An unremarkable sampling of four episodes from the semi-futuristic crime-underworld anime series, Gungrave is based on the titular PlayStation 2 game about a mob enforcer back from the dead to avenge himself upon people certainly no higher up the ethical scale than himself. The dry, brooding, near-silent protagonist dresses like a cowboy dandy crossed with the lead singer of a 1980s hair-metal band and carries two hand-cannons that substitute for a nonexistent personality. The plot arc follows shopworn themes as it reveals that the mafioso who had the hero killed was once his best friend, while also serving up stereotypically doe-eyed anime girls to protect. Laughably upbeat and naive street thugs abound, as do nonsensical attempts at philosophical voiceovers ("his mind will be controlled by something called 'the past' whether he likes it or not"). But a rare spark of artistic creativity can be glimpsed in a legion of undead, human/spider demons that work as minions for the mob. Clearly made with enthusiasm, but without much originality, this opening disc (of a projected seven) compiles the first four episodes in both Japanese and English language versions, with clean opening/closing animations as a bonus. Rated 16-up for language and violence, this is for undemanding anime-niacs only. Not a necessary purchase. [Note: Gungrave: The Sweeper, Vol. 2 is slated for release on Sept. 28.] Aud: P. (R. Blackwelder)
Gungrave: Beyond the Grave, Vol. 1
(2004) 100 min. DVD: $29.98. Geneon (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. Volume 19, Issue 4
Gungrave: Beyond the Grave, Vol. 1
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