Sands of Destruction: The Complete Series

Inspired by a popular Nintendo DS video game, this anime series takes place in an alternate universe where humans and beasts live in a state of constant aggression. The central protagonists are sexy Morte, who wants to possess the Destruction Code so she can blow the planet to pieces; a cook named Kyrie, who is the prototype teenage shnook-hero; and a tiny bear named Taupy, who dresses like a pirate (don't ask why). The trio call themselves the World Destruction Committee, and the series finds them being chased by an endless variety of adversaries. Sands of Destruction quickly devolves into highly predictable scenarios, with the threesome being imprisoned in various weird settings (a creepy cruise ship, a mysterious hospital) and fighting a number of foes. While the potential exists for genuine comedy (can you really have a drama with a miniature bear dressed like a buccaneer?), the show ultimately takes itself too seriously. Even in a relatively compact 13-episode presentation, the series grows repetitive and boring. Presented in a dual-language double-disc set, rated TV-14, DVD extras include four character interviews. Not recommended. Aud: P. (P. Hall)