Although not strictly Japanese anime (this is produced by American-based Japanese anime distributor ADV Films), this feature-length adaptation of the popular '90s comic book series created by Brian Pulido is virtually identical to anime productions, with its wonderfully warped sensibilities and extreme artistic violence. In 15th century Sweden, beautiful blonde Hope is burned at the stake when it's discovered that her father is actually Lucifer. No wait…that's not a figure of speech: Hope (like Jason after her) goes to Hell, where--after an angry reunion with her father--she's exiled to an even deadlier lower level. Meeting up with a guy named Vassago, who--like Hope--literally has all eternity at his disposal, Hope begins to train as a warrior with the express goal of taking over Hell and booting Big Daddy off the throne. Before long she's acquired a muscular new physique, a decidedly aggressive new attitude, and the new name of Lady Death. A fast-moving, blood-soaked experience (much of the violence seems to involve heads being severed or pierced with arrows), Lady Death is reasonably compelling and a bit campy (it's not everyone who can plot to take over Hell with a well-tailored black bodysuit and nary a hair out of place). Accurately rated 17-up, this English-language disc features a director's commentary track and a pair of featurettes. Recommended. Aud: P. (P. Hall)
Lady Death
(2004) 80 min. DVD: $29.98. ADV Films (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. Volume 19, Issue 6
Lady Death
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