Some anime classics take on a cult status that is uniquely their own. In the mid-1980s, Vampire Hunter D made its American debut. Available only in a dubbed, VHS format, it compiled far-flung references, taking ancient lore about vampires and placing them in a forbidding future that looked primitive but had technology that did not yet exist. Most of all, it featured a lone hero, a man with a mysterious past who was the sole hope for those caught in a web of potentially tragic circumstances.
For many years, this fan favorite has been increasingly difficult to find in any format. Urban Vision, the new/current license-holder, recently reissued a better version of Vampire Hunter D — in dubbed and, for the first time, subtitled VHS versions.
Now Urban Vision has given anime fans a true Halloween "treat" with their special edition DVD release of this sci-fi / horror / drama / action / romance. It is complete with the kinds of extras for which fans are always begging. The bilingual audio track is presented in digital 5.1 sound. Trailers, for the original Japanese release and for Urban Vision's all-new, original Vampire Hunter D production (due 2001 in theaters), are included, along with a preview of the video game. Those interested in the creative process can check out a "making of" documentary, circa 1985, that showcases director Toyoo Ashida, some of the key production artists and the Japanese voice actors. And impressively, the release features a slide show of dramatic Vampire Hunter D sketches and paintings created by the legendary character designer and artist, Yoshitaka Amano.
The year 12,090 is not a good time to be human. The world is now ruled by vampires, and dangerous mutants, such as werewolves, roam the land. In the first scenes, we meet Doris, our spunky heroine. An orphan, she is a caring guardian for her younger brother, Dan, and maintains a farm/ranch on the outskirts of town. One night, she skillfully avoids a deadly attack by the aforementioned monsters only to find herself in the clutches of a greater evil. Count Magnus Lee is a powerful vampire, and he has decided to claim Doris as his next "bride" by biting her neck.
Frantically, she searches for a solution to her predicament. She's not only afraid for herself — she's afraid for Dan. Her luck turns when she meets "D," a vampire hunter of few words with a past he does not discuss. He agrees to help, but shortly thereafter, the townspeople find out Doris' secret and cast her out of the village, afraid they will be contaminated or killed by the count. At this point, D's suggestion that he kill the vampire is the only solution with any chance for her to reclaim her life.
Even when compared to newer, flashier productions, Vampire Hunter D stands tall. This is partially due to a mature sensibility rooted in its source material. The movie's creative staff derived a visual feel from Amano's original artwork that is unique in its darkness, brutality and beauty. Based on a novel by Hideyuki Kikuchi, it also features a story loaded with memorable characters and a mix of themes including romantic love, love of family and the ongoing, inner struggle the "vampire hunter" fights between his instincts and his code of honor.
A horror classic grownups can and will appreciate, this special edition of Vampire Hunter D was worth the wait.
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