Other
anime to check out
Dual • Evangelion •
Trigun • 801 TTS Airbats
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El Hazard 2: The Magnificent World is a two VHS, four episode series, so it would immediately seemed that the story will not have the same chance to develop as fully as its seven episode predecessor had. Fortunately, there are only two story angles to combine unlike the three from the premiere series, so the pace is not hurried and the plot runs smoothly. Yet, it does not feel like El Hazard: The Magnificent World because there is only the addition of one new, interesting character, Kalia, but when we (assuming you have all seen the first series) are familiar with the power of a demon god, we do not get a character with any great comic quirks or weird ability that made all the original characters so likable. Besides for a consistently well developed story, the uniqueness of the characters is what I considered to be one of the key draws of the first series. Along with lacking one of the best reasons to see the original series, El Hazard 2 feels likes is was done quickly and cheaply. The colors seem to be rather bland compared to the first series and its soundtrack while being good, is not near the high quality of the first OVA (Original Video Animation) series. These accusations are further supported by the fact there are only four episodes. Despite the stereotype that the Japanese are not Walt Disney fans (at least in terms of directors like Hayao Miyazaki of Princess Mononoke and Kiki's Delivery Service), they seem to have adopted the Disney Conglomerate's methods of capitalizing on a series success by creating a cheap sequal. |
El Hazard 2: Promise For Reunion Links to other El Hazard 2 pages El Hazard: The Alternative World El Hazard 2: Promise For Reunion |
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Story/Plot • Production Credits • Review • Critique • Conclusion
As for those who loved the first series, I am sure you can overlook the technical weaknesses and probably find El Hazard 2: The Magnificent World to be a good Japanese animated treat. Just remember that treats are bought when you have extra cash, so I would advice you to wait till the holidays when you have relatives who are too lazy...I mean time constricted to buy you a present. They will probably attempt to make up for this with green pictures of dead presidents. |
© 1998
AIC • Pioneer LDC, Inc. • TV Tokyo
Manufactured and distributed by Pioneer
Entertainment (USA) L.P.
Review
of this page © 2002 Russ Stevens
The
second El Hazard OVA series may only appear to be a great buy to
the fans of the first series. This video's story is good, but not outstanding
enough to buy it over a series that has gotten a great deal of American
exposure. If you are a new anime fan, I just do not see you getting $25
of worthwhile entertainment from this title.