From the opening sequence, Mezzo (a TV series continuing from an original video anime) drops the viewer into the violent but upbeat world of the DSA, or Danger Service Agency, comprised of three mercenaries who work only on missions they deem threatening enough to challenge their skills. Mikura, a lethal but chipper female teen assassin, represents the brawn; laidback techno geek Harada supplies the brains; and Kurokawa, a suspicious ex-cop with an appetite for noodles, provides experience with the underworld. Their extended “family” includes a malicious barber named Black Scissor, and a 'tween schoolgirl who idolizes Mikura. Though considered bad guys, the DSA generally end up doing the right thing despite a lot of bickering, shootouts, and displays of greed, in cases that revolve around mysterious deliveries or retrieval missions, but also often involve some sort of supernatural or fantastical element that our ever-practical heroes take in stride. Mikura definitely falls into the hot butt-kicking chick character trope, but for a change she's not ridiculously buxom nor does she use seduction as a tool. Mezzo is a fun ride, and the first five episodes collected here hint at past tragedies and motivations that promise complicated character arcs as the series progresses. Accurately rated 15-up, this dual-language disc is recommended. [Note: Mezzo: Shell Two is also available, with Shell Three slated for release on Feb. 8.] Aud: P. (R. Brenner)
Mezzo: Shell One
(2003) 125 min. DVD: $29.98. ADV Films (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. ISBN: 1-57813-896-5. Volume 20, Issue 1
Mezzo: Shell One
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