Summary:"There are creatures who stain the ocean the color of zinc, turn forests into seas of burning desert sand, spin winds into gunpowdery smoke, and scorch our very skies. Creatures who now seek to repeat the venal sins of Adam's first wife, Lilith, who became the bride of a demon; and the rebellion of the beautiful Lucifer, who was once the most beloved of God in all the heavens. Hearken now, to the lamenting cries of those who traverse the skies on heavenly wings. They are messengers from the Lord God, creatures of the world and heaven who have come to bear witness to the Day of Judgement. Neither Gods, nor humans....they're known as angels." Thus begins Angel Sanctuary. Alexiel and Roshiel are two such angels, and for their rebellion are both banished: Roshiel to Hell, and Alexiel to have her soul trapped within a mortal body. Setsuna Mudo is that mortal, and the forces of Heaven and Hell await the awakening of the angel within him even as he struggles to cope with the damning love he feels for his sister Sara.

Review: Angel Sanctuary is a haunting story both in terms of mythology and romance. While the relationship between Setsuna and his sister is logically disturbing, it is emotionally impelling. That both recognize the socially and morally unacceptable nature of the relationship and choose to follow their hearts regardless makes it all the more powerful. As far as I know, there are only three OAVs of Angel Sanctuary, which is unfortunate. The series has great potential that it can only partially fullfill in so short a time. The characters are all interesting, especially the young demon Kurai. However, the series ends as soon as you feel like you know the characters. The plot is one of the oldest known to humanity: simply put it is the classic struggle of good against evil added by the power of love. Angel Sanctuary tells the old tale well. The animation in this anime is somewhat dark due to the nature of the show itself, but it is well-done and appropriate.

Ratings: Characterization: 7 Plot: 8 Animation: 8

Things to note: Angel Sanctuary is not for children. The relationship between Setsuna and Sara is incestous, and while it is not explicit, sexuality is implied. This does not make the relationship any less beautiful, but it is not for a young audience. Also, there is a good deal of violence in the series-- both between Setsuna and the bullies of his school and between the angels.

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