her mother's impending remarriage and a forced move away from her friends. The story cleverly uses a magical, glowing orb to explore "what if" scenarios, allowing Norimichi to repeatedly alter events in a bid to change Nazuna's fate. This narrative device, reminiscent of films like Sliding Doors or Mr. Nobody, delves into the complexities of choice and the longing for a different outcome.

What truly elevated this film for me was its breathtaking animation. The vibrant colors and fluid character designs create a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements the story's fantastical elements. Each scene is a work of art, from the sun-drenched coastal town to the mesmerizing spectacle of the fireworks themselves. This visual feast is expertly paired with an emotive and memorable soundtrack that enhances the film's poignant moments, pulling the viewer deeper into the characters' emotional journeys. The main protagonists are simply characterized and, aside from a few juvenile moments from the male students, are quite innocent and endearing.

Fireworks is a poignant meditation on first love, regret, and the paths not taken. The film's earnestness and stunning artistry make it a compelling watch that will resonate with anyone who has pondered the choices that shape their lives. While it might not reach the epic emotional heights of modern classics like Your Name or The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Fireworks should be judged on its own merits. It doesn't need to be a masterpiece to be worth your time.

Ultimately, this animated version is a testament to Shunji Iwai's enduring talent for crafting stories that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. For that, it stands as a worthy addition to his body of work.

LINK: For the Love of Shunji Iwai

LINK- The Anxious Generation: Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Utopia for Realists- Book Review

LINK- On And On And Colston ( Or, How We Kinda Sort of Learned to Talk About the Legacy of Colonialism and the British Empire)

LINK- ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’ LINK: Elden Ring- Videogames As Art

LINK- Toxic: Women, Fame and the Noughties- Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Pure Invention: How Japan's Pop Culture Conquered the World- Book Review (and Personal Reflections)

Please Save My Earth- Cult Manga Series Review

Please Save My Earth is a series I only knew of through a soundtrack which I purchased from Forbidden Planet in London over 30 years ago. It was on sale and was an impulse buy as at the time manga and anime CDs were very expensive so a CD for under £10 was a bargain. I had never seen the series before but recently found all the English dubbed episodes online so thought I'd dive in. Was it good though?

Well, one thing that comes through clearly is how weird a series it is, one with timeslips, past lives, reincarnation, alternate timelines and the eternal love triangle. But I’m getting ahead of myself…

The story concerns Alice, a typical high school student in Japan who dreams that she is the reincarnation of an alien scientist who lived on the Moon. She find other youths who have a similar dream and the group decide to find others in order to understand what it all means. However, they soon discover that their present and alternate lives clash and combine in interesting ways as past loves, hates, jealousies and worried bleed into the present.

The series, produced by Studio I.G. and based on the shojo manga by Saki Iwatari, was apparently quite influential back in the day and I can kind of see why. During our formative years we go through change and growth and the show isn't scared to look deep into our humanity to see what makes us all individual and unique.

As with many OAVs of the time, the art is stunning and has aged very well. The music is haunting and melancholic to create the perfect mood. As for the story, it reminds me of The OA in some ways with fate, destiny, The Garden of Forking Paths and the eternal battle between good vs evil playing out through time, or Sense 8 which is all to do with the interconnected lives of individuals across the world who share a mysterious connection. Mostly, I think it shares ideas that were explored further in David Mitchell's sublime Cloud Atlas- the grand story of people whose  destinies are entwined across time and space in the most profound way, sometimes for good and sometimes for ill.

At 6 episodes of 30 mins in length, it's not the most time consuming series to dedicate some time too but it does linger in the mind. Considering that only in the last few years have more mainstream shows depicted the ideas presented here this series was a bit of an outlier. Not bad for a lesser known series (at least in the West) which was created in 1993.

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Battle Angel Alita: And So It Ends

LINK- The Moomins 80's Soundtrack Vinyl Review

LINK- Inspector Gadget Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- Ulysses 31 Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- The Mysterious Cities of Gold Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- Sonic Mania Video Game Vinyl Soundtrack

LINK- Thomas Was Alone Video Game Vinyl Soundtrack Review

LINK- Akira Soundtrack Vinyl Review

Wizardry- Cult Manga Review

Wizardry is a game series that I am aware of but never actually played as it was a little before my time. It was an incredibly influential popular CRPG series that was available on PCs in 1981 but was ported elsewhere, including an apparently poor NES port in 1990. I knew of it through hearing the name on several podcasts and when I read the book Dungeons and Desktops, which looked at the CRPGs. Whilst falling down the old skool anime rabbit hole on YouTube the Wizardry OVA came up in my feed. So, join me fellow adventurer seeking a review of the arcane arts brought to the screen! I'd be delighted to weave one for you. Callooh! Calllay! O frabjuous day... ahem. Right. Let's crack on then.

The story is basic swords and sworcery 101 in that a party of characters enters a dungeon to confront an all-powerful wizard called Werdna to retrieve an amulet stolen from King Trebor (of extra strong mints fame - I'll get me coat). Along the way to the 10th floor (like an inverse Game of Death) they confront beasts as well as deal with a myriad other internal conflicts and grievances. Will they make it out alive?

I really liked this 50 minute animation as, even though I didn't know the game series, the tale it told was accessible for all. The character designs and archetypes were instantly recognisable from many an RPG – the stoic fighter, the handy wizard, the nifty ninja, the apprentice etc

Also, while not a masterpiece of animation or storytelling, this 1991 OVA is quite a unique piece of video game adaptation history as it was based on a Western game series from the early 80s. Sure, the attempts at humor can occasionally fall flat and some of the character development feels rushed within this short runtime but the journey is worth it.

For fans of the game seriss, this OVA will serve as a nostalgic trip down memory lane, offering a visual interpretation of the dungeons and dangers that captivated a generation of RPG enthusiasts. But, for neophytes like me, the animation is a good primer for the game and has piqued my interest in a game I'll never likely play but can appreciate.

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Battle Angel Alita: And So It Ends

LINK- The Moomins 80's Soundtrack Vinyl Review

LINK- Inspector Gadget Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- Ulysses 31 Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- The Mysterious Cities of Gold Retro Soundtrack Review

LINK- Sonic Mania Video Game Vinyl Soundtrack

LINK- Thomas Was Alone Video Game Vinyl Soundtrack Review

LINK- Akira Soundtrack Vinyl Review

Petshop of Horrors - Cult Manga Review

I love myself an anthology series as there is always a new surprise around each corner. So when I heard on a manga and anime Facebook group I'm on that there was a horror tetralogy (or quadrilogy in Alien boxset parlance) I was all in as that stuff's my jam.

Petshop of Horrors is a 1999 OVA series that presents tales about an unusual pet shop that deals in rare and exotic creatures within Chinatown. Count D, the enigmatic petshop store owner, has many animals which are precious and unusual but there is usually a monkey's paw price to be paid for these unchecked human desires - each episode serves as a cautionary tale.

Daughters
When a wealthy couple lose their daughter through excessive drug use, they buy a 'rabbit' from the Count which looks exactly likes their daughter. They are given rules to follow but inevitably don't and there are consequences.

This episode is quite powerful as it looks at how spoiling a child will lead to its ruin later down the line. 'Just this once' is a poor excuse that moves the Overton Window ever so slightly each time.

Delicious
When a man, stricken in grief after losing his wife on their wedding night, comes to the pet shop he is given a mermaid. The mermaid looks like his wife and even bears the same wedding ring but has amnesia. Could it really be her?

This episode is chilling as it looks at love, obsession and the consequences of not remaining true to your heart.

Despair
When a young actor, who has not had an success over the past few years, is found dead with a rare lizard nearby, Count D is in the glare of the police inspector. However, as the Count retells the story of what happened what we have is a tale of sadness and, yes, despair.

This is a powerful tale of finding fame at a young age and trying to live in the glare of that success. It can be isolating to have so many fans but not to really feel a connection.

Dual
Whilst a hot young American senator vies for the top spot, his best friend and put-upon secretary supports his anguished wife. After a tragic accident, the two swap places with the help of a Kirin, a wish granting entity, and the ascent to Presidency is clear.

This was a bit of a clever twisty turn episode as it showed the stoic being true of heart and his dreams finally being fulfilled by the end. This was a very clever episode indeed!

I thoroughly enjoyed the series as the episodes all had a different theme about the frailties of the human condition. This consistent thematic thread creates a sense of foreboding that permeates the entire OVA, reinforcing the idea that every desire comes with a price. The vibes were intense and profound with this show and it reminded me mostly of the Vampire Princess Miyu OVA in that each episode was self contained and contemplative.

My favourite of the 4 episodes was Despair as Robin kept his side of the deal, doing everything he was supposed to do. He didn’t break the contract until his hand was forced because he knew he was a product of showbusiness and Medusa was the only one who truly understood him. For Medusa, she finally found happiness with someone who sincerely loved her knew that they could never to be separated. It's a Romeo and Julie situation and oh so tragic.

The character of Count D emerges as a compelling and enigmatic figure, however the limited runtime hinders extensive character development so what we are left with is a cypher without depth - like the crypt keeper without the personality or depth.  I would have liked to have seen a more in-depth exploration of the character and their motivations without needing a breakdown as that would destroy the mystery. I don't need the midochlorian explanation for kiddie Darth Vader to know that he's a badass but some thread would have been nice.

Overall, the Pet Shop of Horrors OVA is a worthwhile experience for aficionados of dark fantasy and mystery. Its stylish presentation and atmospheric storytelling create a lasting impression, despite its short length. Sure the soundtracking choices are more bizarre than those in videogame Deadly Premonition but where it matters, the series comes through and is a powerful study of the human condition.

LINK- The Anxious Generation: Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Utopia for Realists- Book Review

LINK- On And On And Colston ( Or, How We Kinda Sort of Learned to Talk About the Legacy of Colonialism and the British Empire)

LINK- ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’ LINK: Elden Ring- Videogames As Art

LINK- Toxic: Women, Fame and the Noughties- Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Pure Invention: How Japan's Pop Culture Conquered the World- Book Review (and Personal Reflections)

The Humanoid- Cult Manga Review

So, I was just letting YouTube do its thing, throwing up random anime for me to check out when I came across The Humanoid. Now, I'd never even heard of it, so naturally, my curiosity was piqued. What I found was... well, let's just say it was an experience.

This 45-minute OVA from 1986 feels like a direct product of that wild and experimental energy that was buzzing through the Japanese anime scene during the bubble economy. You know, that time when creators were throwing all sorts of crazy ideas at the wall to see what would stick. The Humanoid, bless its heart, definitely feels like one of those experiments.

There's a certain retro charm to the whole thing, I'll give it that. But if you're going in expecting something that captures the slick, futuristic vibe of Hajime Sorayama – the legendary artist who's worked with everyone from Janet Jackson to The Weeknd – you might be a tad disappointed. While the animation is decent enough, it lacks that distinct, almost hyper-realistic, metallic sheen that's Sorayama's signature.

The story itself throws a lot at you in a short amount of time. We're in the future, chasing after the ‘ultimate weapon’ that some power-hungry General desperately wants. Sounds straightforward enough, right? But then it tries to weave in this sci-fi action with a touch of romance, and honestly, it feels like it's trying to cram too much into its runtime. The pacing feels all over the place, with sudden shifts in tone that left me scratching my head and struggling to really connect with the characters or what drove them.

And then there's the coffee. Oh. My. Gosh! The coffee. I swear, it was mentioned at least five times throughout this short film, and on at least three occasions, we got treated to these surprisingly detailed little monologues about its power, its aroma, its depth... Look, I love a good cup of coffee as much as the next person, but the sheer, almost obsessive focus on it in the middle of a futuristic sci-fi action flick was just… bizarre. It became this weird, recurring motif that felt completely out of left field.

So, The Humanoid is a strange beast but honestly, I think it's worth a watch, especially if you're an anime history buff. It's a fascinating little artifact that really showcases the experimental spirit of those 80s OVAs. It's a reminder that not every creative swing results in a home run, but they all contribute to the evolution of the medium. Just don't go in expecting a polished masterpiece. The Humanoid is more of an entertaining curiosity, a wonderfully weird slice of anime history that will likely leave you saying ‘Boy, that really was something, huh?’

LINK- The Anxious Generation: Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Utopia for Realists- Book Review

LINK- On And On And Colston ( Or, How We Kinda Sort of Learned to Talk About the Legacy of Colonialism and the British Empire)

LINK- ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’ LINK: Elden Ring- Videogames As Art

LINK- Toxic: Women, Fame and the Noughties- Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Pure Invention: How Japan's Pop Culture Conquered the World- Book Review (and Personal Reflections)

Phantom Quest Corp. - Cult Manga Review

Phantom Quest Corp. is a 4-part OAV series which was originally released in the mid-90s. It centers on a quirky, ragtag group of exorcists, pyrokinetics, and spirit mediums dedicated to solving the world’s ghostly woes. I watched it upon release and remember it to be a delightful blend of spooky, supernatural shenanigans and laugh-out-loud comedy. However, revisiting it for the first time in 30 years, would it still hold up or suffer from the usual cringe elements that mar much of the 90s output in today’s light?

The first thing to note is that the animation, a product of its time but still impressive even now, possesses the distinctive charm of Madhouse, the studio behind Wicked City and Ninja Scroll and key animator Yoshiaki Kawajiri. The character designs are expressive, especially that of the lead character, the fiery and fiercely independent Ayaka Kisaragi. She is a powerful psychic with a penchant for collateral property damage, sake, and karaoke, Ayaka leads a team that's equally eccentric and endearing, elevating Phantom Quest Corp. beyond your average monster-of-the-week narrative. The four tales include:

  • Kiss of Fire: The Corp tackles a vampire stalking the women of Tokyo, uncovering an unconventional relationship and an ancient evil.

  • End of World: Ayaka, suspicious after surviving a car accident linked to a strange electrical outage, investigates mysterious scars on the deceased taxi driver within a hospital.

  • Love Me Tender: The Corp looks into problems at an Ancient Saharan Exhibition, where a ghost may be connected to a CEO's harassment of the lead archeologist.

  • Lover Come Back to Me: When a Buddhist cult threatens to steal the Corp's business, Ayaka investigates the group and discovers a hidden agenda.

Watching the show again after so long, I had a great time. Each episode of the series presents a self-contained ghost story but it's the unique way these cases are handled that truly makes the series shine; the sharp banter, teamwork and individual quirks of the characters make them feel like real, albeit slightly unhinged, people. You genuinely root for them as they face angry spirits, mischievous yokai, and often crazy scenarios. Perhaps the most enduring appeal of Phantom Quest Corp. lies in its refusal to take itself too seriously. While the stakes can be Scooby Doo spooky, a healthy dose of humor is always present to ensure you know it’s just for laffs. Also, I was thankful that the series does not have any fan service, until the last shot of the whole series that is…oh dear, so close!

If you're looking for a fun, spooky, and thoroughly entertaining anime that has flown somewhat under the radar, I wholeheartedly recommend Phantom Quest Corp. It's a delightful blend of supernatural thrills and comedic spills that will leave you wanting more ghostly adventures with this unforgettable team.

Serial Experiments Lain - Cult Manga Review

"No matter where you are, everyone is always connected."

That line, whispered by Lain in the hauntingly prescient anime Serial Experiments Lain, has stuck with me for decades. Back in the late 90s, when I first encountered this strange anime on bootleg DVD purchased from my go-to Goodmayes guy I got to know from eBay, the internet was a relatively new frontier, a weird and exciting wilderness. Now, the 'Wired' is less a frontier and more like the very air we breathe, making Lain's words ring with an almost unsettling familiarity.

Lain’s ephemeral self makes quite an appearance on the Wired.

But, let's head back to the start. Lain, a seemingly ordinary schoolgirl, is drawn into the Wired after the suicide of a classmate, Chisa. She receives a message from Chisa from the great beyond saying she has found God online. Lain wants to know if it is real or a trick of some kind and so, she is propelled into a bewildering exploration of virtual identity, online communities, and the increasingly blurred lines between the real and digital realms.

Revisiting this cult classic after about twenty years, what struck me most wasn't just its cyberpunk aesthetic or its exploration of virtual identity. It was how acutely the series captured the paradox of our hyper-connected age: profound social pressure existing alongside deep-seated isolation. Lain foresaw this strange duality, highlighting how technology, while promising to bridge distances, can ironically amplify our sense of being alone. The relentless barrage of information, the carefully curated online personas, the constant pressure to be connected – it can all lead to a profound sense of alienation. Serial Experiments Lain was diving headfirst into the rabbit hole way back in 1998 with its unsettling foreshadowing of our current internet landscape, where conspiracy narratives thrive with alarming ease. We've all been tempted to follow those winding threads online, even if just for a little while, and Lain was already mapping that territory.

The series also fearlessly grapples with the darker undercurrents of our digital existence: suicide and mental health. Chisa's tragic fate and Lain's subsequent investigation reflect a growing awareness of the mental health challenges facing young people in an increasingly digital world. The addictive pull of screens and the potential for disassociation, themes that felt somewhat abstract in the 90s (with the notable exception of Fight Club), are now painfully real. We're witnessing a generation navigating the psychological toll of constant connectivity, a phenomenon Jonathan Haidt explores in his recent and much-discussed book, The Anxious Generation. Lain was sounding the alarm long before the data backed it up.

Lain tries to connect with the Wired but finds it all too overwhelming.

Underpinning the entire series is a subtle yet potent critique of late-stage capitalism. The commodification of identity, the relentless drive for connection as a product, the erosion of genuine human interaction – it all speaks to the isolating and alienating forces shaping our society. Released in Japan in 1998 against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, a major earthquake, a horrific terrorist attack, and the approaching end of the millennium, Lain tapped into a deep-seated cultural anxiety. It masterfully blended horror and creepiness with the burgeoning internet, pulsating club music, and mind-bending science fiction. Building on the cultural impact of The X Files, episode 9 of Lain goes full on conspiracy theory on the origins of the 'Wired' with Roswell, The Manhatten Project, the sensory deprivation experiments of John C. Lilly, E.C.C.O. and (not the) dolphins and hypertext. In 1998, these unconnected points were connected in Lain in a grand maniacal scheme. It was the right story at the right time, a prescient work that foreshadowed so much of our current digital reality where people see the Deep State and a sinister cabal everywhere.

Special mention must be made of Yoshitoshi ABe's distinctive character designs. They would later grace the ethereal beauty of Haibane Renmei, but this first work perfectly complement the series' complex themes. His style melds seamlessly with the avant-garde, cyberpunk digital backgrounds, where dominant purples and blues amplify the pervasive melancholic atmosphere. The sensory experience is profound – a tapestry woven from the hum of powerlines and the rhythmic clacking of keyboards, punctuated by the vibrant energy of the club scenes at Cyberia and the indie-rock pulse of Boa's opening theme. Even Lain herself is visually presented in three distinct styles, a clever way to illustrate her fracturing sense of self as she navigates the Wired and perhaps even transcends into something akin to a digital deity. Ah, the Japanese and their enduring fascination with Christian iconography in their storytelling!

I love the final episode and have remembered the sentiment of, "If it isn't remembered, it didn't happen," after all this time as it's a thought that continues to echo in our digital age. It's a chilling precursor to our "pics or it didn't happen" mentality and the very real challenges of erasing our digital past, as poignantly explored in Jon Ronson's ‘So You've Been Publicly Shamed.’

Serial Experiments Lain isn't just a piece of nostalgia; it's a vital, unsettling mirror reflecting our present and perhaps even our future. The writer of the series, Chiaki Konaka seems to have stared too deeply into the abyss and seems to be aligned to many conspiracy theories and theorists now - such a shame for someone who looked so deeply at radicalisation and cult brainwashing strategies, only to succumb to them himself, or at the very least, get his information from the same main source.

As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the Wired, Serial Experiments Lain remains a haunting and incredibly relevant reminder of the profound questions lurking beneath the surface of our seemingly connected world. It's a call to question, to reflect, and to remember that even in the digital age, our humanity remains our most precious connection. Lain has earned its cult status for a reason. It's not just a cyberpunk anime; it's a philosophical exploration of the human condition in the face of rapid technological advancement. This is a series that demands multiple viewings, each time peeling back another layer of its unsettling truths about our digital existence. It is very much a series about the Present Day, Present Time.

LINK- The Anxious Generation: Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Utopia for Realists- Book Review

LINK- On And On And Colston ( Or, How We Kinda Sort of Learned to Talk About the Legacy of Colonialism and the British Empire)

LINK- ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’ LINK: Elden Ring- Videogames As Art

LINK- Toxic: Women, Fame and the Noughties- Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Pure Invention: How Japan's Pop Culture Conquered the World- Book Review (and Personal Reflections)

Fist of the North Star - Cult Manga Review

Fist of the North Star was a huge deal when it came out here in England, selling over 60,000 VHS tapes and being second only to Akira in terms of total manga sales at the time. That's quite an achievement for Manga Entertainment's first ever manga release here.

I saw it all the time of sale as it was pretty ubiquitous but I never watched it at the time, not for any specific reason really but the cover didn't appeal to me as it seemed to be a stupid generic beating up film and that genre had kind of died in the 80s. After snubbing it for so long, I decided to finally give it a watch. Was it any good, even without the rose tinted lens of nostalgia attached?

Starts off with a narration outlining the Yin and Yang of the Universe and how the world was destroyed by a nuclear holocaust. You expect a devastated world to appear but then, as the opening credits roll, you get a 5 minute montage of beautiful imagery and landscapes of our recognisable gorgeous world.

At 5 minutes, we see that there is a nuclear holocaust in 199X and the world as we know it is destroyed as we see the poor huddled masses ripped apart by the nuclear wind. There now exists a survival of the fittest with the poor and weak and the strong headbangers.

Into this world we meet Ken, The Fist of the North Star, a powerful warrior who is betrayed by Shin, the Fist of the South Star. After his beloved Julia is taken as a prize, Ken is thrown into a chasm, believed dead. However, he comes back and, like the Littlest Hobo, goes from town to town fighting hoodlums and protecting the weak and innocent. Along the way, we meet his Iago-like brother, Jagi, who was the one to turn Shin by lying to him of Julia's love for him, and his eldest brother Raoh the Conqueror who wants to rule mankind as a God.

Watching this nearly 40 years after it's release, I can say that it is a proper old skool bits-to-the-wall manga. There is claret everywhere as heads exploded and limbs are sliced off using chi. It's very entertaining and, whilst not highbrow or arty, it is very effective for what it is; a man going through hell to find his one true love. What the manga shows is that families are very complex is alls I'm saying.

Overall, I liked the movie and didn't feel it wasted my time. There are definitely worse ways to spend nearly 2 hours.

LINK- The Anxious Generation: Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Utopia for Realists- Book Review

LINK- On And On And Colston ( Or, How We Kinda Sort of Learned to Talk About the Legacy of Colonialism and the British Empire)

LINK- ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’ LINK: Elden Ring- Videogames As Art

LINK- Toxic: Women, Fame and the Noughties- Book Review (and Some Thoughts)

LINK- Pure Invention: How Japan's Pop Culture Conquered the World- Book Review (and Personal Reflections)

Crying Freeman - Cult Manga Review

Crying Freeman was one of the big flagship titles from Manga Entertainment from way back in the early 90s. I never got around to watching it even though I did see it on sale frequently, however I do know a couple of my friends did watch it back in the day and praised its depth.

For those not in the know, Crying Freeman is a mature and violent manga written by Kazuo Koike and illustrated by Ryoichi Ikegami from the late 80s/early 90s. It follows Yo Hinomura, a potter transformed into the 108 Dragons' top assassin after being hypnotised. Dubbed 'Crying Freeman' for his post-kill tears, he's a man torn between his past and his violent present but can he break free from his handlers to have true freedom? Over the course of the series, he finds a partner, then wife, who shows him his humanity - artist Emu Hino - whilst dealing with syndicate crime bosses, corrupt police officers and his own 108 Dragon Syndicate. Over 6 episodes of 50 minute OVAs, we get to see the rise of Freeman and his 108 Dragons Syndicate.

Portrait of a Killer
Whilst out painting in a park, painter Emu Hino witnesses a gang land execution. She sees the killers face and knows that she will be targeted next. That night, the killer find her but they make love as he recounts his tragic fate. However, the gang members of the earlier hit seek vengeance and so Hino and Yo escape and wipe out the threat.

This is a dramatic introductory episode which sets the stall out pretty quickly; there is plenty of blood spilt but the kills are stylishly done. There is also a lot of nudity and two sex scenes which have aged about as poorly as most sex scenes from the era but at least the angles are tasteful and it's not too fanservicey as the people are very much adults.

The Enemy Within
When Yo and Emu marry in a private Chinese wedding ceremony, they are attacked. Sensing a traitor within their organisation's ranks, Yo travels to Macau to get to the truth. He gets his man but Kiche, the sharp shooting assassin girlfriend, seeks revenge.

The episode starts with the marriage but the action escalates very quickly as an assassin attempts to kill Yo. From there we have an action packed episode featuring car chases, bombs, submarines and an island base. The battle between Freeman and Kiche is epic as they battle it out on top of the submarine.

Retribution
Emu proves her worth by not breaking after being tested by the 108 Dragons. Later on, Freeman and Bai Ya Shan are caught up in a plane hijacking from the African Tusk, a terrorist gang. When his base is attacked by the African Tusk and many in his leadership circle killed, Freeman goes on the silent offensive as the enemy think he has been killed too. He pretends to be a hairdresser in an exclusive resort and closes in on his enemy.

Meanwhile, Emu obtains the cursed Muramasa sword and goes to train with a master swordsman but Bai Ya Shan is worried about th curse and goes to dispose of it down a well. However, the curse breaks and accepts Emu.

This episode is quite good as Yo has the foresight to predict the enemy seeing his organisation as being weak. They die to protect him and so Yo goes all espionage to avenge their deaths. Africans have not always been portrayed well in anime or manga over the years, often being caricatures with exaggerated stereotypical features but here they are presented in a more complex light. The African Tusk are terrorists but Bugnug is a warrior with a sense of honour and pride. She and Freeman bond over their fighting skills and part as lovers, with him renaming her Dark Eyes.

The episode focusing on Emu becoming stronger by learning the way of the sword is a good one as we see her want to become more independent and a warrior in her own right. The sword dance she does is entrancing and quite beautiful in its own strange way.

The Hostages
When his daughter, granddaughter and son-in-law are kidnapped by the well trained KO (Kidnapper Organisation - which is a bit too on the nose for my liking), Mr Wong asks Yo for help, playing into the KO groups plan. Yo is aware of this and knows that there is a mole in their midst and so lets himself be captured in order to get close to the captives. On the island, he finds a militia and their leader, an erotically charged woman who wants Freeman as she gets off on killers.

The introduction of this is quite something as we get a minute or so of credits rolling over a writhing naked woman moaning gently. I'm glad my wife didn't walk in whilst I was watching that as I'd have a bit of explaining to do. It is the killer Nina but I didn't know that at the time. This is an intriguing episode as it discusses soldiers who arrive back from war but feel lost in a society that doesn't accept their deeds. However, Nina getting off on watching people being killed and her constant exhibitionism is annoying and very cringey. I was glad to see Emu and Bugnug appear and do their stuff to bring the house down.

The Impersonator
After being defeated by a huge and powerful man named Tohgoku, Dark Eyes is brutally abused and thrown into a river. Yo finds and rescues her and sets out in vengeance.
Freeman takes him on in the wrestling ring and is seemingly defeated, whereupon he is taken to the homebase to recover. He finds the real power behind the throne and sees that it is a cult leader who wants power to spread the word. He seeks to replace Freeman with a clone but Freeman kills the clone and pretends to be the clone instead, luring him into a trap and exacting revenge.

This is an exciting episode but one that features sexualised violence against Dark Eyes. She gets her revenge in the end but her abuse is brutal and she is discarded into the sea at the beginning. Surprisingly for such a macho series, Freeman seems to have a deep understanding of what love and trust is and fights against patriarchy and societal norms with his enlightened attitude.

The Russian Connection
When a Russian Mafia and Japanese Yakuza boss do a deal to join their forces and cut out the 108 Dragons, Freeman is not happy and fights back. However, when he sees Tanya, a woman he seems to recall in a past life, he tries to seek out the truth. Little does he know that the woman, Tanya, is a Russian trained as an assassin through the use of her body. When there is a bloody coup within the Yakuza, as a young wannabe takes over, he fights for ascendency amongst the Yakuza in his quest for power to defeat the 108 Dragons and take over as supreme crime lord  of Asia.

The bloody coup is well realised as the old mob bosses are taken out by young up and comer Tsunaike. It's full of kills but, in the end, Freeman is just better organised and prepared than the crazy indiscrimate killing of mob boss wannabe Tsunaike. It's an intriguing plot about trying to squeeze the 108 Dragons out of their weapon sales arm of business but ends badly. Never bet against Freeman though.

Overall, even though the series has aged quite badly as the animation is quite static and the constant nudity embarrassingly gratuitous, the soundtrack is pretty good and the way the series explores the psychological impact of violence and the struggle for identity is compelling. The kills are interestingly done and remind me of Agent 47 in the Hitman videogame series. Additionally, we have a tragic figure in Freeman whilst Emu is a strong female lead which adds another layer of complexity to this ultra violent and hyper-sexualised series.

Crying Freeman is considered a classic for a reason. It's a must-watch for mature anime fans who appreciate complex stories, but be warned: it's not for the faint of heart. Consider yourself cautioned.

Kishin Heidan- Cult Manga Review

Kishin Heidan, a seven-part OAV series from 1993-94, was a name I'd often seen in the pages of Manga Mania, its industrial-looking mecha hinting at something unique. Finally diving into the dubbed version, I discovered why it holds such a revered place within the old-school anime and manga community. The series plunges us into an alternate WWII-era, a fascinating blend of retro sci-fi, political intrigue, and visceral mecha action. Here, the Axis powers, Nazis and Japanese, clash not just for territory, but for control of powerful alien technology. Caught in this struggle is the Kishin Corps, a Japanese force determined to destroy the technology, deeming it too dangerous for any nation.

The narrative unfolds through a diverse cast, each character's motivations and struggles driving the story forward. The relationships, particularly the evolving dynamic between twin sisters Maria and Eva Braun, and their interactions with the protagonist Taishi, add significant emotional depth. We witness their growth, aging across the series, which grounds the fantastical elements in a poignant human experience.

The mecha themselves are a stark departure from the sleek designs of later anime. They're brutalist machines, all rivets, filament bulbs, and pistons, their movements more akin to a mechanical rock ‘em sock ‘em brawl than a graceful dance. This analogue, visceral approach to mecha combat perfectly complements the series' gritty, alternate-history setting.

Kishin Heidan also weaves in fascinating historical lore, exploring Hitler's obsession with the occult and otherworldly artifacts, and even featuring a cameo from Albert Einstein. This intriguing mash-up of historical figures and fantastical elements creates a unique and compelling world. However, the series doesn't shy away from ethical complexity. While the Kishin Corps is presented as a force for good, the backdrop of WWII, with its atrocities committed by the Japanese and Nazi armies, creates a moral tension that cannot be ignored. The series, in some ways, risks airbrushing these historical horrors.

Despite this, Kishin Heidan remains a captivating experience. The storyline is compelling, the battles spectacular, and the characters are well-developed. While the pacing is uneven, with a fast-paced beginning slowing to a more languid middle before a stunning, all-out battle finale, the series' unique blend of political drama, mecha action, and thought-provoking themes makes it a worthwhile watch. It's a recommendation for fans of classic mecha anime, political thrillers, and those who appreciate stories that delve into complex characters and challenging moral questions, but with the understanding that it approaches a sensitive historical period with its own unique, and occasionally problematic, perspective.

Ultimate Teacher- Cult Manga Review

Remember those dusty anime OVAs lurking on the shelves of video stores back in the day? The ones with dodgy cover art and the promise of mature themes? Well, I finally succumbed to the siren call of Ultimate Teacher, an hour-long OVA I'd seen countless times on the shelves of Rodney’s Books and Games but never dared to watch… until now. And boy, was it an experience.

This was where I would get my comics, manga, anime and videogames from back in the 90s and 00s.

The premise is gloriously bonkers: Ganpachi, a cockroach/human hybrid (yes, you read that right), escapes a gene-splicing lab and becomes the ‘Ultimate Teacher’ at a rundown high school. His dictatorial methods don't sit well with the delinquent students, who try to bring him down with the help of Himako and her…lucky velvet underpants. Yes, you read that right too. These underpants grant her super strength. Don't ask.

Even the cover looks dodgy…

What follows is a chaotic mess of fighting, hip thrusts (so many hip thrusts), and a desperate search for said lucky undergarments. It's cringeworthy, it's ridiculous, and yet… I couldn't look away.

Surprisingly, the OVA boasts some serious pedigree, including Toyoo Ashida of Fist of the North Star fame. What drew him to this project, I'll never know. The animation is… well, it exists. But the real star of the show is the hilariously janky English dub. The over-the-top voice acting and exaggerated accents elevate the absurdity to almost comedic levels.

Ultimate Teacher is by no means a good OVA as it's cheesy, exploitative and downright bizarre. However, if you're looking for a dose of that sweet, sweet "so bad it's almost good" anime, and you have a high tolerance for cringe, then this might just be worth a watch. Just don't expect Shakespeare is all!

Rhea Gall Force - Cult Manga Review

Rhea Gall Force is a 1989 anime OAV film which is set in a bleak future where humanity is on the verge of extinction after resurrecting an alien life force hidden inside the Moon. The film follows the last remaining human soldiers as they fight for survival and a desperate chance to escape to Mars. Will they succeed in saving humanity or will the aliens take over?

The film is quite gritty for a short anime and its post-apocalyptic setting and the conflict between humans and machines creates a compelling backdrop for the story. The main characters, though somewhat archetypal, are distinct and have their own motivations. Sandy, the hopeful young soldier, is the epitome of spirited and hopeful young lady who seems to draw people to her with her earnestness and honesty.

The animation is striking, with detailed character designs and impressive mech battles. However, the film suffers from a slow pace and some clunky exposition. Also, the dialogue and character interactions can feel a bit dated and stereotypical at times but it is a product of its time and, once again, isn't too egregious even with our modern sensibilies. Sure, there is the obligatory gratuitous shower scene for no real reason but unfortunately that was late 80s anime.

Overall, Rhea Gall Force is a visually appealing but flawed OAV. It explores themes of survival, hope, and the conflict between humanity and technology well and despite its shortcomings, it is an enjoyable watch for fans of mecha anime and post-apocalyptic stories.

2001 Nights - Cult Manga Review

I have a strange connections to The Songs of Distant Earth as it has wend its way through my life. I read the book during my formative tween years and enjoyed Arthur X. Clark's vision of man's journey to the stars. Also, I loved Mike Oldfield's album and it is probably my most listened to album as it helped me with my sleep routine during my long bouts of insomnia. I also picked up Yukinobu Hoshino's 2001 Nights graphic novel series way back in the late 90s sometime from my local comic shop. I think it was one of their grab bags I picked up that contained a couple of the books so I collected the lot in one fell swoop. It was hard sci-fi and I loved the various tales of people travelling to the stars and finding a place to call their own.

I didn't know that there was an animation but discovered it by chance through falling down the YouTube rabbit hole. I thought I'd give it a go and was pleasantly surprised that it had been translated pretty well into an animation as Hoshino's work is very precise with lots of technobabble, both real and imagined.

The 57 minute animation is split into three interconnected stories which each takes place over a different period of time.

The Seeds of Earth- An adult couple, the Robinson, make the difficult decision to  leave Earth and board a shuttle and that will use the power of a comet to take them outside the solar system. They will take with them a bank of sperm and eggs to create children that will seed their new home, whatever that may be. After 300 years they finally make landfall and settle on their new home, Ozma.

This is a prophetic tale of people truly looking outwards and looking to settle amongst the stars. The difficulties of keeping the spacecraft ship shape is shown and losing children due to fever and disease is shared but the spirit of human endeavour is shown with real passion here.

A Present From Earth- When a 10th planet is discovered, the scientists call it Lucifer. That's not foreshadowing anything right? Well, the planet is resource rich and contains dark matter that can be used to create wormhole that allows hyperspace travel. With the entire universe at its feet, man travels to new planets and starts to terraform apace including Planet Ozma which the Robinsons are headed to. This tale looks at how corporations have to consider the industrial and financial implications of such large scale projects and what they do when things don't go to plan.

Songs of a Distant Earth- The space age is in decline as Earth looks to protect and maintain it's own. Meanwhile, on Planet Ozma, the children of the Robinsons live in  harmony with each other and the planet. However, when people from Earth come along looking to settle after ruining their homeworld a tale of conflict starts.

I really enjoyed this OVA as it covers a lot of heady hard sci-fi ground in a intriguing way. Sure, the animation isn't of the quality of the manga but Yukinobu Hoshino is very precise and meticulous and reproducing this in animated form would require a much larger budget than I assume this production was given. Still, the vision and ideas flow through and, even with its issues, I can heartily recommend this slice of hard sci-fi. I hope more people discover this work as its very prescient of where we are headed with Space X, Virgin Galactic and whatnot.

Genocyber- Cult Manga Review

Genocyber is an enfant terrible of the manga world. I had never seen it before but knew of its reputation through the fact that it was part of the Cyberpunk Collection boxset, alongside AD Police and Cyber City Oedo 808. I thought I'd correct this oversight and give the series a watch. Woah boy, was it a strange 2 1/2 hour ride.

Coming hot off the heels of Akira, Genocyber offers a pretty similar dystopian vision of the future with mega corporations, kids with psionic powers and violence brought to the fore. The 5 part series looks at how scientific research and corporate espionage leads to the creation of powers beyond human kinds control- yup, it's the old 'man's hubris brings down society' tale.

The first, and most well known episode concerns two sisters who have been scientifically altered. They develop psionic powers and, together, they can form a killing machine called the Genocyber. Their military use is obvious but rather than be blunt tools for violence, the younger girl Elaine fights back with grizzly and gorey results against the older Diane. The story is a pretty straightforward tale of sibling rivalry, revenge and a quest for freedom of choice.

The second and third episodes continue the story arc with Elaine rescued by a navy ship. Onboard, she is befriended by a nurse who lost her own daughter in a tragic accident. However, when a scientist is experimenting on a bio weapon he realises that Elaine has powers and wants to utilise it for his own means. He creates an amalgamation of the Genocyber with is own reaseach but it gets out of control and Elaine uses her powers to become a protective hero to the nurse.

The final story arc of episodes 4 and 5 moved the story forward a few years and we see that society has risen up after the devastation of the previous episodes. The new city looks to be a modern paradise but is beset by an authoritarian leader, a religious cult and a poor, repressed working class. Underground, Elaine's Genocyber is worshipped as an angel of redemption but when a young couple discover the corruption of the city, they awaken Elaine and chaos ensues.

Overall, the premise of a man-made creature losing control and wreaking havok is interesting but the execution is uneven; it is no Akira. Episode 1 is the most consistently animated of the three arcs with use of live action and early CGI but the quality can be varying in quality, even within the same episode. Arc three has the worst animation of the series, which is a shame as its Beneath the Planet of the Apes premise of an underground religious resistance had great potential for artistry but, alas, it's all just dark and murky with no real flair in animation or scene setting shown.

The other issue I had was that the characterisation was paper thin; you don't know who you should root for. When you also factor in a wonky and stilted English dub, the lack of empathy or sympathy for the characters means you don't feel invested in their fate.

Genocyber is rightly remembered as an early example of ‘Japanimation’ hyperviolence and excess but it doesn't move beyond that into something profound. I'm no prude but violence just for the sake of violence seems to me pretty pointless. Overall, Genocyber is not fondly remembered or highly regarded within the anime community and, having watched it, I can see why. I do not recommend this series at all.

LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Blood, Sweat and Pixels- Book Review

LINK- The Offworld Collection- Book Review

LINK- Ico and SOTC: Reflections of a Gaming Life

LINK- The Rise of Retro Gaming During Covid

LINK- Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Children of the Stones: Cult TV Series Review

The Curse of Kazuo Umezu- Cult Manga Review

Kazuo Umezu is a legendary figure in the world of horror manga, with a career spanning decades. His influence on subsequent generations of horror creators, including Junji Ito, is undeniable. I had heard of Umezu but never read or seen any of his work. Seeking to right this wrong, I thought I’d go check out the work of this respected creative and watchedThe Curse of Kazuo Umezu, an OVA that delves into the disturbing and grotesque world of Umezu's imagination by retelling two of his tales.

The first tale is What Will the Video Camera Reveal? and introduces us to Rina, a new student who joins our protagonist Masami's class. Rina seems to have a strange effect on people, and Masami becomes increasingly frightened of her. In her dreams, Masami sees a horrifying creature that seems to be attached to Rina. She uses the videocamera to record herself sleeping, hoping to capture evidence of the creature but the the video reveals a horrifying truth.

The second tale is The Haunted Mansion and is a classic tale of youthful curiosity leading to terrifying consequences. During a sleepover, a couple of horror fans visit the local haunted mansion before it is torn down but they encounter a terrifying force that threatens to destroy them.

I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed my time with The Curse of Kazuo Umezu as it is a disturbing and unforgettable horror story that beautifully showcases the dark and twisted imagination of its creator. The animation is beautiful and detailed as Umezu’s experience with shoujo illustrations shines through; the girls have fine, frilly almost gothic lolita like-designs and eyelashes aplenty. The delicate shoujo art style and body horror is a great contrasting combination. The beautiful art and creepy storyline is complimented by the music which is eerie, creating a truly unsettling atmosphere. The stories are both thought-provoking and disturbing, and they will stay with you long after you've finished watching. This feels like an anime version of Tales from the Crypt or Tales from the Dark Side and both stories are thoroughly spooky and engaging

LINK- Japan: My Journey to the East

LINK- Blood, Sweat and Pixels- Book Review

LINK- The Offworld Collection- Book Review

LINK- Shadow of the Colossus- Book Review

LINK: Manga Exhibition at the British Museum

LINK- The Midnight Library and the Idea That You Can’t Go Home Again

LINK- The Transportive Nature of Objects (And the Power of Mini Consoles)

LINK- My One True Gaming Constant in Life- Nintendo

Haibane Renmei- Cult Manga Series Review (As Well As Some Reflections and Thoughts)

I recently wrote a retrospective about how manga and anime had been an integral and formative part of my youth and teenage years. It wasn't just the zeitgiesty and cult appeal of the shows, although there was plenty of that for hipster-like credibility, but it was more the way the medium made me appreciate the wider world and the innumerable questions I had about my place in it.

Sure, there were certainly existential shows like Evangelion, which deeply made me think about various aspects of faith and philosophy, but my absolute favorite anime of all time is a bit of a forgotten hidden gem—it's Haibane Renmei. This unique series offered a beautifully woven narrative that resonated with themes of redemption and self-discovery.

This particular series holds a deeply special place in my heart and always will. Discovering it, as I did in the early 2000s, felt like a true revelation during a time when I was grappling with an existential crisis—an experience common amongst many young adults suddenly thrust into the uncaring and cold job market after years of comfort and routine provided by the education system. The story and art by Yoshitoshi ABe was unlike anything else out there and the muted colour palette really stood out to me.

Rakka, a young Haibane, emerges from a cocoon in the mysterious ‘Old Home’ in the village of Glie . She has a delicate halo and, after a Cronenbergian body horror scene, sprouts small gray wings, but has no memories of her past. Named after her cocoon dream of falling, Rakka learns to navigate the strange town while following the strict rules that keep the Haibane from leaving their walled town. As time goes on, Rakka and the other Haibane worry about the mysterious disappearances of their kind on the ‘Day of Flight,’ as they know little about their fate or future. What follows over 13 episodes is a character study on community, grief and, ultimately, salvation.

The series is a complex combination of slice of life anime, mixed with some body horror and then a large sprinkling of existential questions that have always plagued us all our lives. On one hand I hate that it doesn’t get talked about as much as other series. On the other I’m glad it doesn’t because it feels like this special little piece that you have to actively seek out or just stumble upon. It’s definitely an experience and every time I revisit it I am moved by it even if I can't eloquently articulate why.

For anyone who is a Fumito Ueda fan of games like Ico, Shadow of the Colossus and The Last Guardian, I feel like they would appreciate this series because the stories are told in a similar manner in the way that they don’t tell you all the answers, you feel like you are given a tiny glimpse into a wider world with lots of lore you aren't party to. Also the music is down by the same composer, Kow Otani, and it is just phenomenal. The series also introduced me to the works of Haruki Murakami, whose Hard Boiled Wonderland apparently inspired some of its story.

The hopeful rather than nihilistic nature of the show really appeals to me - the early 00s anime ennui has not aged too well with many other series but with Haibane it is hope that has kept the show alive in my, and many others', heart. The idea to do better and be better is something that people can get behind; it makes you contemplate life and the human condition itself and that is something very special indeed in this late state capitalist hell scape we find ourselves in. 

Finally, I have some thoughts about the series and wanted to share them. I have done it in a stream of consciousness way as I can’t articulate it all in a cohesive way with a though-line just yet. I am processing it and, as each year I read more and learn more, the meaning and symbolism are fluid for me:

  • The journey of Reka over the course of the series is touching as her self-loathing leads to her looking for redemption.

  • Asking for help, and recognizing that it's okay to ask for help in the first place, is something we can all struggle with. Reka embodied that struggle beautifully in the latter half of the series.

  • The haibane are all named after their dreams and whilst we do not know what their dreams mean I know some interpretations online see it as the method of their death or suicide; Kuu from floating in the air (jumping off a building) , Nemu from a deep sleeping (sleeping pills), Kana from floating in a river (drowning), Hikari from dazzling lights (electrocution) and Reki from small pebbles on a moonlit path (hit by a train).

  • The Day of Flight is when Haibane ascend or pass over. It should be a celebration but can be tragic for those left behind as they are left mourning the loss of a friend.

  • The crows are like psychopomps or harbingers for Rakka as they foreshadowing, signal and signal key events that occur. Whilst Rakka is depressed after Kuu's flight she is guided by a crow to the Western Wood and undergoes a transformation whilst stuck in a well. It reminds me of the story of Toru in Haruki Murakami's Wind Up Bird Chronicle, where the well acts as a physical manifestation the subconscious mind.

  • The Sin-bound are the Haibane who have black or dark spotted wings or who do not remember their cocoon dreams. But one who recognises their sin has no sin - this is the circle of sin as explained by the Communicator.

  • Rakka goes through talk therapy with the Communicator who helps her when she gets out of the well but is lost in the Western Woods.

  • The Bell Nut Festival is a way to commemorate the end of the year by giving thanks to those who have helped you over the year. Reki reconciles with her frenemies at the Old Warehouse but still feels alone and abandoned. She succumb to her loneliness and her quest for self-annihilation manifests in dramatic fashion but only by trusting  in the power of her relationship with Rakka does she realise that she has changed the world for the better by existing within it- she is and never was alone. All she needed was to ask got help.

  • The fact that this anime was talking about the powers of talk therapy and Salvation years before it became mainstream blows my mind and makes me incredibly happy. It is a wise anime that only gets better with age in my humble opinion.

Lost Manga and Anime

I've recently immersed myself in a nostalgic journey through the late 80s and early 90s manga and anime that shaped my youth. It has been a truly enlightening experience traveling back to an amazingly formative period in my life as I navigate through what some may call a mild mid-life crisis. It was a golden time for 'Japanimation' - that term still makes me shudder a little- and this period holds a truly special place in my media-consuming heart.

Now, I had a lot of VHS tapes, both original and recorded but with my many house moves and the transition from VHS to DVD I shed a lot of my manga and anime VHS collection along the way. I give them away to friends, exchanged them at CEX for credit or donated some to charity shops. I had many bootleg copies of series that I have saved on a hard drive but my physical collection has whittled down somewhat.

Manga Entertainment built a bit of a cult following in its heydey of the late 80s and early 90s. When the transition of VHS to DVD came, it re-released its main titles but all the others disappeared as VHS was phased out. Classic series like 3x3 Eyes, Crying Freeman, Guyver, Angel Cop, Devil Man and Doomed Megalopolis remained stuck on VHS, never getting an official DVD release in the UK. I praise the sun for my multi-region DVD and Blu-Ray player as I know some of these have been released abroad but there is so much more that has been lost. Even the early anime rippers and translator forums, which were the lifeblood for fans seeking unreleased or undistributed media, are empty. As a result, we have lost many good anime titles that may have otherwise found their way to eager modern audiences who want to look into the past.

Determining the exact number of titles that lack official releases on DVD or Blu-Ray poses quite the challenge and, while not classified as lost media (as they can often be accessed through alternative means such as various video streaming platforms and torrent sites) it would be great to see specialised distributors, similar to those catering to horror films, to consider producing limited print runs for these sought-after titles in contemporary formats at a reasonable price.

I'm beyond excited for the Macross Plus Blu-Ray but the limited edition £150 release is too rich for my blood. The 4-part series is an all-timer for me as it introduced me to the music of Yoko Kanno and the wonders of rogue AI Sharon Apple. Hopefully, a £30 or so regular Blu-Ray release will be forthcoming and pave the way for other classic anime and manga OAVs, films and series to finally see the light of day again. I think there is a niche market for physical releases of old skool manga and hope we get more.