Based on Hideyuki Kikuchi's novel series of the same, “Vampire Hunter D” was released straight to video in 1985. Directed by Toyoo Ashida, who would later take the reins on “Fist of the North Star”, the film was produced on a limited budget by the studio Ashi Productions. Now considered an anime classic, the feature still has plenty to offer in terms of careful world-building and enticing visuals. It's worth noting that this review is for the 1992 Streamline Pictures English dub.
Buy This Title
In the post-apocalyptic future of 12,090 AD, Doris Lang (Barbara Goodson) is out hunting one night when she stumbles into the territory of the imposing vampire Count Magnus Lee (Jeff Winkless). Left bitten by the count and now the object of his desire, she hires the formidable vampire hunter, D (Michael McConnohie); a half-human, half-vampire hybrid known as a dhampir. With the count's minions on the prowl for Doris, D must fight against his vampiric urges in order to protect the young woman and defeat the sadistic Lee once and for all.
There is much to the plot of “Vampire Hunter D” that is rather typical for an action-adventure film. As well as a righteous hero being on a quest to defeat evil, we also have an undercooked romance and a comically two-dimensional villain. However, what makes the film such an enjoyable ride is the colourful characters we meet along the way and the fascinating world we explore. The story throws enough curveballs to keep things interesting, as unexpected twists and deadly betrayals add much excitement to the narrative's vanilla backbone.
Easily the most complex character in “Vampire Hunter D” is the titular hero himself. While the dhampir is the stereotypical stern and silent protagonist on the surface, some moments suggest that there's more to D than meets the eye. Instances of conflict arise as he battles against his vampiric impulses, and the question of his motivation is always looming. Is he merely agreeing to help Doris because she offered herself to him, or are his intentions more virtuous? The vampire hunter's actions would suggest the latter, but the ambiguity of D overall is enough to make him an interesting character whose presence makes the film a consistently engaging watch.
A surprisingly compelling figure is that of Doris, who though frequently relegated to a damsel in distress, is nevertheless a fiercely independent character right from the off. From her first daring encounter with D to her feisty resistance to the Mayor's dastardly son, Greco, Doris shows that she's more than a mere prop to be saved. The majority of the supporting characters are similarly fleshed-out, with even would-be throwaway villains such as Rei and Lamika being memorable in their own right.
The film moves along at a brisk pace thanks to a tight runtime that leaves little room to breathe. While this results in less time for reflection or further character development, it does keep the tempo high as the action and stakes steadily escalate. This lightning pace means that the few scenes of downtime we do have are that much more effective, as they're a welcome break from the fast-moving narrative. For example, a fleeting embrace between Doris and D offers a precious moment of respite in amongst the unfolding chaos.
Another aspect of the movie that works so well is the blend of sci-fi and mythology The film introduces us to the Dracula-esque Count Magnus Lee along with a whole host of other fantastical creatures that roam the medieval-looking land. However, we also see the use of futuristic weapons and equipment, as well as the integration of modern architecture, particularly that which can be found in Lee's magnificent castle. Helping to bring this post-apocalyptic world to life is some gorgeous animation that is rich in detail. Small touches such as the buttons and wires on the advanced fencing equipment surrounding Doris' otherwise traditional farm goes lengths realising the film's unique setting.
An original video animation (OVA) that is distinctly adult-oriented, “Vampire Hunter D” doesn't hold back on its graphic violence. The feature's budgetary constraints give way to a limited animation style that makes many of its gruesome moments far more blunt and jarring. Heads explode, stakes are driven, and limbs severed as the blood flows consistently throughout the 82-minute runtime. Such violence brings a grit to the movie that nicely complements the dark tone and visuals to deliver a complete vampiric package.
For all of its blood and guts though, the film does spare time for some truly mesmerising scenes. D's run-in with the sinister Snake Women of Midwich is near-hypnotic as they attempt to draw him in with their siren song. Similarly, the climax's destructive sequence features an explosion of colour and movement as it proves to be one of the movie's more experimental moments. Such scenes are complemented by the wonderful score from Tetsuya Komuro, whose ethereal compositions accentuate the film's gothic tone and carry a distinct air of menace.
Part of the charm to older English anime dubs are some of the questionable performances from the cast. However, this isn't the case with the Streamline Pictures dub for “Vampire Hunter D” as all of the voice actors add an extra dimension to the characters. From Barbara Goodson's bold and headstrong Doris to the Transylvanian twang Jeff Winkless brings to Magnus Lee, the film features strong performances from all involved. The only issue is that some lines of dialogue are too lengthy, resulting in many crashing into one another with little time to take in what's being said.
“Vampire Hunter D” has endured to this day and is rightfully regarded as an anime classic. A beautifully animated and intriguing world is the backdrop for this delightfully dark OVA that is packed with memorable characters and exciting action. Definitely one of the most unique vampire films out there, it's one well worth seeking out for anime fans.
