Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlustby Barb Lien-CooperReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Studio
Credits Grade: 9 Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is one of the most amazing, haunting, and beautiful anime I’ve ever seen. For instance, the direction in the opening scene is mindblowing. The way the director established mood was original, yet classic, which I can also say about the movie itself. The director, if he were working in Hollywood, would be proclaimed the hot young talent of the year. As a matter of fact, every part of this movie screams “classic.” The music is majestic. The character designs are stunning. The characters themselves are memorable. Each scene etches itself in your mind. The acting blows most anime voice work away. The screenplay is very clever indeed.Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust can be compared favorably to classic horror films from the likes of Hammer Studios, James Whale, and Val Lewton, yet also has a modern feel to it that makes the work fresh. While always keeping faith with the vampire mythos, the movie isn’t just content to rest on cliches. For instance, the use of innovative weapons against the vampires gives the show a bit of unexpected spice. The set up: Vampire Hunter D, a half mortal vampire, hunts vampires in a distant future where civilization has broken down. The future looks like a 60’s western meets feudal England. A young woman has been kidnapped by a vampire (or has she?). D is sent to bring her back, only he has rivals for the girl and the reward. Can D make it to the girl before she’s turned into a vampire? This is truly one of the best anime I’ve ever seen. Urban Vision did an excellent job of bringing this gorgeous thing to the screen. The extras include a compelling documentary on the making of Vampire D: Bloodlust, an original art work gallery, and a 10 Ten Scenes (as voted by the fans) feature. Written: May 21, 2002
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