This movie celebrates the 35th anniversary of the City Hunter TV anime series, a milestone for fans of the classic manga and anime. The original manga, which wrapped up with 35 volumes, has also been licensed by Abrams’ new imprint, Kana, introducing it to a new generation of readers. The film features the opening theme song “Whatever Comes” and the iconic ending theme song “Get Wild,” both performed by TM Network, just like the original anime series. Kenji Kodama, a longtime director of City Hunter, returned to direct this latest installment, ensuring it stays true to the spirit of the series.
Here’s a summary of the plot, according to Shout! Factory:
City Hunter The Movie: Angel Dust Plot
Ryo Saeba, the legendary “City Hunter,” is the best at what he does – a sweeper in the underworld. Operating out of Shinjuku as a private detective, he and his partner Kaoru Makimura take on all sorts of cases. Their newest client is Angie, a filmmaker who needs help finding her missing cat. Ryo is immediately drawn to Angie’s beauty, while Kaoru is more interested in the generous reward.
Meanwhile, Saeko Nogami from the Metropolitan Police is investigating a dangerous invention by the biotech company Zoltech. This invention is a dark technology that transforms soldiers into superhumans on the battlefield. It’s the latest version of Angel Dust, a substance that once nearly destroyed Ryo and led to the death of his partner, Hideyuki Makimura.
Are these two cases connected? Angie is hiding something about her request, and the truth about Angel Dust is about to pull Ryo into a major confrontation that ties back to his origins as a sweeper…
The release of City Hunter The Movie: Angel Dust on Blu-ray is a significant event for fans of the series. The movie not only brings back the beloved characters and action-packed scenarios but also delves deeper into Ryo Saeba’s past, offering a fresh perspective on his journey. The film’s animation is a visual treat, blending modern techniques with the classic City Hunter style, making it appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers.
One of the most exciting aspects of this movie is the return of the original theme songs. “Whatever Comes” sets the tone for the film, while “Get Wild” provides a nostalgic and energetic ending that will resonate with fans who have followed the series since its inception. The music, combined with Kenji Kodama’s direction, ensures that the movie captures the essence of City Hunter, delivering a familiar yet updated experience.
The plot of Angel Dust is intricate, weaving together seemingly unrelated cases into a cohesive and compelling narrative. The search for Angie’s missing cat serves as a starting point, gradually leading Ryo and Kaoru into a much larger conspiracy involving Zoltech and the dangerous Angel Dust. The film explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the consequences of unchecked scientific advancement. Ryo’s personal connection to Angel Dust adds emotional depth to the story, as he confronts his past and battles to protect those he cares about.
The Blu-ray release will likely include bonus features such as behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with the cast and crew, and possibly even a making-of documentary. These extras will provide fans with a deeper understanding of the production process and the creative decisions that went into making the movie. Additionally, the Blu-ray format will offer superior picture and sound quality, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the film’s visual and auditory elements.
For those who are new to City Hunter, this movie is an excellent introduction to the series. The characters are well-defined, the action is thrilling, and the story is engaging. Ryo Saeba is a charismatic and skilled protagonist, while Kaoru Makimura provides a balance of humor and competence. The supporting characters, such as Saeko Nogami, add depth to the world and contribute to the overall narrative.
The availability of the original manga series through Abrams’ Kana imprint is another reason for fans to celebrate. This allows readers to delve into the source material and experience the full scope of the City Hunter universe. Kana’s commitment to preserving the integrity of the manga while introducing it to a new audience is commendable, and it complements the Blu-ray release of Angel Dust perfectly.
In conclusion, City Hunter The Movie: Angel Dust on Blu-ray is a must-have for fans of the series and a great starting point for newcomers. With its engaging plot, memorable characters, and nostalgic music, it’s a celebration of everything that makes City Hunter a beloved anime franchise. Pre-order your copy now and get ready to experience the action and adventure on July 15th.